By the time this goes to print, spring will be upon us. My trip to Queensland last month turned into a bit of a disaster as my friend and travelling companion and I both caught some particularly nasty virus, although we did manage to catch up with friends, who fortunately didn’t catch it.
While in Cairns I visited the Cairns Art Gallery, where the works of three First Nations artists were on display: Judy Watson (Bagging Colonialism) Simone Arnol (seeRED) and Archie Moore (Pillors of Democracy). All three told stories of various aspects of ill-treatment and colonialism with a high degree of poignancy, and some humour. Archie Moore has been chosen as Australia’s entrant in the 2024 Venice Biennale.
Congratulations SSH volunteers
Once again the SSH has won a local Volunteer Award, presented on August 11 at Alexandria Town Hall. Thanks as always to our wonderful volunteers, and all award recipients.
AHC’s new art gallery
The Aboriginal Housing Company opened a new art gallery on The Block on July 25, as part of its 50th anniversary and completion of the Pemulwuy project. All welcome to visit the gallery and the historical works on display.
Thanks
A big thanks to SSH photographer Michelle Haywood who has been very active in the community – at The Block, following excited Matildas supporters, Greyhound Adoption Day and Vietnam Veterans 50th commemoration of withdrawal of Australian troops from Vietnam.
BlaQ Together Day – September 23, NCIE, 11am-3pm
A community event bringing together LGBTQ+SB Mob, and activities on the day include community services, BBQ, fitness sessions and more. At the NCIE (180 George Street, Redfern). BlaQ Aboriginal Corporation can be found on Facebook, Instagram and www.blaq.org.au
Ron Williams Community Centre, 5-11 Kepos Street, Redfern
Free Haircuts with Volunteer Rano on September 25 from 10am-2pm. Bookings are essential: Jchen2@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.qu
Balance Bike School Holiday Clinic at Sydney Park Cycling Centre – September 25-29, from 9am-11am
Suitable for 3–8-year-olds. This is a free event, just turn up to register with the instructors.
Significant Dates for September 2023
September 14 – RUOK Day
September 1-30 – Save the Koala Month
September 12 – National Bilby Day
September 19-25 – International Deaf Week
NSW Spring School Holidays – Monday September 25 to Friday October 6
Until next time,
Pat Clarke
