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Photographers prove disability is not inability
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‘Empowering disadvantaged people to become
active and equal citizens of our society’
The Official Newsletter of Oak Tasmania •ISSUE 01 - February 2009
Photographers prove disability is not inability
Ms Anne Glover (right), presents her photograph to Minister for Human Services, Ms Lin Thorp MLC. Ms Glover’s
photograph now hangs prominently above Ms Thorpe’s desk in her Ministerial offices in Hobart.
A superb photograph taken by Ms taking a photo. The quality of the
Anne Glover, a participant of Oak images being captured is always
Tasmania’s Photographic Program, improving with many participants Inside this issue...
has been presented to Minister for producing a higher standard of work
Community Services, Ms Lin Thorp, now than they did at the beginning of ILT’s Photography Program....................1
MLC. the Program,” said Jillian.
The Photography Program is the To celebrate International Day of Message from the CEO..........................2
brain child of support workers at Oak People with Disability (IDPwD), 20
Tasmania’s Independent Living and photographs (all taken by supported Celebrating 20 years of Training................2
Training Centre (ILT) in North Hobart. clients) were framed and put on public
Disability support worker Jillian Wise exhibition – to extremely favourable TLC – Going from strength to strength.....3
said the Program began in early reviews.
Environmental Stewardship.......................4
2008 teaching individuals the basics The success of the Photographic
of photography and equipping them Exhibition has seen an increase in New auspicing role for Oak Tasmania.....5
with the skills to use digital cameras. the number of clients interested in
“The program began with an learning photography, resulting in Manager receives national recognition.....6
introduction to photography where the photography program being
the group discussed topics such as extended to two days per week. The Teamwork ensures demand is met..............6
lighting, props, looking at objects program will be split into a beginners
from different angles, and the rule of class, and an advanced class for Welcome to new Board Member................7
thirds. those who participated in last year’s
“The photography group continues program. Vale – Barry Smith.................................8
to demonstrate their new-found To view more of the superb
Acknowledgments................................8
knowledge and skill, taking many photographs taken by clients at ILT,
factors into consideration before visit www.oak.org.au/events
•PAGE 01
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
From the CEO each of our Divisions has
a detailed Business Plan.
Our governance, policies,
Welcome to the first edition on Divisional websites that strategies and procedures will
of Oak Tasmania’s corporate are required to meet specific help us weather the storm,
Newsletter. It has been one of outcomes. but some belt tightening will
my visions for the future that we 2009 has already started with inevitably occur. However,
have a mechanism with which a bang! We have taken on a even during a period of gloom
to share our organisational new role by auspicing Chance there are always opportunities
successes and achievements, on Main (see story this issue). for growth and it is imperative
recognise and celebrate the This meets one our Strategic that Oak Tasmania positions
achievements of our staff goals in embracing people itself at the forefront of service
and clients, and to provide who are ‘disadvantaged’. Towards the end of 2008 the delivery.
information about the We have also undertaken grey clouds of international I am sure that our dedicated
organisation and its goals. a ‘gap analysis’ in order economic uncertainty began staff will work as a team to
I see the Newsletter as an to achieve an independent to impact on Australia. In ensure that we remain at the
important communications tool quality certification. We Tasmania it is clear that we will forefront as a major high
for staff, clients & stakeholders. will be striving towards ISO be affected by world events. quality service provider in
The new corporate website has 9001: 2008 in the coming 12 It has always been my view Tasmania
also been completed and is months. Quality certification that planning for the future I look forward to working with
now live – you can access the is a key issue identified in the will help the organisation each and every one of you in
site by clicking on www.oak. KPMG Review of Tasmanian in the long term. We have a the challenging year ahead.
org.au We are still working Disability Services. Strategic Plan to 2012 and John Paton CEO
Oak Training & Development Services’ 20th Anniversary
Oak Training & Development delivery of practical training Services provide expertise external Australian Disability
Services is celebrating 20 programmes is as important and support to the Enterprises.
years of training Tasmanians. now, as it was 20 years ago. Tasmanian Polytechnic and Information on Oak Training
A Division of Oak Tasmania, “We have always provided Tasmanian Skills Institute & Development Services is
Oak Training & Development accredited training, which is (formerly TAFE Tasmania); available by contacting Mr
Services delivered its’ first vital to the educational and agricultural and horticultural Chris Clark on 0417 569 163,
nationally accredited training future employment success of sectors in Tasmania; Youth or visit
program on December 12, our participants, however one Futures; TOPQUAL; and www.oak.org.au/services
1988 in the Huon Valley, South of our strengths is the ability to
of Hobart. adapt training packages to an
Oak Training & Development individual’s needs and those of
Services is a Registered his or her employer.
Training Organisation (RTO) “We have the currency to impart
that provides internal training the necessary knowledge and
for supported employees and up-to-date industry practices
staff across all Divisions of Oak because Oak Tasmania
Tasmania, as well as training operates a number of
and assessment services to successful business enterprises.
external organisations by using Our Technical Trainer, Sarah
State funding contracts and on Reeve, has come from a senior
a ‘fee for service’ basis. position with a major stone
Training Manager Chris Clark fruit grower, and her practical
has been running Oak Training expertise is typical of the
and Development Services staffing we look for.” Mr Chris Clark (right), delivering a training program
since 1998, and says that the Oak Training & Development to Walkabout Industries’ employee Mr Merv Branch.
•PAGE 02
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
‘High Commendation’ for TLC Manager
Manager of Oak Tasmania’s technique and pace to meet
Technology Learning Centre the ability of the client. He
(TLC), Mr Graeme Finlayson, is attuned to the needs of his
has been highly commended staff and his example results in
for his work as part of the others following his lead,” said
inaugural Alex Tubb Young Oak Tasmania CEO Mr John
Worker Award – a joint project Paton.
by National Disability Services Mr Finlayson said he viewed
(NDS) Tasmania and the his Award as a ‘significant
Australasian Society for the achievement’ because of the
Study of Intellectual Disability approach, beliefs and values
(ASSID) recognising outstanding of the man whose name adorns
leadership by workers in the the Award.
Tasmanian Disability sector. “Several people have informed
Mr Finlayson was presented with me that Alex Tubb would
his certificate in recognition of have been interested and
his work in the area of computer impressed with the work we are Mr Alex Tubb’s son Mr Owen Tubb (left), presents
support and training for people doing in the area of training Oak Tasmania’s TLC Manager Mr Graeme Finlayson
who are disadvantaged, and opportunities for people who with his High Commendation Award.
was one of five disability sector are disadvantaged, and he
they help create the culture at Information on TLC’s programs
workers who were commended would have approved of me
for their work. receiving the Award. the centre, which is inspiring and services can be obtained
“Graeme shows flexibility “I would like to thank the and delightful. Without them, by contacting Mr Finlayson on
in meeting clients’ needs by participants who attend the the centre wouldn’t be what it (03)6274 1211 or visiting
altering programs, teaching Technology Learning Centre as is today!” www.oak.org.au/services.
New IT Program a win Community Fund and the purchase
of four replacement computers by
students and public access. After
4.00pm weekdays, there will be
for Glenorchy Residents Oak Tasmania will provide an
additional 560 hours of computer
15 computers available at the
centre for public access.”
access per week for residents and Mr Finlayson said the technology
A successful grant application to restorative program Chance students of Glenorchy,” said TLC upgrade also includes a new
the Tasmanian Community Fund on Main, and the Technology Manager Mr Graeme Finlayson. server, printer and ancillary
by Oak Tasmania’s Technology Learning Centre. The aim of the “Between the hours of 8.30am equipment ‘that will help take the
Learning Centre (TLC) will see the project is to work collaboratively and 4.00pm weekdays, there will strain away from the Glenorchy
implementation of much-needed with up to 25 students to increase be five dedicated computers for Online Access Centre.’
programs for residents and their IT knowledge and skills which
students in the Glenorchy area. will increase the potential for them
The grant, totalling $55,000 will to continue further education
fund the Connect-ability Program and training. The outcomes will
and a program to engage students provide lasting positive benefits for
‘at risk’ of disengaging from participants and the community.
school. Both programs will be run The other project, known as
from TLC’s existing Eady Street Connect-ability, will provide
premises. The grant will enable the computer access to the residents
purchase of new equipment and of Glenorchy for a minimal fee
fund a paid Project Management – much like an internet cafe.
position to oversee the running of According to the Australian
the programs. The centre will also Bureau of Statistics, Glenorchy
extend its’ operating hours. has some of the lowest rates of
The project for ‘at risk’ students computer ownership and internet
is a partnership between local access in Tasmania.
high schools, the successful youth “The grant from the Tasmanian New programs at TLC will benefit residents of Glenorchy.
•PAGE 03
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
Environmental
stewardship
alive and well at
Oak Tasmania
Mailhouse Tasmania is leading more environmentally pro-
the State in environmental active, we could offer a service
stewardship since adopting to our existing clients that
a 100 per cent degradable not only met – but surpassed
plastic wrapping product for their own environmental
business. expectations.
Divisional Manager “The feedback from our clients
Russell Stevens said many has been one of overwhelming
clients requested plastic support of our adoption of a
weatherproofing for their 100 per cent degradable
mail and publications, and it plastic in our wrapping process,
was important for Mailhouse and we use Biowrap solely for
Preparing magazines for distribution at Mailhouse
Tasmania to offer services all our mail wrapping needs.”
Tasmania’s Glenorchy facility.
and products that satisfy Mr Stevens said Mailhouse
their clients’ environmental Tasmania is the only business but it also sends a very clear talking the talk.”
expectations. of its type in Tasmania using message to their clients – the Mr Stevens said Biowrap was
“Environmental stewardship Biowrap entirely in its’ mail end recipients who receive mail developed by scientists who
has always been a corporate wrapping process, offering weatherproofed in Biowrap. It introduced a pro-degradent
objective at Mailhouse clients a clear environmental says that Mailhouse Tasmania into the plastic wrap during the
Tasmania and we found that advantage. and the companies who use standard production process,
by changing our internal “Certainly our use of Biowrap our services are walking the resulting in the plastic wrapping
procedures and becoming sits very well with our clients, environmental walk – not just breaking down totally into
water, carbon dioxide and a
small amount of biomass after
six months.
Mailhouse Tasmania can
plastic wrap magazines,
journals and newspapers at a
rate of 5000 per hour using
Biowrap, and Mr Stevens
welcomes enquiries from
clients who are looking for
environmentally responsible
solutions to their mail
processing requirements. He
can be contacted on (03)6271
0400. To find out more about
Biowrap is a 100% bio-degradable plastic wrap available exclusively in Tasmania Mailhouse Tasmania visit
from Mailhouse Tasmania. www.oak.org.au/business/
•PAGE 04
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
New auspicing role
for Oak Tasmania
On January 1 this year, Oak “The tender process for an auspice
Tasmania became the auspicing organisation was completed in July
body for the successful youth 2008, with Oak Tasmania being
diversionary and restorative the successful tender and taking
program, Chance on Main. This over responsibility for the ongoing
important partnership provides management and administration
an increased level of support for of Chance on Main on 1 January
staff and participants of Chance 2009.
on Main, whilst strengthening “Our vision is to auspice
Oak Tasmania’s significant role in organisations that work with Pictured left to right; Mr Geoff Cumberland Program
delivering outcomes that improve disadvantaged Tasmanians, Coordinator, Chance on Main, Participants Dylan Munnings
the State’s social infrastructure. assist them to build capacity by & Dylan Phillips, and Metaland Manager, Mr Greg Allie.
Oak Tasmania CEO Mr John offering our expertise in HR, IR, Mr Allie was presented with the skeleton in appreciation
Paton said the partnership was payroll, research, marketing and of his company’s support of Chance on Main.
established after the steering governance, while ensuring our
committee invited a number of not partner organisations retain their 19 years who are often seen as obtaining traineeships or returning
for profit organisations to submit identity and uniqueness.” ‘high risk’ by mainstream service to school. In the first 22 months of
a tender to replace the Glenorchy Chance on Main (CHoM) works providers and are often the source operation 82 per cent of participants
City Council as the auspice. with young people aged 10- of much concern for police, did not re-offended from the time
education and health personnel. they entered the program – a trend
Many are at risk of entering the that is continuing today.
juvenile justice system, disengaging A successful submission to round
from school or training programs, 17 of the Tasmanian Community
or experiencing difficulties living Fund resulted in a grant which
with their family. will ensure the survival of Chance
Using restorative practices, CHoM on Main up until June 30, 2009.
supports young people to develop However it is vital that recurrent
life and decision making skills, funding is established to avoid the
increase academic competence demise of the Program.
and job readiness. It also improves A submission has been made to the
the health and wellbeing of young Tasmanian Government’s 2009
people involved in the program – 2010 State Budget Process,
Participants in the Heavy Metal Program learn a through offering opportunities with a view to securing recurrent,
range of skills linked to the metal trades area in a to address issues of anger indexed funding for Chance on
safe and supportive workshop environment. management, mental health, Main. The submission also outlined
nutrition, alcohol and drug use Oak Tasmania’s strategic plan to
and sexual health. expand the program state-wide
No other organisation is working into the Disability, Child, Youth and
specifically with this target group Family Services Area Boundaries
in the City of Glenorchy using the (North-West, North, South-East
methods employed by Chance and South-West Tasmania)
on Main. Participants show an For more information, contact
improved sense of well-being, Chance on Main’s Operations
improved communication and Manager Mike Duval-Stewart on
relationships with others and (03) 6272 2023, or visit
tangible life changes, for example; www.oak.org.au/services
Chance on Main Mission Statement
Your Chance, Make the Choice.
Programs such as Chix @ Risk and Artworks provide
To give young people at risk the opportunity to discover their skills and
intervention and mentoring for young people, and
abilities and to support them in their journey along the pathways to
allow participants to express themselves through achieving their potential.
various forms of artwork.
•PAGE 05
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
Divisional Manager
receives national
recognition
Divisional Manager of Australia’s most well-respected
Oakdale Industries, John timber merchants.
Hollis, was recently awarded “John is never one to take
the title of Vanguard by the credit for the exceptional
Australian Timber Flooring quality of product and levels
Association (ATFA) at its Annual of customer service clients
Convention in Melbourne. receive when they deal with
Mr Hollis was presented Oakdale Industries, however
with his award in front of his many years of experience in
Oakdale Industries Divisional Manager Mr John
180 industry leaders from the timber industry combined
Hollis (left), accepts his award from ATFA Vice
around the country at ATFA’s with the level of care he has
President Mr Malcolm Johnston.
Annual Dinner. The dinner for his staff and his ‘can do’
marked the end of a two- attitude, form the foundation
day exhibition and education of Oakdale Industries’ success,
conference at the Melbourne and I congratulate him on his
Exhibition Centre. More than achievement.”
50 companies took part in the ATFA Chief Executive Officer,
trade-only exhibition which is Mr Randy Flierman, said
billed as the only dedicated, Vanguard status is only
large-scale timber flooring awarded to those who annually
event in Australasia. provide a considerable
Oak Tasmania Chief Executive contribution to the industry,
Officer, Mr John Paton, said demonstrate a commitment to
that John’s leadership qualities ongoing training, professional
and his passion for the timber development, and who Oakdale Industries was one of more than 50
industry ensure Oakdale demonstrate a level of exhibitors at the ATFA Annual Conference held at
the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.
Industries remains one of experience commensurate with
attaining such a reward. members, of which Mr Hollis is
“John is a role model in the only one to have attained
Tasmania and nationally for his the level of Vanguard.
passionate care for the industry Oakdale Industries is based in
and unrelenting commitment Warrane on Hobart’s Eastern
to professionalism and quality. Shore and supplies T & G
He is always willing to assist strip flooring, overlay flooring,
the industry’s growth in any parquetry flooring, DAR &
way.” mouldings, door jambs,
ATFA has an accreditation contract machining and craft
system which reflects the and joinery products. Sales
credentials of each member. It enquiries can be directed to
is a points-based system where Mr Hollis on (03)6244 2277.
Oakdale Industries’ Mr John Hollis (left) and Mr members must demonstrate Further information about
Michael Flanagan (right) attend to their eye- their points for any given level Oakdale Industries can be
catching product display at the ATFA Annual to retain or increase it annually. obtained by visiting
Convention in Melbourne. Tasmania has 10 ATFA www.oak.org.au/business
•PAGE 06
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
Team work ensures demand is met
Walkabout Industries is Australian Standard AS
meeting unprecedented 3743.”
demand for its’ branded Mr Geeves is quick to
potting mix – thanks to point out that meeting
its’ dedicated workforce the increased demand
and the delivery of a is due to the efforts of
brand new mixer. Walkabout Industries’
Purchased from CEA dedicated workforce.
Consolidated Industries “We have 35 employees
in Victoria, the new and several supervisory
mixer replaced a staff who ensure the
hopper that had consistent delivery of
sustained damage to its high-quality products
barrel. It was carefully The new mixer is carefully manoeuvred
manoeuvred into place into place at Walkabout Industries’
beside the existing mixer Glenorchy site.
at Walkabout Industries’ and customer service. products.
Glenorchy site before Mr Geeves said more
“This is why we
electricians completed than 120,000 bags of
continue to have strong
the installation. Walkabout Industries’
relationships with K&D
The mixer will allow potting soil are
Warehouse Mitre 10,
Walkabout Industries to distributed throughout
meet increased demand John Clennetts Mitre
the State per annum,
for its’ potting mix, 10, and Waratah who
and production is
which is sold through distribute the Yates
audited annually by SAI
a number of local and branded potting mix
Heerey Electrical complete the installation. Global.
national retailers. Walkabout Industries has invested more throughout the State, To find out more about
“We have seen an eight than $60,000 to purchase and install the and with nurseries the range of products
per cent increase in new mixer. who also stock our and services offered by
demand for our potting Walkabout Industries
mix that is available in contact Mr Craig
premium and regular Geeves on (03)6272
varieties,” said Craig 8244, or visit www.
Geeves, Divisional oak.org.au/business
Manager of Walkabout
Industries. The dedicated
workforce on
“Our potting soils
the potting mix
are produced from production line.
Tasmanian sourced More than 120,000
ingredients where bags of Walkabout
possible, and the Industries’ potting
individual elements are soil are distributed
in Tasmania per
combined, mixed and
annum.
packaged on site to
•PAGE 07
•ISSUE 01 - February 2009
VALE – Barry (Baz) Miles Smith
Oak Tasmania 2 January 1962 – 21 December 2008
Welcomes Newest
Board Member
Oak Tasmania extends a Technology Management
warm welcome to its’ newest and a Masters of Business
Board Member, Mr Nigel Administration from Deakin
Reeves. University.
Mr Reeves works full Mr Reeves is married
time as a management with three young children
consultant in information and lives in West Hobart,
and communications Tasmania.
technology (ICT), renewable Barry Miles Smith 2.1.62 – 21.12.08
energy and property sectors. It was with much sadness that day outings, helping out in
Prior to joining the private we learned of the passing the garden and cooking –
sector, he held a range of of Barry Smith in December especially tasting the various
senior positions within the 2008. ingredients! He had a big
Tasmanian Government, Barry was a long-time client of heart, a great sense of humour
including the Department of Oak Tasmania, having spent and was respected his friends,
Economic Development and a memorable 17 years in the colleagues and carers.
Offices of the Deputy Premier organisations’ care. Barry Barry’s Father Bob is well
and Minister for Economic always had a happy disposition known to many at Oak
Development. and loved trying something Tasmania having been a long-
new. Staff and colleagues at serving and dedicated Board
He has also worked for the
the Independent Living and Member. Oak Tasmania
National Manufacturing
Training Centre said Barry had extends its’ deepest sympathy
Forum KPMG Tasmania, and a love of sports, especially to Bob, Rita and their family.
the Hobart City Council. carpet bowls, 10-pin bowling Barry will be fondly
Mr Reeves holds a Bachelor and indoor cricket – where he remembered by his friends at
of Commerce Degree from Oak Tasmania’s new often demonstrated his batting Oak Tasmania and by those
the University of Tasmania, Board Member, Mr Nigel prowess. who had the privilege of
a Graduate Diploma of Reeves. Barry also enjoyed all- knowing him. Rest in Peace.
Patron:- His Excellency The Honourable Peter Underwood AO, Governor of Tasmania A copy of this newsletter is also available on-line from
Oak Tasmania’s Website – www.oak.org.au
Oak Tasmania acknowledges the support and funding from the Australian
Please note that contributions may be edited prior to publication. Images should be
Government and the Tasmanian Government in assisting the delivery of our
sent in the original jpeg or tiff file formats.
services and programs.The views contained herein are not necessarily the views of
Management or the Board of Oak Tasmania. Oak Tasmania’s Newsletter is published quarterly by Oak Tasmania, ABN 44 055
920 306, 56 Clydesdale Avenue, Glenorchy, Tasmania, 7010 and is distributed by
If you would prefer to receive an electronic version of this newsletter; obtain Mailhouse Tasmania, a Division of Oak Tasmania.
permission to reproduce newsletter articles or images; or contribute articles for Design and production services by
publication, please email your details to: media@oak.org.au Resolution Ink Pty Ltd – proudly supporting Oak Tasmania.
suite 2, 205 cat and fiddle arcade, hobart, tasmania 7000
mob: 0419 136 687 tel: +61 3 6237 0297
email: info@resolutionink.com.au web: www.resolutionink.com.au
•PAGE 08
