eNewsletter - December 2021 - Gold Coast Multicultural Updates
No images? Click here
Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast Newsletter
IN THIS EDITION OF OUR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER:
International Café Video!
Wrap up of our AGM
Multicultural Queensland Awards 2021
Our Community Development team out & about
Upcoming cultural events
First Nations gift ideas for the holidays
Moreton and Sunshine Coast CÜRA Programs
November Meet, Greet, Eat
…and so much more!
🎄 GOLD COAST CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2021 🎄
Many Gold Coast community organisations are hosting free Christmas meals and food support during December to give everyone the opportunity to share in a hot meal and good company over the holidays!
Please share with your networks to help spread the word and make sure to check details directly with each organisation.
A big thank you to all our MCCGC members that look the time to attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2020/2021.
The AGM is for an opportunity to showcase to our members the year that was and also provide the financial and annual reports to show off what we have achieved as an organisation. Here at MCCGC/CÜRA members range from individual to organisations, to communities, businesses and also honorary memberships.
Under our constitution, directors need to retire after serving 2 years but can stand for re-election. Under these guidelines two of our directors, Lyn Dasey and Ben Fry successfully stood for re-election and Mirela Malin was successfully elected after filling a casual vacancy earlier this year.
We would like to congratulate Lyn, Ben and Mirela and know that they will continue to demonstrate strategic leadership of our organisation alongside Gordon Price and Garth Callender, with the support of our Company Secretary Marta Button. If you would like to view their profiles, please click here.
Our Board of Directors are volunteers who generously give of their time, skills and expertise to drive our strategic direction and we are truly grateful for their involvement and contributions over this year.
Our Annual Report is now available on our website for you to read. We've had a big year and we're excited to share our highlights with you!
INTERNATIONAL CAFE - A SNAPSHOT INTO THE DAY
We would like to thank all involved in making International Café 2021 such a success!
What a beautiful day International Café was!
It was so special being able to share so many different cultures across generations and coming together to celebrate diversity during National Unity Week and Queensland Seniors Month.
Check out photos from the day here: https://bit.ly/3k6B5e5
NOVEMBER MEET, GREET, EAT
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Meet Greet Eat to share with community and celebrate the end of the year!
What a wonderful evening getting to know one another, learning together and enjoying a delicious meal along with amazing performances from Joseph Vea and a Mongolian Traditional Dance called 'Biliegee'.
A special thank you to our MC Rohaan, Australian Department of Home Affairs who came to answer all your border questions, Antonella presenting our Work Towards program, and Queensland Government who came to present their Mentoring for Growth program.
We had a great night and we hope you all enjoyed it too!
Multicultural Queensland Awards 2021
We were so honored to be invited to the Multicultural Queensland Awards 2021 in the Queensland Museum last month!
We want to extend our congratulations to one of our community members; Habib Jamal for winning the Multicultural Sector Outstanding Achiever Award. President of the Islamic Council of Queensland (ICQ), Habib has provided leadership to the Muslim community which supports more than 60 different nationalities, all with different spiritual and cultural needs.
Reppin' MCCGC/CÜRA was our acting CEO Rose Vearing, Chief Operations Officer Troy, and Community Programs Manager Jess. We also invited along the President of the Australian Chinese Woman's Federation Ping and Christina from Afekete Australia.
Multicultural Families Organisation (MFO) was one of the sponsors of the night. MFO shared their book 'Finding Home- Journey of Hope' with all attendees of the night.
The awards provided a great opportunity to recognise an inspiring group of winners who have led the way in cultural diversity and inclusion in their communities and made a valuable contribution to building an inclusive and cohesive Queensland.
The night also brought together a range of community, corporate and other key contributors to building a prosperous, fair and harmonious Queensland.
To find out more about the winners and the Multicultural Queensland Awards 2021 visit www.qld.gov.au/mqa
Our Community Development team does some amazing things in and around our community so we thought we'd share their adventures with you each month!
Here are some highlights from November!
Our Community Development Officer (CAMS) Candice attended Wat Sangharatanaram Inc. annual Robe Offering Ceremony towards the end of November. The day was filled with traditional ceremonies and food.
Acting CEO Rose Vearing and Senior Care Advisor Corrine attended Broadbeach Independent State School for the commissioning of this incredible artwork by renowned local Aboriginal artist Goompi.
Goompi's artwork represents the story of local Kombumerri tribal ancestor named "Gwonda".
Which means dolphin in the Ngnarangwal/Bundjalung language saltwater language.
He taught dingoes in the area to help him hunt.
As an old man he was recognisable to the local tribesmen, having a unique white streak through his grey hair.
He spent his days walking the local beaches with the dingoes always trailing him.
Until a particular day he had not followed his routine of walking the beaches. Many days followed with no one seeing him, so the people became worried. Until a local pod of dolphins passed through the area when the people spotted a new dolphin they had never seen before.
It was grey like the others but with a white dorcel fin. They knew old man passed and his spirit transferred into his animal form.
Like he did on land with his dingoes, he did in a similar way in the water. Teaching the other dolphins to round up schools of fish in the deepwater and drive them into the shallow for them to catch a feed easier. Each time the people wanted a feed the men would slap their spears on the water's edge and the women and children would stomp their feet in the shallow. Sending a vibration to the dolphins to signal them.
After each time the people would repay the dolphins with a percentage of the catch to say thank you.
It is known this tradition of Gwonda training the dingoes and also the calling of the dolphins was passed on and practiced
** In the initial version of this newsletter sent out on 2nd December, we included an incorrect description of this story. We would like to sincerely apologise for this error and have sent an update with the correction as well as posted the correct version on social media to ensure the correct version is shared.**
If you would like to see more of Goompi's work, please visit his website: https://goompi.com.au/.
Rose Vearing, COO Troy Nicholls, CURA Care Advisor Yoshiko, Community Pathway Connector Maria and our CAMs officer Candice attended Multicultural Families Organisation (MFO)'s Leaders for Positive Change dinner. The night consisted of speakers from all different cultures celebrating our city's diversity and community.
Our new 'welcome' art piece for our MCCGC/CÜRA Southport office signed by community at our 2021 Walk Together.
Thankyou to Nasrin Vaziri from Gold Coast Multicultural Arts for getting our attendees involved to allow this work to come to life!
It's wonderful to see some of the many languages spoken by our Gold Coast community represented on this piece.
We checked out a live Tatau installation exhibiting the ancient art of Polynesian Tattooing at HOTA.
Tatau is an ancient art form derived from the old gods of the Pacific ancestors. The word ‘tattoo’ originally derives from the word ‘Tatau’.
These markings over recent decades have been modified to represent a more contemporary take on traditional patterns.
Placements of the Tatau on the arms, hands, back, shoulders have also become more acceptable in recent decades. These Tatau patterns encompass and embody the rich history and roots of Polynesian culture.
Beautiful designs and symbols represent the connection between the people, the land and the stretch of ocean that bonds the triangle of Polynesia and its people.
We attended Multicultural Families Organisation (MFO) incredible project called 'crossing borders', where we got to hear ten women from different culturally diverse backgrounds telling their personal story.
The sharing was held during the 16 days of activism against gender based violence.
Congratulations to Seharum Nusantara Gold Coast on another successful community gala! It was a wonderful event that helped raise funds for charities and Indonesians overseas through sharing beautiful Indonesian dancing, entertainment and food with the Gold Coast Community.
Seharum Nusantara is an Indonesian-Australian non-profit group that aims to promote and protect Indonesian culture through language, art, and dance. They support a multicultural and harmonious Australia and love to share their culture with others.
If you're keen to learn more about Indonesian culture, dance or art make sure to follow their page: Seharum Nusantara Gold Coast.
Thank you and congratulations to the Gold Coast Sikh Association and Gurdwara Sahib Gold Coast for the opportunity to share in your very successful Connect Diverse Community Dinner event last night
This event had been rebooked a few times due to COVID, and it did not disappoint.
Walking into the Greek Orthodox Church of St Anna Gold Coast Australia and being greeted by a beautifully decorated Hellenic Centre with array of colours, smells and smiling faces, we knew it was going to be a great night.
Fabulous entertainment included cultural dancers, singers, choirs, Kizuna Taiko, DJ and wonderfully MCed by youth leaders. People were excited to hit the dance floor when asked to, the energy was amazing.
Saffron catered the delicious buffet and entrees and it was a effect accompaniment to the evening.
It was wonderful to see the event attended and enjoyed by dignitaries and community leaders as well as Team TMC and community members, some of whom travelled from the Sunshine Coast
A big WELCOME to our CÜRA Care Advisor for the Moreton Region Kerry and our Sunshine Coast Health and Wellness Care Advisor Oki! Both have experience in community based aged care roles and come with academic backgrounds in social work and health science.
Do you have a loved one in the Sunshine Coast or Moreton Regions that are looking to get out and about and be more social?
In our wellbeing groups you loved one will get to:
- Explore their community
- Experience meaningful activities
- Discover different cultures
- Stay active and social
- Enjoy good company with small groups
- Connect with new and old friends
View our Moreton flyer here: https://bit.ly/3r2yUfU
View our Sunshine Coast flyer here: https://bit.ly/3HU607y
On the 10th of November 2021, the Queensland Government released a health direction which sets out mandatory vaccination requirements for workers, students, and volunteers in healthcare settings.
Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast and CÜRA will ensure that all staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the 15th of December 2021.
Do you know any migrants, refugees or international students on the Gold Coast who are ready to work but need some help to get a job?
Our new Work Towards Employment Hub can support them to find employment opportunities! It is free for eligible participants and we work with them to create an individual plan to reach their career goals. We can help in many different ways whether they need support with writing a CV, building confidence, getting interview-appropriate clothing, or anything else. It's a very flexible program designed to help each person on their unique journey.
If you know anyone - friends, family, neighbours, or other connections who could benefit from some support to get into the workforce, please refer them to our Work Towards team by emailing worktowards@mccgc.com.au or calling 07 5527 8011.
For some more details on the Work Towards program check out:
Website: https://www.mccgc.com.au/mccgc-services/employment-training/work-towards/
Flyer: https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/os-data-2/mccgc-com-au/documents/work_towards_a5_web.pdf
The Gold Coast Dante Alighieri Society is a not-for-profit organisation whose main aim is the promotion of the Italian language and culture.
The Headquarters of the Society is in Rome and the Gold Coast branch started in June 1989 mainly teaching Italian to adults. The classrooms, library and Piazza are at 2/18 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters (behind the Gold Coast Italo Australian Club) The Society has day and night Italian language classes for all levels. There are short 8 week courses for complete beginners.
As well as the Italian classes there are social and cultural activities, lunches, coffee and conversation, gnocchi and pasta making, morning tea and film mornings.
For information on the Society you can go on website - www.dantegoldcoast.com.au or phone School Director, Rita on 55270797.
Dante Gold Coast Australia is hosting their Summer Serata on Friday the 10th of December, visit www.dantegoldcoast.com.au to book now!
You can find out more about our membership program here.
How do I get proof of my vaccination status?
Getting proof of your COVID-19 vaccinations online
If you’re 14 or older, you need to get your own proof of COVID-19 vaccinations using either:
- your Medicare online account through myGov
- the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.
- or through a physical copy
There are different ways you can show proof of your COVID-19 vaccinations:
- a COVID-19 digital certificate
- your immunisation history statement
- an International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate for overseas travel.
You can print your own COVID-19 digital certificate or immunisation history statement when you download your proof online.
Getting proof if you can’t get proof online
If you can’t get proof of your COVID-19 vaccinations online, you can ask your GP to print your immunisation history statement. Vaccination hubs can’t print your statement or digital certificate for you.
You can also call the Australian Immunisation Register and ask us to send your proof to you. It can take up to 14 days for your statement or certificate to arrive in the post.
There are different ways to get proof if any of these apply:
- you’re not eligible for Medicare
- you’re a veteran
- you can’t have a COVID-19 vaccination for medical reasons.
Once you’ve had all your required doses, you can add your COVID-19 digital certificate to your digital wallet.
Click here if you need help with storing your proof on your device.
If you’ve had mixed doses of approved or recognised vaccines, you can use your COVID-19 digital certificate or immunisation history statement as proof.
You can also get your immunisation history through My Health Record. If you haven’t used My Health Record before, you need to link it to myGov.
Find out more about how to get proof of vaccination through My Health Record on the Australian Digital Health Agency website.
What if your loved one doesn't have a smart phone?
Here are ways that you can get accepted evidence of their COVID-19 vaccination:
- You can ask your GP to print your immunisation history statement.
- You can also call the Australian Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809 and ask them to send your proof to you. It can take up to 14 days for your statement or certificate to arrive in the post.
You can also access this information online via:
- your Medicare online account through myGov
- your Express Plus Medicare mobile app
- the Individual Healthcare Identifier Service through myGov.
Moon Valley Events are bringing Latin culture to the Gold Coast all wrapped up in one jam packed super fun day on December 4th!
They will have performances all day from Mango Matic, Rosita with Zumba Fitness, CDG Colombian Dance Group (Brisbane), Richardo Bugueno, and more to be announced!
For the little NIÑOS, there will be a special visit from Santa, fun games, colouring, a jumping castle and Juegos!
The day will boast some incredible food choices...did someone day Peruvian food?
As we can't travel to South America right now, why not experience the food and culture right here on the Gold Coast?
Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/events/230398145748649
Tickets link: https://events.ticketbooth.com.au/event/la-fiesta
Applications are open for the University of Queensland Refugee and Humanitarian Scholarship!
The Scholarship provides a full tuition fee waiver and an $8,000 annual living contribution for students to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies.
The scholarship is available to those who are in Australia and are currently on a:
- Bridging Visa ‘E’
- Temporary Protection Visa, or a
- Safe Haven Enterprise Visa
Applications close 31 December 2021.
To find out more and apply, visit https://bit.ly/3qlhgDC
GOPIO Gold Coast are hosting a Christmas Luncheon on Sunday the12th of December at Saffron Indian Gourmet to raise money for victims of domestic and family violence.
Find tickets here: https://bit.ly/3l6Kmn2
ABC Gold Coast sat down and had a chat to one of our Settlement Engagement and Transition Support Program (SETS) clients Bismillah from Afghanistan.
We are humbled by Bismillah's story of bravery and resilience.
To read the full story: https://ab.co/3oAaXKb
To read more about our SETS program: https://bit.ly/3C6gLjd
Welcome to Country - Gift Ideas for the Holidays
Welcome to Country is a not-for-profit organisation whose purpose is to address employment and economic development outcomes in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. As a not for profit driven by their purpose, everything they do is focused on delivering direct outcomes to Aboriginal and Torres Strait people and communities.
Shopping with purpose this Christmas means you’re not only bringing joy to your loved ones with beautiful gifts, but also supporting First Nations businesses and communities with every purchase. Every art silk scarf, piece of jewelry or weaving can fairly pay artists, help keep art centres open and the world’s oldest living culture strong.
Check out their range of fashion, art, homewares, book and beauty by clicking below.
Welcome to Country also offer a range of experiences to purchase that are conveniently broken down into our states and territories.
See below for some examples of Welcome to Country experiences!
DECEMEBER 2021
6th of December- End of Hanukkah
Chanukah (alternate transliteration: Hanukkah) commemorates the recapture and rededication by the Jewish people of the Jerusalem Temple. It lasts for eight days and nights, and each night an additional candle is lit.
FIND OUT MORE HERE
8th of December- Feast of the Immaculate Conception
This day is a Roman Catholic feast that celebrates Mary's (the mother of Jesus) conception without sin.
FIND OUT MORE HERE
8th of December - Bodhi Day
Mahãyãna Buddhists commemorate Buddha’s enlightenment today.
FIND OUT MORE HERE
25th of December - Christmas Day
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, peace on earth and good will. Christmas lights and trees are displayed, carols sung and gifts exchanged.
FIND OUT MORE HERE
26th of December - The Feast of St. Stephen
Saint Stephen's Day is the second day of Christmastide and is celebrated in honour of one of the first Christian martyrs, Saint Stephen, who was stoned to death in 36 AD.
FIND OUT MORE HERE
31st of December - New Year's Eve
New Year’s Eve is a time for communities, families and friends to celebrate the year past and the year to come.
FIND OUT MORE HERE
The Australian Government is committed to assisting more people with disability into jobs so they can enjoy the social and economic benefits that work brings. People with disability and employers need a system that meets their needs and provides the appropriate supports to find and keep a job. The current Disability Employment Services (DES) program concludes 30 June 2023, and will be replaced by the new disability employment support model.
The Government is actively working to ensure that the new disability employment support model is designed with people with disability at the centre. They want your help to create a model that best supports people with disability to find and maintain employment, and supports employers to employ people with disability and ensure their employment is successful.
The Government has already heard from many people about what is important to them through the consultations for Australia’s Disability Strategy, Disability Employment Strategy and the Disability Royal Commission. However, it is important to ensure that people with disability, their families and carers are involved in these important reforms to disability employment services.
The Department of Social Services (DSS) has been engaging with disability employment organisations, DES providers and many other stakeholders through a series of working group meetings designed to work through issues for a range of disability cohorts. PricewaterhouseCoopers has also been engaged to run a series of workshops with people with disability and carers across Australia to assist in designing the new model.
As the next step in the engagement process, DSS is undertaking public consultation to give more people a chance to have a say on what the new disability employment support model should look like. They want your feedback and ideas on how they can achieve meaningful change and help more people with disability prepare for work, get a job, keep working and progress their careers.
The New Disability Employment Support Model Consultation Paper sets out what we know and what they think could help.
To complete the consultation paper, click the link below.
We're excited to be expanding our team across South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales and are looking for dedicated individuals to join us.
As part of our 2021-2024 Strategic Plan, we are recruiting a range of new positions and increasing service delivery across several areas to support more community members in the regions we serve.
- Finance Officer – Gold Coast - Apply here
- Registered Nurse (Community) – Cabool – Part Time – Apply here
- Registered Nurse (Community) – Gold Coast – Part Time – Apply here
- Home Care Worker Gold Coast – Casual - Apply here
- Home Care Worker Tweed Shire – Casual - Apply here
- Home Care Worker Sunshine Coast – Casual - Apply here
- Home Care Worker Moreton – Casual - Apply here
We look forward to your application!
Have you been wondering recently what domestic and international travel is going to look like once the Queensland borders open?
Holiday International Golden Travel are hosting 'All about travel- out of COVID-19' information sessions.
Information night: Monday the 13th of December from 5:30-7:00pm
One-on-one information sessions: from Tuesday the 14th to Saturday the 18th of December (can be delivered face to face or online).
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we operate, the Kombumerri people, the Gubbi Gubbi people, the Jinibara people, the Turrbal people, the Quandamooka people and the Bundjalung people. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging and extend our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and acknowledge their ongoing connection to land, sea, culture and community.
