League News Feb 2002_A4 - Cerebral Palsy League

i ami amLeague NewsCerebral Palsy League of QueenslandQuarterly MagazineV O L U M E 2 6 • N U M B E R 1 • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 2GENEROUS DEVELOPER BUILDS CLIENT OPPORTUNITIESGold Coast developer, BrentonKeogh, recently handed over thekeys for a four-bedroom housespecially built for people withdisabilities at Banora Point.The house will provide fullyaccessible housing for three youngpeople from the local area who areunable to live at home due to theircare needs.The house has been leased by theDepartment of Housing, TweedHeads office, for people withdisabilities who will be supported bythe League to live independent livesin the community.Sally Edwards, Regional Manager atthe League’s Gold Coast office,says that this is a win-win situationfor all involved.“The developer has produced awonderful-looking house whichblends in naturally with the localcommunity. The three young peoplewill live in a share-housearrangement similar to any otheryoung adult, and the Department ofHousing will be able to house threehigh-priority clients in the bestpossible arrangement.”Local resident, Brian McKiernon ofTweed Heads, has been living in anursing home since an accidentover four years ago. His mother,Immy McKiernon, says that this is agreat arrangement for Brian.“The nursing home is no place for ayoung man and it was always atemporary option for him. Now hewill be living with other youngpeople who share his interests, heBrian McKiernon acceptsthe keys from Developer,Brenton Keogh, to hisbrand new home atBanora Point.will have the option of having hisown public housing tenancy, and hecan look forward to a new life in thecommunity.”Two other tenants are currentlybeing organised by the League.“Sadly there is just no shortage ofsuitable candidates,” said SallyEdwards. “There just aren’t enoughoptions for people with disabilities tolive in the community.“That is why we are so grateful toBrenton for coming up with such agreat house in a great location”.Cerebral Palsy Week: March 1st - 8thPhone 1800 819 086 to order badgesCerebral Palsy League of QueenslandCerebral Palsy League of QldABN 27 009 942 269PO Box 368Fortitude Valley Qld 4006Executive Management TeamBRUCE MILLIGAN, Chief Executive OfficerPhone: (07) 3358 8003 Fax: (07) 3254 1291Email: bmilligan@cplqld.org.auGEOFF ROWE, Service Development & PolicyPhone: (07) 3358 8014 Fax: (07) 3254 2355Email: growe@cplqld.org.auJASON FOO, Finance & AdministrationPhone: (07) 3358 8064 Fax: (07) 3254 7387Email: jfoo@cplqld.org.auSTUART PILTON, Human ResourcesPhone: (07) 3358 8078 Fax: (07) 3358 8013Email: spilton@cplqld.org.auMARGARET SCOTT, Marketing &FundraisingPhone: (07) 3358 8090 Fax: (07) 3358 2495Email: mscott@cplqld.org.aui dream, therefore I am

The Honda Foundation presented acheque to the League’sRockhampton Region for $20,813 ata special morning tea in November2001. The generous contributioncovered the cost of two importantpieces of equipment for local clients.Three-year-old Wade Leslie fromRubyvale is a happy and brightyoung boy with an enchanting smileand a great interest in all that ishappening around him. Now, withthe provision of a Scamp (a modifiedheight adjustable wheelchair), Wadewill be able to participate in a widerrange of activities in play groups,with his family and in the community.The League was also the recipientof a Dynamite, which is a voiceoutput device. Louise Plantdemonstrated her skills with thisintricate piece of technology andthanked the local Honda Dealer, Nev2i amEARLY CHRISTMAS FOR CENTRAL QUEENSLAND REGIONA group of Sevenoaks clientsattended the second Disabled Ballheld at Maroochy Coach Houserecently. This gave residents theopportunity to dress in their finestclothes and not only enjoy a night ofexceptional food and wine, but alsoall-night dancing.Left - Right:Noela and NevCallaghan, togetherwith Tarnie Lyonand her son WadeLeslie, listen asMichael De Lacy(Senior Physiotherapistwith the League)explains the ScampCallaghan, and his wife, Noela,showing her appreciation for theHonda Foundation’s support of theLeague.Nev Callaghan of D C Motors andhis staff have been supporting theLeague through the PayrollDeduction (PRD) Program for 32years. Nev has had a longSEVENOAKS CLIENTS HAVE A BALL!Those who attended thoroughlyenjoyed themselves, andparticularly the live entertainmentthat was on show. The evening’sperformer declared she would keepon playing until the dancing stoppedand, needless to say, the guestskept packing the dance floor.Clockwise from left: Craig Sellick & VictoriaFoy; Peter Shields; Selena Robertson &Tracy Maw; Luke Messer& Tanya McCabeassociation and understanding ofLeague services in the community,and recommended the League tothe Honda Foundation.Thanks to the generosity of theHonda Foundation, this donation willsupport individuals with theirpersonal development,independence and contributions tothe community.A superb buffet breakfast the nextmorning catered for everyone’sneeds and no one wanted theoccasion to end.The Guest House is located on thebank of the Maroochy River andoffers marvellous views. It isextremely affordable at $49.50 pernight, including breakfast.The hosts, who are also the ownersof the Guest House, must becommended for their professionalattitude and unwavering servicethroughout the duration of the stay.Some things to remember are thatthey only have one bed with railsand one wheelchair accessiblebathroom. They have no showerchairs or hoists but these can bearranged if you are unable to takeyour own.As for the ball, there are threeothers planned for this year. It issuggested that anyone interested inhaving a fun night out book early ...and enjoy!Any queries can be forwarded toLuke Messer, Recreation Officer atSevenoaks, on (07) 3327 2038 orby phoning Maroochy Coach Housedirectly.

In June last year, the Cerebral PalsyLeague of Queensland held aunique initiative called “Camp Have-A-Chat”, a three-day / three-nightcamp with fifteen League clientsaged 8-18, their families and carers.The project was designed to boostmotivation and confidence in nonspeakingyoung people who usecommunication boards and voiceoutput devices. It provided anopportunity to include others whoare involved in the child’s learning.Alternative modes of communicationwere opened up through drama andvisual arts, with the youngparticipants encouraged to expresstheir personality and to explore newinterests and talents.This in turn motivated them tocommunicate “who they are”, withtheir communication devicesbecoming an important part of theircultural expression.Dale Gonelli attended the camp andlearned how to use his Deltatalker innew ways.Dale’s mother, Julie, said Dale isshowing everyone he meets that heis now an actor and he loves to reexperiencethe camp with thephotographs and videos.“He is so proud of himself, havinghis own voice to use and not havingto borrow his brother’s or mother’son recordings any more.”i amLET’S TALK: THE CAMP HAVE-A-CHAT EXPERIENCENEED LARGERPRINT ?Articles in League News areprinted quite small so that wecan include as muchinformation in the mosteconomical way possible. If aheading looks interesting butyou can’t read the text, contactLauren Cameron on (07) 33588084 to request a large-printcopy of the article.For more information onfuture “Camp Have-A-Chat” programs, pleasephone Wendy Webster on(07) 3347-7200 or emailwwebster@cplqld.org.au.Meeting other young peoplelearning to use alternative methodsof communication was also animportant part of the camp’s design.“It boosted Dale’s confidence tomeet other children from around theState who communicate like him,”Julie said.Kirsten Lindemann attended thecamp in an effort to find acommunication device that would besuitable for her.Kirsten’s mum, Sandi, said the campwas a great opportunity to see therange of devices available and itwas inspiring to see what the kidscould do with them.“I had heard about a number of thedevices but it means nothing untilyou actually see them,” she said.“It’s only then that you have anyCOLES OFFERS A HANDJodie Walton, a Gold Coast Leagueclient and a resident of PearsonClose works stacking shelves twodays a week at her local Colessupermarket with the assistance of asupport worker.As Jodie works in a 48-week insteadof a 52-week Moving Ahead Program,the League had to explain toLeft: Students interact inCamp Have-A-Chat activities,with parents and carers.Below: Kirsten Lindemann(on left) participates ina drama presentation.idea if it would be suitable for yourchild.”The camp allowed parents to gainconfidence in promoting their child’sability to communicate and enabledprofessionals to explore theopportunities of what alternativecommunication can achieve forstudents.There was a live showing on the lastday when a variety of interestedparties were invited to share theirexperiences.The camp was funded by theCommonwealth Special Education –Non Schools Organisation and theAustralian Council for the Arts. In amove towards hopefully running 2camps in 2002, sponsors arecurrently being sought for ongoingfunding of the “Camp Have-A-Chat”initiative.Coles that Jodie would not be in forfour weeks as there was no moneyto pay her support worker.The store manager thought that thiswasn’t fair and Coles offered to paythe support worker out of pettycash. Jodie was able to maintain herregular shifts over the holidayperiod....Thank you Coles!3

Access Employment Service, adivision of the Cerebral PalsyLeague of QLD, opened its doors in1993 to assist people who have adisability to explore their employmentoptions.If you are looking for work, AccessEmployment Service can help youby providing information, job search,job matching and on-the-job supportand training.Since July 2001, Access has assisted34 clients to find employmentin the community. Some of thesewere part-time and others full-timepositions with a variety of employers,including private companiesand State government departments.They have had a lot of success infinding employment in the hospitalityand light industrial areas, as well asadmin / clerical and IT.If you are still at school and wouldlike to increase your work skills, aSchool-based Traineeship may bean option for you. This is a keyarea that Access will be focussingon in 2002.The type of employment and thelevel of on-the-job support Accessi amACCESS EMPLOYMENT SERVICE: WORKING FOR YOUsupplies will vary according to yourneeds. Access works within theD.S.A. (Disability Services Act)guidelines and is committed toproviding appropriate support,encouragement and guidance toenable you to clarify your options.To become a client of Access, youmust first register with your closestCentrelink office. They will be ableto tell you if you are eligible toreceive a service. If you are unsureabout approaching Centrelink,Access can provide you with supportat this initial interview.Centrelink will give you a number ofService options and you can choosewhich Service orServices you wish tocontact. If you chooseAccess, we will meetwith you to talk aboutthe ways we can meetyour individual needs.Left - Right: MichaelHocking, Sue Freeman-Brown, Lyndal Miller, LisaMcFadyen, SimoneGrundy, Ian Manning.Absent: Brian WrightTo meet the entry criteria of AccessEmployment Service you need to:• have an employment goal,• be motivated to work,• have cerebral palsy or anotherdisability.If you would like to speak to someoneabout finding work, why not callLisa McFadyen, Manager – AccessNorth (07 3252 4766) or PetaVinning, Manager – Access South(07 3397 1111) and make a time todiscuss your options.The right job may only be a phonecall away!NEW TRAVEL CONSULTANCY SPECIALISES IN HOLIDAYSFOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIESA travel consultancy designed tocater specifically to the needs ofpeople with disabilities is now operatingin Brisbane.Access Employment clients, DavidAlker and Anthony Sproule, foundedTRAVEL PTY LTD to satisfy theincreasing demand for specialisedtravel services for people withdisabilities.David said there were no comparablecompanies in Brisbane since theclosure of a similar service in 2000.“Other travel companies say theycater for disabled people but theydon’t check places properly,” hesaid.4“By the time you get to your destination,it’s too late and you don’t wantthat kind of stress on your holiday.We’re in a service industry whichmeans treating people with kindnessand respect.”The consultancy will operate out ofAnthony’s home, predominantly viacomputer. David and Anthonybelieve this will enable more peopleto plan holidays with theirconsultany as it reduces the needfor clients to physically visit a shoppingcentre.TRAVEL PTY LTD offers its clientsholidays to places all over the world.Anthony and David are particularlyexcited about preparing holidaypackages to the 2004 Olympic andParalympic Games in Athens.The men came up with the idea forTRAVEL PTY LTD after attending asmall business expo last year. Theirconsultancy will be the 49 th franchiseof a large Sydney-based travelcompany.Owning a franchise is beneficial inthat the larger company will providecontinual training and support toDavid and Anthony.For more information or to employthe services of TRAVEL PTY LTD,please contact David and Anthonyby emailinglevart21@yahoo.com.au, by phoningor faxing (07) 3257 4050 or atPO Box 348 Fortitude Valley.

BEER BARONCOMES TO THEPARTYCarlton United Breweries are makinga one-off donation of a “GrowingScout” wheelchair to League client,Molly McGrath, whose family andcommunity spent two years collectingbeer bottle tops.Two years ago, the McGrath familyheard a rumour whereby CarltonUnited Breweries would donate awheelchair to families who collectedenough bottle tops to equal theweight of that chair.The family thought this would be afantastic way to obtain a new wheelchairfor independent, seven-yearoldMolly.With help from cousins, friends andtheir local pub, the Ormeau Tavern,the McGraths succeeded in collectingfour giant garbage bags full ofbottle tops and were finally able tomake a call to CUB to claim theirprize.To their great disappointment, theywere informed the rumour was falseand that many other people hadmade similar enquiries.Molly’s mother, Margaret, wrote toCUB as a “last ditch effort” and herletter somehow reached the desk ofMr David Argus.Mr Argus was very impressed withthe effort of the McGrath family andtheir community. On behalf of CUB,he offered to purchase a newwheelchair for Molly.The “Growing Scout” Wheelchair,which costs $1930, will be black andred in support of Molly’s favouriteAFL team, the Essendon Bombers.Molly will be presented with the chairat a celebration during February,with AFL players and television’sChannel Seven in attendance.I laugh,thereforeI ami amHELP ME GROWThe League recently published abooklet, brochure and fact sheetspecifically about nutrition forchildren with cerebral palsy.The main objective of the publications,which are entitled “Help MeGrow”, is to raise awareness of theimportance of adequate nutrition forchildren with cerebral palsy. Theyare also designed to provide parentswith information on how toimprove their child’s nutrition.Feedback from parents and otherswho have read the material hasbeen very positive. Several parentshave commented that they wish theyhad had access to this informationwhen their child was younger.Queensland Health and the GoldenCasket Lottery Fund provided thefunding for the materials.SUGAR IS PERHAPSAS IMPORTANT AS OXYGENThere are many particular medical negligence.causes of cerebralpalsy. It canMr Smith recently settled a verylarge claim for a medical negligencebe caused duringcase in which he acted for an infantthe birthingwith cerebral palsy. The medicalprocess itself or in the early stagesprofession has a published templateof a neo nate’s life. It can be causedsetting out circumstances a Plaintiffby a lack of oxygen or sugar to thehas to prove to establish cerebralbrain.palsy was negligently caused.A very special knowledge of this However this is not necessarilymedical process is required and relevant to all cases as Hypoglycaemia,for example, does not fall withinincludes:• the effect played by hypoglycaemia;that template.The catalyst for investigating potentialnegligence is for members to• foetal distress; and• mishap during delivery.obtain their medical file from theHypoglcaemia is a condition that hospital (under the Freedom ofexists if blood sugar levels fall too Information Act) and send it to Mrlow.Smith for perusal. Limitation periodsapply and essentially that is threeA Queensland Solicitor, Brett Smith,years from the date of one’s 18has a special needs son and hasthbirthday. However the sooner therecently contacted the League.investigation begins, the better.Mr Smith has been in practice forShould you wish to discuss anywell over 20 years. For some 10 toaspect of a claim for medical15 of those years he has specialisedin professional negligence, innegligence involving cerebral palsy,please do not hesitate to contact MrBRETT SMITH & CO SOLICITORS •Smith.PO Box 465, Ipswich Qld 4305Tel: (07) 3281 9999 • Fax: (07) 3281 9016 • Email: bsmithco@gil.com.auMany people contributed to theproject, including parents of childrenwith cerebral palsy, speech pathologistsfrom the Cerebral PalsyLeague of Queensland, and dietitiansand medical staff fromQueensland Health.The booklet and brochure arewritten for parents and carers andthe fact sheet is aimed at healthprofessionals.To obtain a copy of the booklet,brochure or factsheet, pleasecontact theLeague speechpathologist inyour area orphone HeadOffice on (07)3358-8011 tobe put through.5

6i amFUNDRAISING NEWS • FUNDRAISING NEWSBANYO WEIGHTREDUCTION CLUBDONATES SCAMPWHEELCHAIRTwo years ago, 30 ladies from theBanyo Weight Reduction Club madethe decision to raise money for ascamp wheelchair for a child withcerebral palsy. After many cakestalls and other fundraising initiatives,and with help from the BanyoTavern, the group finally reachedtheir target. In early December theypresented the North family, andrecipient Talitha North, with thescamp wheelchair. Also attendingher first official function as the newMiss Queensland was CarolynMibus. The League extends gratefulthanks to the club for their efforts tohelp the family and the League.Talitha North & family (centre); MissQueensland 2002, Carolyn Mibus (farleft); and members of the Banyo WeightReduction Club.PROPERTY COUNCILOF AUSTRALIACHARITY GALAOn Saturday 27th April this year, theProperty Council of Australia willhost a major Ball in Queensland forthe first time in a number of years.The League is the benefiting charityfrom this event, which will be held atSheraton Brisbane Hotel & Towers.Tickets are $180 per person andinclude a four course meal, beveragesand entertainment. TheLeague is very grateful to theProperty Council for the opportunityto be involved. More information isavailable by contacting the Marketing& Fundraising Department on(07) 3358 8088.WESTFIELD WORKSWONDERSAT the end of last year the Westfieldshopping centres in Brisbane held afun Christmas shopping evening.Entry was by ticket only and theLeague received all proceeds fromtickets we sold. $550 was raisedfrom this event – a top effort!CORPORATEPARTNERS STEERINGCOMMITTEEThis group of influential businesspeople has been harnessed by theMarketing & Fundraising Departmentto provide guidance andassistance with fundraising ventures.Under the leadership of RaySmith from Cutting Edge Post, andthrough the generous donation oftheir time, expertise and resources,this group has recently initiated abreakthrough. The Miss QueenslandAwards are being relaunchedthis years as the All QueenslandAwards.The Queensland Government’sDepartment of State Developmenthas confirmed major sponsorship ofthe Awards, which are open tomales and females of all ages andfrom all walks of life. An exciting newcorporate category will also beincluded. The entire Awards programis to undergo a major facelift,inclding moving the Gala Presentationto Queensland Week in June.Stay tuned for more details as theycome to hand!!WISHART ROTARYCHARITY GOLF DAYOver $9000 was raised at theWishart Rotary Club’s Charity GolfDay in October last year. TheLeague was a major beneficiary. Awide range of prizes was presented,catering for all handicaps, and thenow famous beer & oyster marqueewas once again in operation. TheRotary Club of Wishart has shownoutstanding support to the Leagueover the years, and we thank themfor their ongoing commitment to ourcause.GIVE US A HAND AND“GO CASUAL”Go Casual for a Cause will be heldfrom Friday 1 to Friday 8 March2002. The League has been overjoyedat the response to this year’scampaign so far and we lookforward to a record total! A $500shopping spree is up for grabs forthe highest fundraiser in the Stateso phone 1800 819 086 to find outhow your school, business or communitygroup can be involved. Also,keep your eye out for MaddisonWhite, a client of Children’s South,who stars in the TV and radiocommercials airing through toMarch.LIBRARY BENEFITSFROM QUT’S ONGOINGGENEROSITYThe Queensland University ofTechnology has donated $2000 tothe League each year for the lasttwo years, enabling the purchase ofa scamp wheelchair. This year, afurther $1000 has enabled us topurchase valuable new books forthe New Farm Library.DRIVE ONTerry Mulcahy from Holden Australiarecently made a most exciting andunique donation to the League - thechance to drive a brand new HoldenMonaro for one week.The winner of the Art Union was BenWare from St Lucia, who collectedhis very impressive prize fromEagers Holden at Newstead inJanuary.Ben Ware (right) collects his “Monaro fora week” from generous sponsor, Holden.

i amFUNDRAISING NEWS • FUNDRAISING NEWSTRUSTS ANDFOUNDATIONSBetween July and September 2001,a total of $140,200 was received ingrants from the Gambling CommunityBenefit Fund. The grants werein response to the following applications:• Access Employment (South) –Dual Cab Utility• Fig Tree Pocket ADS – Pergola &youth space• Capalaba ADS – Bathroommodification & equipment• Child & Family Support Service(North) – Computers, software &therapy resources for inclusiveeducation project• Adult Therapy & Social WorkEquipment Library – Bed raisers,mattresses, shower chairs,adjustable bed• Printabout City – Colour copier• Rockhampton Office – Telephonesystems• Communication Board Service –Computer equipment & photocopier• Equipment Technology Service –Roho Symmetrix Back SupportSystem• Gold Coast Office – Hoistdemonstration project.The League is pleased to welcomePreeta Harper, Community GrantsCoordinator, who commenced inJanuary. She can be contacted on(07) 3358 8057.COMPUTERS TOBOOST FUNDRAISINGEFFORTSOrange Australia has generouslydonated five second-hand computersto the League for use in thetele-fundraising department. Thiswill greatly improve the efficiency ofthe tele-fundraising team, facilitatinggreater income from Art Union ticketsales and donations.NAVY CYCLESFOR OUR CAUSEFor over 10 years, the Royal AustralianNavy has been conducting abiannual Charity Bike Ride fromRockhampton to Canberra. Theriders obtain sponsorship and thisyear the League is one of the majorbenefiting charities. We have beenfortunate to have the 9 th BattalionRoyal Queensland Regiment agreeto take 400 sponsorship cards, withthe aim of raising $100 each. Proceedsfrom this event will benefit theLabrador Units Campaign on theGold Coast.AUSSIE KIDZ CHARITYDONATES HARTWALKERThe Aussie Kidz Charity recentlydonated a Hart Walker to theLeague for use by MaddisonHolgate. The presentation wasmade at a special Christmas luncheonheld at Teneriffe in December.The Holgate family attended thefunction, along with 40 of the Charity’svalued supporters. TheHolgates were also the lucky-doorprizewinners of family accommodationfor four people at SeaworldNara Resort. The League is especiallygrateful to long-term sponsor,Trisha Ford from Yellow Cabs, whowas responsible for obtaining thisgenerous donation.LIONS WALK FORAUSSIE KIDSIn 2000 the Lions clubs of South-East Queensland combined to raise$15,000 for Hart Walkers for childrenwith cerebral palsy. In 2001,their walk raised $20,000 which hasbeen sent to Lions Headquarters inSydney, where Hart Walkers will bepurchased centrally for Qld children.A GREAT OUTCOMEON THE DOWNSA cheque for $40,000 was presentedrecently to the League’sSouth Queensland Country region.This fantastic amount representedthe proceeds from the Gala CharityAuction held in Toowoomba inSeptember last year. A small groupof family and friends of the Leaguewere responsible for organising theevent, and our sincere thanks goesto them and all the local businesseswho made generous contributions.Standing, left - right: Di Maker, JanetSay and Ian Rooks, and seated: VickyBroderick with her son, Liam, and KymMorris with her son, Sam Maker. Alsopart of the organising team wereMichelle and Andrew MacMillan.Photograph courtesy ofThe Chronicle, Toowoomba.VOLUNTEERS WANTEDThe Marketing & Fundraising Departmentis currently looking forvolunteers. If you know anyone whomay be able to spare a few hours ina week, please give Jill Chayter acall on (07) 3358 8061.I care, therefore I donateI care, therefore I donate7

AND THE WINNERS ARE ...For the first time in history, anemployee of the Cerebral PalsyLeague has been awarded theillustrious title of Miss Queensland.22-year-old Carolyn Mibus fromHamilton, is currently working in theLeague’s Human Resources departmentat New Farm.2001 was an eventful year forVolunteers, as the celebration of the“International Year of the Volunteer”encouraged an unprecedentedfocus on the valuable role volunteersplay in our community.The League’s very successful Picnicin the Park, held at New Farm lastSeptember, was an opportunity forthe League to say a sincere thankyou to all its volunteers.Special congratulations must go toMs May Nevin, a long-standingvolunteer who was awarded theLeague Medal for DistinguishedService on the day. May has been avolunteer at the Fig Tree PocketAdult Day Service over many yearsand has devoted herself to active8i amState titleholders 2002Back, left to right:Melita Hannam, MissSouth Queensland Country;Lisa Blackburne, MissCentral Queensland;Sarah Fox, MissQueensland Fundraiser;and Carolyn Mibus,Miss Queensland.Front, left to right:Ruth Garside, Miss NorthQueensland, SimoneDonoghue, Miss GoldCoast; and Jodi Johnstone,Miss Sunshine Coast.Carolyn graduated from GriffithUniversity last year with a Bachelorof Commerce, majoring in OrganisationalBehaviour, Human ResourceManagement and Industrial Relations.Miss Queensland Fundraiser wasawarded to Sarah Fox from the GoldLEAGUE VOLUNTEERS HONOUREDVAN FOR SALE1993 Toyota Commuter Deisel175,000 kms – Excellent Condition –Internal Electric Wheelchair hoist –Dual air – $25,500 – Phone Janetteon (07) 3410 7314 or 0412 699 133.involvement in the Leaguecommunity. The Medal forDistinguished Service is one of thehighest honours bestowed by theLeague.The League’s Volunteer Service hasnever been busier, with over 200people volunteering their interest,skills and time in a wide variety ofways. The Service is experiencing agrowing number of requests forvolunteers, as both clients and staffactively utilise this opportunity forassistance. As the growth involunteer interest continuesunabated, the Volunteer Service willactively work to further plan, developand best meet the requirementsof its client base in the yearahead.CONTACT UPDATECoast, who raised over $20,000 forthe League in less than 12 months.State Finals saw participants fromaround the State come together forone week of celebration and recognitionfor the year of hard work theyhad undertaken for the League.Participants attended functionsthroughout the week, including amorning tea hosted by His ExcellencyMajor General Peter Arnisonat Government House; a CivicReception at City Hall; an afternoontea with Mrs Heather Beattie atParliament House; as well as dinners,cocktail parties, and a day offun at Dreamworld.Miss Queensland Awards finalistswere judged on confidence, selfesteemand willingness to contributeto the community.Carolyn says that it is an honour tobe able to represent the League insuch a capacity and she looksforward to the inspirational andchallenging year ahead.May Nevin (centre) receives theLeague Medal for Distinguished Servicefrom Gavin Milich, Chairman of the Board,and Jessica Panter, Volunteer ServiceCoordinator.For more information onbecoming a League Volunteer,please contact Jessica Panteron (07) 3358 8088.Some months ago, League News ran a story on “Canine DisabilityAssistants”, an organisation which provides animals as assistants andcompanions to people with disabilities. This organisation is now known as“Animal Assisted Therapy”. They have relocated to 18 Cedarhurst Street,The Gap and can be contacted by phoning (07) 3300 9390.

LIFEMEMBERSHIPAt the League’sAnnual GeneralMeeting inOctober 2001,Life Membershipwasbestowed onDirector, KevinRodgers. Kevinhas renderedoutstanding service of state-widesignificance through his role as aLeague Director for the past threeyears. He has been an activecontributor on many Board Committees,including Chairman of theLeague History Committee. He wasinstrumental in the successfullaunch of the League History Bookin July last year and has been astrong supporter of the SevenoaksEXCEPTIONALSERVICEHONOUREDCommittee.At the AGM, a number of specialpresentations were made to staffand volunteers.The Board Certificate of Commendationwas awarded to ElspethDavies. Elspeth’s exceptional serviceto the League has been as avolunteer at the Fig Tree PocketDay Service. This has includedtaking clients shopping and invitingthem to her home for lunch.Special honours for long servicewere also awarded to the followingstaff:10 Years Service: Sue Doessel,Lorraine Hazelman, Shirley Dutton,Jean Newman, Marie Ramsay,Francis Mahoney, Josie Russell.15 Years Service: Gregory Rolph,Greta Walden, Rhoda Fleming,Michele O’Meara, Barbara Dobeli.20 Years Service: Noela Jeffreys,Carol McClure, Edna Pedley, DonAnseline, Rosemary McCormack.30 Years Service: Joy Wiseman.i amCHARITY BEGINS AT HOMECerebral Palsy League of Queenslandstaff are already strong supportersof the League’s PayrollDeduction (PRD) Program. However,extra funds can always be putto good use, assisting clients withhigh quality therapy, equipment andservices.If you would like to join the PRDProgram, contact Ian Sneddon inthe Marketing & Fundraising Departmenton 3358 8081. He willensure you receive a confidentialPayroll Deduction form and you canbe added to our generous family ofcontributors. If you already give, youmay also increase the amount ofyour current weekly contributionssimply by completing a new form.Do not feel embarrassed or concernedthat you need to give afortune. Many corporate contributorsgive from as little as 50 centsper week. All of us at the CerebralPalsy League know how strong ourcause is, how high the quality ofservice is that we offer, and howimportant our individual and teamefforts are to our clients.To those who currently contribute toPayroll Deduction, a bigTHANKYOU. To those of you whoare thinking of joining, don’t thinktoo heavily. It only needs a smallamount each week so, as the sayinggoes, “just do it!”.Thanks team, in anticipation.I amMany people in the community do not yet realise how many Australian livesare affected by cerebral palsy or that the Cerebral Palsy League ofQueensland makes a substantial difference in helping those affected to liverich and satisfying lives.I AM is a statement of affirmation that says in essence, “I may not have beenborn with an able body but I can think, dream, laugh, feel like anyone else ...therefore I am”.We want to promote a very positive message that correlates with our missionto support and empower people with cerebral palsy. This campaign ishighly original while being inspirational.The sad fact is that a child is born every 18 hours in Australia with cerebralpalsy, which then impacts heavily on families. The CPLQ desperately needshelp to raise funds to assist people with cerebral palsy and to liberate thespirit of human potential.I laugh, therefore I amI dream, therefore I amI play, therefore I amI care, therefore I donate9

The Australian Rehabilitation andAssistive Technology Association(ARATA) 2001 Conference was heldat the Carlton Crest in Brisbanefrom 1 st to 4 th October.The events of September 11 andthe collapse of Ansett (ARATA’spreferred airline) failed to detersupporters as more than 220 peopleattended. Amazingly, 75% of invitedguests from America were presentand dedicated ARATA supportersquickly filled any gaps in the programcaused by flight cancellations.The two key speakers, Dr KateSeelman and Dr Marcia Scherer,proved a great resource toattendees and the Cerebral PalsyLeague of Queensland was wellrepresented with staff and clientspresenting excellent papers.The conference focused on endusersof Assistive Technology (AT)and the feedback from open forumssuch as “What consumers want out10i amSUCCESS AT ARATA CONFERENCEETS WINS AGAIN!Equipment Technology Services(ETS) were awarded first prize in thecommercial category of the BetterTechnology Awards for the newSuperNova Tilt-in-Space wheelchairat the ARATA conference in October.Technical Aids staff, Phil Bugg andMark Raynor, designed theSuperNova as part of their CompetencyStandards training. The menwere also helped by a final yearQUT Biomedical Engineering student.An expert panel of two rehabilitationPresentation of Prototype Award - TurtleFloor Seat. Left - right: Dick Wharton,Chairman of the Qld Branch of theInstitution of Engineers; Yvonne de Vriesfrom Megalong Positioning Service NSW;and Robert Bingham, ARATA President.of AT – are we providing it?” Thiswas thought provoking for bothproduct suppliers and prescribers.Highlights of the conference includedthe debut performance of“Heroes” by the Cascade PlacePlayers; the inaugural national“Magical Images Art Competition”sponsored by the League; and theETS won its 2 nd award in the lastthree conferences. The SuperNovaWheelchair won first prize in the“Design Excellence in CommercialProduct” category, presented by theAustralian Institute of Engineers.For more information on winners ofall the Better Technology Awards,visit the Arata websitewww.arata.org.au.Conference Chairperson, SteveLenham, thanked the organisingcommittee, scientific committee andIntermedia (the conference convenors)for their effort and support.Mr Lenham also thanked sponsors:the Australian CommunicationExchange, the CommonwealthDepartment of Family and CommunityServices, Disability ServicesQueensland and the Cerebral PalsyLeague of Queensland.engineers and a therapist withexperience related to the productcarried out the judging. All entrieswere judged on product design,performance, support and appearance.This award was the second BetterTechnology Award won by ETS, thefirst was awarded in the Prototypecategory for the Scamp wheelchairin 1997 (the Scamp has since goneinto production with over 50 Scampshaving been sold).The awards are offered by theInstitution of Engineers Australia,College of Biomedical Engineering,for products designed for peoplewith a disability and which incorporateprinciples of good design.LEAGUE NEWSDEADLINEThe next issue of League News willbe published in May 2002. If youhave an idea for a story or wouldlike to submit an article yourself,please contact Lauren Cameron inthe Marketing & Fundraising Department.The deadline for contentideas is Wednesday 3 April 2002and contributions are welcomedfrom all staff, clients, families,friends and supporters.Phone: (07) 3358 8084Fax: (07) 3358 2495Email: lcameron@cplqld.org.auI dreamthereforei amLEAGUE MISSIONSTATEMENT:To support and empower peoplewith cerebral palsy and relateddisabilities to create and accessopportunities to lead valued lives asequal members of society withintheir families and the community.Presentation of Commercial Award -SuperNova Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair.Left - right: Robert Bingham, ARATAPresident; Garrie Wolstenholme fromETS; and Dick Wharton, Chairman ofthe Queensland Branch of the Institutionof Engineers.

FROM THECHAIRMANAND THE CEO ...Happy New Year and welcome to thefirst edition of League News for2002.The League came a long way in2001 with the proactive and positiveapproach we took to solving ourproblems and ensuring the longterm future of services to clients.There is no doubt that 2002 will beanother challenging year for theLeague with more difficult issues tobe faced and changes to be made.As the Needs Assessment workcontinues throughout the course ofthis year, we will be focussing onimportant areas such as qualityassurance, training & development,workplace health & safety, performancemanagement, management ofinformation systems, generatingincome, stronger marketing andfundraising activities, and thecontinuous improvement of ourservices to clients, just to mention afew.Over the next two months we will bemeeting with and making representationsto the State GovernmentMinisters for Disability Services,Health, and Education. We will bediscussing the progress we havemade through the Needs Assessmentand the next step of maximisingservice delivery within availableresources. We will keep you up todate on the outcomes of thesemeetings.Funding Reform Strategy –Disability Services QueenslandBruce Milligan, CEO, is a member ofthe steering committee that willoversee the development of theFunding Reform Strategy.The Minister for Disability Servicesannounced this strategy late lastyear as a project to develop a longterm strategy to improve fundingarrangements for disability supportservices.This project is to be 18 months induration and has three elements toits work as follows:i amGOLD COAST LOCALS SUPPORT HOLI-DAY UNIT CAMPAIGNExcellent progress has been made onthe $200,000 Capital FundraisingCampaign for the upgrade of theLabrador Units on the Gold Coast.John Fradgley from Steindl BallLawyers is chairing the strong committeeof corporate businessmen fromthe coast. This committee, includingDavid Treacher from AMP, Paul Steerfrom KPMG and Gary Gleeson fromthe Reuban Peleman BenevolentFoundation, has been engaged tohead up the project and attractcorporate support from the localarea.Gold Coast Mayor, Gary Baildon,officially launched the campaign at aCorporate Breakfast at Royal Pineson November 13.At the launch, the Board of Benevolenceof the United Freemasons ofQueensland donated a founding giftof $60,000 over three years. This giftentitles the Freemasons to the namingrights of the units when theupgrade has been completed.• Addressing the viability of NGOservice providers to ensure that areliable infrastructure exists todeliver services.• Developing a funding frameworkto accurately forecast futuredemand and to cost models ofsupport.• Developing a sustainable programframework for DSQ to provide amore coherent and consistentapproach to funding programs.Bruce Milligan (centre)accepts a cheque for$60,000 from PeterCampbell (left) andGraham Ewin (right) ofthe UnitedFreemasons ofQueenslandThe Reuban Peleman BenevolentFoundation presented a cheque for$20,000 towards the campaign andCash Converters offered to supplyseven new colour television setswith remote controls.The League is very grateful to allthose who have made generousdonations to the campaign, including:AXA Insurance, Bennett andBennett Surveys, Mrs Burnett, Stafffrom the Cerebral Palsy League ofQueensland, Mrs B P Gannon, G &S Hatchford, David McLaren, MrsOckerfield, Mr Richmond, St JamesChurch, C & D Thomason, and theWhitehouse Foundation.Fundraising is continuing this year,in order to reach the $200,000target by 31 March 2002.For more information on theLabrador Units CapitalFundraising Campaign or tomake a contribution, contactIngrid Panitsch on (07) 3358-8087.The issue of funding reform iscritical to the future of the DisabilitySector in Queensland. Understandablytherefore, the whole sector willbe watching with interest theprogress of this project.Gavin Milich, Chairman of the BoardBruce Milligan, Chief Executive Officer11

i amDATES TO REMEMBERDate Event LocationMarch 1-8 Cerebral Palsy Week and Go Casual for a Cause Queensland-wideMarch 15 League Extraordinary General Meeting Recreation Hall, New FarmMarch 31 Labrador Units Fundraising Campaign concludesMid MayLeague News (Volume 26, Number 2) DistributedMay 27 Property Council of Australia Charity Gala Sheraton Brisbane Hotel & TowersJune 7 All Queensland Awards Gala Presentation Sheraton Brisbane Hotel & TowersAugust 4 Bridge to Brisbane Fun Run New Farm ParkAugust 24 6th Annual Client Convention Recreation Hall, New FarmOctober 18 League Annual General Meeting Recreation Hall, New FarmOctober 18-20 Brisbane Valley 100 Canoe Race Wivenhoe DamIf undelivered, please return to:Cerebral Palsy League of QueenslandPO Box 386 Fortitude Valley Qld 4006POSTAGEPAIDAUSTRALIA12✔ Yes! I want to help the Cerebral Palsy League of QueenslandTitle: ______ Name: ____________________________________________ Company: _______________________________Address: _____________________________________________________________________________ PC: ____________Phone: (b/h)___________________ (a/h)___________________ Email: __________________________________________Please accept my donation of:$25 $40 $60 $100 Other $_____________Please find enclosed my cheque or money order; orPlease charge my: Bankcard / Mastercard / Visa / Amex / Diners (PLEASE CIRCLE)Card Number: |______________|______________|______________|______________| Expiry: ______/______Name on Card: _______________________________ Cardholder Signature: _______________________________Please send me more information on:Knowing more about cerebral palsy and/or the LeagueCerebral Palsy League of QueenslandHow my social club can become involvedPO Box 386 Fortitude Valley Q 4006How I can make a provision for the League in my willThank you so much for caringHow I can assist the League through Volunteer workDonations are fully tax deductible