How did you get involved in the deaf world?My youngest daughter Bonny was diagnosed with a profound unilateral hearing loss when she was 4. When she was 7, she developed a perilymphatic fistula in her other ear and lost most of her hearing overnight. I needed contact with other families at that stage and

became involved in a couple of parent support groups.

What prompted you to set up Aussie Deaf Kids?When I was on the Management Committee of Parents of Deaf Children (PODC), we wanted to support families in regional and rural areas. Then I found an article in the newspaper about online support groups and thought I could give it a try. With support from PODC and Australian Hearing it slowly grew.

How long has it been going for now?I started the first group in 2001. Aussie Deaf Kids only provides online support and we now have three Yahoo groups and two Facebook groups.

Do you remember the first time you met a deaf adult?I went to school in South Africa and our school choir sung at the ordination mass of Father Cyril Axelrod (deafblind priest). It was a pretty amazing experience. After Bonny lost her hearing, I did an Auslan course through DEN. Our instructor was deaf.

What do you think parents need to know about deaf people and what do deaf people need to know about parents?Parents usually want to meet other parents when their child is diagnosed but they tend to be more unsure about meeting a deaf adult. This is an area that we still have a lot of work to do in Australia. As parents, we can learn so much from people with the lived experience of deafness.I think many deaf people have difficulty with the notion of informed choice, particularly with regards to communication options. Parents who are provided with

Founder of Aussie Deaf Kids 1From the CEO 2Editorial 2Board Profile 3

“On this day...” 4Updates from the Deaf Society 4Silent Messenger 7National Week of Deaf People 2012 8

Community News 10Obituaries 11Deaf Sports News 12Events 14

Issue 10 - Summer 2012/2013

NSW Deaf HeraldEquity for deaf people

Ann Porter: Aussie Deaf KidsAnn Porter is the founder of Aussie Deaf Kids. She shares her experience as a parent and advocate with us.

Inside this edition:

the information and support they need will make good decisions for their child and family. When parents have made a decision, their decision needs to be respected as being right for that child and family at that point in time.

You have travelled a lot in your work. What other countries have impressed you with the level of access for deaf people?Our paediatric services through Australian Hearing are the envy of every parent I meet. The US, Europe and New Zealand have better access to bilingual communication and education. Most parents I meet overseas have kids with hearing aids or implants and they also sign. It is much harder for families to be bilingual in Australia.

Do you see yourself as an advocate? If yes, what are some of the things you have advocated for?When you read thousands of emails from hundreds of parents, it is hard not to be an advocate for parents. My focus now is the NDIS. The system needs to provide support to families so they can meet the increased needs of a deaf child. While the NDIS is person-centred, the services provided to children need to be family-centred.

What do you do to relax?I have always been quite a creative person so I do lots of different arts and craft activities. I love the Museum of Contemporary Art. I read a lot. I love to travel and take photos. I definitely need to work on my retirement so I can spend more time doing the things that I want to do.

Ann Porter with her daughter Bonny

Ann Porter

From the CEOWelcome to issue ten of the NSW Deaf Herald. This edition has a focus on parent perspectives and National Week of Deaf People.People sometimes think that the Deaf Society only works with deaf adults who use sign language. We also work with a range of other people and this includes parents. Parents and families of deaf children need to be supported as they make informed decisions for their children. The Deaf Society wants to be part of providing this support and providing a link between parents and the adult Deaf Community. We all need to work together to make a better world for deaf people.

In our preparations for National Week of Deaf People this year we reflected on the theme “sign bilingualism is a human right”. When most of the world is bilingual and being bilingual is an asset, it is strange that there is still resistance to this concept. While teaching hearing babies sign is seen as a positive activity that enhances their communication skills, teaching deaf babies sign is often seen as a last resort. Sign bilingualism is an insurance policy to ensure that deaf children do not miss out on quality education and the opportunities it provides. Thank you to all of you who attended our National Week of Deaf People breakfast at NSW Parliament House, the Deaf Festival, our Open Day and our Annual General Meeting. Thank you to Deaf Australia (NSW) and Parents of Deaf Children for working with us on the breakfast and Deaf Festival. We appreciate your hard work and support.At our AGM we farewelled George Barbouttis OAM who has been with us for 30 years. We thank him for his dedication over many years. I was also honoured to be made a life member and I look forward to working with the Board and staff in 2013 which will be our exciting Centenary year.

Sharon Everson Chief Executive Officer

EditorialHave you ever seen or heard of “linguistic racism” before? It means a linguistic idea that denies a race/group of people the dignity and freedom that people from a majority race have. I first read about it in the news when in America, a deaf boy’s family were told by his school that his sign name looked like a weapon and could not be used (the school has not verified the claim). The sign name looks like what the Wiggles use (no one complains about that) and uses a variation on the “L” handshape. The linguistic idea behind this if it is true is that a sign name can easily be changed because it is just a gesture, which means sign languages are just made up of gestures so don’t have the same value as spoken languages. It is interesting that the deaf boy’s English name

is “Hunter” but there have been no complaints about this name. No one suggests that this name is violent and this is because we are able to separate a person’s name from where it came from or what it might have once meant a long time ago. The theme of this year’s National Week of Deaf People, “sign bilingualism is a human right” is important because it reminds us that all languages are important and valuable and deaf children should be able to access their language without restrictions.Enjoy this edition!

Kate Matairavula Editor

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Future submission deadlines (Email: herald@deafsociety.com)Edition 11 Edition 12 Edition 13 Edition 14

Deadline 1 Feb 2013 1 May 2013 1 Aug 2013 1 Nov 2013Released 1 March 2013 1 June 2013 1 Sept 2013 1 Dec 2013

NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10 | Summer 2012/2013

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Board Profile - Sue RaeI have served on the Board since November 2000. I am Deputy Chair of the Board and also a member of the Finance Committee.

I have 35 years experience working in secondary education in the independent sector in NSW and overseas. I continue to work on a casual basis since retirement from full-time work.

I am keenly interested in raising awareness of the Deaf Society and its work, and have been instrumental in the establishment of a Philanthropy Committee to look at ways of increasing not only financial support for the Deaf Society, but of fostering a greater understanding of the Deaf Community. I believe that the Centenary year ahead is a wonderful opportunity both to celebrate and to showcase what has been achieved for Deaf people across NSW

over the past 100 years. It is also a unique opportunity for shining a light forward to the challenges and hopes for the future. I believe that this is a challenge not only for the Board and the Deaf Community, but also for the wider community.

Sue Rae

WFD Conference and Centenary

- Conference and Centenary update -You can register for the conference and buy tickets for centenary events from 1 January 2013 from www.wfdsydney2013.com. Check out the website for more information about the program, travel, accommodation and tours from this date too. Remember, if you want to present at the conference, submissions for abstracts close on 1 February 2013.

Our WFD Conference postcards have been busy travelling the world this year. They have been to Ireland, Qatar, USA, Fiji, Sweden and Switzerland. Here they are with the WFD Board in Geneva at the Australian Permanent Mission to the United Nations.

Summer 2012/2013 | NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10

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“On this day...”This lovely photo is of Dorothy Shaw presenting at the official setting of the foundation stone for the new Deaf Centre at Stanmore on 22 April 1974. The Premier of NSW, Sir Robert Askin, laid the foundation stone. Can you guess who the interpreter is? Look where they are standing!

Unfunded Interpreting Update For many years Sign Language Communications NSW/ACT has provided free interpreting in situations where interpreters are currently unfunded such as funerals, private legal and financial appointments and annual strata meetings. We have never received any government funding to provide these services for free. Since July 2009 we have provided free interpreting to the value of $70,000.

We continue to be committed to providing free interpreting for funerals. This free provision is for up to three hours.

As of 1 January 2013 SLC NSW/ACT will no longer be providing free interpreting for any other appointments. This is because we believe that the cost of interpreting in these situations is the responsibility of the service provider or strata manager. We believe that in order for service providers and strata managers to take responsibility for the cost of interpreting SLC NSW/ACT should stop providing free services in these situations and encourage consumers to advocate for change.

What does this mean for you?If you need an interpreter for a legal, financial or strata appointment and the service provider or strata manager won’t cover the cost of interpreting or if the service provider or strata manager charges you more because of the cost of interpreting you can contact the Deaf Society’s Consumer and Community Services (CCS) Walk-In Service and they can talk to you about your options. The Walk-In Service is available in various locations at various times.

What is the Deaf Society doing?The Deaf Society provides support for your individual situation through CCS. Additionally, the Deaf Society’s Advocacy and Community Development (ACD) department has identified unfunded interpreting as a priority for their systemic advocacy work and will continue to work towards ensuring deaf people have equal access to information and services.

SLC NSW/ACT will continue to sponsor interpreting for deaf community events.

Updates from the Deaf Society Contributors: Teresa Thomson, Jasmine Rozsa, Amanda Faqirzada, Susannah Macready and Nicole Harris.

Dot Shaw at the opening of Stanmore Deaf Centre

To find out where you can access the CCS Walk-In

Service scan this...

To see this information in Auslan scan this...

To find out more about SLC sponsorship scan this...

Anne MacRae Technology SchemeWould you like a computer or laptop? Technical Aid to the Disabled NSW (TAD NSW) and the Deaf Society work together to provide low cost refurbished computers to deaf people. You must have a Centrelink issued Health Care Card or Pension Card to be eligible.

There are three packages to choose from:• The XP Pack (includes a hard drive and screen). It costs $250. The Deaf Society will pay $150 and you pay the

remaining $100.

• The Windows 7 Pack (includes a hard drive and screen and has more memory than the XP Pack). It costs $380. The Deaf Society will pay $150 and you pay the remaining $230.

• A laptop. It costs $250. The Deaf Society will pay $150 and you pay the remaining $100.

For more information and instructions on how to apply: www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/contact/anne_macrae_info.html or visit Walk In for help applying.

NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10 | Summer 2012/2013

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Parent to Parent Support ProgramIn the month of September, we placed 11 parents of deaf children with 11 mentors. We asked three of our parents, Casey, Meredith and Rebecca about their experiences in the program.

1. Tell us about your family.

Casey: My husband and I were over the moon when our first baby boy was born. We were completely shocked when testing confirmed that Ethan was deaf. Later we found out that we are both carriers of a genetic disorder called Connexin 26, and we have a one in four chance of having a child who is deaf.

Meredith: Dean and I had our first baby Scarlett in 2011. During our stay in the hospital Scarlett was screened for her hearing and she did not pass the first screening. She didn’t pass further tests and then she was diagnosed with a mild to moderate hearing loss. That was a bombshell and I can still remember the diagnosis like it happened yesterday.

Rebecca: Our daughter Maxine was diagnosed with a mild hearing loss at about six months of age.

2. How did you become involved in the Parent to Parent Support Program?

Casey: We were put in touch with the program and were matched with Louise and Cameron Griffith who lived in Sydney. I would chat on the phone to Louise, and talk to her about what we were going through. Later we met Louise and her family in my home town when she dropped through on the way home from their family holiday. It was wonderful to meet their son Cody. I could see Ethan’s future in him. Every worry I had in my head vanished, because he was proof that things would be good for Ethan.

Meredith: Once Scarlett was diagnosed, I was contacted by the program and put in touch with Michelle, who came to visit me with her daughter Jessica. Meeting them was a breath of fresh air and we were so impressed with Jessica that we had the confidence to go forward and meet challenges confidently.

Rebecca: After the diagnosis we were contacted to see if we wanted to be a part of the program. I happily accepted as we felt completely out of our depth. We were contacted by Fleur, who chatted to me several times over the phone. We then arranged to meet face-to-face and Fleur visited me, where she spent time asking me my thoughts and feelings and sharing her own. When I spoke to Fleur I understood that there was a whole world of people out there who had been through it, and that gave me great comfort.

3. Have you heard of Better Start? What are you using the funds for?

Casey: Yes, we will be using it for RIDBC teleschool.

Meredith: Yes, we use the Better Start funding through The Shepherd Center’s Kidscape (playgroup) and Scarlett’s therapy sessions.

Rebecca: We have qualified for Better Start and we use it to pay for speech therapy with The Shepherd Centre.

4: What have you learnt about deaf children?

Casey: I had never heard of a cochlear implant until my son needed one. I have also learnt how lucky we are in Australia to have all these services available to us.

Meredith: That they are just normal wonderful kids. They don’t need to be defined by their deafness.

Rebecca: That it’s a lot more prevalent than I thought and that with good intervention, it’s actually not going to make much difference to Maxine’s life.

Summer 2012/2013 | NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10

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Emergency Interpreting ServicesSLC NSW/ACT will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period. We will be closed from 12pm on Friday 21 December until 9am on Wednesday, 2 January 2013.If you need emergency interpreting during this time, you can contact the SLC NSW/ACT bookings staff by phone or SMS on 0412 422 059. You can contact this number at any time of the day or night during the Christmas/New Year closure. When you contact SLC NSW/ACT bookings staff for an interpreting emergency, you will need to provide some important information so that we are able to find an interpreter. You will need to let us know: 1. Your name 2. The name of the deaf person who needs the interpreter (if a different person) 3. An address for the interpreter to go to 4. Brief details of the situation for the interpreter e.g. heart attack, police interview 5. Other relevant details if possibleSLC NSW/ACT staff will contact the emergency service provider (police, hospital) to let them know that an interpreter will be organised and we will keep in touch with you until an available interpreter can be confirmed. On behalf of all of us at SLC NSW/ACT we hope you have an enjoyable festive season.

Crossing Borders Youth CampThe camp is only a month away now. So far we have 70 young people coming from New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia. We have been working hard to fundraise to help pay for flights and assist those who cannot afford the full registration fee. Thank you to everyone who attended our film night, “The Hammer”. This was a great success with only two tickets left. We all enjoyed the open captions and it was a great community night with all ages there.Thank you to Sydney Cochlear Implant Centre, Parents of Deaf Children and the Ephpheta Centre who have provided funds to cover registration fees for those who cannot afford the full fee. Your support is appreciated.The Deaf Society is working with Deaf Children Australia, Vicdeaf, DeafCanDo, Deaf Services Queensland and Tasmanian Deaf Society to make this camp happen.

NDeafIS? Are we in or out?On 15 November, Deaf Australia (NSW) and the Deaf Society hosted a huge event about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). A panel of experts talked about the NDIS and what it might mean for the Deaf Community. Do you remember the big change when the TTY started being used in Australia? Do you remember the big change when interpreters starting letting deaf people control their own appointments? Do you remember the big change when sms and email came in? Do you remember the big change when NABS started? The NDIS could be bigger than all of those changes.Our panellists reminded us that we cannot rely on others to tell the government what deaf people need. Deaf people and parents of deaf children need to get involved and make sure they raise their issues and tell people what they need the NDIS to cover.Thank you to everyone who came, to Julie Owens, MP for opening the event, to Colin Allen for facilitating and to our panellists for sharing their knowledge with us. Have Your Say about the NDISYou can have your say about the NDIS by going here: www.ndis.gov.au/talking-about-ndis/yoursay/ Unfortunately, there is no Auslan on the website, but why not film yourself signing your message on your iPhone or webcam, and send the video to NDISenquiries@fahcsia.gov.au with this message: “I have attached an important message about the NDIS. I want to have my say in Auslan. Please book an Auslan interpreter to translate my message for you.”

NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10 | Summer 2012/2013

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Hi ladies and gentlemen! Another year is coming to a close...it has gone by too fast!

The Board Deaf Australia (NSW) is currently going through an overhaul within the Board. Since Kate Matairavula’s resignation, we have had Karen Eu, Josh Sealy and David Parker step down from the Board. It is rather sad to see them go and we have enjoyed having them on the Board. We would like to wish them all the best in their future endeavours. In light of having three people resign from the Board, we are currently looking for new Board members. If you are interested in joining the Board, please send us an email at deafaust.nsw@gmail.com

AGM Due to the current situation, we have decided to postpone the AGM to early 2013. When we have decided on a date for the AGM, we will be notifying our members and the Deaf community. In the meantime, if you would like to receive information about the AGM and what Deaf Australia (NSW) does, you can become a member by going to the Auslan Shop (www.auslanshop.com.au) or send us an email asking for the membership form.

Transport NSW Deaf Australia (NSW) recently worked with the Deaf Society on a submission for Transport NSW’s Disability Action Plan 2012-2017. The submission included comments about accessible transport and access to visual information for deaf and hard of hearing people. We also made reference to the UN Convention of Rights for Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in our submission, along with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). Sherrie Beaver represented us on Transport NSW’s Disability Advisory Committee, which meets four times a year to discuss accessible transport methods for people with disabilities. Transport NSW’s Disability Action Plan will be released sometime in December 2012, and our submission should hopefully be viewable on their website. If you would like to see a copy of the submission, send us an email at deafaust.nsw@gmail.com

NDIS Forum We have been working with the Deaf Society to organise a National Disability Insurance Scheme forum that was held on 15 November 2012 at Parramatta Town Hall. The concept of NDIS is a rather difficult one for most to understand, hence the forum so we can get a better understanding of it and how it would benefit us.

Sherrie Beaver

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DisclaimerThe Silent Messenger pages are the sole responsibility of Deaf Australia (NSW). The Deaf Society cannot guarantee the accuracy of anything on these pages.

Summer 2012/2013 | NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10

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National Week of Deaf People 2012Every year deaf people celebrate National Week of Deaf People (NWDP) all over Australia and around the world where it is also known as International Week of the Deaf. While other countries celebrate in September, we have our events in October. Every year the theme is set by the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) and this year the theme was “sign bilingualism is a human right”. WFD says the purpose of the celebrations “is to draw the attention of politicians, authorities and the general public to the achievements of Deaf people and the concerns of the Deaf Community” (www.wfdeaf.org).

This year the Deaf Society, Deaf Australia (NSW) and PODC organised a launch and breakfast event at NSW Parliament House which was hosted by the Hon. Helen Westwood MLC. We have worked with Helen over the last four years to hold events at Parliament House and raise attention to the issues in our community.

This year we were pleased to have Hon. Andrew Constance, Minister for Disability Services, John Della Bosca, Campaign Manager for Every Australian Counts and Karen Lloyd, Executive Officer of Deaf Australia with us. They offered insights into their work on the National Disability Insurance Scheme and urged all of us to get involved and make sure the government knows what we want.

School tour presentation at Parliament House

Deaf Festival

NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10 | Summer 2012/2013

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Deaf FestivalThe Deaf Society worked with Deaf Australia (NSW) to put on the Deaf Festival by the banks of the Parramatta River. It was a perfect summer’s day (perhaps a little bit hot) with a sea of hands as all ages came together to chat, eat, play and look at the stalls and entertainment. After the official opening, attended by Colin Allen as President of WFD, the Mayor of Parramatta and Julie Owens, Federal MP for Parramatta, the celebrations began. There was story telling by performer Alex Jones, signing classes, face painting, technology demonstrations and lots of jumping in the jumping castle.

There are fewer opportunities now for the Deaf Community in Sydney to come together but this is one of them. One mother of a deaf child commented, “What a great day out. It’s always so inspiring to look out at a sea of people signing- it’s great for Kaitlyn to see, as she lives in such a hearing/oral dominated world”.

Open DayEvery year we open our offices up to the public so they can see what we do and meet our staff. It’s also a good opportunity for us to do a bit of spring cleaning in preparation as it is Spring after all! So once we are all spick and span, we open our doors, turn on the BBQ, blow up the balloons and show people around. This year we had presentations about our upcoming Centenary and the Smoke Alarm Subsidy Scheme. We opened our “green room” where we film our Auslan videos and gave demonstrations on our equipment. Many people only use the Deaf Society regularly for certain services like interpreting or employment so this is a good opportunity for people to see what else we do and meet other staff. It is also a good opportunity for school children to come as many do not know about the Deaf Society.

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Koda CampOn the weekend of 14 – 16 September, Koda Camps Australia held the NSW Camp at Broken Bay.35 children attended the camp, which is the highest number we’ve had of all six camps in all states (across 2011 and 2012). The kids and leaders had a wonderful time, with activities such as flying fox, archery, beach games, high ropes and the ever-popular skit night where the Kodas had the chance to show off their many talents!There have been positive comments and feedback after the camp. A lot of the campers felt even more proud than they already were of their deaf heritage. Some parents said that they were impressed that their children were making more of an effort to sign to them at the dinner table and have developed a stronger relationship with their children. The Koda Camps Australia committee has one aim – and that is to have fun! At our camps, kids walk away with friends that are just like them (they all have deaf parents) and lifelong memories. If you would like more information about our camps please contact the committee at kodaaustralia@gmail.com, or visit our website www.kodaaustralia.com.au. We hope to see you next year!

WILMA Women’s Health Centre - Working on the NDIS for our Deaf CommunityHi! I am Lorraine Mulley. I am the Deaf Support/Counsellor at WILMA. I want to tell you about the work WILMA has been doing on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).In February, I attended the NDIS deaf sector forum run by National Disability Services in partnership with Deaf Australia. This forum recommended community consultations with the Deaf Community to find out what they would like in the NDIS. I returned to Macarthur Region and contacted the Ageing and Disability Home Care Service (ADHC) to find out what NDIS community forums were taking place. When we had our next Deaf group at WILMA, Laurel Payne volunteered to put her name down as a Deaf Rights NDIS Volunteer Group contact person. Laurel registered as the NSW Deaf Rally organiser for the NDIS Rally at Olympic Park in April. She also voluntarily advocated for Auslan interpreters at the rally and she did an amazing job. At the rally over 50 deaf people from Macarthur and Western Sydney came. We were then asked to be involved with the ADHC Living Life My Way focus groups at Burwood RSL and West’s Leagues club in June. 40 deaf people attended the focus groups and informed the government of their needs. WILMA also provided a submission to ADHC with all our recommendations.After sending everyone from the focus groups a copy of our submission there was lots of discussion about doing more for the NDIS. WILMA then held a focus group for deaf people to add group comments to the Your Say section of the NDIS website. The focus group was a success with 17 new deaf people attending. We thought it was good to do it as a group because we all understood the NDIS better and encouraged quieter people to add their ideas and supported those who don’t have internet access or know how to use a computer well.At the focus group, we all agreed that our next step would be to promote the NDIS at the Deaf Festival in October. We had a stall with handouts and information as well as a 20 minute workshop. The stall proved an enormous success with over 200 signatures added to the petition to the government to ensure deaf people have information regarding the NDIS and the Living Life My Way program.Lorraine Mulley M.A.C.A (Deaf Support/Counsellor/Deaf Person of the Year 2011) WILMA Women’s Health Centre - email: Lorraine@wilma.org.au

Community NewsNSW Deaf Herald Issue 10 | Summer 2012/2013

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Edena was born to deaf parents Stanley and Isabel Winn who were very much involved in the work of the Queensland Deaf Society and the Deaf Society of NSW. In the early 1930’s Edena and her older brother Stanley Jnr had become influential along with their parents resulting in the establishment of the Australian Deaf Christian Crusade (ADCC) which is now known as the Deaf Christian Fellowship (DCF).Edena maintained her interest and involvement in DCF for the rest of her life. Working fulltime in Christian organisations she volunteered her time to interpret Sunday Church services, and Deaf Signing Choir visits to hundreds of hearing churches and women’s prisons throughout the greater Sydney and nearby country areas. When some deaf people enrolled to study at Theological College Edena was also there to volunteer her time and interpret the lectures for them. Edena also assisted in many personal interpreting scenarios for deaf people in Sydney.Edena was one of the early pioneers of Auslan interpreting inspiring many CODAs to follow in her footsteps.

Peter Bonser

Edena Winn 1919 – 2012

Alan and Marion were married for over 55 years and have two hearing children, Ingrid and Paul. Alan came from a Sydney deaf family which included deaf parents, a deaf uncle and a deaf sister. His family could converse in fingerspelling and signs. Marion was adopted into a family in Perth and attended a deaf school in Fremantle.Alan was a great storyteller, ballroom dancer, photographer and artist. He worked as a pattern and dress cutter as well as dress designing. Marion, as a stay-at-home wife and mother, was his number one fan, always ready to give him support and attention.Alan and his sister Betty founded the Deaf Younger Set, a social group for young deaf Sydneysiders. This group proved to be very popular and continued for many years before ceasing in the late 1970s. Alan and Marion worked in the kitchen at the Deaf Society in Stanmore, delivering hundreds of toasted sandwiches and cuppas to many visitors and regulars at the Deaf Club. They also volunteered at Deafness Resources Australia assisting with the shop as well as packing books and equipment for many years.With their deaths, we have lost two wonderful and important deaf people in Australia with links to the past and present Australian Deaf Community.

Darlene Thornton

Alan Fairweather Jnr 1923 – 2012 Marion Fairweather 1930 - 2012

Australia’s 1st Deaf Surf Life Saver, Peter was the youngest of eight children born and raised in Dee Why, Sydney. The only deaf person in his family, Peter was educated at Darlington School for Deaf and Blind Children. Communication was not always easy in the family so Peter quickly found his connection with the beach and the surf, influenced by three of his older brothers, Harry, Doug and John.Peter joined the Surf Life Saving Rescue and Resuscitation patrol in 1947 at age 17 and achieved the Bronze Cross, Surf Life Saving Award. Peter participated in regular patrol duties and competed in Surf Life Saving Carnivals until the age of 31. His team mates developed a secret method of alerting Peter when it was his turn to compete at carnivals. They were so successful that none of the other competing teams realised that he was profoundly deaf. Body surfing was a great leisure activity of Peter’s. He would make catching a wave seem effortless and was one of the few people who could roll as they were surfing a wave into the shore. In retirement Peter moved with his beloved wife, Betty, to the Coolangatta / Tweed area to continue living his love of the beach.

Peter Bonser

Peter Donald Bonser 1930 – 2012

Obituaries

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If you want to send an obituary, email the Editor at herald@deafsociety.com

Summer 2012/2013 | NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10

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Deaf Sports NewsRugbyIn October, the Australian Deaf Rugby team went to New Zealand. They played an international test match against the Deaf Blacks in Auckland. Australia held against a great fight back from the Deaf Blacks denying them a victory on their home ground with lots of Kiwi supporters! Australia won 22 to NZ 20.The Deaf Blacks will come to Australia in October 2013 to play a test match. The World Deaf Sevens tournament will also be held in Sydney at the same time. For more information about Deaf Rugby Australia go to www.deafrugbyaustralia.com.au

GolfJack Mcleod, 16, from Sydney won the Men’s Open at the recent World Deaf Golf Championship at Tsu Country Club in Japan. He is the youngest person ever to win this event.Jack played four rounds totalling 290 to finish at the top, beating Hans Elgaard from Denmark (303) and Jack Besley from Australia (305). Another Australian, Luke Ellis (336), came 17th out of 55 deaf golfers from all over the world. Australia also won the teams championship.Tony Clews interviewed Jack on his success:Who introduced you to the sport?My Mum took me out to a par three course just as she was learning to play the sport herself. I was only about six or seven at the time. I would take one club with me and have a few shots around the course with Mum.

Who is your role model?My role model/s are my parents. They support me 100% with my golf and take time off work to take me to tournaments state wide and often caddy for me.Practice makes perfect so how much did you practice before your win?I practiced nearly every day after school for about two to three hours. Half the time I spent practicing without my cochlear implants on because this was the rule of the championship.How did you feel when you won in Japan?I felt really happy and excited knowing that I had won a world championship but I didn’t expect to win. I came mainly to help the Australian team win the teams championship. What do you want to achieve in the future?I want to be a professional golfer once I finish school and play on the professional circuit.What will you say to young people if they want to be a champion one day like you?Just be yourself. Don’t let anything bother you. If you have a goal, set your mind to it, and work hard to achieve that goal.Will you defend your title at the next World Deaf Golf Championship?Yes, I plan to defend my title in Michigan, USA 2014.If you want to know more about Deaf Golf Australia, contact Gavin Balharrie, Deaf Golf Australia secretary at dgasecretary@gmail.com

Touch FootballDeaf Touch Football Australia have launched a new website: www.sportingpulse.com/assoc_page.cgi?assoc=9325&pID=14This website is bilingual (Auslan and English). Special thanks to the three volunteers who provided the Auslan translation; Chloe Nash, Sharlene Clark, and Jacob Clark. Thanks also to Touch Football Australia for making this website possible as part of the Australian Sports Commission Participation Program grant.The first National Deaf Touch Football Championships will be held in Canberra at Deakin Fields on 12-13 January 2013.For information about this event, contact David Brady at david.brady@austouch.com.au

If you want to send a sports story, email Tony Clews at tclews@deafsociety.com

From left to right: Hans Elgaard, Jack Mcleod and Jack Besley

Jack playing in Japan (Copyright WDGF 2012 / Arista Haas)

NSW Deaf Herald Issue 10 | Summer 2012/2013

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C3 Ryde Deaf Pentecostal Church 201 Cox’s Road, North Ryde 2113Contact: Alex Nyam, 0405 266 761 (sms only) www.c3churchryde.com.au/what-we-do/c3-deaf.html

1st Sunday – Deaf service at 10.30am

2nd Sunday – Interpreted service at 10.30am

3rd Sunday – Bible study at 10.30am

4th Sunday – Interpreted service at 10.30am

Deaf Christian Fellowship St Marys Presbyterian Community Church, 14 Marsden Street, St MarysContact: Matthew Thornley, 0439 368 483 (sms only) & Hans Smit, 0419 255 890 (voice)

Auslan service every Sunday at 11.30am Fellowship lunch after the service in the hall (bring a plate of food to share)

Ephpheta Centre (Catholic)Contact: Stephen Lawlor, ph: 9708 1396 fax: 9709 5638 tty: 9708 6904 www.ephpheta.org.au/index.shtml(please contact Ephpheta Centre for details in case of changes) www.ephpheta.org.au/calendar/201112.shtml

1st Sunday – Punchbowl 2nd Sunday alternates Gosford/Manly

3rd Sunday – Seven Hills 4th Saturday Vigil – Revesby

Inspire Church, ACC, Assemblies of God Cnr Spire Crt and Hoxton Park Rd, Hoxton ParkContact: Pastor Stan Grimmett, 0439 640 656 (sms only) stanley.grimmett@inspirechurch.com.auhttp://inspirechurch.org/liverpool/purpose/our-association/

Sunday 10.30am – Deaf Service Sunday 6pm – Interpreted Service Tuesday 7.30pm – Bible study

North Rocks Anglican Church North Rocks Public School hall, cnr of North Rocks Rd & Barclay Rd, North RocksContact: Darren Kirkegard, 0432 900 904 Darren.Kirkegard@gmail.comwww.northrocksanglican.org.au/deaf_auslan

2nd & 4th Sunday, 6pm – Auslan preaching service

Every other Sunday, 6pm – Interpreted service

Tuesday 7.30pm – Deaf Bible study

Hearing church members are learning Auslan

Riverlands Christian Church, ACC, Assemblies of God Level 1/535 High St, Penrith 2750Contact: Sean Sewell, 0415 205 877 (sms only) sewell_sean@hotmail.com www.rcc.org.au

9.30am Sunday – Interpreted service Other services interpreted by special appointment

Deaf Access at Churches in NSW

YOU ARE INVITED

To attend a meeting with our new Scout group

Based on children with Special Needs

including deaf/hard of hearing

Some leaders use Auslan and/or Makaton

Also using Visual Aids

Catering for children between 6 and 18

Meeting Wednesdays

5:00pm – 6:30pm

Scout Hall, Canberra Crescent, Campbelltown.

Please invite anyone you think may be interested…

For more information please contact Sharon: 0414 666204 or Tracie: 0415 449787

or email Cindy: cindy_clowes@live.com.au

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School Holiday Activity (young people aged 12-17) Amanda Faqirzada afaqirzada@deafsociety.com for more information. Liverpool City LibraryLiverpool City Library is offering FREE Internet lessons for Deaf Seniors. For more information about the course, please contact Carmel Martin, Access Services Librarian at c.martin@liverpool.nsw.gov.au Liverpool City Library is at 170 George Street, Liverpool, NSW, 2170. They can be contacted by phone – 02 9821 9450 and by fax – 02 9821 9456.Penrith Deaf Community Fourth Friday of each month from 6pm to 12am Kingswood Sports Club, Santley Crescent, Kingswood Contact for more information: Catherine Pirotta SMS 0403 552 917 Fax 02 4736 6631 catherinepirot1@hotmail.com Sunday Family Fun Day Upside Down & Inside Out Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Circular Quay West, The Rocks, Sydney on Sunday 27 January 2013 from 2pm to 4pm. From age 4+ and Auslan Interpreter available. More information: www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/events/community_calendar/jan/sunday_family_fun_day-jan.pdf

Northern NSW RegionLismore Games DayEvery Wednesday in NSW school holidays 19 December, 16 January and 23 January 10am to 12pm Deaf Society office Lismore 22 Conway St, Lismore Contact: Melissa Mahony mmahony@deafsociety.com SMS: 0422 013 451Lismore Office Morning TeaMondays: 25 February and 25 March 10am to 12pm

Deaf Community Groups:Deaf Seniors Group5 December – Sydney Carpet Bowls and Cards12 December – Sydney Christmas Party21 December – Sydney Christmas FarewellSydney Deaf Seniors Group First and Third Wednesday of each month at Burwood RSL, Shaftesbury Rd, Burwood. 9am to 2.30pm Contact: Alison Trott Fax (02) 9642 1931 SMS: 0431 938 404 Gosford meets at Leagues Club, Dane Ave, Gosford.Newcastle meets every Wednesday at Hamilton North Bowling Club, Boreas Rd, Hamilton. 10am to 2pmSouth Coast For more info contact Lyndall Keppie SMS: 0402 206 977 Annette Lapins SMS: 0418 474 010 Robyn Nock SMS: 0416 244 279. Deaf Women’s Guild of SydneyFirst Saturday of each month at The Barn, 45 Belmore Street, Burwood at noon. Each month they have a different activity program.Usher GroupUsher’s Group MeetingFriday 7 December 2012 – Xmas Lunch 10am to 12pm Deaf Society, Level 4, 69 Phillip St, Parramatta Contact: Margaret Craig mcraig@deafsociety.com TTY: 02 8833 3691

Sydney RegionThe Deaf Club, SydneyParramatta RSL Club O’Connell Street, Parramatta First Friday of each month More information on the Deaf Club, Sydney www.thedeafclub.org.au

Deaf Society office Lismore, 22 Conway St, Lismore Contact: Melissa Mahony mmahony@deafsociety.com SMS: 0422 013 451Deaf ChatNarelle SMS: 0414 978 606 Sharon SMS: 0408 204 755

Coffs Coast RegionCoffs Harbour Morning TeaEvery Wednesday 10am to 2pm Boambee Community Centre, Bruce King Drive, Boambee Contact: Terri Richardson trichardson@deafsociety.com SMS: 0401 230 911Port Macquarie Social nights with People Builders Saturday nights once a month. For more information contact Ally Costanzo 02 6583 2566 or mail@peoplebuilders.org.auSocial daysThird Sunday of each month between 11am to 3pm Various locations Contact Bernadette Keane SMS 0439 604 637 or Terri Richardson 0401 230 911 for further information

New England RegionSocial days Tamworth First Saturday of each month Meet for dinner at 6.30pm in the Banjo’s Family Restaurant or for drinks at 7pm West Leagues Club, Phillip Street Tamworth Contact: Julia Griffiths jgriffiths@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 672 500Christmas DinnerSaturday, 1 December 2012 6pm in the Dennis Condon Room, West Leagues Club, Phillip Street Tamworth Pay for your own meal at Banjo’s Family Restaurant or Neros Cafe Contact: Julia Griffiths jgriffiths@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 672 500

Blue Mountains RegionBlue Mountains Social Nights Second Friday of each month except in January, 6.30pm start at the Bistro, or 7.30pm at the lounge. Springwood Sports Club, Macquarie Street, Springwood. Contact: Anthony Hastings hastingsag@hotmail.com SMS: 0410 936 758

Central West RegionCentral West Deaf Club - OrangeEvery once month on Saturdays 1 December – CWDC Christmas Dinner at Kelly’s Hotel, Lord’s Place, Orange at 6pm. January, February – to be advised at Christmas Party on 1 December 2012.

Hunter and Central Coast RegionNewcastle Deaf Society Night Fourth Saturday of each month 6pm at the Bistro for dinner or 7.30pm at the bar Wests Leagues Club, Hobart Rd, Lambton

Tweed Head/ Gold Coast RegionTweed Deaf Social NightFourth Friday of each month from 6pm 21 December (3rd Friday) Twin Town Services Club, 1st floor, family and friends lounge, Wharf St, Tweed Heads. Contact: David London deafclub@goldcoastinc.net SMS: 0408 762 414Deaf Club Gold CoastContact: David London deafclub@goldcoastinc.net SMS: 0408 762 414

South Coast RegionTuesday Coffee Mornings Every Tuesday from 9am Michel’s Patisserie, Warilla Grove Shopping Centre, Shellharbour Rd, Warilla Contact: Sara Willyan-Payne southcoast@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 940 899

Events

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It’sFREE!

I would like to order a Family Safety in Auslan DVD. Number of copies:

Please post this to: Deaf Society of NSW PO Box 1060 ParramattaNSW2124

OREmail to info@deafsociety.com

orFaxto(02)88333699orTOLLFREE1800898333

Family Safety in AuslanDVD Order Form

Name

Address

Suburb State Postcode

#

These videos can also be viewed on the Deaf Society of NSW website: http://www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/domestic_violence/

Post to:

Did you know domestic violence can affect one in four women in Australia?The Deaf Society of NSW has a new DVD in Auslan about domestic violence.

You can get a copy of this DVD to:• watchathome• givetoafriend• showtoagroup

This DVD contains the following topics:• What is domestic violence?• Different types of domestic violence• Cycle of violence• Effects on children• Warning signs• Healthy relationship check list• What can I do?• Where to get support

This project was funded by the Office for Women’s Policy, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet.

Riverina RegionBBQ Xmas Party Sunday 16 December 11am Botanical Gardens, Macleay Street, Wagga Wagga RSVP: 9th December 2012 Bring your own meat and drinks and camping chair. Santa will be coming with presents for the children. Please bring small presents with your children’s names attached to give to Santa. For more information, Matt SMS: 0438 848 189 riverinadeafgroup@live.com.au

Auslan Practice GroupsGlebeSecond Saturday of each month from 10am to 12pm Broadway Shopping Centre Food Court Contact: via Facebook. Search for the group “Sydney Auslan Practice Groups”LiverpoolOne of the oldest groups in Sydney - they have been meeting for over 16 years. Every Friday, 10am-12pm. Liverpool Library Carmel Martin 02 9821 9450 c.martin@liverpool.nsw.gov.au

A Wing & A Pear Coffee MorningFirst Friday of each month 10am to 12pm Wing & A Pear Coffee Shop, Corner of Junction & Berry Streets, Nowra Contact: Lyndall Keppie SMS: 0402 206 977 Fax: 02 4443 3140Sunrise Cafe and ChatsMeet every Sunday 8.30am Various cafes between Kiama- Austinmer Contact Sara Willyan-Payne for a flyer of venues and dates southcoast@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 940 899Southern Highlands Social GroupFirst Wednesday of each month 4pm-5pm Tick Tock European Bakery & Cafe, 112 Main St, Mittagong Contact Ability Options for more information 02 4871 1661Sign Language 1 and 2 Classes run each term in the Illawarra area. For more information on these classes, go to: www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/courses/community_auslan.html Or contact Sara Willyan-Payne southcoast@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 940 899

PenrithSecond and Fourth Thursday of each month from 6:30pm Peachtree Hotel, Peachtree Rd, Penrith Contact: Meagan mrudd@parra.catholic.edu.au SMS: 0410 691 381 or Erin etaylor86@hotmail.com SMS: 0421 216 122 Every Saturday morning from 9am to 11.30am Cottage Lane Café Gourmet, 444 High Street, Penrith Contact: Sean Sewell sewell_sean@hotmail.com 0415 205 877NewcastleFirst Saturday of each month from 11am McDonald’s at Green Hills Contact: Anne Ward SMS: 0427 123 013Third Saturday of each month 10.30am Aroma’s Cafe at Glendale Shopping Centre Contact: Pam Wells SMS: 0411 855 950Coffs HarbourEvery Wednesday 10am to 12pm Boambee Community Centre, Bruce King Drive, Boambee Contact:

Coffs Coast Deaf Community SMS: 0439 604 637LismoreContact: Lance Axman-Friend Mob/SMS: 0401 225 801 lance.axman@gmail.comOrangeFirst Sunday of each month from 2pm Beekeeper Inn, 2319 Mitchell Highway, Vittoria Contact: Paul Nordheim pnordheim@deafsociety.com SMS: 0409 745 288South CoastEvery Tuesday – from 9am Michel’s Patisserie, Warilla Grove Shopping Centre, Shellharbour Rd, Warilla Contact: Sara Willyan-Payne southcoast@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 940 899Tamworth Every Wednesday 5.30pm to 7.30pm Raffles at West Leagues Club, Phillip Street Tamworth Contact: Julia Griffiths jgriffiths@deafsociety.com SMS: 0406 672 500 Davina Stanton SMS: 0408 847 904

Submission deadline:If you wish to submit any articles or information for publication, you are encouraged to email us at herald@deafsociety.com. The deadline for contributions to the March edition of the Herald is 1 February 2013.Please remember that the editors of the Herald may need to change your article because of space or to make the style consistent with the rest of the Herald. No promotional, commercial or personal advertisements are accepted unless the editor believes they are of direct value to the Deaf Community.

Did you know domestic violence can affect one in four women in Australia?The Deaf Society of NSW has a DVD in Auslan about domestic violence.Go to www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/domestic_violence/menu.html for the order form to receive your free Family Safety in Auslan DVD!

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Contact the Deaf Society: NEW SMS: 0427 741 420Phone: (02) 8833 3600 TTY: (02) 8833 3691 Fax: (02) 8833 3699 Email: info@deafsociety.com Web: www.deafsocietynsw.org.au

Email stories to herald@deafsociety.com Subscribe online at www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/subscribe

Emergency Contact Details:Emergency Call 106The 106 emergency relay service enables people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment to contact emergency services through their TTY (also known as a teletypewriter or textphone) or modem. It is a dedicated text-based emergency relay-service with direct access to fire, police and ambulance services. It is available 24 hours a day, everyday.

How it works:• Dial 106. This is a toll-free number. You will be asked if you want police (type PPP), fire (type

FFF) or ambulance (type AAA). • The relay officer will stay on line to relay your conversation with the emergency service. Confirm

your location. • Do not hang up. Wait for a reply from the emergency service.• This service is not available via speak and listen (speech to speech relay). These callers can dial

1800 555 727 and then ask for Triple Zero (000) or dial ‘000’ directly.• This service cannot be accessed by text message (SMS) on a mobile phone or internet relay.

NRMA Roadside Assistance24 hours a day, country and metro areas - deaf / hard of hearing text to 0437 13 11 11.

How it works: TEXT NRMA on 0437 13 11 111. Just type your name (e.g. Mr John Smith)2. Your car rego number (e.g. nsw abc123)3. Where you are (e.g. 260 Victoria Rd, Ryde)NRMA will text you back more info.

Albion Park RailMondays – 9am to 11am(after 11am, appointment only)Cnr Ash Ave & Tongarra Rd, Albion Park RailContact: Sara Willyan-Payne / southcoast@deafsociety.com / 0406 940 899

LismoreWednesdays & Thursdays – 9.30am to 1pm22 Conway St, Lismore Contact: Melissa Mahony /northernnsw@deafsociety.com / 0422 013 451

NewcastleMondays & Tuesdays – 9am to 1pm1/133 King Street, NewcastleContact: Justine Lorenz /hunter@deafsociety.com / 0410 909 286

Nowra First Thursday – 10am to 2pm (Dec & March)Nowra Community Centre, 134 Kinghorne Rd, NowraContact: Sara Willyan-Payne / southcoast@deafsociety.com / 0406 940 899

Tweed HeadsThird Thursday of each month – 10am to 12.30pmFood Mall, Tweed City Shopping Centre,Minjungbal Drive, South Tweed HeadsContact: Craig Bishop / northernnsw@deafsociety.com / 0423 488 619

Coffs HarbourWednesdays – 9am to 2pm Boambee Community Centre,Bruce King Drive, BoambeeContact: Terri Richardson /coffscoast@deafsociety.com / 0401 230 911

ParramattaMondays & Fridays – 9am to 12pmWednesdays – 1pm to 4pmLevel 4, 69 Phillip St, ParramattaContact: Jenny Rozsa / jrozsa@deafsociety.com / 0427 741 420

Orange Third Friday of the month – 3pm to 5pmOrange City Bowling Club, 61 Warrendine St, OrangeContact: Paul Nordheim /pnordheim@deafsociety.com / 0409 745 288

TamworthMondays – 9am to 1pm(Mondays – 1.30pm to 4pm Appointment Only)Tamworth Community Centre, Darling St, TamworthContact: Julia Griffiths /newengland@deafsociety.com / 0406 672 500

Port Macquarie First Tuesday – 11am to 2pm (Aug & Nov)Port City Bowling Club, 4 Owen St,Port MacquarieContact: Terri Richardson /coffscoast@deafsociety.com / 0401 230 911

Central CoastThursdays – 10am to 2pmNiagara Park Community Centre,Washington Ave, Niagara ParkContact: Justine Lorenz /centralcoast@deafsociety.com / 0410 909 286

Deaf SocietyWalk In Services

Keep up to date with events - visit:• www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/events/deaf_society_events.html• www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/events/deaf_community_newsboard.html• www.facebook.com/deafsocietynsw

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