Our aim : a monthly record of the Aborigines' Inland …...Our Aim Our Aim "To give light to them that sit in darkness" Vol. LIII — No. 4 DECEMBER, 1959. Christmas T mad c)o-3ai

Our Aim

Our Aim "To give light to them that sit in darkness"

Vol. LIII — No. 4 DECEMBER, 1959.

Christmas T mad c)o-3ai II

No sheep in the folds, No star in the west, No Babe lulled to sleep On His young mother's breast. But sheep of God's f lock Straying far f rom His love, And a glor i f ied Man Interceding above.

No gold and no myrrh, No sweet frankincense, But the g i f t of the heart When the sinner repents. No music on earth From the angelic bands; But the praise and prayer Of the saved of al l lands.

Apar t f rom the Christ -— No joy at His borth, Though merry and gay A l l the feasting on ear th; The candles burn out, And the feasting is done, But the Glory of Heaven Shines for th in God's Son.

— Betty Scott Stam Yang Chow, China, 1 9 3 1 .

ABORIGINES INLAND MISSION OF AUSTRALIA Regd. at G.P.O. Sydney, as a Newspaper

Subscription — 5/- per year

Digitised by AIATSIS Library - RS 17/14 - www.aiatsis.gov.au

Aborigines Inland Mission of Australia.

Founded by Mrs. R. Long, August 1st, 1905

Head Office: Kembla Building, 58 Margaret St., Sydney, Australia. Phone: BX2268.

Director: Rev. Egerton C. Long (UM6923) General Secretary: Mr. E. A. Collins (UF2464)

Federal Advisory Council: President, The Director; Chairmen and Vice-Presidents, Mr. L. Scott and Mr. K. Beeby; Secretary, Mr. G.

Blacket; Asst. Secretary, Miss M. Mackay; Gen. Treasurer, Mr. F. Atkinson, A.A.S.A.

Hon. Medical Advisor: Dr. D. Treloar. Hon. Auditor: Mr. W. Davies, A.A.S.A., A.C.I.S., A.C.A.A:

Victorian State Council: Melbourne Office, Room 3, 46 Russell St., Melbourne. Phone 63-1500. Secretary: Mr. A. J. Bagot, A.A.S.A., L.C.A., 202 Spring St., Reservoir. Ph. JU4059. Treasurer: Mr. L. Stirling, 18 Lawes St., Hawthorn, Vic. Phone WM6429.

Queensland State Council: Acting Secretary: Miss R. Shaw, 567 Hamilton Rd., Chermside. Treasurer: Mrs. V. Elms, Cotton Street, Shorncliffe, N.E.7.

Tasmanian State Council: Secretary: Mr. W. Wolnizer, A.A.S.A., 38 Proctor's Rd., Hobart, Tasmania. Treasurer: Mrs. W. Wolnizer, 38 Proctor's Rd., Hobart, Tas.

South Australian Auxiliary: Secretary and Treasurer: Mrs. M. Tate, 24 Smith-Dorrien Street, Netherbv, South Australia.

RADIO PROGRAM EXTENDED 'Miracles and Melodies' now on three stations

The A.I.M. radio program can now be heard as follows: 4VL Charleville, Q'ld. Monday 9.30 a.m. 4SB Kingaroy, Q'ld. Sunday 3.45 p.m. 2AD Armidale, N.S.W. Wednesday 4.30 p.m.

Pray for the listeners and for the program. Ask God for its extension to other stations also, as a missionary project to reach the unsaved for Christ.

Page Two OUR AIM


A Challenge at Christmas "As we have a high-old-time at Christmas may we who know

Christ hear the cry of the damned as they hurdle headlong into the Christless night without ever a chance. May we be moved with compassion as our Lord was. May we shed tears of repentance for those whom we have failed to bring out of darkness. Beyond the smiling scenes of Bethlehem may we see the csushing agonies of Golgotha. May God give us a new vision of His will concerning the lost and our responsibility.

Would that we could comprehend the lot of these Stone Age people, who live in mortal fear and anguish on the jungle trails. Those to whom the bark of a gun means sudden, mysterious death; those who think of all men in the world as killers like themselves. If God would grant us the vision, the word sacrifice would disappear from our lips and thoughts. We would hate the things that now seem dear to us; our lives would suddenly be too short. We would despise time-robbing distractions and charge the enemy with all our energy in the Name of Christ.

May God help us to judge by the eternity that separates the Aucas from the comprehension of Christmas and, from Him whom though He was rich, yet for our sokes became poor so that we through His poverty might be made rich."

Nate Saint, Christmas, 1955

OUR AIM Page Three


MY GREATEST PERSONAL BLESSING THIS YEAR

Each year on our annual returns, we ask each missionary to give what they consider to be his or her greatest blessing during the previous twelve months.

Here are just a few of these testimonies. It will bless your heart to read them, especially when you realise something of the sacrifice each missionary makes in daily service for Christ.

My greatest personal blesing has been the joy that has been mine in knowing I am in the Lord's appointed place for me. Though it has been brief, my time in the Mission has been really blessed.

The very real fellowship with Christ in the battle and the joy of seeing souls saved and becoming established in the faith.

The definite leading of the Lord into the A.l.M.

Learning anew that in every difficulty God's grace is sufficient. This has not been an easy year but the Lord has remained faithful and has sustained.

To see how in answer to prayer, the Lord has brought many of the people back into fellowship and into the place where they are willing both to take office and to help in the services.

A hard question — there have been so many! A closer confidence with the people, the faithfulness of some of the Christians, not only in their attendance but in their evident desire to follow th Lord more closely.

Being at the Billy Graham meetings and hearing his messages and seeing the thousands coming forward to receive Christ as Christ. Later we met him at Darwin Airport, and were thrilled and blessed by his fellowship.

The comfort, power and guiding of the Holy Spirit.

When two young boys were walking up to the church with me, they asked if they could give their hearts to Christ and had the joy of pointing them to Christ.

Daily victory in my life.

I am deeply thankful from my heart that I know Jesus Christ in a personal way. I have mixed with people of different beliefs and

Page Four OUR AIM


found them very unhappy. I am thankful that I know Him and the power of His resurrection — especially over self.

To have the love and fellowship of the Christians on my station.

God's faithfulness in a time of great loneliness and need.

Proving the truth of Romans 8:28 and abiding in the promise of Phil. 2:13.

The Lord has shown me in recent months the need to leave all to Him and just to be satisfied with Himself instead of being anxious about service for Him.

TESTIMONY BY A NEW

WORKER What a wonder! As I ponder On His love I am amazed, That a sinner such as I am, To such glory should be raised. Does He really love me dearly? Yes, I will not doubt His love, He has bought me, He has sought me, And in Christ His love I prove.

On the 8th August, 1953, at a gospel meeting in Darwin I yielded my life to the Lord Jesus Christ. It was through a gospel film that my need of the Saviour was presented and there and then I said, "Yes" to Jesus.

Why should I need a Saviour? I was a sinner, therefore, I needed a Saviour to save me from sin and Jesus Himself was the Saviour.

Real peace and joy came into my heart when I gave my life to Christ and life became different. My testimony adds up to what Jesus is. He is my Saviour, because He saved me, He saves, when He saves His power keeps, He keeps me, lastly He satisfies, satisfied with Jesus.

I have prepared myself for the Lord's service at the Bible Training Institute, Singleton, now, doing some things for God and my people I love, going out as a Native Missionary.

Those of you who have read this testimony, if you have a prayer list would you put my name somewhere on it and pray for me.

WALTER FEJO

OUR AIM Page Five


A New Venture in the Northern Territory On September 22nd at 4.30 a.m. we started out with the Austin

Truck and Trailer loaded with supplies for our Missionaries at Newcastle Waters and Borroloola. Much prayer has preceded this new venture and we went out knowing we were in the Hands of God.

It was good to spend a time of fellowship with Mr. and Mrs. Matthews at Katherine. We then continued on a further 113 miles to Larrimah, where we met the relatives of one of the patients at East Arm.

The following morning we arrived at Newcastle Waters, 470 miles down the main highway from Darwin. It was grand to see Mr. and Mrs. Bridges and Mr. Main all looking so well and to have fellowship with them.

Leaving the trailer and collecting a few more things for Borroloola, Mr. Main joined us in the Austin as we left Newcastle Waters and started out on the 270 mile trip on bush road to Borroloola. We called in at Beetaloo Cattle Station just over 30 miles out and -were happy to meet relatives of folk we know at East Arm Leprosarium. It was a thrill to meet Mr. Hughie Bathern who had been a patient there and discharged about 18 months ago. He introduced us to his wife and family, a really lovely group.

Travelling on a further 34 miles we stopped for lunch and discovered front main leaf of the left spring broken. We prayed and God answered in that after a short time a truck came through with Hughie as a passenger. He found some strong wire and together with several native lads, helped to pull the axle forward and wire into position.

We had hoped to get through to O.T. Station another 90 miles that night, but at 8.30 p.m. a nd still about 50 miles to go we realised the axle had slipped again and we decided to set up ofr the night. The folowing morning revealed that we had chosen a lovely spot with shady gum trtes and a waterhole nearby. How we praised God that the trouble had happened there as some of the country through which we passed had been so very barren.

Soon after breakfast the truck came back from O.T. station, so we were able to send a message through to Mr. Bridges asking him to wire Borroloola. We hped t fix the axle again and continue on. However, no sooner had the truck left us and we discovered the back left spring broken also!

Of curse, we could not pssibly do anything about that, especially with a loaded truck so again we sought our never failing Strength,, He who is a very present help in trouble. Stan cut some logs jacked up the truck and removed the springs. Out there in the solitude of the bush God was very near.

On the Saturday morning Mr. Pattemore and Mr. Field arrived in a Land Rover, having travelled through the night, 170 miles of bush road, half of which was very rough and with so much "bull" dust, they were covered in it!

It was wonderful to see them after boiling the billy and realizing that nothing could be done there, we left Mr. Main in charge of the truck and stores and went back to Newcastle Waters. After the heat and dust, a shower was very welcome.

Page Six OUR AIM


Later in the evening Mr. Pattermore and Mr. Fiell left to return to the truck and after some rest took M. Main with them to Borrolola, it being quite safe to leave the truck unattended as it is seldom any traffic goes through that way, except Mr. Bathern who said h e would keep an eye on things.

On the following Wednesday night two trucks pulled into Newcastle Waters on their way to Borroloola and offered to take our lad out. So early Thursday morning, John and Stan went with them leaving Jocelyn and myself "grass widows" until they arrived back about midnight Saturday.

How thankful we were that the load was safely delivered in such a wonderful way.

The springs arrived n the Monday and Stan assembled them, also John had to fit another gasket in his car. Then on Tusedy the four

us went out to the truck, lxed the springs and arrived back at Newcastle Waters at 12 a.m. after anther eventful trip. John had to stop every few miles to fill his car radiator which was leaking badly.

Wednesday, October 7, a week later than we expected, we left 7.45 a.m. on Thusday after several stops to have "forty winks." Newcastle Waters on our return trip to Darwin ariving home at

We had enjoyed our trip very much, but it was good to be home and in the work again. We thank and praise God for those who assisted in taking meetings while we were away and for the help of our family in the added responsibilities. "The Lord hath done great things for us, whereof we are glad."

MR. and MRS. STAN ELDRIDGE

NEW WORKERS ACCEPTED

We praise God for several new workers accepted recently. Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Parish (pictured) from South Australia, Mr. Roy Hallett of Brisbane, and three young ladies; from Sydney, Miss D. Doherty, Miss H. Hitchcock, and Miss M. Stevenson will all commence their candidates course in the first half of 1960. Miss Doherty has been accepted for the Summer Institute of Linguistics in Melbourne in January.

OUR AIM Page Seven


A VISIT TO THE WOORABINDA SETTLEMENT

At last Woorabinda is no longer little more than a name to Mrs. Living and myself. The Lord has enabled us to make our long hoped for visit and has greatly blessed the four weeks we had at the Perch Creek Mission House.

Miss Jean Phillips, one of our Native Missionaries, accompanied us from Cherbourg as we went through from Brisbane at the beginning of October. Miss Phillips is still at Perch Creek with Miss Fairfax and Miss Phyllis Naden, who took over after our departure.

The Mission House is situated on the Perch Creek Cattle Station, six miles from the Settlement and except for the manager's residence close by, there are no other buildings for some miles. However, the manager and his wife are excedingly kind to all our workers who, from time to time, occupy the mission house, making gifts of milk, meat and eggs. They are also very interested in our work amongst the coloured people.

On Woorabinda we found a live local church; a group of

young men and women being faithfully and ably led by Pastor W. Tobane and supported by his wife. It was a joy to attend the Sunday services and week night meetings and assist in the ministry. The singing supported only by two guitars is hearty and one is conscious of reverence and the presence of the Lord in their worship and the preaching.

Apart from the Pastor, several of the men are used from time to time as the Lord's messengers. Each Sunday afternoon after Sunday School and prayer, a group of 8 to 10 men and women visit the several open air preaching places. I have never seen Native Christians preach with such earnestness and urgency. We were privileged to see several backslidden church members come forward at the meetings for restoration and one Sun-

ACCOMMODATION FOR THE

A.I.M. LITERATURE DEPT.

This Department is being moved from Singleton to Sydney, when Mr. and Mrs. Miles return from furlough.

A large five-bedroom house is urgently needed in Sydney's Western Suburbs. Will you pray for this need?

Page Eight OUR AIM


day afternoon, when there was a picnic to the Mimosa River, I baptised one of the young women who next day was welcomed into the church fellowship.

NEW CHURCH BUILDING

NEEDED

The church building is very delapidated and a new building is badly needed. The people have collected £30 towards the cost of material, but up to £200 would be required altogether. Will our A.I.M. readers help to pray this amount in and also for a builder or carpenter who would be willing to give his time

The Lord has opened many doors of opportunity for me to tell of the work of His never

in the erection of a new building. There are several carpenters amongst the church members who would assist outside work-hours.

A number of adherents and others still need Christ to save their souls. Please pray for the house visitation, the women's meetings and the Christian Endeavour, which Miss Fairfax intends to commence, and particularly that the enemy of souls will not be able to cause any scandal or sexual sin to weaken the native church and bring dishonour to the Lord's Name. This is a present danger.

—MR. & MRS. R. M. LIVING.

failing grace. I have spoken to youth groups, fellowship and ladies' meetings, Sunday schools and church services. There is a growing interest and we praise God for it.

Here in the city there are many fast moving cars, buses, and trains. Even the people move fast—all going about their own business and interests. The King's business requires haste too! We are counting on your prayer support as we make known His work and the need of our people. We praise God for good health which enables us to do His work more effectively.

—Miss Evelyn Walker.

DEPUTATION IN VICTORIA BY NATIVE MISSIONARY

OUR AIM Page Nine


WELL ATTENDED ANNUAL MEETINGS

"Going out to bring them in," was the theme chosen for the Annual Meetings this year. They were held in the C.E.N.E.F. buildings in Castlereagh St., Sydney, on Friday, the 6th November.

Stating that this year's meeting was in the form of an annual report, the Rev. E. C. Long, director of the Mission went on to praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy. "This year could be well called the Year of the Visation, not only for our mission, but for the whole of Australia. It has been a year when God has shown what He can do."

Sixteen missionaries were present at these meetings and during the evening sesion seven new workers were received into the fellowship of the mission. Mr. K. Beeby, the Vice-president of the Federal Council extended the welcome to these young people.

Throughout the programme, students of the A.I.M. Bible Institute rendered musical and vocal items. Mr. Barry Brown also brought a message in song.

Mr. R. T. Harris, retiring treasurer read the financial statement.

The Director, Rev. E. C. Long mentioned that Mr. Harris has been a member of the mission for a number of years. Firstly as a misisonary, then as Field Secretary, and for the last ten years as General Treasurer. He now retires because of health reasons.

The Rev. N. Horn of the Stan-more Baptist Church, chaired the afternoon gathering and the Rev. A Deane, Vice-principal of the Sydney Missionary and Bible College, the night meeting.

"We have evidence of the fulfilment of the command of Jesus Christ to go to the uttermost parts of the earth," said Mr. Dean. "These young native students are living testimonies of His saving and keeping power."

Word pictures and methods used and taking the Gospel to the Aborigines and something of the results seen wereg given by some of the workers. Miss M. Campbell who has been in the South-West of New South Wal.s for 20 years told of victories and advancement in the work. "The ministry of the Native Missionaries who have visited our area, has been a wonerful blessing this year," said Miss Campbell.

Although just recently accepted candidate, Mr. W. Fejo, a graduate of the A.I.M. Institute, has had the privilege of taking the Gospel to those who live on the Cattle-stations of the N.T. Mr. Fejo told of the joy in telling his own people of the saving power of Christ.

Mr. M. Pattemore of Borro-loola, N.T., spoke convincingly of the power of the Gospel over the ways of the heathen men. Mr. Pattemore's work has been of a pioneering type. He and his wife went to this isolated centre and had to build a house before the work could be fully organised. The building of school room and church followed as the need arose.

Page Ten OUR AIM


"Deputation is an essential part of a mission programme," said Mr. W. R. Caddy, deputation secretary for Victoria. "The Lord works through enlightened minds. The Christian public must be educated so that they can extend their ministry of prayer and giving as the Lord leads."

Those who gathered for these meetings were forcibly challenged with the doors of oportuni-ties which confront the mission, and the real need of the Aboriginal people.WESLEY CADDY

TASMANIA Mr. Wm. Tate, well known

evangelist from Northern Tasmania, was the special speaker at the 26th Tasmanian Annual Meeting recently.

Taking as his text 'Am I my brother's keeper?' Mr. Tate applied it to the dark people of Australia. Mr. Tate mentioned insances of self-sacrifice on the part of missionaries known to him, as they endured anything for the sake of Christ so that the Word of God might be proclaimed to those who sit in darkness.

Special music was given during the meeting by the Gospel Hall Men's Choir.

The Secretary's report was given by Mr. W. Wolnizer and the Treasurer's report by Mrs. Wolnizer.

Mr. Tate also showed slides of various centres of the A.I.M. work.

Many present remarked on the evident presence of the Holy Spirit in the meeting as hearts were spoken through each part of an inspiring meeting.

W. WOLNIZER

VICTORIA When the Lord opens a door

of service, He expects His people to pray their way through it, said the Rev. E. C. Long at the 36th Annual Meeting of the Victorian Advisory Council of the A.I.M.

The meeting held in the Scots Church Hall was the best attended for some years and was chaired by Mr. L. E. Buck.

Mr. Long told of three open doors before the A.I.M. just now — Radio, Literature and on the Field itself. Other speakers of the missionary rally were Mrs. E. C. Long, Mr. M. Pattemore and Miss E. Walker.

Using native implements to illustrate his message, Mr. Pattemore gave praise to God for the change in the lives of the native people at Borroloola, the most isolated station on the A.I.M. Field. 'Just as these implements have been put away for more useful tools, so the Gospel message has caused many heathen ways to cease and brought enlightenment to the people," said Mr. Pattemore.

The Gospel Melody Players under the leadership of Mr. John Waller, provided a bright and inspiring musical programme.

In bringing the meetings to a close, the Chairman, Mr. L. E. Buck, commended Mr. and Mrs. David Barnes of Sunshine to the Lord in prayer. Mr. and Mrs. Barnes will shortly leave to assist with the rebuilding of the Retta Dixon Home, as volunteers for six months.

WESLEY R. CADDY

OUR AIM Page Eleven


Field News BORROLOOLA N.T.

The wonderful story of our trip to Borroloola in the Austin truck is told in full on another page of this issue. One of the most remarkable instances of God's goodness, was that when we finally broke down with broken front and rear springs, unknown to us in the darkness, God placed us beside a waterhole with spreading shade trees and in the centre of a clean patch of ground on which the repairs could be carried out. Isn't that like our loving Father?

The stores for the coming wet season were finally grought in by two D.C.A. trucks. Two days later 128 points of rain fell, making the road much more difficult.

This is my third term of service at Borroloola, and I can see that a new phase of the work is commencing. On my way here, I learned with much sorrow that May, the senior school girl, a baptised Christian, had passed away in Darwin hospital. Then in the same month, on the day Mr. and Mrs. Pattemore left for the south, Tiny, our native local assistant, had gone into Darwin by plane to train as a nurse.

But the Lord has raised up others to take their places. Mary and Queenie are already showing signs of leadership. In their own gatherings, no doubt others will come forward to join the fellowship of church members. Two of the men, Banjo and Simon, pray in their own language at our meet i;ngs and the church members meet once a month for the communion service held at the Mission House.

At a recent Sunday afternoon

gathering, Mary gave a short message from Gen. 1, when she told of creation, then applied it by saying 'that the power of God manifested in the world around us was limited in its working within the human heart through unbelief! It was lovely to hear her speak to her people Myself as we seek to prepare for in this way.

Pray for Mr. Max Field and myself as we seek to prepare for the big influx of people from the Wet Season. Pray too for our surrounding cattle stations for the Christmas that they may show a clear and bold testimony for Christ especially in separation from old customs.

NEWS FROM DARWIN

In a letter from Tiny, now in Darwin training as a nurse, we learn that those with her arc from the Roper River Mission and two coastal missions. They sing hymns and have Bible readings. Their neighbours rejoice to see their forthright life of witness to the truth.

Page Twelve OUR AIM


Tiny looks forward to returning to Borroloola for Christmas which promises to be the occasion of a regathering of many Believers.

The church building has been completed by Mr. Field and the many returning from surrounding cattle stations will be glad to see the witness given by the whole camp in this way.

Pray that many more of these people will be won for Christ and that others through them out on the cattle stations will come to a knowledge of saving truth.

MAX FIELD CHARLES MAIN

MR. DICK STRETTON writes of recent

experiences 1 have taken over Miss Cark's

work on the Bagot Reserve while she is on furlough. The numbers at the general services are not very large, but I do praise the Lord for those who come along. There were nine adults at the service last Sunday morning and they were so interested that the service went for an hour and a half instead of the usual one hour.

The children's meetmg is very encouraging and also the open air meeting. Some of the workers from the Retta Dixon Children's Home come over to help in the open air meeting. There is a great opportunity here.

HOSPITAL VISITATION I had a blessed time at the

Darwin Hospital on Thursday.

There were at least three Roman Catholic women who listened to the stories of the Lord Jesus and they drank in every word. It was wonderful to be able to tell them that the blood of Jesus Christ can cleanse away our sins. 1 am sure that some of them believe, so please pray that the seed sown will bring forth much fruit.

During my visit to the hospital 1 met some whom I had previously contacted on the cattle stations when I was on my last dry season itinerary. It was good to hear them say, "I believe."

GOSPEL RECORDINGS Once a fortnight I visit Delis-

saville and I find it a real joy to go there and help the Christians. This last time I left them some gospel recordings and a gramophone. Not having a gramophone, of their own I left them mine. It was lovely to see them listening to the gospel in their own language.

HUMPTY DOO This cattle station is about 30

miles from Darwin and once a month I go there to hold a service. Miss South, two of the Home children and Mr. Ron Pearce came with me the last time. It is a great joy to know that some of the people here really believe on the Lord Jesus.

A recent trip to Berry Springs with the children from the Retta Dixon Home gave me an opportunity for handing out tracts and witnessing for the Lord.

I do value your prayers for this work that the Word of God may have free course and be glorified.

E. R. STRETTON

OUR AIM Page Thirteen


BAPTISMS AND BLESSING IN NEW ENGLAND DISTRICT "This is the Lord's doing and it is marvellous in our eves."

Ps. 118.23.

With much praise to our God we are rejoicing over the things which He is doing in this district. We are certain what is happening cannot be the work of man. In its entirety, the Lord alone Who is responsible.

As we view the district which includes Woolbrook, Walcha, Armidale, Guyra and Tingha, we sense a real spiritual hunger. This is evident by the way people gather for meetings. The Lord has promised to satisfy the thirsty and hungry ones, and many of these folk are going away filled.

In recent weeks we have seen souls gloriously saved. Where once drunkenness, gambling and immorality reigned, Christ now is esteemed, and members are yielded as instruments of righteousness unto God.

Here in Armidale at least twelve people have come into blessing. The Christians at Guyra are a tonic to us all. Faithful ones at Walcha continue

•'/•"•• '•';•• ' * « « # " . . . \:'6i I ... .-~

to grow in His knowledge and grace. Tingha and Woolbrook have not yet been visited because of lack of transport, but from others we hear of blessing in these places. So that these centres could be regularly contacted your continued prayer for transport will be appreciated.

The A.I.M. radio session, "Miracles and Melodies," is now being heard in this district from a local station. Pray with us for this venture.

Permission to erect a church here at Armidale has been refused. The believers need a meeting place. Let us pray it through!

BAPTISMAL SERVICE AT GUYRA

Sunday, November 8, was a glorious day when four of our Christians followed the Lord through the waters of baptism at Guyra. Those baptised were, Mrs. Doug Know of Armidale, Mrs. Lyle Kennedy, Mrs. Cliff Strong and Mr. Arnold Connors of Guyra. Six other candidates from Tingha were not able to get across for the service. The Lord blessed the meeting and about 40 folk gathered at the creek which is five miles from the town. The meeting commenced with singing and a message and

Page Fourteen OUR AIM


concluded with the singing of the well-known hymn, "Down in the valley with my Saviour I will go." Mr. Frank Connors, who was later set aside as the leader of the flock in Guyra, very touchingly baptised the four candidates. After this meeting all went back to the reserve and after lunch, met for a Communion service. Testimonies at this service thrilled our hearts.

Mr. F. Connors spoke and a married couple came forward for full surrender. Thus our Jay concluded, truly a day which the Lord had made.

Continue to pray for the New England district. God is at work and we believe this is only a beginning of greater things to be witnessed in the future.

—David F. Kirk.

PROVING GOD'S FAITHFULNESS IN QUEENSLAND

We praise God for our recent experiences that prove again the faithfulness of our God.

After giving out the gospel to both dark and white people at Charleville in Western Queensland for about seven years, we believe the Lord led us to move on.

As we made ready, the good hand of God was upon us. We found houses were hard to sell for cash, but God over-ruled and we had a quick sale for cash. We for the Lord, too. The we were able to sell our old Ford Van at our price, and purchased a Ford-ten truck and made it over with a van top and a few small repairs. It has proved to be just what we needed.

Leaving Charleville, we travelled south through Cunnamulla and Bollen to Mungindi then over the mountains to Wooden-bong and finally came to Beau-desert, where we believe the Lord has opened a door for us.

We have since been on a long

trip through this district. Our van gave us no trouble. It is comfortable to ride in and very economical. We have certainly seen prayer answered.

The Work at Beaudesert It is all new here. New work,

new fellowship, new weather. Many doors have been opened to us for services. We have been able to purchase a nice block of land at a very reasonable cost. Now we have started building again.

We praise God, too, for 'he measure of health He has granted us all, also for letters received from some whom we met ten years ago and now still living in the power of God.

Two boys who were only two and twelve when we met them, now are young men wrote us a wonderful spiritual letter and enclosed five pounds for our work. God has blessed us in every way and we can only praise Him.

Mr. and Mrs. F. PICKETT

OUR AIM Page Fifteen


TRAINING FACILITIES IN THE

NORTHERN TERRITORY

On Tuesday, November 10, I was was privileged to represent our Mission at the official opening here in Darwin of the Residential Training Centre for Native young people.

Mr. H. Geise, the Director of Welfare, outlined the scheme, then His Honour the Administrator, Mr. J. C. Archer, officially opened the Centre. Among those present were the Director of Health, the Matron of Darwin Hospital, Sister Ray, Tutor of the Centre, Rev. G. Symonds and Mr. A. Marshall (Methodist Overseas Mission) and Brother Aiden (Church of England).

After an inspection of the building, the Trainees served afternoon tea. I felt the outstanding factor of this project is that the first trainees chosen by the Welfare Department, were five Christian girls, two from M.O.r M., Millingimbie, two from C.M.S. Roper River and our own Tiny from Borroloola. They all looked very smart in their pale blue uniforms with two rows of large white buttons. These girls are training for nurses' assistants, others will be trained for school teacher assistants, also it is hoped to give a course in home management. We praise God that the testimony of these girls has set a high standard of behaviour and proficiency for all future trainees.

STUART PARK

We are rejoicing in the increasing number at the evening services, also the good attendance at Sunday School. We are praying that in the near future the church building will be commenced. This is an urgent need.

In the meantime we are building the Mission House for Bagot Reserve. The roof is on, also fibro sheets on the exterior. More finance is needed to complete this house, also an organ will be needed. Will you please join us in prayer for these needs. We are very thankful to Mr. Treloar for his help on the building, also to Mr. Butler and Mr. Pierce for doing the plumbing.

—S. & C. ELDRIDGE.

I of Graham Eric at Townsville

j! Hospital on November 20. j|

| MR. and MRS. M. PAT-1

ii TEMORE praise God for the ji X i l | birth of David Stewart atl; ? 2

]! Tyalgum, on December 2. jj

Page Sixteen OUR AIM


MANGOS AND MISSIONARIES Mango season! What a mess

they make. Clothing is stained and faces have a continual yellow tinge around the mouth, despite frequent washes. The children just eat and eat this lovely tropical, fruit.

The new Government Regulations regarding wages and conditions for our native people has caused quite an amount of confusion and debate among the people of the north. To those who love the Lord these things are very secondary to the real need of our people — their acceptance of the salvation God offers them.

Since exchanging the Holden for the Landrover some weeks ago, Stan has visited the Main-irou Cattle Station. On the return trip he was able to have a meeting with the people on the Beswick Settlement. The following week he drove to the Daly River area. It will soon be impossible to go further than Bes

wick before the return of the dry season.

Recently we had the joy of fellowship with Mrs. Vera Mon-tieth from Gladstone Brethren Assemblies, the local Salvation Officer and other friends when Mr. Stan Alvarn was baptised. Mr. Alvarn has been in contact with Mr. and Mrs. Pattemore at Borroloola. He is with the Department of Civil Aviation. After his conversion here in the Salvation Army meetings he requested baptism. God Willing, he and Miss Helder, our Associate Worker will be married in December.

A lovely parcel of clothing sent by the Cessnock Auxiliary was very much appreciated. Also a parcel received by our daughter Frances from a Mrs. Riley was very welcome.

Our sincere desire is that each of you would continue to pray for our people and us. MR. & MRS. S. MATTHEWS

* ^ * N » s 4 ^ # ^ # ^ - « S t f K # ^ t f S * s « S # ^ # S # v # S # ^ # S * v # S « S # S ^ # *^r^#v#^#^#^r^#sr^#*s#^**s#s*s#s*^r

URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS 1. Blessing on the Conventions at Moonah Cullah and at Fingal

over the Christmas — New Year period.

2. For the removal of hindrances to the actual start of work on the rebuilding at the Retta Dixon Home, Darwin.

3. For two trained nursing sisters for the Retta Dixon Home.

4. For the completion of the Bagot House, Darwin.

Page Seventeen


ABORIGINES INLAND MISSION OF AUSTRALIA

Statement for the year ending 30th September, 1959 1. Headquarters Accounts

RECEIPTS Balance brought forward

1 / 1 0 / 5 8 £1 ,052 For General purposes 3 ,698 Designated gifts 4 ,286 For Bui lding, etc 4 ,627 For Vehicles 334 Literature and magazines ... 847 Bank interest 37

£14,881

EXPENDITURE Field Account Allowances, rents, etc £3,605 Travel l ing expenses and

vehicles 1,504 Buildings, repairs and

Insurance 2 ,320 Literature and radio 159 Sundry expenses 43 Headquarters Expenses Office rent, assistance, prayer

letters, postages, pr int ing etc 2 ,376

Magazines 1,278 Balance held in designated

funds, etc 3,596

£14,881

I have examined the books and vouchers of THE ABORIGINES I N L A N D MISSION OF AUSTRALIA for the year ended 30 th September, 1959. In my opinion, based on such examinat ion, the above Statement of Receipts and Disbursements is set out so as to present a true account of the movement of cash for the period, except (a) Cash movement for BIBLE T R A I N I N G INSTITUTE, Singleton and RETTA DIXON HOME, Darwin, N T . , has been included above only in respect to amounts passing through Head Off ice, (b) cash movement re Interstate Advisory Councils is included only as far as monies have been received at Head Off ice.

WILFRED DAVIES, A.A.S.A., A.C.I.S., A.C.A.A. 24 th November, 1959. Hon. Audi tor .

Total Amounts Receiving During the Year Ending 30th SeDtember, 1959

STATE COUNCILS: Victor ia 2,391 Queensland .... 424 Tasmania 89

AUXILIARIES: Sydney 249 Melbourne .... 19 Blue Mountains 34 Geelong 47

VARIOUS: Retta Dixon

Home 14,692 Bible Tra in ing

Institute .... 1,490 Austral ian Abor i

gines Missionary Movement 526

2,904

349

16,708

19,961

Less amounts sent to Headquarters or to the Field by State Councils, etc 2,844

£17,117

15,965 Plus amounts received on the

Field direct f rom donors Plus amounts received at

Headquarters as per Annual Statement 13,829

GRAND TOTAL £46,911

6 / 1 1 /59 R. T. HARRIS Retiring General Treasurer.

Page Eighteen OUR A I M


Our Aim Annual Subscription 5/- per year

Business Manager: Miss V. MORGAN

58 Margaret Street, Sydney

STATE AGENTS: Victoria: Mr. J. Baxter, 32 Denby Street, Brighton, Vic.

South Australia: Miss E. Tyler, 157 Beulah Road, Norwood,

Queensland: Mrs. Elms, Cotton St., Shorncliffe, N.E.7, Qld.

Tasmania: Mr. Ken Morey, Valley Rd., Collinsvale, Tas.

U.S.A.: Mrs. D. W. Miles, Sixth Street,

Michigan Centre, Mich., U.S.A

ANONYMOUS DONATIONS September and October

SEPTEMBER £3, Child of God £1, £1, £1, £1, £1. Parramatta £1, £10, 10/-. OCTOBER Child of God £1, £1, £1, £1, £1. (St. Mark's). £2, £2. (Newcastle Post mark). £5. (Office) £3.

Mr. and Mrs. S. Matthews desire to acknowledge with thanks the gift of £5 sent by "Inasmuch."

SEPTEMEBER AND OCTOBER "A.I.M." SUBSCRIPTIONS

MISSES (5 / - ) : .TBS, VB, REW, MA, LS, EMc, -E, EW, MR, ALW. (8 / - ) : MP. (10/-) : EH, ELN, MD. (10/6): DH. (15/-): CMI. (5 / - ) : J.P., AB, -D, -M, MG, MA, IP, PCMc, MB, EP, EPJ. (6 / - ) : ES, (10/-) : AMP, -H, -S, FRT. (15/-:) FRT, MH.

MESDAMES (5 / - ) : HW, AT, RMS, -S, -H, HA, GC, SFL, -D, -L, NM, EB, EH, GC. (6 / - ) : LMc, (10/-): EW, CC, WN, LF, EEH, 1)B, LMc. (10/-): EW, CC, WN LF, EEH, DB, SD, MS, ERB, AMV; LRC, OH. (12/-) : -B,. (12/6): EL. (£1): JG, (£1/0/6):

SYDNEY LADIES' AUXILIARY A N N U A L

CHRISTMAS GIFT DISPLAY

Hundreds of gifts were dis-payed at our speial October meeting held at C E N E F Hall. About 180 ladies were present.

Mrs. E. A. Collins thanked all the auxiliaries, groups and individual friends who had sent of brought in the gifts and also read excerpts from missionaries' letters telling of the appreciation and thanks for last year's gifts.

Mr. Walter Fejo, a recently accepted native missionary was the special speaker and described his short itinerary with Mr. Stretton and Mr. Main in the Northern Territory a few months ago.

Afternoon tea was served at the close, giving the ladies present an opportunity to inspect the display in the adjoining hall. We are pleased to announce that the money received in the offering boxes on the tables will be used for freight on the parcels to the mission stations.

— E . A. McWilliams.

LB. (5 / - ) : JMC, -A, -W, ND, DH, CE, GM, EM.T, -S, WGK, BR, GMc, JH, MES, MER, SB, H.M, -W, NJB, -D, -A, FW. (10/-): E.1T, HC, F.IC, KH, IH, GM. (15/-): CM. (£1/0/6): WHS

MESSRS. (5 / - ) : HP, WD, CH, AEP, CEP, DK, ANF, (4 / - ) : FL. (10/-): ROK, WV, WB, FI. (£1): SB. (5 / - ) : WHB, FD GJD, CP, JMB, GB, NS, GB, NS, GB,

GH, JE. (10/-): NOW, BA, WMB, WMcT. (15/-): CJH.

AGENTS: Miss A. McKenzie £2, Mr. A. H. Tavlor £1, Mrs. V. Elms £2/5/-, Mr. J. Murray Baxter £7/11/-, "Aim subs," Full total £15/1/-.

OUR AIM Page Nineteen


F I E L D D I R E C T O R Y (for mailing address—add the initials "A.I.M." to address shown.)

NEW SOUTH WALES: Rev. and Mrs. E. C. Long, 5 Carrington St., Concord (UM6923). Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Collins, 19 Castlereagh St., Nth. Strathfleld. (Phone UF2464).

Redfern, Sydney: Miss M. Acland, 17 Ourimbah Rd., Mosman.

Bible Training Institute, Singleton: Rev. and Mrs. J. Lloyd Mr. and Mrs. K. Bowen, Miss B. Clough, Miss K. Davis, Miss I. Agerakis.

Eingal, Tweed River: Mr. and Mrs. W. Bird, Miss D. Dates.

Moree: Mr. and Mrs. H. Kleinshmidt. Miss R. Birkett. Warialda St., East Moree. (C/- P. O. East Moree.)

Dubbo: Miss M. E. McAulay. Miss D. Evans. (Edwin St.)

Condobolin and Murrin Bridge: Mr. and Mrs. B. Clarke, Cunningham St., Condobolin

Griffith: Miss M. Campbell 7 Cutler Ave., Griffith.

Narrandera: Mr. G. Sawyer Balranald: Miss W. Ayling Guyra and Armidale: Mr. D. Kirk Karuah: Mrs. C. Knox ASSOCIATE WORKERS IN N.S.W. West Katoomba: Miss Knaggs Guyra: Mr. F. Stace Walcha: Mr. P. Stace Armidale: Mrs. N. Bell, Mr. and Mrs.

N. Winter Walgett: Mr. and Mrs. Whitehouse. Boggabilla: Mr. and Mrs. R. Palmer Dubbo: Mr. and Mrs. Warren.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Davidson. Singleton: Mr. and Mrs. W. Griffiths Leeton: Mr. M. Amey. Echuca: (Vie.) Miss E. McKindlay Wallaga Lake: Cowra: Mrs. N. Goodacre, Mrs. D.

Goodacre, Mr, R. Gallagher Moonah Cullah: Mr. and Mrs. V. Page Condobolin Mr. R. A. Sharp, Mr. H

Martin, Mr. and Mrs. R. Jones. Redfern: Mr. M. Schenk. QUEENSLAND: Cherbourg:

Mr. and Mrs. E. Walker Mr. R. Ketchup. 12 Lamb St., Murgon.

Woorabinda: A.I.M. Perch Creek, via Duaringa. Miss M. Fairfax.

Miss J. Phillips Miss P. Naden.

Palm Island: Mr. and Mrs. E. Trezise Mr. W. Fejo A.I.M. Mailbag, via Townsville.

Brisbane: Mr. and Mrs. R. Living 56 Dodds St., Woody Point.

Beaudesert: Mr. and Mrs. F. Pickett ASSOCIATE WORKERS IN QUEENSLAND: Brisbane: Mrs. Budge, Mr. and Mrs..

F. Clissfold. Cairns: Pastor G. Dunsshore. Cherbourg: Mr. and Mrs. Mollenhaur Normanton: Mrs. D. Hindmarsh

Mrs. L. Smith. Palm Is . : Mr. and Mrs. F. Krause VICTORIA: Melbourne:

Mr. and Mrs. W. Caddy, 65 Mountainview., Montmorency, Vict. Tel. JF2548

Associate Workers: Miss B. Pinches.

Mr. J. Collins, Mildura. NORTHERN TERRITORY: Darwin. Box 38

Recta Dixon Home Supt: Miss M. Shankleton

Miss M. Spohn, Sister R. Clutter-buck, Miss G. Dinham, Miss B.

Williams Miss C. South, Miss E. Webb

Staff Workers: Mr. M. Morcom.Mr. Wheatley Mr. and Mrs. L. Allen, Mr. R. Treloar.

Darwin Area: Mr. and Mrs S. Eldridge.

Bagot: Borroloola: Mr. M. Field, Mr. C. Main N.T. via Alice Springs Newcastle Waters:

Mr. and Mrs. J. Bridges Katherine: Mr. and Mrs. S. Matthews

Assoc, worker: Miss M. Helder ITINERARY: Mr. D. Stretton C/- Box 38, Darwin ACCEPTED FOB SERVICE:

Miss D. Doherty Miss M. Stevenson Miss H. Hitchcock. Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Parish Mr. R. Hallett

ON FURLOUGH OR LEAVE: Address C/- A.I.M. 58 Margaret, St Sydney. Miss F. Ginger Mr. A. C. Goulter Miss A. Cavanagh Mr. and Mrs. Miles Mrs. Wilson, Warrimoo Road St. Ives, N.S.W. Mr. and Mrs. M. Pattemore Miss R. Dixsan


Documents

Our aim : a monthly record of the Aborigines' Inland …...Our Aim Our Aim "To give light to them that sit in darkness" Vol. LIII — No. 4 DECEMBER, 1959. Christmas T mad c)o-3ai