Monday, May 3, 2010 Edition 4 Cost: $1.00 this Edition FrEE

BE COUNTEDissn: 1837-9176

Blackfella bluesPhotos and story by soLUa MiddLEton

This year’s East Coast Blues and Roots Festival came of age with a line-up that kept the hips shaking and the beats grooving.The Byron Bay Bluesfest celebrated

its 21st birthday over the Easter long weekend, and the line-up was fantastic, especially in the First Nations Bumbaline Stage.One of the highlights of the festival was

Kev Carmody and friends.Starting off solo on stage he handed it

over to friends Troy Cassar-Daley, Dan Sultan and Blue King Brown to play some of their favourite Kev Carmody songs.But the real climax came when

everyone joined him to sing ‘From Little Things Big Things Grow’.“There was no rehearsal at all, it was

totally spontaneous,” Mr Carmody said.“The thing I love about it is that it’s a

collective, we don’t own the songs, we share them.“I write down things I hear, and

experiences.”Mr Carmody said it was good to meet

other mob from around the country.“Backstage was like a collective all

supporting each other,” he said.Dan Sultan also featured at the festival,

back for his third year in a row.As he showcased his latest album ‘Get

Out While You Can’ his fanbase seemed to have grown as he rocked the First Nations and the Mojo Tent.Country music star Troy Cassar-Daley

also hit the First Nation and Jambalaya Tent and rocked out favourites such as ‘Bar Room Roses’, ‘Dream Out Loud’ and ‘Rise and Shine’.Newcomer to the Bluesfest was R&B

songstress Jessica Mauboy.Although she was more than 30 minutes

late to her festival debut she did not disappoint.

Revellers were some of the first to get a taste of some of her new material from her second album to be released later this year.Jessica wasn’t the only one shaking like

it was nobody’s business.The audience couldn’t help but dance

while singing lyric for lyric.Reggae outfit Zennith were also

newcomers to the festival.Other artists lining up at the First

Nations Tent were crowd favourites Banawurun, Cairns based band Kamerunga, Warren H Williams, Buddy Knox Band and more.Our Indigenous artists lined up with

some of the worlds biggest music heavyweights including Crowded House, Gypsy Kings, Jack Johnson, and a festival favourite John Butler Trio.

● See page 7 for more pictures or become a fan of Be Counted on facebook.

BE COUNTED2 Monday May 3, 2010

CONTENTSLETTEr: A prOud mum; EdiTOriAL ..................... p4

prOfiLE: ViCki WiLkiNSON .............................. p8

YOuTh SpACE, COOkiNg up ............................ p9

STOrY: A TOuChiNg fOOTbALL COmp, CALENdAr p10

SpOrT: bACk Of ThE NET WiTh JAmES brOWN .. p11

SpOrT: mAriAh JONES .................................. p12

This paper acknowledges the traditional owners of the areas of distribution.

DISCLAIMER: All material is printed at the discretion of the publishers, but does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY: All letters must be signed (name will be withheld on request) profanity is unacceptable. All letters are subject to editing for clarity by the editor. The publisher or editor of Be Counted reserves the right to edit or withhold from publication any letter for any reason whatsoever. Letters reflect the opinion of the author, not necessarily that of Be Counted or its staff, nor does it take any responsibility of the views stated by those who write to the editor.

COPYRIGHT: All material in Be Counted is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission of the publisher. © Be Counted 2010

EDITOR: Solua Middleton

PUBLISHER: Solua Middleton

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Be Counted would like to thank this edition : Gold Coast United, James Brown.

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Business talk heats up

By SOLUA MIDDLETON

THE Gold Coast Indigenous community is finally talking business on their home turf.

So far the group has attracted 25 Aboriginal business representatives at Business Yarning Circles held around the Gold Coast.Member and spokesman Jodi Sampson

says so far it’s been a fantastic start.“With the skills, expertise and journeys

travelled by the Yarning Circle members that have attended so far, the Indigenous community can only benefit from the wealth of skills, knowledge and friendliness that the group presents with ‘openness’,” he said. “The aim of the Business Yarning

Circles is to identify and edify the existing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and organisations - with economic strategies - that exist on the Gold Coast and to encourage other community members who may be thinking of starting a business – to step forward.”Mr Sampson believes entrepreneurship

on the Gold Coast is strong and says the group is led by some of the most professional business leaders that anyone would find in Australia.“The Gold Coast Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander Chambers of Commerce and Industry will be the hottest group to be a part of ... especially when it comes to narrative approaches to the delivery on Closing the Gap strategies and issues that affects our mob at grass-roots levels,” he said.“To date, we have held two Gold Coast

‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Business Yarning Circles’ where each attendee has shared their vision for getting involved, the day-to-day business

struggles they have and their own personal journey to date.”“We have had award winning artists, hair stylists, ex-pro surfers and business travel professionals, information technology and web site design specialist, holistic health and well-being specialist attend as well as economic development service providers to lend a hand. “It’s with the personality, the business

skills, knowledge and experience and the drive and passion that each Indigenous business owner or organisation brings to the table of the proposed Gold Coast Aboriginal Chamber coupled with Non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses/organisations that will make our Chamber a success.”Mr Sampson says Indigenous business

people and entrepreneurs participating in the group will mean that they no longer have to feel that they are or will be ‘alone in business’.“Some people underestimate the power

of conversation when networking and I have witnessed some meaningful outcomes that have come from attending Business Chamber Networking events where conversations have led to business-to-business partnerships or employment, education and training outcomes for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community have come about,” Mr Sampson said.

● If you are interested in becoming involved in the ‘Gold Coast Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Business Yarning Circles’ contact the following Group Members: Dwayne Good on 0432 756 712; Jim Wooding on 0457 327 725; Adam Wooding on 0414 975 581; or Jodi Sampson on 0422 745 560.

From left: John Gillespie, Uncle Barry Sampson, Jemima Whitford, Clinton Shultz, Adam Wooding, Marvette Logan, Jim Wooding, Tamra Forde, Jodi Sampson,

Dwayne Good, Michael ‘Munga’ Barry.

BE COUNTED 3 Monday May 3, 2010

Singing for wellbeing By SOLUA MIDDLETON

EVER fancied yourself as a bit of a singer?Then the ‘Voices United

for Harmony’ choir could be for you.The project is a QAIHC

(Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council) and Griffith University initiative.It will look at the

relationship between singing in a social setting and wellbeing.Project coordinator Lenny

Dahlen says the project will investigate whether Indigenous people’s participation in enjoyable activity will improve their quality of life and mental health through promotion of sense of resilience and social participation. “The Project is built on

an initial study on choral singing and health, and expects to evaluate the benefits of choral singing on the health and well-being of the Indigenous people in

four communities,” he said.“Its aim is to explore ways

of increasing well-being and reducing social exclusion amongst Indigenous people.“This will investigate

whether Indigenous people’s participation in enjoyable activity will improve their quality of life and mental health through promotion of sense of resilience and social participation.” Mr Dahlen says a similar

study conducted in the United Kingdom revealed some benefits.“When anyone sings, we

know it makes us feel good. Similar research projects with non Indigenous participants conducted in the UK identified that singing can benefit your social and emotional wellbeing,” he said.● For more details about

the choir contact Kalwun Health Service and speak with Ken Slater on (07) 5526 1112.

THE nation’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander TV station has secured enough funding to keep them alive for at least another 12 months.National Indigenous Television (NITV)

has welcomed the Rudd Government’s $15.2million commitment to fund the broadcaster for a further 12 months.Federal Arts Minister, Peter Garrett said

he was very pleased to be able to give NITV certainty over its immediate future. “This new funding will ensure that

NITV can continue its programming commitments and operating arrangements and have certainty both for the remainder of this financial year and into the next,” Mr Garrett said.“Having provided this funding, the

Government will also start a review into its investment in the Indigenous broadcasting and media sector to be coordinated by the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.” NITV states that continued strategic

development and a strong commitment to first class policy solutions will secure a strong future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in

Australia’s broadcasting and digital media landscape.NITV Chairwoman Terri Janke said:

“I thank Minister Garrett and the Rudd Government for their commitment to NITV and the Indigenous production sector.”“We now have the certainty for the

immediate future to commit to staff, the Indigenous production sector, commercial partners, and most importantly our audience.“Demonstrated by the deluge of letters

and messages of support we have received from right across the country, it’s clear NITV is the trusted voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and a critical cultural reference point for all Australians.“The board and management have a

renewed focus on developing a stronger NITV that fills the gap in Australia’s media landscape to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, our culture and heritage continues to be showcased in the lounge rooms of all Australian homes.”Federal Minister for Indigenous Affair

Jenny Macklin said the Government was

determined to ensure that the resources allocated to Indigenous broadcasting were delivering the best outcomes for Indigenous people. “All Australians understand the

importance of the electronic media to communicate and inform. Indigenous broadcasting provides a vehicle for Indigenous people to communicate their perspective on national issues,” Ms Macklin said.“We know Aboriginal people enjoy

having access to a wide range of programming that is relevant to their experiences and lives.”Ms Janke said the broadcaster’s

aim is to be available free-to-air to all Australians.“NITV has an important role to play in

reconciliation and will continue to engage, educate and entertain our audience,” she said.The Indigenous broadcasting review

will take into account the findings of the Review of NITV that was conducted in the second half of 2009. A summary report of the NITV review is

available at www.arts.gov.au/indigenous/national_indigenous_television

NITV’s future secure for now

ABORIGINAL and Torres Strait Islander students in Year 10, 11 and 12 are being encouraged to participate in the week long residential program at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).Students will travel in

July to Sydney and stay on campus where they will participate in a program to introduce and familiarise prospective students to tertiary studies and university life. The program is run at no

cost to students. All travel, meals and

accommodation are provided by UNSW.Students are asked to

nominate an area that is of particular interest to them and a part of the week will be spent doing activities, projects and excursions with the faculty they have nominated. For instance for those

students interested in Business will have the opportunity to meet with an Aboriginal CEO, create a short media presentation promoting their own business idea to a panel

of Industry experts, visit a number of leading Corporate Companies as well as find out about the many different career opportunities, including Indigenous cadetships and scholarships available at UNSW. Applications are available

on Nura Gil’s website: nuragili@unsw.edu.au or call Dennis Golding on (02) 9385 1559 or d.golding@unsw.edu.au or Kate Woodlands (02) 9385 8609 or k.woodlands@unsw.edu.au . Applications close Friday 14th May 2010.

BE COUNTED4 Monday May 3, 2010

I JUST wanted to share a photo of my Son Joshua who is in the 6 RAR at Enoggera Barracks.He marched in the ANZAC DayParade. Of course I am a proud mother and it

meant so much to see him march on the day. If anyone is interested in joining the

Defence Forces it’s a good career and there is a lot of options people can look at doing in the Defence Forces.Also interested persons can check

out the website and their local RSL recruitment process.To be in the Australian Army is to be

a part of protecting our country and its people, as well as helping other nations to rebuild after attack or natural disaster. You will learn, have fun and make

friends for life.There is no career more challenging or

rewarding.

Joshua completed his training at Kapooka in Wagga Wagga in 2009.During his training at Wagga he and

some of his team mates from his platoon won the shield for scoring the most points in what they called the Challenge. He later went to Singleton near

Newcastle to further his training and graduated from there and was placed in the 6 RAR at The Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera (Brisbane) where he remains today and continues his physical and weapons training.

‘Proud Mum’ Melba TownsendLOGAN, QLD

● Be Counted would love to hear from you, so send your letters, poems, photos and feedback with your full name to email address becounted.mag@gmail.com

GOLD COAST YOUTH SERVICEGold Coast Youth Service

works with young people aged 12 to 25 years who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. They provide externally

supported accommodation for up to 12 months and provide education including independent living skills; an outreach youth work team to help young people with accommodation, legal matters, health issues, information regarding the various youth services available, advocacy and referral as well as longer term case management.The Gold Coast Youth

Service runs a number of programs.

● Gold Coast Youth Service is located at 15 Oak Ave Miami 4220 Queensland.Phone: (07) 5572 0400

www.goldcoastyouthservice.com

Uni Winter School opportunity

ANZAC day is a time to remember and reflect.But only in recent years has our Indigenous

men and women been recognised widely for serving Australia in World War I and World War II conflicts.But this month there will be more moments to

remember, as Sorry Day is commemorated and Reconciliation Week is celebrated.May 26, Sorry Day, is a time to reflect on

those who were removed as babies and children from their families.Those whose families were torn apart under

Government policy, and those learning painfully about their Aboriginality for the first time.Reconciliation Week kicks of on the May

27, a day which marks the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum in which more than 90 per cent of Australians voted to remove clauses from the Australian Constitution which discriminated against Indigenous Australians. It was an important day in shaping our rights and foundations of a nation reconciling.The week ends on June 3 with the anniversary

of the High Court’s 1992 judgment of the Mabo case. It recognised the Native Title rights of Indigneous people and quashed the myth of terra nullius. During this week we celebrate our people being counted. I urge you to reflect this month and if you have

a story to share it with the Be Counted readers.

Editorial: Remember and reflect Services

LettersMum proud of her serviceman son

The GUMURRII Student Support Unit at Griffith University is helping Indigenous students to achieve their dreams.

Emily O’Keefe is in her third-year of a Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science at Griffith and says the support provided by the GUMURRII Unit has been invaluable.

“GUMURRII is a really supportive environment and they’re always looking out for you,” Emily said.

“There are always people around to talk to if you’re feeling a bit stressed and they let us know about cadetships and other options during our degree.”

When she finishes her degree, Emily hopes to work in hospital pharmacy.

“What I like best about uni is the environment. It’s really challenging and you get to meet a lot of new people with similar interests and have a goal to work towards,” she said.

“I think I’d be a lot more stressed if I wasn’t in GUMURRII – it does make you feel a lot more secure starting out with that support.”

Located on each of the five Griffith campuses, GUMURRII is a dedicated student support unit for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Support unit staff can assist students throughout their studies in a broad range of areas including cultural, social and sporting events, as well as fostering academic success.

If you are interested in enrolling in an undergraduate degree at Griffith University you can apply for entry via the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) or by contacting the university directly.

The GUMURRII Student Support Unit also conducts an Alternate Entry Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people seeking admission to Griffith University.

This Alternative Entry Program is designed for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have not obtained or completed university level courses or TAFE bridging programs.

This program enables GUMURRII to interview Indigenous people seeking admission to assess their formal qualifications, life skills, transferable skills and experience, which may provide them with the skills and experience necessary to undertake tertiary studies.

For more information, please contact GUMURRII Student Support Unit on (07) 3735 7676 or visit griffith.edu.au/gumurrii

Reach your potential with GUMURRII

There’s never been a better time to go to university and there’s never been better support with Griffith University’s GUMURRII Student Support Unit.

GUMURRII support services include: • Alternate Entry Program – for school leavers and mature aged

people who have not completed university entry level courses or TAFE bridging programs

• Assistance with scholarship application

• Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS).

To find out about your study options, call (07) 3735 7676 or visit griffith.edu.au/gumurrii

GR

I10

92

ADVERTORIAL

Your future is in your hands.

juni

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U2

44

56

_BC

By SOLUA MIDDLETON

THE town of Woodford will come alive next month as the town hosts the Dreaming Festival.The festival is visually and

musically dynamic as well as culturally spectacular and revealing into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.One of Indigenous Australia’s arts

world mover, Sam Cook, has taken over the reins after former director Rhoda Roberts resigned.Sam is a playwright, writer,

visual artist, graphic designer and one-half of the writing team for the CHOOteam Comedy troupe. Sam is promising a festival with many

highlights.“This year we present a carefully

considered program that has been designed to enable all ages to enjoy and navigate the festival in accordance with their interests,” she saidBut what should be one of the more

touching moments of the festival will be the tribute to the late Ruby Hunter.“The artists who are participating have

each volunteered their time to work up their interpretation of a Ruby song, aimed

to celebrate her through music and words,” Sam said.“Auriel Andrew – a living musical legend,

the ilk of Jimmy Little will be performing – she is a wonderful personality from yesteryear that is a special treat for young and old. Added to this Archie Roach, Dan Sultan, Dubmarine, Radical Son, Oka, Last Kinection, Yabu Band represent a wide ranging list of highlighted Indigenous Australian acts.”But the festival will also have a taste

of performances and art from our First Nation’s brothers and sisters from around the world.The Dreaming streets will also come

alive with theatre, dance, film and workshops.The kids also get their own area.“We will have for the very first

time two young people areas, the first Jarjum ‘kids’ Place for the little people and wiCKED wAY for youth,” she said.Sam says the theme for this

year’s festival is old traditions, new beginnings and recognising our living cultural continuum and also the change in leadership,” she said.And for those who have never

been to the festival, Sam says punters can expect from Australia’s

International Indigenous Festival a place where people come together with respect and goodwill on the lands of the Jinibara Nations. “From the traditional custodians of this

area, to the staff and volunteers this is an open offer of respect and understanding that we are all equal,” she said.“So expect positive immersion into the

wonderful world of Indigenous cultures in its many and varied forms… Celebrate with us.” ● Dreaming Festival June 11-14 Visit

www.thedreamingfestival.com for more details.

Dreaming at Woodford

Get down to your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health service and register for your FREE health check. As a reward you can take home a FREE rewards pack of your choice.

You can choose a kids pack, a teenager pack, a family pack, an elderly pack, or a special needs pack, for example, a Diabetes pack.

So don't delay. Register now at your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service or visit www.herorewards.com.au

come be a Steve RenoufNRL Legend

BE COUNTED 7 Monday May 3, 2010

BluesfestBanawurun Dan SuLTanCristilee Louttit, nicole Clevens

and amma reed.

TrOY CaSSar-DaLEY warrEn H

wILLIaMS

JOHn BuTLEr

BuDDY KnOX BanD

ZEnnITH

welcome dance at opening ceremony.

welcome to country.

LEannE HaMILTOn

Christine Slabb, Clarrie Gibson, Michael nielsen and wanetta nielsen.

BE COUNTED8 Monday May 3, 2010

“I WAS born and bred in Southport and have lived in this area all my life.”

“My Indigenous heritage is from my father who hails from the Kalkadoon tribe in Mount Isa. “I am one of seven girls so

family gatherings can be quite loud when we all get together.“I have recently become

a grandma and am totally enjoying this time seeing my grandson grow up.”

How long have you worked with Centrelink?“I have been with DSS/

Centrelink for the last 12 years commencing as a Trainee Administrative Services Officer with at Nerang Centrelink Office.”“After finishing my traineeship, I

processed parenting claims before winning the role of Jet Advisor. “In the past few years I have been

in various roles including Centrelink Disability Officer, Senior Customer

Service Adviser, Front-of-House and Indigenous Support within Corporate HR before assuming my current role as the Indigenous Services Officer (ISO) for Tweed Heads/Gold Coast Area.”

What does your role entail? “As the ISO for the Tweed Heads/Gold

Coast area, I make regular visits to the surrounding communities.”“This can involve community information

sessions, workshops meetings with Indigenous community organisations, liaising with schools, and government departments. “I assist our social workers,

Participation Solutions Team and the Families Team if they are unable to contact a customer for information in relation to payments or interviews.“I can also sit in with an

Indigenous Customer in an interview if requested to interpret Centrelink’s processes.”

What do you enjoy about your work?

“I enjoy going out in the community to help our people with their Centrelink dealings and any life issues they may be facing.”“There is so much information around

Centrelink services which can be very confusing for some of our people to understand. “It is my role to educate and support

them through these processes.

LISMORE OFFICE92 Woodlark StreetLismoreNSW 2480(02) 6621 6833

TWEED OFFICEOffice 22, Level 2, Wharf Central Building75 Wharf St, Tweed Heads NSW 2485(07) 5599 5166

WE ARE A PREFFERED INDIGENOUS EMPLOYMENT PROVIDER and 100% ABORIGINAL OWNED

Looking for the right job for you? Then make First Sun Employment your first stop.

If you’re searching for work, or seeking to improve your work situation our experienced staff can help with training, advice and matching you with employers in

need of your skills.

First Resume First Interview First Real Job

www.firstsun.com.au

ProfileVicki Wilkinson from Tweed Heads/Gold Coast Centrelink

VICKI WILKINSON

BE COUNTED 9 Monday May 3, 2010

YOUTH SPACEBe Counted is really wanting to focus on youth and share their voice with the wider community. Youth Space is dedicated to young people sharing their voices, the issues that impact you as young Indigenous people, whether they are triumphs or tragedies or just a good laugh. Be Counted’s aim for Youth Space is to see it become a place of empowerment and inspiration not only for the young people, but for the

older generations. Send your letters, pictures, poems or if you are interested in being a columnist email becounted.mag@gmail.com

HI I’m Pieta Wharton and I go to Miami High and I’m talking to you about bullying.I don’t like bullying at school

because it makes me feel bad.But the older kids at our

school are very good, like the Year 11 and 12 students are really good friends.While we don’t bully, the

other grades do, but it’s not just at our school, it’s just people in general, like if you wear your hair differently or wear different shoes you could get bullied.People get bullied for all

different reasons like for being short or having a different hair colour.It’s really bad and I’m glad

most people in our grade stick up for and the lower grades like the Year 8s.But it’s not just face to face,

bullies can use their phone or computer and any other way you can think of.Sometimes kids could get

scared and won’t tell anyone, but when they do tell it’s good because it can be stopped faster and less kids getting upset.In some extreme cases

bullying can lead to teen suicide and we don’t want that and if anyone is bullying you. My advice is to not keep it to

yourself, but tell the teacher or someone you trust but don’t keep it in.It’s a problem in all schools

and it happens to boys and girls.Bullying is bad so please

tell anyone … your parent or teacher, but you don’t have to put up with it.I was once bullied and

reported it and it has stopped.But that is what I think about

school bullying and when you

tell make sure its early not late because the longer you wait the worse it just might get.

PIETA WHARTON

It’s okay to report bullies

Cooking up

Each edition of Be Counted will showcase one our reader’s recipes. Send in your recipe and a photo of your culinary delight, with your full name and contact details to email becounted.mag@gmail.com

Chickpea Pilaf with SpinichIngredients

● 1½ cups rice (e.g. basmati)● 1 tablespoon olive oil● 3 carrots, coarsely chopped● 1 leek, finely chopped● 2 cloves garlic, crushed● 60g currants● ¼ teaspoon turmeric● 2 teaspoon curry powder● 400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained● 400ml vegetable stock● 300ml water● 200g spinach● 60g slivered almonds, roasted (reserve some for garnish)● 2 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves

● 2 tablespoon chopped mint leaves● Low fat natural yoghurt and coriander sprigs to serve

Cooking directions

Place rice in a sieve and rinse under running water until water runs clear. Heat oil in a large saucepan

over a medium heat. Add carrots, leek, garlic,

currants and spices. Cook stirring occasionally

for eight minutes or until vegetables are tender.Add chickpeas, rice, stock

and water. Bring to the boil.

Reduce heat to low and cook, covered for 12 minutes.Remove from heat, place

spinach over rice, cover and stand for eight minutes. Uncover, add almonds,

coriander and mint into rice. Stir ingredients in using a

fork.Serve topped with low

fat yoghurt and remaining almonds.Microwave for approximately

2-3 minutes (until cheese melts).Place shredded lettuce and

diced tomatoes on top of lamb mince and melted cheese.Place dollops of light sour

cream on top and serve immediately.

From the kitchen of Lisa McKenzie

Serves: 6. Rating: EasyTime: Preparation time 5 mins. Cooking time 22 mins.

BE COUNTED10 Monday May 3, 2010

By SOLUA MIDDLETON

A TOUCH football carnival to be held in Currumbin Eagles Rugby League Club on June 13 will bring together the Indigenous community in the name of suicide prevention.The inaugural Curtis Finn Celebration

Touch Day is being held in memory of the 23 year-old whose life was tragically cut short from suicide.The event will commemorate the

anniversary of Curtis Finn’s (pictured right inset) passing and highlight awareness of suicide and depression among young people.Mr Finn’s sister, Tamra Forde (pictured

right), conceptualised the event and is busy organising the competition named in her brother’s honour.“Touch football was something he

loved and it always brings a lot of people together, so it was a natural progression to use this type of sporting event to commemorate his memory and a support charity,” Mrs Forde said.“This event is important to us because

we want to be able to raise awareness for other families, so they don’t go through what we did.“If we can raise funds to implement even

more programs and information so that young people know they have someone

to talk to, even if this saves just one family it will be worth it.“My brother was a real outgoing, caring

and free spirit who always wanted to help others out and was always the laugh of the party. “His death made me realise how much

you really love your brothers and sisters, and he was one of my best mates and was always the first one I would call when I had something good happen to me or when I wanted to talk footy.“He has made me a stronger person

today and I’m grateful for every little thing that happens to me and I’m grateful for everyday I have to impact others lives.”The Touch Day is raising money for the

Inspire foundation.“Inspire is the charity we have decided

to donate the money we raise to, they are involved in young adults issues like mental health, social health and overall well being,” Mrs Forde said.“It has been hard to get to this point

and now Curt’s anniversary is coming around we really want to do something to celebrate him and what he stood for.”Mrs Forde said the response to the

carnival has been good so far with only a couple of spots left for teams to nominate.“So many people have come forward

to help out and it is amazing how many people it has affected and want to be part of something bigger,” she said.So far there are 13 local teams of a

possible 16 entered in the competition. ● Donations to the Inspire foundation

can be made via website www.everydayhero.com.au/curtis_finn

● Sponsors are still needed to donate $250 or more. Monies will go to sponsorship on team shirts, programs, announcements and the cost of putting on the event or if you want to volunteer, donate or nominate a team email Tamra Forde on bstyle_7@hotmail.com

Calendar

If you’re feeling distressed and need someone to talk to contact these support lines or websitesLIFE: www.livingisforeveryone.com.au/FAQ.htmlBeyond Blue info line: 1300 22 4636

Lifeline: 13 11 14Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

A touching football carnival

Until 30 June: Our Way - an exhibition by Torres Strait Islander artist Bruce Rivett.Open 10am-4pm daily at the Red Desert Gallery, 102 Memorial Drive, Eumundi. Free. www.reddesertgallery.com.au 5 May: Aboriginal Employment Strategy’s National Road Show

Breakfast in Brisbane. Gain an insight from the AES on how to employ Indigenous career seekers. Contact Kirra Homer at kirra.homer@aes.org.au www.aes.org.au9 May: Harmony Day Festival from 2-8pm at the Byron Bay

Community Centre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay. Details call 0431 402 417 or email corinnesinclair@gmail.com9-16 May: Heritage Festival Week. Featuring our Indigenous

collection with lectures by Michael Aird.10am-4pm at the The Gold Coast Historical Museum 8 Elliott Street, Surfers Paradise. Cost: $5, children are free. Contact Ailza Wilkins for details on (07) 5531 5347 or email joannewilkins19@hotmail.com11 May: Aboriginal Employment Strategy’s National Road

Show industry breakfast in Tweed Heads. Contact Kirra Homer at kirra.homer@aes.org.au www.aes.org.au13 May: The Gold Coast Careers Expo. 9am to 8pm at the

Gold Coast Convention Centre. Free. www.gccareersexpo.com.au14 May: Dan Sultan at the Great Northern Hotel, Byron Bay

with special guest Gin Wigmore and The Hello Morning. Tickets onsale now via Oztix 1300 762 545 or go to www.oztix.com.au.15 May: Dan Sultan at the Brisbane Powerhouse with special

guest Gin Wigmore. Tickets onsale now via the Powerhouse Box Office (07) 3358 8600, for more details visit www.brisbanepowerhouse.org/events/view/dan-sultan/ 19 May: Inaugural Australian Indigenous Cancer Survivors

Forum. This forum is for Indigenous cancer survivors (both men and women) and their carers. Indigenous health workers and Allied Health professionals. It’s an opportunity to meet and network with other cancer survivors. For details email info@m247consulting.com 19 May: GenerationOne Road Show. Add your handprint

and join Tania Major, Jack Manning-Bancroft, and the GenerationOne team, along with local political, business, and Indigenous leaders. 7-9am at Southbank.26 May: National Sorry Day27 May - 3 June: Reconciliation Week.29 May: Stylin’ UP Festival. ‘Pride in Self, Pride in Community,

Pride in Culture’. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Hip Hop and RnB event. CJ Greenfields Sports Complex, 10 Freeman Road, Inala. www.stylinup.com.au30 May: The City’s Outback by Gillian Cowlishaw is featured

at the Reading for Reconciliation Book Club at the kuril dhagun, State Library of Queensland. For details email Helen.carrick@uq.net.au.5 June: MOTIVATE Our Place, Our Culture, Our People at the

Nambour Showgrounds. Free youth event for 15-25 year olds. 9.40am-11pm. For details call (07) 5476 0422.

By SOLUA MIDDLETON

AN Aboriginal owned surf school has just reached a milestone.Godfather’s of the Ocean Surf

School has just turned ten.The company is owned and run

by former world circuit tour surfer Michael ‘Munga’ Barry and his wife Krista.They say the surf school

was started to offer people the opportunity to experience the thrill of surfing and to become one of the worlds best surf schools.So hitting that ten year milestone

has been an achievement Michael and Krista are very proud of.“It’s amazing...who would of

known that we would reach 10 years in this tourism industry, but we believe that we are passionate about what we do and that comes through in our services,” Michael said.

But celebrations are being delayed as they are not ready to reveal what will mark the special event. “Well at this time it is still a bit of a

secret, but we do know that it will involve our charity side of our business as we believe in giving back, which is the core of our business foundation,” Michael said.Krista says they are now focusing on

their plan for the future.“Our vision for the next ten years is to

further expand within the tourism sector, including corporate mentoring and inspirational programs for many schools, youth groups and businesses,” she said.“We are passionate not only about

surfing, but surf and water safety education and life coaching skills.

“We see ourselves at the forefront of delivering our programs including special training programs for our ‘GOTO’ Club program that encompasses a surf training program which offers surf education, surf fitness and skills, and creating a special bond with other kids in the program.“It’s a place where they are

continuing learning, but building their self esteem and challenging themselves within a secure and positive environment.”For Michael, passing on surf skills

to young grommets is a highlight.“Surfing to me, makes me feel free

and passing on the passion I have to others gives me a great feeling when

I can make it easier for others to do what they have come to do, and ride a wave or get better at surfing,” Michael said.“Once you have experienced actually

riding a wave correctly, you will then know what we are on about.”Michael says there’s been up to 20,000

people who’ve gone through the school in the past 10 years.The school offers a variety of activities

- group lessons, single or double private lessons, school or college lessons, corporate team building events, and a GOTO Junior Club.

● For more details about the school visit www.godfathersoftheocean.com

BE COUNTED 11 Monday May 3, 2010

Perfect preparation prevents poor performanceTHE end of our first season at Gold Coast United wasn’t that long ago, but after a short break we are all now preparing for the 2010/11 campaign, with pre-season training due to start again in the first week of May.I’ve enjoyed my break from

the daily exertions of training, but I am really looking forward to getting on the field and into the gym again as we work towards next season.Of course it’s nice to have

a bit of rest and let the body recover from the season, however, you do miss the day-to-day interaction with your teammates and the week-to-week excitement of the games.We have to go through a

long pre-season training regime in the Hyundai

A-League because the season itself is a little shorter than those in Europe for example.If we were to have more

than six weeks off our fitness base would diminish too much and that would then put additional strain on our bodies as we try to reach a basic level of fitness before thinking about working towards peak condition.Training is where you

prepare both mentally and physically for the challenges of the season. It is also where you can impress the coaching staff and give yourself the best possible chance of making the team. There is intense competition for places in the starting eleven so even the slightest drop in standards can affect your opportunities.Mental preparation is just

as important as physical preparation. Once again, it is on the training pitch that you hone those skills by concentrating hard for the whole session and focussing on both your individual task and your job within the team.Preparing properly is

essential in order to perform well in football matches and it requires dedication and determination to maintain a high standard over the course of a season. This is perhaps what defines

a professional sportsperson from someone who is a talented amateur. Talent is a great gift to have, but you must still do the hard work in order to truly succeed and carve out a good career. All the top players will tell the same story and some have

made enormous sacrifices to get where they are today.There is always someone

else waiting in the wings to take your place if you let your standards drop, so that, coupled with a determination to do well, is what drives us to try our very best and give 100% every day.

JAMES BROWN

In the back of the net with ... James Brown

‘Godfather’s of the Ocean’ reaches a milestone

MICHAEL BARRY

SPORT

BE COUNTED12 Monday May 3, 2010

By SOLUA MIDDLETON

TWEED teenager Mariah Jones is Australia’s latest golden girl in the pool.Mariah took out gold in the 50

metre freestyle at the National Age Championship at Homebush last month.The 16 year old told Be Counted she

was excited about her win.“It was a relief,” she said.“I put in a lot of preparation.”In fact she trains eight times a week.Mariah swam her gold winning

performance in 26.16 seconds, and it’s broken a record in the region.According to the Far North Coast

Overall Records she has beaten the time by 0.1 of a second.But while Mariah gained a gold in the

50m she missed out on a medal in the 100 metre freestyle swim coming a close fourth.But that disappointment has not

deterred her.Mariah now has her sights set on the

NSW All Schools competition where she will compete in the 50 metre, 100 metre and the 200 metre freestyle, 50 metre breaststroke, 50 metre butterfly and a medley relay.This young princess of the pool has her

sights set on competing in the Olympics Games and the Commonwealth Games.With her achievements to date it could

be only a matter of years before we see this young girl become not just one of the regions golden girls, but one of the nations.

Golden girlMariah Jones perfects the stroke that won her gold at the Australia Age Championships. (Photo by Gina Combo)

Mariah Jones shows her winning smile