communicateThe newsletter for Victoria’s Deafand hard of hearing people

Issue 33 Jan/Feb 2012

Australian Deaf Games wrap-up - Back Page

Mac Adam awarded Order of Australia Medal (see page 7)

Photo: Mac Adam as Vicdeaf president. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

The Gaslight Festival is now only 4 weeks away and registrations are filling fast. Come and celebrate this weekend camping festival in the beautiful town of Maldon only 2 hours away from Melbourne. It is an event not to be missed!

Deaf, hearing, friends, families and YOU – all are welcome at the Festival, and there’s something for everyone, whether it’s learning a new skill, browsing the various stalls, or just catching up with friends for a chat. Come for the workshops and community during the day, and stay for the outdoor big-screen cinema at night.

The Festival will run over 3 days from Friday 23rd March until Sunday 25th March. You can book accommodation and camp with your friends and family, or visit for the day to check out some of our fantastic activities and workshops.

What kinds of activities?

Too many to show here! Below are a selection of a few events on the program. Full program can be found on the Gaslight Festival website at www.gaslightfestival.com.au:

• Acting/Performing: Come and join our acting class, learn to film great videos on your iPhone, or even learn to fire twirl!

• ArtsandCrafts: Origami, Jewellery making, Basic Patchwork and Scrapbooking and many more.

• HealthandWellbeing: Join our meditation classes, learn some basic karate skills, or try a variety of different types of yoga.

• Culture&Learning: Take our Basic Auslan workshop, hear the Deaf community’s ‘Horrible Histories’, or attend the ‘How to self-advocate’ workshop.

• Outdooractivities: Bushwalk around Maldon, play a round of golf, or take a wine tour.

• JustforKids: Auslan storytime, Facepainting, Junk puppet making, and many other activities and sports clinics.

Also, don’t miss the theatre performance of international smash hit, ‘Muckheap’ performed in Auslan by Polyglot Theatre.

As you can see, it’s going to be a blast! Get online and book your registration ASAP. We look forward to seeing many of you there.

Have you booked your registration to Gaslight?

Communicate Issue 33 | Jan/Feb 2012

Report from the CEO

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I attended a meeting in Sydney on 3 February, convened by the National Disability Services, which focussed on the NDIS, specifically for the Deaf sector. Many others were there including other Deaf Societies, Deaf Australia, Australian Communication Exchange and it was a productive meeting. There was recognition at the meeting that we needed to work more closely together for the benefit of our communities across Australia in understanding and in time accessing the NDIS.

So what happens next? I will be meeting with Deaf Australia and the Federation of Deaf Societies in March where I hope we can agree on a combined strategy to access good quality information and put together an information package about the NDIS, including an Auslan version, once the information becomes a little clearer. I would also hope to convene another Community Forum at Vicdeaf about the NDIS where face to face questions can be possible as well using VRI to provide access to regional Victorians.

The NDIS and other reforms in the sector is also a major agenda item for Vicdeaf’s Leadership Planning Retreat in March, which will result in including this key issue in Vicdeaf’s plans and budgets for 2012/13. Also as the Victorian Government is keen to be involved in the NDIS “launch sites” that are planned in 2013, we will look closely at the opportunity of getting involved early as well.

AgreatandworthyrecognitionWe are very proud and delighted that Mac Adam (formally recognized as Robert Edward Adam of Glen Waverley) was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the General Division in the Australia Day Honours List “for service to people who are deaf or hard of hearing through executive and administrative roles.”

You will see an article with more information in this edition of Communicate.

As well, Alex Chernov, the Governor of Victoria and Patron of Vicdeaf, was appointed Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) “for his contribution to education and the judiciary.”

I’m sure you join Vicdeaf in congratulating these two great Australians for their recognition on our National Day.

Inclosing2012 shapes up as perhaps the most challenging and exciting year for Vicdeaf for some time. I sincerely hope that 2012 brings you and your family health and happiness and if you have any queries on anything I have written above I’d appreciate your comments.

Regards,

GraemeKellyChiefExecutiveOfficer

Hello everybody,

So 2012 is off and running with a lot on the agenda for Vicdeaf and Deaf and hard of hearing Victorians. Here is where we are up to with some of those key agenda items.

XVIAustralianDeafGamesThe year started early and spectacularly with the Australian Deaf Games in Geelong. Vicdeaf

was delighted to be a major sponsor of the Games and the successful Victorian team. We presented the uniforms to the Victorian team members at the Vicdeaf Christmas Rally in December. Well done to the Vics and thank you to the organisers and volunteers who worked so hard in delivering a successful, enjoyable and safe Australian Deaf Games.

TheVicdeafInformationCentreandDeafCentreprogressThe new Information Centre is now operating on the ground floor at 340 Albert Street, which is the first step towards the development of a Deaf Centre. The Centre was a major priority in the Strategic Plan feedback from our community. Please come and check it out and see for yourself and at the same time you can also visit Deaf Sports Australia and Deaf Victoria who are now settled in right next to the Centre on the ground floor.

We will continue to work with Deaf Children Australia (DCA) on the potential development of a Deaf Centre at St Kilda Road, as we see that as the best possible option for the future. The DCA and Vicdeaf Boards have now formed a joint working group to report back to the respective Boards on the feasibility of a Deaf Centre development at St Kilda Road. The group has met twice and we are now working on the many complex issues that would need to be resolved for the ideas to progress further. Once that path is clearer we will consult further with you and many others before any decisions are made by Vicdeaf. As you would expect there is a lot to sort out and there are many other organisations such as Victorian College for the Deaf and Victorian Deaf Education Institute also that must be involved and I will keep you posted on progress.

NationalDisabilityInsuranceScheme(NDIS)You have probably seen a lot about the NDIS and like me you want to know what is happening.

Vicdeaf strongly supports the NDIS and last year hosted a Community Forum at Vicdeaf on the NDIS. We are also contributing financially for a second year to the NDIS Campaign “Every Australian Counts” to help make sure that the right sort of pressure is maintained on Governments and overall this has been very successful.

Jan/Feb 2012 | Communicate Issue 33

Editorial

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Editorial PolicyCommunicate is published six times a year. Reader contributions are greatly welcomed. Articles must relate to Deaf and hard of hearing issues. All contribution, once submitted, becomes the property of Communicate.

The editor reserve the right not to publish, or to edit, any article submitted for publication. All editing shall strive to remain true to the spirit of the original article.

Opinions expressed (except in articles that are signed in an official capacity) are those of the author/s and not necessarily endorsed by the editor or by Vicdeaf.

Submission deadlines for 2012

Friday 30 March

Thursday 17 May

Thursday 12 July

Thursday 13 September

Friday 16 November

SUBMISSIONS WELCOMEEmail toinfo@vicdeaf.com.au

Hello and welcome to the January/February 2012 issue of Communicate. It has been a very busy time for the

Victorian Deaf and hard of hearing community and so this issue is full of articles and stories!

The hugely successful Australian Deaf Games ended with a bang and big congratulations must go to everyone involved in the organising and running of the Games. It was fantastic to see so many people having a great time. Congratulations to Victoria for claiming the John M. Lovett Cup, go VICS!!

The Vicdeaf Information Centre located at ground floor of the Vicdeaf building is now open. Feel free to drop in and chat with staff members from the Information Services team. It is a wonderful use of space and we’re pleased to provide TTY and internet access as well.

The Gaslight Festival is just around the corner and we are very close to finalising the program for the Festival. It promises to be a massive event for the Deaf and hard of hearing community and a truly Auslan event. We have received some registrations from interstate, so it is great that many people are showing interest! The program will be posted on the Gaslight Festival website shortly.

I would highly recommend booking registration passes NOW! You can find details about buying registration passes on the front page. Thanks to all the sponsors who are supporting this great event.

So come on down for the 23-25 March weekend and I look forward to seeing many of you at the Gaslight Festival in Maldon.

Enjoy reading Communicate and while we’ve had a great start to 2012, I wish you and your family a very happy and healthy 2012.

MichaelParremoreEditor

Visitors requiring the below services can head directly to Vicdeaf Reception at Level 4 via lifts as normal.

• Duty Worker

• Case Management

• Independent Living Skills

Visitors requiring the below services can head directly to Level 3 via lifts as normal.

• Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria (open Mon & Tues)

• Australian Communication Exchange

For hearservice appointments, visitors can head to Level 2 via lifts as normal.

For events held at John Michael Lovett Community Centre, visitors can head to Level 3 via lifts as normal.

Vicdeaf Information Centre now operatingThe Vicdeaf Information Centre located at the ground floor is now open. Staff members from the Information Services Team will be there to provide a wide range of information and assist with any request/questions from anyone who visits.

The open times are from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday. There is an Information board where flyers and information sheets can be collected. A communications desk will be provided allowing Deaf and hard of hearing people to view the Vicdeaf, hearservice and SensWide websites, book interpreters online, make NRS and video relay service calls or even use Skype free of charge.

Everyone is welcome to visit, chat with the Vicdeaf Information Services Team staff members, ask to see Deaf Victoria or Deaf Sports Australia and have a look around. Photo: Lidia Risicato at the Information desk.

Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

Communicate Issue 33 | Jan/Feb 2012

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Jason Akermanis nominates VicdeafFormer AFL premiership player and Brownlow Medalist, Jason Akermanis will star in Celebrity Apprentice Australia to be shown on Channel 9. Each contestant was asked to nominate their favorite charity, with Jason nominating Vicdeaf.

Jason is familiar with the Deaf community as his wife Megan was a speech therapist at hearservice before moving to Aurora School to work with families of Deaf

children. Jason’s parents-in-law Garry and Carmel Legge are both well-known in the Deaf community and live in Brisbane.

On the Celebrity Apprentice Australia, Jason will compete with 11 other contestants for the title of Celebrity Apprentice. Filming has started in Sydney in mid-January and will be shown on Channel 9 later this year.

Boss Mark Bouris will be ready to fire anyone who underperforms on the show.

Other competitors include:

David Hasselhoff (Baywatch, Knight Rider)

Ian “Dicko” Dickson (Australian Idol, Can of Worms)

Patti Newton (Dancing with the Stars)

Charlotte Dawson (Australia’s Next Top Model)

Nathan Jolliffe (The Amazing Race Australia)

Marion Grasby (MasterChef Australia)

Lauryn Eagle (Water-ski and boxing champ)

Vince Sorrenti (Comedian)

Fiona O’Loughlin (Comedian)

Ben Dark (Getaway)

Tania Zaetta (Bollywood actress)

Vicdeaf would like to encourage the Deaf and hard of hearing community to support Jason in his quest as Celebrity Apprentice. Go Aker!

Rear Window Captioning trial at IMAX Melbourne Museum a successArticlebyNatashaDuckett,PublicRelations,IMAXMelbourneMuseumandCommercialVenueServices,MuseumVictoria

IMAX Melbourne Museum will be the first cinema outside North America to offer a permanent Rear Window Captioning (RWC) system for Deaf and hard of hearing cinema-goers, following a successful recent trial of the system.

During January, the cinema called on members of the Deaf and hard of hearing community to participate in a RWC trial with their families, attending movie screenings free of charge, and providing feedback on their experience.

Joanne Beckwith participated in the trial with her three children, including 13-year-old Monique who is hard of hearing. The family attended a screening at Happy Feet Two at IMAX Melbourne Museum, and Mrs. Beckwith says it is the first time she has been able to take all her children together to see a new release film.

“Usually we have to wait for a while before new release movies get the captioning technology that allows Monique to view them fully - meaning she misses out,” she said. “Seeing a movie with friends is a teenager’s rite of passage. But unfortunately, Monique usually has to wait, and by that time, her friends often don’t want to see the movie again.”

The system operates via a LED screen that presents

captions in mirror-reverse at the back of the cinema. Hard of hearing cinema-goers can access the captions with a special clear perspex screen that can be placed into a position of choice, while other patrons watch the film as usual.

IMAX Melbourne Museum would like to thank the support of the community for both spreading the word and participating in this trial. The cinema will now work towards RWC’s permanent implementation.

Photo: Mrs Beckwith with Monique (left), Edward and Rachael at IMAX. Photo Source: IMAX Melbourne Museum and Commercial Venue Services, Museum Victoria.

Photo: Celebrity Apprentice Jason Akermanis. Photo Source: Megan Akermanis.

Jan/Feb 2012 | Communicate Issue 33

Strong and proud: Deaf community has no need for self-appointed champions

These include complex social networks, different ways of using light, space and touch and the sharing of particular values.

Deaf people generally value their signed languages highly and deafness becomes an intrinsically valued and nurtured aspect of their personal identities.

This culture and identity doesn’t stop deaf people from living and working in the “real” world, and most have close ties with hearing people.

Rather than separating us from others, the opportunity to use a signed language and participate in Deaf culture is usually an affirming and positive experience that makes our relationship with the rest of the world easier.

This shouldn’t be so difficult for the average person to understand. When my Irish father asked me many years ago why I spent so much time with other deaf people, I asked him why he still went to the Irish Club after living in Australia for more than 30 years, and he understood.

Most people are nurtured and supported by their cultural affiliations.

Another vexing part of Dornan’s acceptance speech was her claim that she represented all deaf people, especially deaf children.

This plays on the pervasive belief that deaf people are mute, dumb, language-less. Many deaf people have been quick to say that Dornan doesn’t speak for them.

Dornan implied she knows how all deaf people feel (when it’s evident that she doesn’t), that deaf people cannot speak for themselves and need representatives like her even though they have a plethora of representative bodies.

What’s more, she assumes it’s perfectly acceptable for a hearing person to represent them – even though it’s no longer acceptable for a white person to say they represent Aborigines, or for a man to say he represents women.

Despite the surprise with which many people reacted to last week’s kerfuffle, it was nothing new to deaf people and those who work closely with them.

The history of deaf education, for instance, has been marked by long-running, often acrimonious debates between advocates of different methods of teaching – those who favour using speech and amplified hearing alone, and those who promote using signed languages.

History also has plenty of examples of attempts to cure and experiment on deaf people, with or without their consent.

As Prosper Meniere wrote blithely in 1855, “The deaf believe that they are our equals in all respects. We should be generous and not destroy that illusion. But whatever they believe, deafness is an infirmity and we should repair it whether the person who has it is disturbed by it or not.”

This is National Week of Deaf People around Australia, when we celebrate this resilient community and its language and culture.

Even as we’re congratulating ourselves on the progress we’ve made, it seems some things never change.

ArticlebyBredaCarty,ConjointLecturerattheFacultyofEducationandArtsatUniversityofNewcastle.

As appeared in theconversation.edu.au – 17 October 2011.

Telstra’s Business Women of the Year awards are not usually known for attracting controversy. So, few people were prepared for the outrage that was sparked last week by Queensland winner, Dimity Dornan.

Dornan is the founder and managing director of the Hear and Say Centre in Queensland, which provides early intervention for deaf children.

In her acceptance speech, she compared deafness to polio in the 1950s, calling it a “scourge” (polio that is but, by implication, deafness too), which could soon be “consigned to history”.

Such comments would be unlikely to stir controversy if they were made about cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, or indeed most illnesses or disabilities.

But they didn’t sit well with Deaf people.

Statements were released by the national organisation of deaf people, Deaf Australia, and its international counterpart, the World Federation of the Deaf, expressing anger and offense, and calling on Dornan to apologise for her comments.

Several other organisations released statements condemning Dornan’s comments. Facebook, Twitter and the blogosphere were full of commentary, and a Facebook page called Stop Deaf Cultural Genocide soon clocked up hundreds of members.

Why was the response so instant and impassioned?

Few people would like the word “scourge” associated with themselves, but it can be difficult for the wider community to understand the claims that most Deaf commentators are making – they are proud to be deaf; they aren’t interested in being cured; and they consider themselves to be a linguistic and cultural minority group.

Many dissociate themselves from the “disability” label.

These views are held strongly by those who have been deaf from birth or early childhood, and who participate in the community of deaf people using signed languages. People with acquired or moderate deafness don’t usually share them.

Signed languages have developed within Deaf communities – some over many hundreds of years – and have been accepted as bona fide languages by linguists and by many governments (see the Australian Languages and Literacy Policy, 1991).

Acceptance of these languages has led to descriptions of Deaf communities having a distinct culture – a worldview created by shared experience, shared language, traditions and behaviours that facilitate life as a deaf person.

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Communicate Issue 33 | Jan/Feb 2012

Victorian College for the Deaf students wows the audience

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Photo: Peter Pan with the Indians. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

Photo: Tinkerbell takes centre stage in Peter Pan. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

Photo: Captain Hook with the Lost Boys. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

Photo: The Crocodile Gang. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

On Thursday 17th November 2011, the Victorian College for the Deaf (VCD) hosted two excellent performances of ‘Peter Pan in Auslan’ in front of large audiences at Ormond Hall, South Yarra. Students from every year level were involved in the planning of the performance as well as developing their characters and working together to finish everything on time.

Peter Pan is a very well known and popular story and was written by J.M. Barrie 100 years ago. The lead character, Peter Pan was played by Year 11 student, Brandon Van Niekerk. Idelia Lai played Wendy and Year 7 students, Tassos Kondis and Shiloh Marinkovic, played Wendy’s brothers. Year 11 student Brendan Robinson played Captain Hook.

The performance received rave reviews, with one parent remarking, “I have been to many, many school productions and I have never been so moved by the sheer magnitude of the talent pool of everyone involved, including the script writers, costume designers, brilliant interpreters, choreographers, stage managers, technical wizards, make up

artists, sound engineers, prop designers, directors and most of all, the magnificent cast”

After the final performance, VCD Principal Maureen Douglas lead a chorus of accolades and thankyous to the school and everyone involved in the drama production of Peter Pan.

Jan/Feb 2012 | Communicate Issue 33

Mac Adam awarded Order of Australia MedalOn Australia Day, 26th January 2012, Vicdeaf president – Robert (Mac) Adam has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the General Division in the Australia Day Honours List ‘for service to people who are deaf or hard of hearing through executive and administrative roles.’

Mac has been an active member of the Victorian and Australian Deaf community as a volunteer and a community leader since the 1950s. He has raised the profile of Deaf people and represented the community in a wide range of situations; in the government, charity and non-government sector.

Mac has provided volunteer services at local, national and international levels. Various organisations Mac has been involved with are:

1959-1972 – Deaf Committee (various roles)

1966 – Jolimont Football Club (president)

1969s – Jolimont Basketball Club (president and committee member)

1966-1970;1972-1974;1990-present – Vicdeaf (president and board member)

1977-1981 – Catholic Association for Deaf and Hearing Impaired People (committee member)

1978-1982 – Parents Action in Deafness (founding committee member and treasurer)

1983-1985 – Victorian Council of Deaf People (Closed captions subcommittee member)

1986-1987 – Victorian Council of Deaf People (Auslan subcommittee member)

1987-2004 – Victorian School for Deaf Children (board member)

1995-1996 – Australian Association of the Deaf (treasurer and board member)

1997-present – Bible Society of Australia (Auslan Transition Project)

2001 – International Year of the Volunteer (voluntary work in the Deaf community)

2005 – Deaflympic Games (Australian Deaf team manager – Shooting)

2005-present – International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (Technical Director – Shooting)

Mac was educated at the Victorian School for Deaf Children in the years 1947 to 1956. He obtained his trade qualification from the Collingwood Technical School in 1960 and his Bachelor of Education from LaTrobe University in 1998. After he finished school in 1956, he was employed as

a shopfitter and continues to work in this field part-time. Mac also teaches carpentry and metalwork at the Victorian College for the Deaf (VCD) on a part-time basis too.

Over the years, Mac has supported young Deaf and young female apprentices in the shopfitting trade and is held in high esteem by his colleagues. He has also been a valuable role model for students at VCD and students benefit from his wisdom and calmness.

Mac was notified of the award on Australia Day and will be presented with an OAM medal at a ceremony later in the year. Vicdeaf will publish photos of the ceremony in Communicate as they become available.

Also, the Governor of Victoria and Patron of Vicdeaf, Alex Chernov has been appointed Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) ‘for his contribution to education and the judiciary.’

All of us at Vicdeaf are very appreciative of this important and well deserved honour.

Congratulations Mac and thank you for your outstanding contribution for Deaf and hard of hearing people.

ArticlebyAliceEwing

The horseriding day was fabulous with nine riders of all ages and two volunteer interpreters, Tyson Boal and Cara Due present. On Saturday 15 October, riders set out from Melbourne in the minibus provided by Deaf Children Australia to Uncle Nev’s Trail Rides in Upper Plenty.

After finding helmets to fit everyone, everyone mounted horses and rode through the beautiful grassy woodland of Mt. Disappointment State Forest. The sun was shining despite weather forecasts suggesting rain. Riders passed blooming wildflowers and a huge mob of kangaroos.

After warming up, riders split into two groups. One group for the more experienced riders, and another for beginner riders. The groups were small, so everyone was able to enjoy an uncrowded ride and chat to others in the group. The beginners enjoyed a gentle walk and several bumpy trots and an exciting canter, while the experienced riders enjoyed a few canters and even some galloping runs, which the horses loved.

Riders met up again at the house on top of a hill for a break. Everyone enjoyed the stunning view while having snacks and drinks. Everyone then rode back to the trail riding centre, with another couple of gallops for the experienced riders.

The trail ride guides were very friendly and very easy to communicate with, both directly and through Tyson or Cara. Everyone enjoyed the ride on some really nice horses. Even though some riders ended up with sore bums, they all want to do it again next year!

Many thanks to Tyson and Cara for interpreting and Deaf Children Australia for the loan of the minibus.

Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria (DSRV) organises various recreational opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing Victorians. If you are interested, please subscribe to DSRV eNews via www.dsrv.com.au

DSRV Deaf Horseriding Day

Photo: The Deaf Man from Snowy River? No, its Matt.

Photo: Fiona and Alice enjoy a trail ride.Photo Sources: Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria.

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All you need to know about the Telecommunications Industry OmbudsmanMore than 197,000 consumers throughout Australia lodged a complaint about their telephone or internet service provider with the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) last year.

About 40,000 of those complaints were lodged through the TIO’s website, www.tio.com.au, which was relaunched in October.

The TIO is a fast, free and fair dispute resolution service for people who have not been able to resolve a complaint with their provider. The TIO is a not-for-profit company and is independent of government and the telecommunications industry. Consumers must try to resolve their complaint with their service provider before coming to the TIO.

Accessibility is one of the TIO’s key goals and while developing the new web site we paid particular attention to ensuring it is accessible as possible to members of the Deaf community.

The TIO specified to the website developers that the site must meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG) standard Priority Level A with Level AA where possible. The Australian Government has declared that all its websites must meet Level A by 31 December 2012. The TIO has also worked with Vicdeaf to provide Auslan videos of the Ombudsman’s message and an overview of the 2011 annual report on the website.

Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Simon Cohen said that as devices such as smart phones were boosting accessibility for Deaf people, it was important that the TIO was sensitive to the needs of the Deaf community.

“The site is only one of the ways that Deaf people can access our service,” Mr Cohen said. “This year we have

also increased our outreach to the Deaf community and with the help of Vicdeaf, in November we trained all of our 270 staff in Deaf awareness and the National Relay Service. All our printed publications feature the National Relay Service logo and contact details prominently.”

Consumers may lodge complaints with the TIO either:

• through the website.• by contacting us through the National Relay Service:

– TTY users phone 1800 555 677 then ask for 1800 062 058

– Speak and Listen users phone 1800 555 727 then ask for 1800 062 058• Internet relay users connect to the NRS

(www.relayservice.com.au) then ask for 1800 062 058• or visiting the TIO in person at its office at

Level 3 / 595 Collins Street, diagonally across from Southern Cross station in Melbourne.

Melbourne Deaf Expo and Information Forum

Displays and expert speakers:

• Technology

• Employment

• Auslan

• Case Management

• Interpreting

• Deaf Arts & Sports

• Early Intervention

• Education

• Aged care

• Services Available

• Community Support Groups

• Hearing Loss Prevention

When: Saturday 27th October 2012

Time: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm

Where: Royal Melbourne Showgrounds

Kodas enjoy campingThe Victorian Koda Camp was held in July 2011. There were over 30 people in attendance, campers and leaders – everyone there had deaf parents! We had lots of fun with activities like raft building, flying fox and archery, and everyone left the camp with big smiles and lots of new friends. The exciting news this year is that we have another camp! This year the camp will be held at Anglesea on October 19-21. For more information please email kodaaustralia@gmail.com or join our group on Facebook called “Koda Camps 2012”.

Photo: James Blyth receives a framed jumper from all at Koda Camp. Source: Coda Australia.

For more information, contact: DeafExpoCoordinator–DavidPetersEmail: dpeters@vicdeaf.com.au

Communicate Issue 33 | Jan/Feb 2012

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The 6th ASLIA Victoria Auslan Interpreter of the Year Awards is undergoing some major changes! This year we celebrate interpreters, socialising and experiencing culture! We are combining interpreters, the deaf community, artists and a superb venue to bring you a stand up cocktail event/ art exhibition in South Melbourne. Save the date for Saturday 12th May and check out asliavic.com.au/awards to nominate now with our new simplified nominations form.

Here are the revised categories!

• Individual: Paraprofessional Interpreter

• Individual: Professional Interpreter

• Individual: Deaf Relay Interpreter

• Organisation Award (includes agencies)

• Individual: Specialised Excellence

www.asliavic.com.au/awards

6th ASLIA Victoria Auslan Interpreter of the YearAwards

Johann shines at The Comic’s LoungeArticlebyMichaelParremore

For a long time, Johann Gunesekera dreamt of doing stand-up comedy in front of a live audience. Johann loved telling jokes and making people laugh. He also wrote many jokes, enough to make a book. People were telling him, “You should go and do live comedy, because you are excellent at jokes!”

Finally, Johann achieved his dream on Tuesday night, 20th September 2011, doing a 10 minute stand-up comedy at The Comic’s Lounge in North Melbourne.

“Jaymie is a Comic’s Lounge Manager, he is cool and a nice bloke and he agreed to book me for my first opening mic”, Johann said.

Johann admitted to being nervous before his show started, he waited in the Green Room and met a few experienced stand-up comedians.

“They were so friendly and kind to me like Mother Teresa”, Johann adds.

When his turn came, his heart was pounding and he felt like running away and forgetting the show. He got onto the stage, waving “Hello, hello… how are you?” and realized he couldn’t see anybody, because the lights were shining on him. He felt better.

“On the stage, all the lights were on me, I couldn’t see people’s faces. They were so dark I thought they all were from Kenya!” Johann joked.

“It was an amazing experience for me to go on stage and perform my comedy show, everybody laughed more and more at my jokes. I’m proud to be the first Deaf stand-up comedian

in the Comic’s Lounge? Yeeeahh! I felt more confident, relaxed and told a few more jokes which they loved!”

Johann’s show took 10 minutes and when he finished his show, everybody applauded. A few people came up to congratulate Johann after the show. Jaymie was very impressed with him and asked him to do a second show on Tuesday 8th November.

I got the opportunity to see Johann at his second show and asked him a few questions.

Whatmadeyouwanttodostand-upcomedy?

About 20 years ago, I first heard about stand-up comedy and have always wanted to do it. With the support of family and friends, I finally achieved my dream. I wanted to show people that Deaf people could do stand-up comedy; they can tell jokes and share funny stories. I also wanted to show them our language.

Howlongdidyouprepareforthisshow?

I spent 6 hours each day for the last week practising for this show. I have a lot of jokes and I had to try and work out which ones to tell. I practise my routine in front of the mirror.

Howdoyouworkwithaninterpreterduringtheshow?

Before the show, I explain what jokes I am going to tell so they can prepare and interpret with better effect. It is very important to work with the interpreter before the show.

Johann says to achieve his dream; he always kept his faith and belief that he could do it. His advice to all aspiring Deaf performers is to keep motivated, be patient and believe in yourselves that you can do it and be successful.Photo: Johann does stand-up comedy at The Comic’s Lounge. Photo Source: Vicdeaf.

Photo: Johann practising his routine. Photo Source: Johann Gunesekera.

Jan/Feb 2012 | Communicate Issue 33

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Communicate Issue 33 | Jan/Feb 2012

at your workplace

l Do you want to improve deafawarenesswhereyouwork?

l Doyouwanttocommunicatebetterwithyourbossandworkmates?

l Do you want people at work tounderstandyoubetter?

l Doyouwantinformationonhowtomakeyourworkplacedeaffriendly?

IfyouanswerYEStosomeorallofthequestionsabove,

thenaskyourworkplacetocontactVicdeaftoprovide

DeafAwarenessandAuslanTraining.

*100%ofthetrainingcostcanbereimbursedfromtheEmployment

AssistanceFund.

For more information, contact VicdeafEmail: info @vicdeaf.com.au

Ph: 9473 1181 • TTY: 9473 1199Fax: 9473 1122

100%REBATE*

Vicdeaf would like to offer sincere condolences to the families of those who have recently passed away. They are the families of :

Brent Hunt Mary PettmanJohn West Babette Chidwick

Condolences

Public Relations ReportThe Christmas and New Year period is a great opportunity to rest and refresh... but not for the Vicdeaf team, not when there is an excellent opportunity to promote the good work of Vicdeaf to everyone attending the XVI Australian Deaf Games.

We decided that we would try to show the wide range of services and support Vicdeaf provides across Victoria, and we came up with this:

This wall banner will enable us to show people in many different places the work of Vicdeaf, and remind members of the Deaf Community also that there is a lot on offer through the various programs and activities we provide.

Our recent Fundraising efforts have not been as successful as we would have liked. Much of our planned Fundraising income was expected through ‘Trusts and Foundations’, funds that assist Vicdeaf to grow and expand services. We did receive $45,000 from the R. E. Ross Trust however, and this will provide an

Communicate is a bi-monthly print newsletter. It is a source of news and information relating to Deaf and hard of hearing issues. Want to receive Communicate? Please fill in your details and post to us.

Under the Gaslight is a monthly electronic newsletter. It is an excellent source of upcoming events and important information. Want to receive Under the Gaslight (via email only)? Please fill in your details and post to us:

Post to: Vicdeaf Communication Coordinator, Level 4, 340 Albert Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 or you can subscribe over the internet. Simply go to www.vicdeaf.com.au and subscribe.

COMMUNICATEANDUNdEr ThE GASlIGhTSUBSCRIPTIONFORM

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opportunity to grow our Community Education programs.

The Global Financial Crises – I think we are up to GFC 2 – has an impact across many areas and ultimately impacts our Fundraising activities too.

We are hopeful that things will begin to turn in the near future, and if you would like to help in some way, please contact me.

We have a variety of ways that you can assist – as a regular donor (even $10.00 per month is a great help), or as a once off donor (every donation is greatly appreciated), or by leaving some benefit to Vicdeaf in your will (we have material to assist you with this), and in any way whatsoever – please call – your support can make a huge difference to the work we do at Vicdeaf.

DavidOliver,ManagerCommunityRelationsandDevelopmentdoliver@vicdeaf.com.au

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Jan/Feb 2012 | Communicate Issue 33

On Sunday 30 October 2011, the Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club held a 130 Year Celebration event at Campari House in Melbourne. Over 80 past and current members and supporters attended. It was a great opportunity for everyone to catch up and share fond memories about the cricket club, which has been such an important part of the Victorian Deaf sporting community for many years.

MC James Blyth introduced club president James Hale. James gave everyone a warm welcome and spoke about his pride for the club and their members.

“We have laid claim to being the oldest active Deaf sporting club in the world, and no one has been able to challenge this, so I am very proud of the club and everyone involved in it”, James said.

James went on to speak about the exciting future of the club.

“From January 2012, the clubhouse at East Kew will be closed for development for about 9 months. We will receive a brand new social area with bar and separate kitchen, two change-rooms each with separate toilet and shower facilities. The social area will have windows overlooking our oval”, James said.

He also added that the change-rooms and social rooms will have flexible wall partitions so when opened up, the club will enjoy over 3 times the space than before. James added that this will open opportunities for other Deaf clubs and groups to use the space, and that MDCC aims to encourage Deaf people to use the facilities for social events.

James thanked Vicdeaf, Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria, Auslan Services and Deafness Foundation for their support towards the 130 Year Celebration event.

MDCC life member Steve May gave a talk about the history of the club.

“Sometime in the 1950s, the club was in danger of closing, because of the conflict between Deaf catholics and protestants. Welfare officers from the Victorian Deaf Society had to step in and restore order”, Steve said.

Michael Parremore presented the Adam Muir Hall of Fame awards. Michael said Adam Muir was the co-founder of the club and the first secretary at 22 years old. Adam served at committee level for 18 years and this became the guideline for the Hall of Fame award. Any persons giving 18 years of committee work to the club shall be awarded the Adam Muir Hall of Fame.

Below is a list of the Hall of Fame inductees:

AdamMuir 18 years 1881-1902

MatthewMiller 39 years 1881-1925

JohnMuir 35 years 1883-1919

WilliamMuir 30 years 1884-1922

WilliamPaterson 22 years 1901-1917

GeorgeMortimer 23 years 1903-1940

JimJohnston 39 years 1915-1954

JimO’Gorman 39 years 1925-1968

WarwickAshby 32 years 1926-1960

JoePhillips 26 years 1932-1965

MelbourneDyson 21 years 1935-1956

AlbertBatley 24 years 1940-1969

AlbertBeard 24 years 1941-1966

OwenFielding 18 years 1942-1967

LaurieSage 28 years 1947-1975

BrianHogan 23 years 1955-1979

JohnParsons 19 years 1959-1986

BrianKing 23 years 1968-2003

SteveMay 24 years 1980-2011

ChrisKenny 28 years 1984-current

Anton Sammons asked 5 past and current presidents of the cricket club to cut the cake to officially celebrate 130 years. They were Steve May, Michael Parremore, Steve Quinn, Simon McPartland and James Hale.

Stewart Power came on stage and launched a moving slideshow showing photos of Melbourne Deaf cricket throughout the years. This was a highlight of the presentation with the audience enjoying the photos, which brought back a lot of memories.

James Blyth closed the presentation and it was time to party. Everyone moved to the second and third floors of Campari House and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon, with some kicking on into the night.

The Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club is based at Hays Paddock, East Kew. The club has 2 teams and plays one-day games every Saturday afternoon throughout the cricket season. They have training sessions every Thursday evenings and have an active social calendar. For more information, contact the club secretary, Melissa Lowrie on melbournedeafcricket@gmail.com

Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club celebrates 130 years in style

Photo: Club president James Hale gives everyone a warm welcome.Photo Sources: Simon O’Neill.

Photo: James Hale awards Chris Kenny the Adam Muir Hall of Fame certificate while Steve May (centre) looks on.

Photo: MDCC committee members proudly shows off the cake, they are (L-R) Simon McPartland, James Hale, Michael Parremore, Melissa Lowrie, Anton Sammons, Stewart Power, Peter McCormick and Chris Kenny.

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Communicate Issue 33 | Jan/Feb 2012

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Victorian deaf Society

Level 4, 340 Albert Street, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002TTY: (03) 9473 1199; Voice: (03) 9473 1111; Fax: (03) 9473 1122Email: info@vicdeaf.com.auToll-free for country people, TTY: 1300 780 235, Voice: 1300 780 225

Vicdeaf office hours: Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5.00pmRegional offices: Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Sale and WangarattaPatrons: Alex Chernov AC QC and Mrs. Elizabeth Chernov

www.vicdeaf.com.auPrinted on 100% Recycled Paper

Sports News2012 Australian Deaf Games Finishes in Spectacular Style

for the tournament. This included a sizzling 66 on the final day at the tough Thirteenth Beach golf course. Geelong Mayor John Mitchell presented the NSW Men’s Golf Team with the ‘Team of the Games’ trophy in recognition of their outstanding team performance in taking out the ADG team golf event.

Brent Phillips presented the 2011 DSA Sports Awards to the following recipients:

• 2011 DSA Male Athlete of the Year – Brian Lockyer

• 2011 DSA Female Athlete of the Year – Jamie-Lee Lewis

• 2011 DSA Media Award – Network Ten

• 2011 DSA Organisation of the Year – Swimming Australia

• 2011 DSA Volunteer of the Year – Anne Jeavons

Another highlight of the evening saw DSA vice-president David Peters presented with DSA Life Membership which was presented by DSA president Brent Phillips. David was a humble and worthy recipient of the award which is due recognition of his contribution to Deaf Sports Australia for over 30 years.

Congratulations to ADG Organising Committee chairman Phil Harper, the Games Organising Committee team, the City of Greater Geelong, volunteers and everyone who was involved in the 2012 Australian Deaf Games.

We look forward to seeing you all in Adelaide in 2016!

ArticlebyDeafSportsAustralia

The 2012 Australian Deaf Games (ADG) finished in spectacular fashion in Geelong on Saturday night 21 January with a Gala closing ceremony at Costa Hall, Deakin University. Close to 1,000 people attended the event and they were entertained by a fantastic dance performance and the presentation of the major awards for the evening.

Eight days of fantastic competition were brought to a close by Deaf Sports Australia (DSA) president Brent Phillips who made the announcement that Adelaide won the bid to host the 2016 Australian Deaf Games with Deaf Sports Recreation South Austalia president Tim Morgan accepting the ADG flag from Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria (DSRV) president Grant Roberts.

The coveted John M. Lovett Cup (formerly the ADSF Cup) was won by host state Victoria with DSRV president Grant Roberts accepting the trophy from Jill Lovett to the applause and cheering from Victorians in the crowd.

The official placings for the Cup were:

1st Victoria 4th South Australia

2nd New South Wales 5th West Australia

3rd Queensland 6th ACT

Victorian Sports Minister Hugh Delahunty presented the ‘Athlete of the Games’ trophy to Jack Besley. Jack dominated the ADG golf event finishing with 8 under par

Photo: Glen Flindell fires a return at the Games.

Photo: The Victorian tennis team wins the tournament and receives the trophy.Photo Sources: Edan Chapman and Deaf Sports Australia.

Photo: Tony Raynor during a beach volleyball match at Geelong’s Eastern Beach.