Volunteer Voice Newsletter - Spring 2010

can send an automated email to your local MP, or download tips for arranging a meeting with them to talk face to face about these issues: a great way to have your voice heard.

Volunteers whose lives have been touched by cancer are sharing their experiences on the website, to remind politicians that real lives are affected by inadequate government policy and practice.

Volunteers are also hosting Community Conversations with friends, family,

neighbours and colleagues to talk about concerns and experiences: another way to tell the State Government what they want.

One passionate volunteer who has become involved is cancer survivor Betty Zdan. Betty, who is a Cancer Council Community Speaker and our MP Liaison volunteer for Macquarie Fields electorate, gave a presentation to her MP, Dr Andrew McDonald. He was so inspired by the campaign that he gave a speech in State Parliament about it. “Andrew has been a terrific support with getting the word out there for Cancer Council,” Betty said.

This campaign is an opportunity for all volunteers to act to help beat cancer. Visit www.savinglife.com.au for more information.

Volunteer VoiceINSIDE ACHIEVEMENTS

of our dedicated volunteers

OPPORTUNITIESfor volunteer involvement

VOLUNTEERS assisting cancer research

LAWYERShelping cancer patients

A newsletter for volunteers Spring 2010www.cancercouncil.com.au

Volunteers’ role in saving life

News in briefHonour rollCongratulations to valued long-term volunteer June Harrison who was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) on Australia Day this year for her service to youth through scouting, and her significant involvement with Cancer Council NSW. In the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June Dr Andrew Penman was appointed Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his contribution to public health as CEO of Cancer Council NSW over the past 11 years.

Fundraising updateThank you to all those volunteers involved with Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea events in May. Funds are still coming in, but your support has helped us to raise over $4 million for our research, prevention, education and support services.

Editors: Andrew Cook and Deirdre Mowat. Contributing volunteers: Rebekah Hendrickson, Phil Skala and Kristie Weir. Editorial advisor: Jayne Steer. Feedback and contributions to [email protected] by 29 September 2010

A Cancer Council Publication

With a state election looming, Cancer Council NSW has launched the Saving life: why wouldn’t you? advocacy campaign, and volunteers are playing a vital role.

This campaign has prioritised five issues for State Government action: more radiotherapy services across NSW; burden-free transport and accommodation for cancer patients; the best possible cancer care for all, regardless of where they are treated; smoke-free dining and drinking at all venues; and stronger safeguards on the sale of tobacco.

A dedicated website has been set up to ensure everyone can get involved. You

Volunteers and staff at the campaign launch at NSW Parliament House.

Update from the Director of Human Resources, Cath Cahill

In July we bade farewell to Donna Purcell, our Volunteer Resources Manager since November 2003. Donna brought a wealth of experience in communications, training, fundraising, public speaking, business and volunteer management, and community and government relations to her position at Cancer Council NSW.

Donna brought a wealth of experience in communications, training, fundraising, public speaking, business and volunteer management.

She had a passionate belief in the importance of the contributions made by our 2,780 volunteers in our quest to beat cancer. She

developed our current Volunteer Strategy and created a culture that fostered a significant growth in volunteer involvement and an expansion of your roles at Cancer Council. She advanced policies and procedures for the recruitment, orientation, training and recognition of our volunteers.

Donna also took volunteering to another level with the staff partner concept whereby key staff members “buddy” with highly skilled volunteers, who provide valuable support and expertise. Volunteers Peter Finlayson and Warwick Hutchinson successfully worked with Donna herself in this way. She presented the model to major industry conferences so that other community groups could replicate it.

Donna is now the Diversity Support Manager for the Commonwealth

Bank. She and her guide dog, Hetty, (pictured above) will be much missed at Cancer Council, but she plans to maintain her links with us through events and volunteering.

Volunteer Voice | Spring 2010

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Volunteers assisting cancer researchIn 2009 Cancer Council NSW committed $14.7 million to cancer research. The large bulk of this money is managed through the Research and Scientific Development Unit, funding projects in hospitals, universities and research institutions across NSW. Funds also support studies undertaken by our own Research Division, which is located in Woolloomooloo. Volunteers help us in various ways:

Many volunteers have •participated as subjects in the CLEAR Study being conducted by the Cancer Epidemiology Research Unit (CERU) at Cancer Council, which aims to study 5,000 people recently diagnosed with cancer and 5,000 partners.

This will provide the most comprehensive information to date on what really causes cancer. You can help by enrolling in the study (if eligible) or by encouraging family and friends to get involved. All that is required is the completion of a questionnaire (which can be done online) and an optional donation of a blood sample. Find out more at www.clearstudy.org.au or phone 1800 500 894 (free call in NSW).

Volunteers also work in our •Research Division, doing clerical and administrative tasks, advocacy work, data entry, literature reviews and interviews of study participants. Recently five volunteers helped student Simon Willcox with his Master of Public Health (Honours) project, by processing 4,000 responses to a question in the CLEAR Study:

“What factors do you believe or suspect contributed to your or your partner’s development of cancer?”

Through our • Research Extension Program, volunteers are trained and placed in externally funded research teams, according to their specific skills. Research projects are linked to these volunteers via a targeted recruitment process. Tasks range from assisting laboratory work to data entry and management of patient information. Many of the roles are ideal for retired health professionals such as nurses, GPs or pharmacists. Volunteer enquiries: Louise Woods at [email protected] or (02) 9334 1766.

Lawyers stepping up to help

The service supports financially disadvantaged patients mainly in areas such as wills, power of attorney, early access to

superannuation, mortgage hardship and employment, and has already assisted 183 clients since it was brought in-house in February this year.

“Lawyers have so much capacity and skill to donate – giving expertise and time in a way that’s really more valuable than money,” said Professional Services Coordinator, Louisa Fitz-Gerald. Louisa manages five in-house volunteers, who coordinate referrals, managing cases with more than 100 lawyers from some 30 firms offering their services pro bono.

Cancer Council NSW recently launched the Junkbusters website in an attempt to assist parents to complain about inappropriate junk food marketing and advertising.

Almost one quarter of Australian children and adolescents are overweight or obese. We are concerned, because for 80 percent of them, this will continue into adulthood and can lead to an increased risk of some types of cancer.

A significant factor contributing to childhood obesity is unhealthy

eating. Junk foods – such as sugary breakfast cereals, confectionery and fast food meals – are frequently being marketed to children. Kids are vulnerable to this advertising, which influences their preferences and the foods they pester parents to buy.

The Junkbusters website provides information about marketing regulations on all forms of media. Visit www.junkbusters.com.au

and help make a difference by voicing your concerns on junk food marketing or lodging a complaint about an objectionable advertisement.

We also have some volunteer Junkbusters Champions helping to spread the word about the website. Contact Wendy Watson at [email protected] if you are interested in joining them.

Jane Button (pictured left), Senior Associate at Thomsons Lawyers, has been part of the program since the start. “It can be a confronting experience, but is nothing compared to the hardship faced by the patients. It’s a wonderful thing you can do for someone else, a chance to step up and be the stronger person … helping to bring peace of mind for someone facing incredible difficulty,” she said.

We need more lawyers to step up – particularly in regional NSW and western/south-western Sydney. Drafting just one free will a month for a cancer patient will help, and we provide full training and support.

For more information, or to get involved, contact Louisa on [email protected] or (02) 9334 1790.


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In-house volunteers at the official launch of the service at NSW Parliament House in June (left to right): Kanin Lwin, Lara Douglas, Ashley Carlstein and Jessica Orchard.

Cancer Council’s Legal Referral Service assists NSW cancer patients who are, due to barriers like cost or severity of illness, otherwise unable to access legal support.

Bite back against junk food ads

www.junkbusters.com.au

Welcome to another edition of Volunteer Voice. As I read this edition, I again feel a great sense of admiration for our volunteers and the various ways in which you are involved in our mission.

A few months ago, we launched our organisation’s strategic direction for the next five years. The strategy includes the words that we are “a community of people where ideas and charity come together to make a difference in the fight against all cancers”. I don’t have to look hard in this newsletter to see many living examples of our “community of people”.

A strong theme in this edition is volunteers using your own community and connections to further the work of Cancer Council. We feature, for example, the Saving life: why wouldn’t you? campaign, where volunteers hold Community Conversations to highlight many of the cancer challenges facing NSW; volunteers spreading the word on the new junk food registry; and volunteers getting involved with the CLEAR Study. We also showcase our tireless Relay For Life volunteers, who raise vital funds and awareness of our programs. And even though they’re not profiled,

there are hundreds of volunteers every day who spread the word to friends, families and networks about the services and support we offer the community.

As a cancer charity, it is critical that we can connect people and organisations to achieve our mission. Your ability to connect with your community on behalf of Cancer Council NSW helps us extend our work in a significant and powerful way. Thank you for your enthusiasm and commitment to the work we all do together.

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Update from the CEO, Dr Andrew Penman


What could make this better? Doing it for a good cause: as volunteer intern Alex Horowitz found when he helped out at a Call To Arms match recently.

This Cancer Council event invites players from all sporting codes to

hold a Call To Arms match during July, which involves wearing a yellow armband to raise funds and awareness to help tackle cancer in men. Cancer Council volunteers help out by fundraising at the professional Call To Arms games.

Alex and his friends visiting from America went to the Tigers vs. Raiders clash and thoroughly enjoyed seeing their first rugby league match. They split into teams of two and sold try cards, shoelaces, tape and whatever other pieces of merchandise they could carry.

Call To Arms ... involves wearing a yellow armband to raise funds and awareness to help tackle cancer in men.

“I learnt that I’m not a rugby fan yet, but it was a lot of fun to see the crowd going crazy. I also enjoyed yelling Cancer Council sale slogans while trying to sell our try cards before the game,” Alex said.

Visit www.calltoarms.com.au to find out how you and your sporting club can get involved. If you are interested in volunteering at other sports-related events, contact Natalie Bazina on (02) 9334 1440.

A Call To ArmsBanners waving, people standing and cheering, and your team (hopefully) winning, with your friends by your side.

Pictured below, left to right: Katie Kieft, Jordan Horowitz and Alex Horowitz fundraising at the match.

Geoff BantingGeoff Banting, an accountant by profession, is the Director of Governance and Financial Services at Randwick City Council and was previously the Director of Community and Corporate Services at Hawkesbury City Council. With extensive experience in local government, spanning over more than 20 years, and a deep understanding of community needs, he makes a huge contribution to Cancer Council in a number of ways.

“Having been touched by cancer, I wanted to support the fight against this disease,” Geoff said. “I am really passionate about communities working together to defeat cancer.”

Geoff (pictured above with Lorna Allan) has the role of Cancer Council Relationship Manager at Randwick City Council, and enables us to integrate our objectives and initiatives into the wide range of services, facilities and programs provided by this local government authority. This is an important way that Cancer Council can achieve

change in society, policy and practice to advance cancer control.

He is also a committee member of the Eastern Suburbs Relay For Life: an event which raises significant funds for Cancer Council services. This year, the $150,000 mark was exceeded. Geoff finds his involvement in Relay to be rewarding. “The event brings communities and organisations together and embraces an awareness of the work, roles and services provided by Cancer Council,” he said.

“Having been touched by cancer, I wanted to support the fight against this disease.”

He also acts as volunteer mentor to Cancer Council’s Helpline Program Manager, Lorna Allan, providing support and expertise in her professional development. “Geoff believes that defeating cancer will be through the partnerships between governance, the community and Cancer Council,” Lorna said. “He works hard for the cancer cause and values the relationship between these stakeholders.”

Gary MooreGary Moore is the Director of Community Services at Marrickville Council. He is a volunteer member of the Central and Southern Sydney Regional Advisory

Committee for Cancer Council, providing advice and guidance to influence the work in the region.

“I chose to volunteer with Cancer Council because it has a key set of social policy goals that will improve the wellbeing of local communities, especially in the tobacco and nutrition area for low-income households,” said Gary (pictured above). Working collaboratively with Cancer Council to implement a suite of actions in Marrickville that will enhance smoke-free environments and help prevent other forms of cancer – especially for vulnerable children and families – has been a most satisfying aspect of his volunteer involvement.

“I chose to volunteer with Cancer Council because it has a key set of social policy goals that will improve the wellbeing of local communities.”

“The commitment and support of people such as Geoff and Gary have been critical to our achieving a deeper level of understanding and engagement with communities within our region,” said Regional Manager, Julie Callaghan. “They have provided insights and guidance on our way of working, championed our cause, and identified so many opportunities and people with whom we can collaborate.”

Volunteers helping us engage the community

Central and Southern Sydney Local News

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Cancer Council’s mission to defeat cancer through engaging the community is being significantly furthered in our region by the involvement of two dedicated volunteers from the local government sector.

Far North Coast Local News

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Lismore’s new Cancer Council Information Centre at St Vincent’s Hospital was officially opened recently and has received a very welcoming response from hospital staff, volunteers and members of the public.

It is a fresh and friendly space where cancer patients, their carers, family and friends can come to learn more about their diagnoses, treatment and local support services.

An enthusiastic group of volunteers helps visitors access the wide range of resources the centre offers. Cancer survivor Angie Addison is one of these volunteers and she finds it very rewarding to be able to offer assistance in such a practical way.

Angie has previously been involved as a volunteer for Relay For Life in the region.

The Information Centre is a valuable new facility for our community, and one in which volunteers play a vital role.

Members of the Lismore Workers Ladies’ Golf Club assist our Lismore Relay For Life Committee every year. In May they organised a fundraising luncheon, hosted by Don Whitelaw (a past Chair of Lismore Relay and currently the Chair of the Lismore Community Cancer Network) and his wife, Betty.

Discussion over lunch turned to the difficulties of knowing what to say to a friend or loved one who has

been diagnosed with cancer. So another event was held at the club later that month, at which Regional Project Coordinator, Debbie Smith, gave an informative presentation entitled “My friend has cancer – what do I do now?” This looked at how to deal with receiving such news and how to support the person in their journey in positive, practical and helpful ways. The club also ran fundraising activities during this event, collecting $700 for Cancer Council.

The launch for this year’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea (ABMT) on the Far North Coast had a “royal” theme. Fundraising VIPs who attended – all regular supporters of Cancer Council – were given tiaras to wear, and Regional Project Coordinator, Debbie Smith, spoke of her experiences with royalty during the eight years she lived in the Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam in Borneo.

Keryn Bryen from Shartan Hair Studio in Lismore also had a royal

theme for her Morning Tea activities. For the week beginning 24 May the staff wore sparkling tiaras and encouraged clients to contribute to their ABMT fund, raising more than $500. On the Saturday, the staff transformed themselves into an amazing collection of royalty.

Keryn has been supporting Cancer Council activities for more than 10 years now, assisting with events and offering additional support wherever she can.

New Information Centre opens

Fantastic fundraisers offer support

A very royal event

Shartan Hair Studio royalty, with Keryn Bryen (centre in back row).

Mayor of Lismore, Jenny Dowell (left), with Angie Addison (right) at the opening.

Volunteers with Regional Programs Coordinator for Supportive Care, Fiona Murray (far left), at the Information Centre opening.

Greater Western Sydney Local News

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Members of Blacktown’s Relay For Life Committee at the golf event, with Relay Chair, Leanne Brindell (fourth from left).

Senali de MilSenali de Mil has been studying Community Development at Granville College of TAFE for two years. She is currently completing a project that examines areas within Greater Western Sydney for Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities.

Drawing from her experience of living in Sri Lanka and the Middle East, Senali is collecting information on the various dynamics of selected areas, including factors such as cancer incidence, general health, access to health services, and the diversity of the population. Through this project, Senali will identify ways in which Cancer Council can engage with, assist and support all people with cancer.

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On 9 May 14-year-old Jason Francis began the daunting task of walking 200 kilometres from Bathurst to Castle Hill, as a fundraiser for Cancer Council.

The journey lasted seven days before coming to a close on 15 May at the Hills Relay For Life. Ask Jason why he undertook the task and he’ll simply say, “Just because I can!”

For Jason it wasn’t a challenge he had to face alone. Sharing the walk with him was his mother’s friend Ingrid Helff. Jason and Ingrid (pictured right) attempted to cover an average of 28km a day, with support from Jason’s family. He was deeply moved by stories of people he met along the way, telling him of how cancer had affected their lives.

Jason, who recently lost his grandfather to cancer, managed to raise over $25,000, an achievement he

The annual Blacktown Relay For Life Golf Day was held in May at Ashlar Golf Club, with more than 35 teams participating.

Auctions and raffles organised by volunteers helped raise valuable funds, but it was an amazing donation of $100,000 from Sargents Charitable Foundation that was the highlight of the day.

This will be a massive boost to funds raised for cancer research, prevention and support by the Blacktown Relay For Life Committee. This large committee, currently chaired by Leanne Brindell, has helped promote the annual Relay for the past nine years and its members’ hard work and dedication will be key factors in the event’s success when it is held on 30-31 October.

attributes to all the support he received. “I can’t thank Ingrid enough for helping me and for organising this event – and Cancer Council for its support,” he said.

Teen’s amazing walk to Relay

Blacktown Relay Golf Day a hit

Hunter Local News

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Gary RosevearThe Hunter Region is fortunate to have an army of dedicated and passionate volunteers who contribute in a wide variety of ways to help beat cancer. Gary Rosevear is one volunteer who goes above and beyond for the cause.

Gary became involved in our region through Consumer Advocacy Training and has since become an active member of the Hunter Regional Advocacy Network. He is also Cancer Council’s MP Liaison to Jodi McKay, Member for Newcastle. Gary has lobbied State and Federal Members of Parliament

about the Roadblocks to Radiotherapy report and the current Saving life: why wouldn’t you? advocacy campaign.

Gary is particularly passionate about Cancer Council’s Get Behind Bowel Screening campaign. His own experience of receiving a bowel screen kit under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program enabled him to have early intervention for polyps. He was shocked to find that not everyone over the age of 50 receives such a kit and this motivated him to join our call for a wider screening program.

Many thanks to Gary for all his efforts in our region.

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Gary Rosevear takes a break from his lobbying work to meet up with Newcastle-born Miss Australia finalist, Maxine Stokes, to raise funds at the Newcastle Knights home game in May.

Raising bowel cancer awareness

Super Colon is a blow-up, walk-through, pink/red cylindrical tunnel. Attached to its walls during its time at the hospital were notes and visual representations of bowel cancer risk factors, including polyps and Crohn’s disease. At the exit of the tunnel was a toilet, lid up, with a pictorial list of

stool types – and as a sample, an unsettling rounded chocolate bar in the bowl! There were fruit costumes, free fruit giveaways and local sporting identities on site to draw in the crowds. Doctors were available to answer questions.

Volunteers from our Cancer Council Information Centre at Calvary Mater Newcastle were also there, providing information and support options for cancer patients. Many visitors wanted to talk about their cancer experiences to someone who would listen and provide support, and several who had experienced recent bereavement spoke openly about their grief. The volunteers made many referrals to the Helpline for

people who could benefit from this valuable service.

A number of health professionals also visited our stand for resources. Many of them were previously unaware of our Information Centre and were pleased to learn that they could refer their patients there to access information and support services at the time of treatment.

For Bowel Cancer Awareness Week in June, gastrointestinal nursing staff at John Hunter Hospital raised funds to hire Super Colon as a dramatic way to highlight the issue.

Volunteer Moira Campbell and Super Colon.

Volunteer Anooysia Arunasalam at our information stall.

Mid North Coast Local News

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Regional Advisory Committee’s plans

Call to action day at Port MacquarieCancer Council is looking for opportunities for the State Government to reduce the impact and incidence of cancer through funding and provision of health care services, public health initiatives and better regulations.

Volunteers from various areas of Cancer Council attended an information day in Port Macquarie in June, where they were encouraged to become involved in the new Cancer Council advocacy campaign, Saving life: why wouldn’t you?

Following on from this event, three committed volunteers will run similar days in their local areas, to discuss the important issues to be raised in the lead-up to the state election in March 2011.

In May four volunteer leaders and members of the Mid North Coast Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) met in Sydney with other advisory committees members from across the state. They developed a three-year strategic plan to guide future activities and identified three priority areas, including working with Aboriginal communities, profiling the committee members in their localities, and increasing media and profile for Cancer Council NSW.

The advisory committee’s role is to support and guide the Regional Manager and the regional team to deliver Cancer Council strategically appropriate programs, and to address local priorities and needs. It is specifically an advisory role, with a strategic focus. Our members come from places across the Mid North Coast, including Port Macquarie, Manning Valley, Wauchope, Bellingen and Coffs Harbour.

Lesley Schoer, RAC Chairperson.

Kerrie Fraser, RAC Patron.

John Kerr:going the extra mileFor 10 years the Manning/Great Lakes Transport Service has been providing a Cancer Council car to carry transport-disadvantaged patients to cancer treatment centres in Newcastle and Port Macquarie.

Determined to continue helping cancer patients and carers, John Kerr joined the service after caring for his wife, who lost her battle with cancer eight years ago.

As the Transport Service Coordinator, John liaised directly with oncology staff, contacted patients and volunteer drivers, and organised trip schedules to ensure that as many patients as possible could be transported to treatment. John also submitted reports to Cancer Council and did much of the driving himself.

John recently resigned from the service to support a friend with cancer, and after so many years, is sorely missed by his volunteer driver group and the oncology staff at Manning Hospital in Taree.

Cancer Council sincerely thanks John for his many years of hard work and dedication in his role as volunteer driver and Coordinator of the Manning/Great Lakes Transport Service. Information day volunteers. Back row (left to right): Colleen Moran, Elizabeth

Doorey, Norma McKellar and Bronwyn Thompson. Front row (left to right): Tricia Nyberg, Mary McLaren and Len Dodds.

Northern Sydney and Central Coast Local News

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In July a group of passionate volunteers joined regional staff in an open Community Conversation about two of the key issues in Cancer Council’s latest campaign, Saving life: why wouldn’t you?

This was a chance for attendees to learn about and contribute their opinions on smoke-free dining and drinking at all venues, and stronger safeguards on the sale of tobacco.

“Holding discussions like this is very important if we want to show State MPs and candidates how much these issues really matter to people in our community,” said volunteer Health Promotion intern, Karoline Recek, who hosted the event.

The volunteers walked away with a sense that every person can have their voice heard. Some of the participants signed up to host their own Community Conversations, some mailed postcards to their MP, while others will be sharing their stories online.

Front row (left to right): Nadine Costantini, Monica Mikhael, Kate Whittaker, Kate Searle, Amy Harmer and David Vincent. Back row (left to right): Karoline Recek and Lauren Shore.

“Trying to initiate changes in government policy and practice can be pretty daunting, but after today’s session I feel well equipped to tackle this challenge head on,” said Human Resources volunteer for the Northern Sydney team, David Vincent.

Visit www.savinglife.com.au to find out more.

Volunteers make day brighterAlan Watts is one of the patients at the Cancer Care Unit at Gosford Hospital whose day is brightened by visits from Cancer Council volunteers. Through a partnership with the unit that started in April, these volunteers work in the chemotherapy ward and provide general assistance to the staff.

“Volunteers help ease the load for staff by providing a friendly, caring face and spending time with

patients,” said Cancer Care Unit Coordinator, Alitha Watkins.

Volunteers are given specialised training conducted by Cancer Council, including Accidental Counsellor, and an orientation provided by the unit.

Volunteers supply this important community service on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 2pm.

Accounts assistant extraordinaire!

Volunteer Lesley Aarsen (left) with Alan Watts (right).

Voice matters

Anjing Sun has been volunteering at the Erina Fair Office as our very efficient accounts assistant since April 2009, making sure our paperwork is complete and done on time.

She began here only two months after coming from China to her new home in Australia with her husband, Ian. Lately Anjing has been busy

getting her home in order, gardening, attending Cancer Council events – and in her spare time, she is usually out walking her dog, Ben Ben.

“I’ve enjoyed my time with Cancer Council,” said Anjing. “I’ve learnt a lot about the Central Coast and Australia, and I’ve met many interesting people.” Anjing Sun at the Volunteer Expo in May.

North West Local News

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Tamworth Cancer Council Information Centre is delighted to welcome 11 new volunteers.

They kick-started their volunteering career with three days of training, which included lots of fun. The volunteers were not only delighted with the information they learnt, but also keen to get their blue daffodil shirts on. In July they had the opportunity to become acquainted with the existing Information Centre volunteers at a “meet and greet” session, and as a result, the team members have bonded well.

The establishment of Information Centres in NSW hospitals and treatment centres has been a great success. With Tamworth Hospital’s continuing collaboration and the support from our volunteers, there is no doubt we are well equipped to provide excellent information services and social support to patients, along with their carers, families and friends.

Special thanks to our experienced volunteers for providing ongoing mentorship and training during the “settling-in” period.

Daffodil Day thank youVolunteers involved in Daffodil Day on 27 August provided a much-needed and appreciated workforce, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to you all, particularly the incredible team leaders.

For many, their commitment started several months ago, when they attended an information session that reviewed this year’s merchandise and logistics. For the team leaders it was also an opportunity to network, share ideas and gain valuable information for their Daffodil Day sites.

We encouraged each of you to have fun with your site by dressing up, being loud and getting noticed – and you definitely did that! Thank you to all the team leaders and volunteers who make Daffodil Day such a success each year.

PIctured below: Daffodil Day team.

Relay For Life volunteer committeesDuring spring and autumn each year the North West Region hosts a minimum of six Relay For Life events. From Quirindi to Tenterfield, and as far out west as Narrabri and Moree, volunteer committees continue to be the drivers behind each Relay event. With their wonderful dedication and assistance, Cancer Council is able to raise vital funds for cancer research, prevention and support.

A huge thank you to Gunnedah, Walcha, the University of New England, Glen Innes, Inverell, Tamworth and Narrabri, all of which – with the help of their volunteers – hosted a Relay event during the last financial year. Without the support of these communities, and the passion of their volunteers, the events would not be what they are today.

If you are interested in being involved in a committee in your town, please call (02) 6763 0900.

New volunteers at Information Centre

Information Centre volunteers.

Hardworking Inverell Relay For Life Committee volunteers.

Southern Local News

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Alexandra Breitsameter

Alexandra Breitsameter is in her third year of a Bachelor of Arts/ Bachelor of Communications and Media double degree at the University of Wollongong.

“When I volunteered with the Southern Region, I hoped that I could be a useful part of what is an invaluable project to improve people’s quality of life,” Alexandra said. “For me, volunteering is a personal and social investment that means translating concern into action.”

Currently Alexandra is researching State and Federal MPs, whose vocal support for

Cancer Council initiatives in Parliament forms a cornerstone of the Regional Advocacy Network. This involves researching electorates so that Cancer Council campaigns can be specifically tailored to the needs of constituents, to enhance policy and advocacy success.

Another project she is working on is the Saving life: why wouldn’t you? advocacy campaign. In the lead-up to the 2011 state election, this campaign invites people to make their voices heard in various ways, such as through locally organised Community Conversations, to encourage government action to help beat cancer.

Cancer Council is targeting MPs and electoral candidates to raise their

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level of awareness, present to them that it is within their power to save lives, and ask the question: why wouldn’t you?

Visit www.savinglife.com.au for more information.

Kiama Relay For Life – a first!

The first ever Kiama Relay For Life was held on 1-2 May. It was an outstanding success – with 51 teams registered, approximately 1,000 participants involved, and the initial fundraising target of $56,000 blitzed by the amazing $85,000 raised.

Two of the committee members have a special commitment to the event. Steve and Marie Dalton

originally participated in the Illawarra Relay in 2004 in support of their daughter Kim, who had been diagnosed the year before. Kim subsequently lost her battle with cancer at the age of 23.

“When we saw that Kiama was having its first Relay, we knew that it was something that we wanted to be involved with,” they said. “We had lost our daughter to cancer, but thought maybe we could do something so that other families didn’t have to go through what our family had experienced.”

It was an outstanding success – with 51 teams registered, approximately 1,000 participants involved, and the initial fundraising target of $56,000 blitzed by the amazing $85,000 raised.

The huge success of this Relay is attributable to the volunteer committee, who worked tirelessly to create this fantastic event – and to a community dedicated to beating cancer.

Steve and Marie are committed to making a difference. “We will definitely be there next year to help organise our town’s Relay and, of course, to walk for Kim,” they said.

Chris Dalton (left) and his team, the highest fundraisers at Kiama Relay For Life, with Relay Chair, Neil Reilly (centre).

South West Local News

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The South West Regional Office recently conducted our first training session for Community Speakers, with seven volunteers trained. We hope to finalise the last part of the training soon and get this enthusiastic group out in the community.

Community Speakers present educational sessions about prevention and early detection of cancer to audiences of different age groups in various locations and organisations.

The free talks provide local groups with a range of presentations with topics including diet and lifestyle choices, sun protection for cancer prevention, and specific cancers such as bowel, breast and prostate.

We have room for more dynamic and enthusiastic members to join this team, whose work will help us to build a cancer-smart community. For more information call Megan Savin at the Wagga Wagga office on (02) 6937 2601.

The South West Regional Office hosted an Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea event with a difference this year.

We had a bit of fun with a public Scone Bake-off, between the Country Women’s Association (CWA) and a local chef, held in the Wagga Wagga Marketplace. Hardworking volunteers spread the scones with jam and cream, selling them to people in the large crowd that had gathered to watch the CWA’s Ann Adams compete against Robbie Gow from Three Chefs Restaurant.

On this occasion, the CWA showed it reigned supreme over the professionals when it comes to baking scones, with the three judges choosing Ann as the winner of the “Best Scone-maker” title for 2010.

Pictured above left: Robbie Gow.

Pictured above right: Ann Adams (left) with MC for the event, Emeritus Professor Ted Wolfe (right), Cancer Council volunteer, Chairperson of the Regional Advisory Council and member of the Regional Advisory Network.

Volunteers help at movie nightsLocal volunteers recently helped out with our very successful movie fundraiser events. They helped source and put together vouchers and free items for 280 goodie bags for the screening of Sex and the City 2 and 220 goodie bags for the third instalment of the Twilight saga, Eclipse.

Volunteer Maureen Dietmann lent a hand on the night of Sex and the City 2, with guests treated to a glass of bubbles, nibbles and a fashion parade by Milk Boutique. Volunteer Terry Grist assisted at the screening of Eclipse, at which Twilight devotees had their own fan zone, where they could purchase badges and fangs, and get bitten by “Edward”!

Pictured right: Cancer Council’s Prue Densley at the Eclipse movie night.

Can you help us?Volunteering is a great way to practise and refine your skills, develop networks and contribute to the fight against cancer – and is much appreciated. We currently have these volunteer positions available in our region:

Volunteer receptionist, Wagga •Wagga office: contact Kaylene Wilson on (02) 6937 2602.

Committee members, Albury/•Wodonga and Wagga Wagga Relay events: contact Prue Densley on (02) 6937 2605.

Bake-off cooks up funds

Speakers get ready to deliver

Western Local News

page 14


Together they developed and delivered educational programs for school groups and the general public. Their exhibitions included one of the largest Aboriginal paintings in Australia, Ngurrara, and Egyptian mummies from the Nicholson Museum at the University of Sydney.

“During my time with the gallery I learnt a great deal from the volunteers and realised how much major institutions rely on the support of people from all walks of life, who generously give their time and skills to enrich the lives of others,” Brad said.

Brad (pictured above right) is looking forward to working with volunteers again in his new role. The Regional Advocacy Network has been on sabbatical in the Western Region, and Brad will reunite this group and work with them to take on some issues in the Saving life: why wouldn’t you? advocacy campaign, in the lead-up to the next state election.

Brad will also get involved in the Community Speaker Program, which sees volunteers presenting educational sessions about prevention and early detection of cancer. “I’m interested to learn from our Community Speakers so we can develop and improve our speaker program right across western NSW,” Brad said.

In July delegates from across our region gathered in Wellington for the first annual Western Region Relay For Life Summit.

The event was organised by Relay Task Force Chair and Forbes volunteer, Graham Williams, and Cancer Council Relay Coordinator, Anna Coleman. It covered all facets of Relay For Life, and featured ideas and information on how to make all our regional Relay events bigger, better and “buzzier”.

Volunteer committee members from Wellington, Orange, Mudgee, Bathurst, Parkes and Forbes enjoyed finding out about Cancer Council’s new media strategy and merchandise items, as well as brainstorming fundraising ideas.

The summit was a great way to network and discuss the elements that make each Relay unique. Attendees shared ideas for team recruitment and building relationships with team captains and participants.

The gathering was also an excellent opportunity for Western Region staff to engage with and meet our volunteers; in some cases, this was the first time they had met in person after many years of phone contact.

Everyone who attended the summit left with a better understanding of Cancer Council, our region and our work, and has made valuable contacts with people across our local volunteer network, which is so crucial to the success of Relay For Life.

Pictured below: Summit participants.

Introducing Brad HammondWe welcome Brad Hammond who joins our staff as Regional Programs Coordinator. Before arriving at Cancer Council, Brad worked in visual arts, coordinating the volunteer guides for the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery.

“... major institutions rely on the support of people from all walks of life, who generously give their time and skills to enrich the lives of others.”

Region’s first Relay Summit


Getting orientatedKristie Weir (pictured right), a member of the Volunteer Voice team, recently attended Cancer Council’s orientation training and filed this report:

“The day began with a discussion of Cancer Council’s history, structure, and values, giving me a better understanding of Cancer Council’s background and the organisation as a whole.

“We were then put into groups and asked to decide which Bunnings tool best represented a division of Cancer Council: Cancer Research, Marketing and Communications, Health Strategies, Cancer Information and Support Services (CISS), Corporate Services and Statewide Services.

“We displayed our division ‘tool’ as a mind-map. This activity was both fun and informative, because it allowed us to have a clearer understanding of the divisions and to present our ideas in a creative way.

“A spokesperson from each of the divisions took time out of their day to come and speak to us about its main features, with the help of our metaphorical ‘tools’.

“We were encouraged to participate actively throughout the day, and overall, it was a great opportunity to meet people and to be inspired by the wonderful work of Cancer Council.”

Check the Learning and Development link on the intranet to find out when the next orientation day will be held, and see your supervisor to enquire about attending.

Book review Life in his Hands by Susan Wyndham

This is the story of the talented young concert pianist Aaron McMillan, and Charlie Teo, the skilled but unconventional neurosurgeon who operated on Aaron’s rare brain tumour.

Weaving through themes of indomitable hope, determination and spiritual strength, journalist Susan Wyndham tells their journey candidly and compassionately, but avoids focusing on the hardship of lives touched by cancer. Instead, her narrative underscores lives lived to the full through overcoming fear and hesitation, refusing to accept dogma, and persevering to make the most of extraordinary passions and talents.

The true story’s larger-than-life subjects show the impact that just one person’s self-belief and skilful dedication can have – be it music, science, or wherever talents lie – not just on the fight to beat cancer, but on the richness of our wider world.

Thank you, DeirdreDeirdre Mowat first arrived at Cancer Council with a newly acquired editing course under her belt. She began as a writer for Volunteer Voice, and then went on to become the backbone of the newsletter, running the background operations. We are very sad that she has decided to move on (though of course, we wish Deirdre every happiness for the future).

Suzanne Pye, our newsletter designer, summed it up best when she said, “Of all the people I’ve worked on this project with over the years (staff and volunteers), Deirdre has been one of the most efficient, organised and truly professional. She was always on time, and an absolute pleasure to work with. She probably would never admit it, but she does a lot of things beyond the call of duty, such as cooking, writing and photographing the recipe section.”

Deirdre, thank you so much from all of us here at Cancer Council. We will miss your smile as well as your quiet and brilliant efficiency!

Avocado salsaIngredients

2 large tomatoes•½ small red onion, peeled•1 ripe avocado•1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander•2 tbsp fresh lime juice•Few drops of Tabasco sauce•

DirectionsRemove tomato seeds; chop •flesh as finely as possible.

Finely dice onion and avocado. •Combine all ingredients in a •bowl and season with salt and pepper. Cover with cling wrap and •leave at room temperature for about an hour. Serve with grilled fish or any Mexican-style meal. Serves 4.

Recipe corner

General events:

Every Wednesday, 5-6pm: Daffodil Choir rehearsals, Level 6, Woolloomooloo. Enquiries: 0400 118 043

Throughout October 2010: Girls Night In

15-16 October 2010: Cancer Council’s advocacy training, Woolloomooloo. Enquiries: (02) 9334 1748

22 October 2010: Pink Ribbon merchandise sales

25 October 2010: Pink Ribbon Day

Central and Southern Sydney Region

30-31 October 2010: Inner West Relay

30 April to 1 May 2011: Sutherland Shire Relay

Greater Western Sydney Region

Every second Tuesday: Craft Group, Casula Hub. Enquiries: (02) 9354 2051

13 October to 24 November 2010: Free Qigong sessions every Wednesday, Casula Hub. Qigong is a combined meditation and movement exercise. Enquiries: (02) 9354 2051

Hunter Region

16-17 October 2010: Scone Relay

30-31 October 2010: Singleton Relay

6-7 November 2010: Newcastle Lake Macquarie Relay

Mid North Coast Region

6-7 November 2010: Bellingen Relay

Northern Sydney and Central Coast Region

25-26 September 2010: Macquarie University and Ryde Relay

16-17 October 2010: Mingara Relay, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Relay

North West Region

30 September 2010: Support Group information/training workshop. Enquiries: (02) 6763 0900

16-17 October 2010: Armidale Relay

22-23 October 2010: Moree Relay

6 November 2010: Living Well After Cancer Program, Moree. Enquiries: 1300 200 558 (toll free)

20-21 November 2010: Tenterfield Relay

27 November 2010: Living Well After Cancer Program, Armidale. Enquiries: 1300 200 558 (toll free)

Southern Region

16-17 October 2010: Southern Highlands Relay

23-24 October 2010: Goulburn Relay

November 2010: Understanding Cancer Program, Yass. Enquiries: (02) 4223 0203

20-21 November 2010: Eurobodalla Relay

19-20 March 2011: Yass Relay

26-27 March 2011: Ulladulla Relay, Shoalhaven Relay

South West Region

23-24 October 2010: Border Relay

Western Region

16-17 October 2010: Wellington Relay

6-7 November 2010: Parkes Relay

19-20 March 2011: Orange Relay

2-3 April 2011: Bathurst Relay

30 April to 1 May 2011: Cowra Relay

Events calendar


For volunteer enquiries please email [email protected] or call the Volunteer Hotline (02) 9334 1773

Central and Southern Sydney (Woolloomooloo): 153 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011 (02) 9334 1754

Far North Coast (Alstonville): 101-103 Main Street, Alstonville NSW 2477 (02) 6627 0300

Hunter (Newcastle): 22 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow NSW 2292 (02) 4923 0700

Mid North Coast (Coffs Harbour): 121 High Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 (02) 6659 8400

North West (Tamworth): Shop 2, 218 Peel Street, Tamworth NSW 2340 (02) 6763 0900

Northern Sydney and Central Coast (Gosford) Community Hub: The Hive, Erina Fair NSW 2250 (02) 4336 4500

South West (Wagga Wagga): 1/37 Tompson Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (02) 6937 2600

Southern (Wollongong): 1 Lowden Square, Wollongong NSW 2500 (02) 4223 0200

Western (Orange): 75 Kite Street, Orange NSW 2800 (02) 6392 0800

Western Sydney (Parramatta): 43 Hunter Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 (02) 9354 2000

Casula Hub: Casula Community Centre, 39 Ingham Drive, Casula NSW 2170 (02) 9354 2050

Rouse Hill Hub: Level 2, 29 Main Street, Rouse Hill NSW 2155 (02) 9354 2070

Penrith Hub: Community Connections Building,114-116 Henry Street, Penrith NSW 2750 (02) 9354 2060Re

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Volunteer Voice Newsletter - Spring 2010

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