NAIDOC WEEK
Browse the gallery of NAIDOC Week posters from 1972 (Advance Australia Where?) to 2024 (Keep the Fire Burning). If you would like to enjoy a NAIDOC Week event, there are plenty of choices at the Rocks.
Reflections on 2024 NAIDOC Week – Keep the Fire Burning, Blak, Loud and Proud!
Dr Bibiana Chan
Many indigenous youths are locked up in youth detention centres. This is not new information, as one of the key statistics highlighted during The Voice Campaign on bridging the gap was the disproportionate incarceration rates of Indigenous Australians, especially youth. This reflects the intergenerational trauma inflicted on Aboriginals as a result of the Stolen Generation.
I still remember attending the launch of ‘Headspace‘ by Prof. Patrick McGorry in December 2006 at the Black Dog Institute. After almost two decades, evaluations of Headspace have been mixed. It served the middle class and simpler cases best. However, Headspace received ample government fundings. There is a Headspace office in Chatswood. I tried numerous times to connect with their community officer (a clinical psychologist) in 2019, but in vain. I visited the office and left my business card on the psychologist’s desk, but I never heard back from anyone at Headspace.
A colleague suggested that Headspace might have been overwhelmed by the demand for their services. Our collaborator, StreetWork, has a significant presence in Chatswood, Hornsby, and Northern Beaches. In their annual Supporters’ Breakfast (29th June), the youth workers described their Kickstart Mentoring Program and how it has truly ‘Turn Young Lives Around’. StreetWork also offers Outreach Assertive Services to connect with at-risk youth at hot spots. No kids are too hard for their youth workers (mentors). The majority of their clients identify as Australians, with a small percentage as Indigenous, and the rest as ‘Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Greek, and Another’ (data from their most recent impact report). In contrast, 90% of young members of the Community Flower Studio (CFS) are from CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) backgrounds. CFS is clearly providing culturally responsive mentoring services to our young members.
It remains very challenging for charitable organizations like StreetWork and CFS to secure government grants, as their funding models are very ‘siloed’ and diagnosis-specific (e.g., drug & alcohol addiction, Autism spectrum, etc.). The challenge for CFS, which prides itself on mental health promotion (prevention), is extremely difficult to quantify in terms of how much we’ve saved the public purse by helping young people build resilience to avoid mental illness or by building social-ecological resilience among CALD communities to break down stigma and access mental health services promptly.
I’d like to hear from you.
WHAT’S ON in July & August 2024?
Youth Mentoring Program
Dr Bibiana Chan, CF, and other CFS members in various professions are available to mentor young people, share their work experiences. Topics covered: study skills, time management, goal setting, getting motivated, write a resume that stands out of the crowd, job interviewing skills and assertive communication, etc.
If you know any young people (12 – 30 year) who may be impacted by the Bondi Junction Tragedy, Riots at Wakeley or Domestic Violence, please encourage them to contact Dr Bibi (communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com or call 0412-613-073)
Thurs 11 July to Sun 14 July Bastille Festival – riding on the 2024 Paris Olympic theme, you may like to immerge into the French Culture at the annual Bastille Festival at the Rocks and Circular Quay. The Recipe of the Month also features a famous French dessert – Crème Brûlée! Have a taste of this by a French baker at the Bastille Festival and then give it a go yourself at home.
Sat 13 July: NAIDOC Week Pop-up Stall (9 am – 1 pm) outside Little Giant Roaster Café (525 Willoughby Rd, Willoughby). Flowers speak the language of LOVE & COMPASSION! Drop by to pick up some fresh bouquets to cheer up someone who may need some TLC (Tender Loving Care)! Alternatively, you can chat with our friendly volunteers about mental health promotion! CFS members receive a 10% discount.
Bushwalk of the Month for July is on Sun 28 July 2024. This is a family friendly flat walk covering Iron Cove, Henley Marine Drive, Drummoyne, Rodd Point and Five Dock. Just follow the wide footpath around the mangrove-lined foreshores of Iron Cove. Along the way, indulge in the variety of splendid sceneries from city landscapes to luscious greenery. Take time to read the interpretive signs that provide interesting facts about the types of flora and fauna in the surrounding bay and Indigenous livelihood in the neighbourhood.
School Holiday Creative Art Workshops
Colour-Sand Workshop on Sat 6/7
Colour-Sand Workshop will never be better. Join Bibi and Jacque (Co-Chair of CFS’ Youth Action Group) to create some colour sand art in a beautiful glass! What better activity to do in this winter break? Have a hand-made gift ready for Father’s Day! Online registration is now open!
Resin Art Workshop for Families on Sat 20/7 (Fully booked, join the waiting list)
Hey, boys and girls, aunties and uncles, mums and dads, and grandparents, would you like to tap into your hidden creative talents while bonding with your loved ones? This ‘Resin Art Workshop for Families’ is for you this winter. We offer a special discount for family registration. The weather may be cold, but the hearts are warm! We even threw in a birthday party at the last workshop! Please join the waiting list here! We’ll notify you if a spot has become available or inform you details of the next workshop.
2024 Social Enterprise Festival will be held on Sat 3rd August at the Business Building at UTS. This year CFS will offer a series of Mindfulness Botanical Painting/Drawing/Colouring Workshops throughout the day (11 am – 3 pm).
Register online and grab a free ticket. Details of registration for the workshop will be available soon. Check our website. There will be 3 stations: ‘Colour Bombs’, ‘Painting Roses with simple C-curves & S-curves’, Colouring in drawings by Botanical Artist Gabby Malpas.
a basic water-colour technique.
CFS members who are able to assist with the workshops will receive reimbursement of up to $20 for goods purchased at stalls at the festival. Shoot Bibi an email to express your interest.
CFS Career Development Workshop Part A and Part B will be held on Sats 17th August and 7th Sept. This two interactive workshops will be facilitated by experienced recruiter, Teresa Lam and Les Castro with input from CFS young members, Anthony Ni and Thea Yang. Online registration for 17/8 and registration for 7/9 are now open.
Reflections on Past Events
Bushwalk for June along the Harold Reid Foreshore Track was cancelled due to unfavourable weather and slippery paths due to days of rain. Please check out this beautiful spot with your loved ones at your leisure when weather permits! You may like to read this reflection by Andrew G. about the Bushwalk of May – Flat Rock Gully Track
It was a sunny morning, perfect for a calm walk through the Flat Rock Gully walking track. However, upon my arrival at the Incinerator Cafe, I was shocked to find that only Bibi was there, waiting intently for more company. Bibi received messages that one person mixed up the meeting time and one was running late. Fortunately, I was relieved to hear that Geoff was joining us as well and was at the Tesla car show. After a few minutes of waiting, Geoff arrived with company, as the Tesla event organizer Robyn announced that she was joining us for the walk.
We started shortly after a brief conversation and made our way to the first landmark, an Aboriginal mural that presented the stories of the past, present, and future. Soon after, we reached Tunks Park, where we had a snack of mandarins and sweets while watching an AFL game. From there, we made our way to the pier, soaking up the views and observing pelicans nesting on the green wooden posts that poked out of the water. As the end of the walk approached, we made our way back to the Incinerator Cafe, stopping at the Long Gully Bridge to take some pictures.
Back at Bibi’s house, I was invited to inspect Geoff’s Tesla Model Y EV, observing how the car differed from most petrol-powered cars. I inspected under the front hood and found a well-protected surface with a tab to disconnect the battery in case of an emergency. It also featured some storage space due to the smaller size of the motor. In the trunk, I was surprised to see a large amount of storage space, with Geoff packing many things such as charging cables and medical equipment, etc. After the excitement had subsided, I bid farewell to the two and left for home.
All the information about the past and future walks can be found here. program. The scenery along the walks is great.
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Laughter Yoga 2024 Autumn Program concluded with a special afternoon tea to celebrate creating the record of laughing (for no reasons) continuously for 120 seconds!
What did our new participants say about her experience?
Laugh together, lots of positive energy, (despite) “Not used to laugh for no reasons!” I’ll recommend Laughter Yoga to my friends, ‘Come and try to laugh together!”
The 2024 Spring Program will commence on Tues 10th September during RUOK? Week! Watch this space for details. In the mean time, let’s laugh for 1 minute for World Peace.
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If you feel like supporting youth mental health, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to CFS. Your support will help young people learn life skills and find meaningful employment.
Michelle Benson published in LinkedIn an article entitled “𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿? “She is referring to the term “non-profit” which is a tax reference, that unfortunately grew legs and became a label.
Bibiana Chan responded, “Absolutely. Perhaps a better terminology is ‘For-Purpose’. The Community Flower Studio is a youth-focused charity with a mission to help youth learn life skills and find meaningful employment. Your generous donations are tax-deductible.”
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Download the Return & Earn App onto your phone and nominate ‘Petal-it-Forward’ as the charity campaign for your refund to go. An anonymous sponsor will match the amount donated, so your contribution will be doubled!
Good news!!!
As of 30th June 2024, we raised $389.9 A total of $389.9 donation was made by our anonymous sponsor to support our ‘PETAL-IT-FORWARD’ CAMPAIGN. If you have contacts with any primary or secondary schools, please contact Bibi. We would like to invite them to nominate CFS as their charity partner. It is always easier to engage with the school administration if you know somebody!
Your generous donations are much appreciated. The Community Flower Studio is a charity registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission (ACNC). Donations of over $2 will receive tax deductions. Please kindly make a donation to the Community Flower Studio (CFS) by direct debit. Our NAB account details are as follows: BSB No.: 082-212, Acc No.: 729-933-729
There are many ways to support CFS: become a member or contribute to the columns here. I’m always looking for a great recipe passed down from generation to generation. If you have a story to share, either write a short piece around 250 words or shoot us some photos. If there is a book or a movie you want to write a review, the CFS e-Newsletter will be happy to share with our e-Newsletter subscribers. Contact Bibi on communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com
If you would like to purchase a DIY Succulent Terrarium Kit for a loved one or a friend as a present, order online here ! This is also a ‘Succulents in Colour-Sand Glass’ DIY Kit which comes with a youth-approved instruction sheet and a QR code to the YouTube clip of previous workshops. Available here. You can also purchase a DIY Flower Kit from our online shop, click Flower Crown
Flower of the Month
Berzelia Abrotanoides
By Bibi
Berzelia abrotanoides is a unique and attractive flowering plant native to South Africa, specifically within the fynbos biome. Commonly known as “Buttonbush” due to its rounded flower heads, this evergreen shrub is part of the Bruniaceae family. It typically grows to a height of about 1 to 1.5 meters, showcasing fine, needle-like foliage that adds a delicate texture to gardens and floral arrangements.
Care Instructions:
- Light: Berzelia abrotanoides thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ensure it receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, acidic to neutral soil. A sandy or loamy mix is ideal, mimicking its natural habitat.
- Watering: Moderate watering is required. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, reducing the frequency during the dormant winter months.
- Temperature: It is relatively frost-tolerant but thrives best in mild climates. Protect it from extreme cold and harsh frosts.
- Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth. Remove spent flowers and dead or damaged stems to keep the plant healthy.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring to early autumn) to support healthy growth and flowering.
Fun Facts:
Medicinal Use: Traditionally, some indigenous communities have used parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, although specific uses are not well-documented.
Floristry: Berzelia abrotanoides is highly valued in the floristry industry for its unique spherical flower heads, which can be green, yellow, or white. These long-lasting flowers are perfect for fresh and dried arrangements.
Biodiversity: As a native of the fynbos biome, it plays a crucial role in supporting local biodiversity, providing habitat and food for various insects and birds.
Adaptability: This shrub is well-adapted to fire-prone environments. Its seeds often require exposure to heat or smoke to germinate, a common trait among fynbos plants.
Watch this video clip on how Berzelia Berries are used to create a floral bouquet by the Director of the Floral Design Institute.
Here is a library of photos of Berzelia spotted by citizen scientists around the globe.
Plant of the Month
Silver Fern
by Bibi
Caring for the Silver Fern (Cyathea dealbata) involves providing an environment that mimics its native New Zealand habitat. This iconic fern prefers a cool and shaded location with well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogged conditions. It thrives in high humidity, making it suitable for bathrooms or areas with good air circulation.
Check this clip to learn to identify a Silver Fern.
Fun Facts about Silver Fern:
1. Symbol of New Zealand: the Silver Fern holds immense cultural significance for New Zealanders. It is a national symbol and is featured on the country’s flag. The Maori people, the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, also consider it a symbol of strength, purity, and enduring power.
2. Distinctive Appearance: the Silver Fern earns its name from the silver-white undersides of its fronds. This feature gives it a striking appearance, especially when the fronds catch the light. The contrast between the silver underside and the dark green upper side adds to its visual appeal.
3. Slow Growth: Silver Ferns are known for their slow growth. While they may take time to reach their full potential, their longevity and resilience make them a rewarding addition to any garden or indoor space.
4. Ecological Importance: in its natural habitat, the Silver Fern contributes to the health of the ecosystem. Its fallen fronds break down over time, enriching the soil and providing nutrients for other plants.
The Silver Fern is deeply ingrained in New Zealand’s identity and culture. It is a symbol of national pride, often associated with the country’s achievements and sporting endeavors. The fern’s distinctive silhouette is widely recognized and has become an emblematic representation of New Zealand on the global stage. The Silver Fern holds a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders, serving as a connection to the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
For a limited time only, ‘Pregnant Onion’ is available for sale at the CFS Flower Shop.
Recipe of the Month
Crème Brûlée by Laetitia D.
INGREDIENTS:
Ingredients:
500 ml cream (heavy cream / whipping cream)
1 vanilla bean or use 1 tsp vanilla extract
100 g caster sugar
6 egg yolks
6 tbsp caster sugar for sugar topping
Laetitia’s special treat: add some grape fruit slices into the custard mixture before baking.
Check out the full instructions and a video here: Crème brûlée
Book Review
By Kim Wilkins
TURNING by Tim Winton
Tim Winton is one of Australia’s leading novelists. He has won the Miles Franklin Award 4 times and is a prolific writer. He is also the subject of this year’s Archibald Prize winner.
This book is actually a series of interconnected short stories set in a coastal Western Australian town called Angelus mostly in the 1970s. With its whaling station, it looks like the town of Albany with the name changed to stop any lawsuits. The author lives in Western Australia and most of his novels are set there.
Beautifully written as always with this writer, it is about relationships- father, son, girlfriend, boyfriend and so on. Much of it portrays the loneliness of life in a rural town. Many of the characters end up moving to Perth. It concentrates on teenage years and is a little depressing in parts. If you are planning to move to a coastal town maybe avoid this one. However it has
a universal message about how we relate to our friends and relatives and how our teenage years can affect and often determine the rest of our life.
It was originally published in 2004 and some of the stories predate this. Pick up any of Tim Winton’s books and you will find an interesting and thought provoking read.
*****************************Flowers from Europe Photo credits: Michelle di Benedetto.
Tulips from Stockholm, Sweden!
Flowers from Montreux, Switzerland
Flowers from Valleta, Malta
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From the Desk of Rabia
Why AI can’t tell a good story? by Rabia Khan (Vice-President of CFS, Founder of Data Action Impact)
Last weekend I was at the Sydney Writers Festival attending a few talks and stocking up my library. I cracked open one of the books I bought and was drawn in by the raw emotion and depth of the story. The author’s evocative storytelling style and nuanced characters drew me in, making it difficult to put the book down.
Since then, I can’t help but reflect on a topic that’s been on my mind lately
“Can AI ever write a truly meaningful story?”
Continue to read the rest of the article first published in LinkedIn
Subscriber’s Corner
What can humans do better than AI? by Chanele Mao (Founder & Chief Executive Counsel @ Creative Counsel)
As a young woman growing up today, what advice would you give her as she navigates her life to reach her full potential? I asked Professor Betsey Stevenson this question at UNSW AGSM’s 2024 Professional Forum on Sustainable Leadership last week. Betsey provided some key insights. Despite AI being able to replace many entry-level jobs such as Personal Assistant – AI is a good co-pilot, but it still needs a human pilot, You.
🙋🏼♀️What can humans do better than AI?
🌟 Being creative: While AI can automate many tasks, human creativity remains irreplaceable. Encourage your creativity—it’s a unique asset.
Continue reading from LinkedIn
Greetings from Irene Chung, CFS’ Marketing Consultant. She shared some photos taken at the Singapore Botanical Garden.
COMMUNITY FLOWER STUDIO LOGO EXPLAINED
Community: CFS is a community to support young people facing mental health challenges.
Creative: CFS hosts events to unleash young people s creative talents.
Resource: CFS provides members with resources to enhance their wellbeing.
Support: CFS offers support to members to develop their potential.
Growth: CFS fosters a growth mindset which is helpful in dealing with challenges.
Recovery: CFS sees recovery as achievable and a journey to cherish.
CONTACT US
Email: Communityflowerstudio@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.communityflowerstudio.org Mobile: 0412 613 073
Like us on Facebook:Community Flower Studio Inc. Instagram: communityflowerstudio
Address: 10-12 Clanwilliam St., Willoughby, 2068, NSW, Australia.