Joan Fights For JusticeA Willaston widow has won a David and Goliath struggle with Centrelink.

Joan Watts felt as if her life had caved in when her husband of 54 years, Kenneth, died last year.

While her new life was filled with some sorrow, she also cherished many wonder ful memories, but her subsequent treatment at the hands of the Centrelink bureaucracy has left her angry at a time when she should have been given space to reflect on her life with Kenneth, a former Police sergeant.

The saga all started when Joan went to Centrelink to report Kenneth’s death as she wanted to do the right thing and ensure that her pension was not overpaid.

Centrelink got all the paperwork wrong and Joan was denied a bereavement grant.

Joan tried to get Centrelink to correct their error but to no avail.

The internal review processes rejected her claims.

The whole process distressed Joan.“I was very upset” she said“I was doing the right thing and they just wouldn’t listen” said Joan

Joan then sought the assistance of her local state MP Mr Tony Piccolo, who empathised with Joan’s predicament and set in motion an appeal to the Social Security Appeals Tribunal (SSAT).

When the Tribunal disallowed her appeal Joan wanted to give up.

“If Tony hadn’t been there I’d have given up “said Joan

“In fact at one point I told Tony to forget about it as it was only money but he said ‘No, it’s wrong and I can’t stand injustice’”.

Mr Piccolo said that he felt the SSAT decision was wrong, so he filed appeal papers with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal

(AAT).

Mr Piccolo said that while the amount of money involved was not significant, it was the injustice of the decision that annoyed him the most.

“ In my view Mrs Watts had been poorly treated by the system” said Mr Piccolo

Centrelink rejected a compromise at Tribunal-sponsored mediation and the case went to a full hearing.

Mr Piccolo argued Mrs Watts’ case for her before the Tribunal. The Tribunal agreed that Centrelink had made a wrong decision and allowed the appeal.

Mr Piccolo said the case clearly demonstrated that people need to stand up for their rights.

“Ultimately, the case was about getting some justice for Mrs Watts” said Mr Piccolo.

The Lions Club of Gawler “roared” ahead during 2007.

The hardworking service club capped off its 40th year in Gawler with the official opening of their Railway Station Project.

On Sunday 11th November the Minister for Volunteers, the Hon Jennifer Rankine MP, officially opened the first stage of the project which was the culmination of a seven year partnership between Trans Adelaide and the Club.

The project has involved the renovation of the Station Master’s

Quarters and the relocation and housing of the “Dolly Grey” locomotive.The Station Master’s quarters now house the Gawler Community Gallery.

In her speech, the Minister praised and recognised the tireless efforts of the Gawler Community to bring this project to fruition under the leadership of the Lions Club.

The Minister acknowledged the participants in the Work for the Dole Scheme, The Rotary Club of Gawler, and Employment Directions Inc. amongst many local groups and individuals who ensured the project was a

success.

Much of the funding for the project has come from the weekly market that the Lions Club runs every Sunday morning in the Station Car park.

The official opening of the Lions Club of Gawler Railway station Restoration Project also celebrated the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the steam train to Gawler.

The Minister said that no one takes for granted the dedication and hard work of the Lions Club of Gawler has shown to this project and the Gawler community.

The Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo, who is a member of the club, said that the project was a great achievement and demonstrated what can be achieved when community groups and volunteers work together.

“The project has been well led by Pat Mells and his team” said Mr Piccolo.

The current Station, built in 1872 on pastoral land, has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including the classic Shiralee and the popular McLeod’s Daughters.

Australian Idol winner and pop sensation Guy Sebastian will be the special guest act at the annual SALT Church (formerly Northside CLC) carols night to be held on Sunday 9th December.

The community event which is expected to attract 5,000 people, will be great fun for all the family. There will be free amusements

Guy Sebastian Set To Rock SALT

Lions Roar In 07

and a fireworks display.

Commencing at 5.00pm, the evening will get under way with approximately two and half hours of family entertainment. At 7.30pm, the spectacular carols program will start and is expected to conclude at approximately 9.50pm with the fireworks.

LIGHT ELECTORATE OFFICE | 148 Murray Street, Gawler SA 5118 | ph. 8522 2878 | fax. 8523 1392 | light@parliament.sa.gov.au | www.tonypiccolo.org

Joan Watts holding a picture of her late husband Kenneth.

Pop sensation Guy Sebastian.

Gawler Lions Club Members at the launch.

2 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 5, December 2007

Gawler could soon have a dedicated health centre for women. The project has been promoted by the Gawler and Surrounds Women’s Action Group.

Spokesperson for the Action Group Ms Gaye Harden said the proposal is to create a one stop shop for women’s health to provide ease of access for women to a range of services.

Ms Harden said that the centre will allow for greater service integration between acute and community based services.

Work is progressing on turning unused Gawler Health Service property on Lyndoch Road into the proposed Women’s Health Service.

Manager of GHS Community services said the Gawler Health Service has agreed to set the property aside for this purpose.

Debbie Martin, Director of Community Services at Gawler

Health Service has welcomed the proposal.

“The potential to offer a holistic approach to the delivery of services for women on the one site is a very exciting development”, she said.

Ms Martin said that it is envisaged that a range of women’s health services will be offered from the venue including: well women’s clinic, counselling, mental health services, exercise programs, information and referral.

Ms Martin said TargetWorks, a Department of Education and Children’s Services initiative, have agreed to make the renovation of the property a project for 2008.

The Gawler Health Foundation has agreed to make the project a major fundraising focus.

The project has been actively supported by the Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo MP.

Ms Harden said that Tony has

been fantastic with all the support he has given us.

“To get this project off the ground we need community support” says Gaye.

Mr Piccolo has vowed to lobby government for funding.

“This proposal is a great example of a practical approach to the delivery of first class health and community services” he said.

The house on Lyndoch Rd is currently unused and deteriorating. It is envisaged that it would cost approximately $300,000 to upgrade the building and provide adequate off road parking.

Mr Piccolo said that the project urgently required the services of a registered builder who was prepared to donate skills and time to supervise the renovation as a community project.

If you can contribute in any way please contact Andrew Glen on 8521 2015.

Women’s Health Service Proposal

Tony Piccolo’s electorate office has been bolstered with the addition of two new faces, Mathew Deane and Caisee Nicholls.

Mathew takes over from Manual who departed to take up a government job in Adelaide and Caisee is employed under the State Government’s traineeship initiative.

Both Mathew and Caisee bring individual strengths and perspectives to the office and have rapidly become valuable parts of the four member Light electorate office team.

New Faces That Help

Welcome to the 5th edition of Enlightened. You will notice that we have made some changes to the format, content and presentation of this edition. While our earlier editions were well received by the community, some suggested changes were identified through the survey I included in the previous edition. We asked for your views and having received them we have responded positively to them. The new Enlightened has a stronger community focus, and is in an easier format to read. We had feedback from people who had some visual impairment that they found the previous editions a little hard to read. My team and I are trying to present a very creative publication, but this goal may have distracted from some of the practical implications of the newspaper. Since the newspaper is prepared for you, we have changed it to make it easier to read. People generally found our previous editions very informative, but wanted it to be a more like a traditional newspaper. So we have been happy to change our style to reflect that feedback. Please feel free to let us know what you think of Enlightened 5. Thank you to the many readers who responded to the survey. We found the feedback very helpful as to the way I and my team operate and how effective our communication is. Elsewhere on this page you will find information of the lucky person who won the box of wines kindly donated by Gomersal Wines for completing the survey .

A New EnlightenedAnother Year has Passed By the time you read this editorial, Christmas will be just around the corner. The electorate will be full of Christmas related activities, events and festivities. We have a number of community announcements in this edition to inform our readers of what is happening around the electorate. Christmas provides us with an opportunity to reflect on those things that are important to us, and make time to reconnect to our family, friends and community.

While we have become accustomed to other distractions in our highly consumer orientated society, we need to remind ourselves that Christmas is a spiritual celebration which comes with a message of hope.

Australia is a great place to live, and our lives have been enriched by the positive contributions that migrants have made to the arts, culture and lifestyles generally.

Migrants have also brought with them faiths and values which may be a little different to the majority. While diversity has its challenges it also has its benefits. Culturally diverse nations are generally more tolerant and outward looking and have stronger democratic traditions. The journey to “community” is achieved through mutual engagement, respect and understanding and not through cultural retreat or assimilation. My staff and I wish you and your family a Blessed Christmas and a New Year full of Joy and Hope. Tony Piccolo MP

EDITORIAL

Light MP Tony Piccolo with Gaye Harden and Debbie Martin outside the proposed Women’s Health Centre.

Mat and Caisee out the front of the Light Electorate Office.

Gomersal Wines owner Barry White drawing the winning survey.

Survey winner Zak Cope with Tony Piccolo MP.

Edition 5, December 2007 | ENLIGHTENED | 3

The Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo has called on the State Government to introduce new laws to ban the possession of “monkey bikes” in areas where they pose a threat to community safety.

Mr Piccolo, whose electorate includes the northern metro suburbs of Smithfield Plains, Munno Para and Davoren Park, recently, told State Parliament that the misuse of monkey bikes was causing considerable problems in some suburbs.

Mr Piccolo said that, while he understood that Police were reluctant to chase offenders as this could result in the death of the bike rider or an innocent bystander, something concrete had to be done to deal with this growing menace.

“Law abiding residents in Smithfield Plains and Munno Para are sick of tired of these

irresponsible people placing the community at risk”

“If nothing is done soon, a fatality as a result of the misuse of these monkey bikes will occur” warned Mr Piccolo

Under the proposal the Commissioner of Police would be empowered to ban the possession of monkey bikes from certain areas upon an application from the local council.

Mr Piccolo said the new laws could be modelled on the “dry zone” legislation.

Mr Piccolo said that under his proposal the council would have to consider developing “monkey bike parks” where the bikes could be lawfully used.

Mr Piccolo stressed the proposed new laws were designed to deal with offenders and not people who used them lawfully.

Under the proposed laws persons found to possess monkey bikes in banned areas would have them confiscated and other penalties applied.

“Because it is too dangerous to catch offenders while they are using the bikes, the only solution is to ban them from problem areas”

“I have been heartened by the support I have received from other MPs who experience similar problems in their electorates” said Mr Piccolo.

Ban ‘Monkey Bikes’ Says MP

State Parliament’s Economic and Finance Committee is to hold an inquiry into the laws regulating the franchise industry.

At its recent meeting the Committee decided it will investigate whether the existing laws governing franchises:

• ensure that sufficient and accurate information is disclosed to potential franchisees• provide franchisees with effective mechanism to resolve disputes • enable franchisees to access appropriate legal remedies when franchisors are in default of their contract obligations• are being abused by franchisors

The inquiry was prompted by a motion put by the Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo.

Mr Piccolo said that since he was elected to Parliament last year he has heard a number of “horror stories” from franchisees whose

businesses have been sent to the wall by the alleged behaviour of their franchisor.

“I have received a number of complaints from local franchisees which suggest that existing laws did not provide franchisees with sufficient protection from franchisors who breached their contractual arrangements.”

Mr Piccolo said “Mum and Dad” franchisees often had insufficient financial resources to take action to remedy the alleged injustices imposed by franchisors.

“Franchisees and franchisors do not, unfortunately, play on a level playing field” said Mr Piccolo.

“The reality is that mum and dad franchisees borrow money to establish themselves so are unable to access the legal system because of cost”

“Unfortunately, it appears that franchisors take advantage of

this”

Mr Piccolo said he has been told stories of how some couples have lost their homes, cars, and livelihoods when the franchise relationship has gone sour”

Mr Piccolo said the inquiry is not about people who make bad business decisions but rather about franchisors who have clearly breached their contracts with apparent impunity.

“The franchise industry is constantly growing and many people see a franchise as the best way to own a small business, but an unscrupulous franchisor can ruin not only the business but lives”

Mr Piccolo said the Committee is keen to hear from current or ex franchisees who believe they have been badly treated by their franchisors.

Inquiry Into Franchises

Heritage HorrorWhen Cornelia and Martin Kisbee purchased their home at Parkers Road, Ward Belt in April 2004 they never anticipated the heritage nightmare which was about to engulf them.

Shortly after purchasing their home, the Light Regional Council had decided that it would list the Kisbee homestead as a “Local Heritage Place”.

The Council had commissioned McDougall and Vines Heritage consultants to assess properties throughout the Council area and the Kisbee homestead was recommended for inclusion on the Local Heritage Place list.

Mrs Kisbee appealed the recommendation, but her case was rejected by the Council.

Mrs Kisbee argued that there were better examples of traditional homesteads in the area, which much more worthy of inclusion.

Mrs Kisbee then sought the assistance of her local state MP and Member for Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo.

Mr Piccolo helped Mrs Kisbee lodge an objection with the Adelaide based Local Heritage Advisory Committee.

In her letter to the Committee, Mrs Kisbee said that there were better examples of former farmhouses that meet the criteria for inclusion.“ I am at a loss to understand why my home has been selected ahead of others”

“ The home is neither representative (ie the best example) nor atypical.

“ While my home has been included in the Local Heritage List, the local ‘Loos’ school building that has a great deal of cultural significance, is, I understand, unprotected by any heritage listing” Mrs Kisbee said.

Mrs Kisbee argued her case before the Committee which ultimately upheld her objection.

The Minister for Planning and Urban Development, the Hon Paul Holloway, accepted the Committee’s recommendation and the Kisbee home was not listed.

In June 2007, the Pietermaritzburg Babies Project with the support of Rotary Club Australia sent it’s 5th container of gifts from Gawler to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu, South Africa.

The project, started by Judy Lawrence in 2003 enables local Gawler women to help aid caregivers of AIDS babies and orphans in KwaZulu, South Africa.

With shipping and associated costs of A$10 000 - A$12 000 to provide gifts such as wheelchairs, sewing machines and school books, donations are greatly appreciated.

For more information on how to donate please contact Judy Lawrence on 0415 486 673 or sapmbbabies@gmail.com

Orphan Support

Mat and Caisee out the front of the Light Electorate Office.

Tony Piccolo MP.

Cornelia Kisbee and her dog “Lucky” on the front porch of the home.

Pietermaritzburg farm school children with donated bags.

With Christmas approaching and in light of the current severe drought it is important to finalise efforts to protect yourself and your property from the threat of bushfire.

CFS volunteers value their time with friends and family over the festive season as much as the rest of the community, so spare a thought for them and ensure your home and property are prepared for the fire danger season.

John Hutchins, Regional CFS Commander says “Volunteers would like to spend their Christmas with their families not fighting fires so people need to take responsibility for their own prevention preparations prior to the bushfire season”

Mr Hutchins has urged the community to be prepared. “People should be completing their bushfire action plans; they should be looking very hard at

CFS Plea for Danger Season

MurrayChristmas

MurrayChristmas

MurrayChristmas

Gawler Christmas Street FestivalMurray St. Gawler

Family Sunday 2nd December• FOOD & WINE EXPERIENCE • CLIMBING WALL • CIRCOTRON • BALLOON ARTISTS • FACE PAINTERS • SINGERS • DANCERS

• BUSKERS • TRAVELLING FARM • ART & CRAFT • NATIVITY SCENE • SANTA • FREE GIVEAWAYS • GAWLER TOWN BAND

A Community CelebrationProudly brought to you by the Town of Gawler

Gawler Community Groups and the Gawler Business Development Board

their properties to ensure they are ready for the bushfire season”

“If you live in an area of greater bushfire risk you should be finalising your bushfire action plan now” said Mr Hutchins.

If you have not done so visit www.cfs.org.au, drop in to my office or call on 8522 2878 and I will send you a bushfire action plan kit.

4 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 5, December 2007

MP Praises CFS VolunteersLight MP Mr Tony Piccolo has praised the work of CFS volunteers in keeping our community safe.

Speaking after the official opening of the new Roseworthy CFS Station and Group Control Centre, Mr Piccolo said that volunteers and their families provided an invaluable service to rural and regional communities.

Mr Piccolo said that he had been advised that the Roseworthy CFS currently had 60 members including cadets and auxiliary.

A history of the Brigade was launched at the opening.

Mr Piccolo said that he understood that the Roseworthy CFS attended its first incident on 5th June 1981 whilst temporarily housed on the property of the inaugural Captain Mr Kevin Hahsey.

The Brigade’s initial formation was prompted by a fire at the Roseworthy Roadhouse, and in the early days responses were rural in nature.

Mr Piccolo said that the Brigade’s responses have diversified in recent times with volunteers attending many vehicular accidents in the region.

Mr Piccolo said the new facility was a testament to the State Government’s commitment to making our communities safer and to the hard work of the CFS and the many volunteers.

Minister Zollo with Station Captain Peter Ashcroft, Group Captain Ray Bryant and MP Tony Piccolo.

Roseworthy Campus Child Care Centre

Vacancies Available – Permanent & Casual Places

• Community based, family orientated Centre in a country environment.• Nationally Accredited and Child Care Benefit approved.• Only 10 minutes from Gawler.• Large, safe play areas with sand pits, swings, adventure equipment and lawn.• Meals and snacks provided.

Hours of Operation7.30am to 6.00pm (Full Day session)7.30am to 1.00pm (Morning session)

1.00pm to 6.00pm (Afternoon session). Roseworthy Campus, The University of Adelaide, ROSEWORTHY

SA. PH (08) 85212895

Uniting Church Tod Street Gawler

Sunday Dec 2 – 23 Advent Services 9.30 am & 5.00pmChristmas Eve 7.00 pmChristmas Day 9.30 amJanuary 2008 every Sunday 9.30 am

Uniting Church Phineas Street Virginia

Sunday Dec. 2,16, 23 Advent Services 9.30 amSunday Jan. 20 2008 9.30 am

A local CFS Volunteer. Photo courtesy Colin Jenke and CFS Promotions Unit.

Labor Legislative Council member Mr Bernard Finnigan believes families and communities are the foundation of our society.

Bernard was elected to the Legislative Council on 2nd May 2006, filling the remainder of the term left vacant by the passing of the late Hon Terry Roberts.

In his inaugural speech to State Parliament, Mr Finnigan said members of parliament must do all they can to foster the

“institutions and organisations that make up our social fabric.”

Mr Finnigan said anyone involved in local sporting clubs, parents and friends, churches or service organisations, knows how much harder it is becoming to get people involved.“There are dozens of organisations and institutions in our community that we must help to continue to work; otherwise we run the risk of retreating into an ‘e-cocoon’ with our internet connection, a big

Families and Communities Are Our Society

screen television and our mobile phone.” Bernard said.

Bernard was born in Mount Gambier in 1972 and grew up on the family dairy farm at Eight Mile Creek.

Bernard is one of twelve children born to Francis and Kathleen Finnigan. He holds very fond memories of his parents.

He told state parliament “my parents, Francis and Kathleen

Hazel Finnigan, have gone to their rest and my only regret today is that they are not here to share my joy at this privilege.”

“My parents were always a great model to me of love for each other and for their children, of love and service of God, and dedication to living a life of virtue. “

“I will always remember the unfailing and unconditional love they bore for me and my 11 siblings. “

Bernard said “My family is spread out over the miles but whenever any of us find ourselves facing joy or sorrow we rally around, and it is a great comfort to know that that support is always there. “

Having been educated in the State’s South East at Allendale East Area School and Tenison College, Bernard later undertook a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Adelaide in 1990.

Growing up in the South East, Bernard is committed to country South Australia.

Bernard said that growing up in the South-East was a great joy and he particularly looked forward to representing the people of that area in this parliament.

“Mount Gambier and the other large towns, Millicent, Penola and Naracoorte, are all beautiful

Changing nappies is a normal task for parents with young children, but for Steven and Michelle Dodd the nappy routine is a reminder of their daughter, Kizzey’s rare disease.

The Member for Light, Mr Tony Piccolo, raised Kizzie’s plight in state parliament.

Mr Piccolo said when you look at Kizzey she presents like any other bright toddler full of life and vigour.

“ It is not until you hear her story that you get an understanding of the harsh hand that she has been dealt. “ he said

Kizzey suffers from cystinosis. She is the only known sufferer of this disease in South Australia, with about 33 cases Australia-wide. While its rarity is a blessing, it is also a huge burden.

The non-medical bills for Kizzey’s care are huge. Because of her

illness Kizzey needs to have her nappy changed up to 25 times a day.

Mum Michelle is unable to work outside the family home as she has to dedicate her whole life to caring for Kizzey.

While the Dodds, like other parents, look forward to the day she starts school, they are, understandably, concerned whether Kizzey or the school will be able to manage her illness.

Mrs Dodd said that Kizzey needs around-the-clock care because dehydration could be fatal.

“Watching her eat is rewarding because she has only just started eating a little bit” Mrs Dodd said

“ Its exciting and funny to watch”

In his speech to parliament Mr Piccolo highlighted the challenges facing Kizzey’s parents in trying to raise her in a “normal environment”.

Mr Piccolo told State Parliament that without specific treatment, children with cystinosis will develop end-stage renal kidney failure at nine years of age. If patients receive a kidney

Changing Nappies a Normal Task for Parentstransplant and reach adulthood, the new kidneys generally are not affected. Without this cysteamine treatment they can develop complications in other organs due to the continued accumulation of cystine throughout the body.

Mr Piccolo said complications can include muscle wasting, difficulty in swallowing, diabetes and blindness.

“As a consequence, life expectancy is not very high.”

Mr Piccolo said much remains to be learnt about this disease.

“ Investigators have recently isolated the gene causing it, and they are now analysing the mutations of individual patients.”

“ Other investigations are trying to determine the best therapies for each complication.”

Mr Piccolo said that if anybody wanted to assist the family they should contact his office, details will be passed to the Dodd family.

places with their own special charms” he said.

His policy interests include economic development, industrial relations, federal-state relations, family issues and building social capital.

Bernard joined the Australian Labor Party in 1992 and began work in 1995 for the Shop Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association (SDA). The SDA is Australia’s largest trade union, representing over 21,000 retail workers in SA, the NT and Broken Hill.

Bernard is proud of his association with the SDA, telling parliament “I am an SDA man through and through.”

Bernard said there are few in our society who would get through a single week without talking to a member of the SDA.

“Every time you go to a supermarket, a department or discount store, or a fast-food drive-through the chances are that you are meeting a member of the SDA.”

Bernard’s strong background working in the labour movement guides him in his parliamentary deliberations and is a basis for his belief in the value of building strong social capital in the community.

Edition 5, December 2007 | ENLIGHTENED | 5

Labor MLC Mr Bernard Finnigan speaking in State Parliament.

Steve and Michelle Dodd with daughter Kizzey.

Bought in 1976, Gawler Caravan Centre has been run and owned by Bob and Elaine Phillips for 32 years. Bob, the “Caravan King”, has worked for the railways, owned his own welding business and is now ‘semi-retired’ running Gawler Caravan Centre.

The Gawler Caravan Centre, originally located on Adelaide road, was relocated to Para road in 1988 as Bob hoped to semi-retire, however, now the Phillips find themselves busier than ever, and Bob says “its still hard work. I haven’t caught up with it yet”.

Gawler Caravans

In the modern competitive business world, stories of greed and excess often drown out the examples of businesses selflessly supporting and advancing the community.

One such untold story is that of the family owned and operated Gawler Landscaping Supplies.

Not only has Gawler Landscaping Supplies committed to financially supporting both the Gawler Harness Racing Club and Jockey Club, they have earlier this year

Gawler Landscaping

The real meaning of Christmas is burning bright at the Open Door Christian Bookshop.

Staffed entirely by volunteers, the bookshop offers a wide range of products with a traditional Christian message.

Manager Ros Hofmeyer feels the important message of Christmas is threatened by the increasingly

Christmas Bookshop

commercialised nature of Christmas.

The Open Door Bookshop is playing its role to confront that threat.

“Everything in the store has something Christian about it; we don’t stock Santas” Mrs Hofmeyer said.

The Gawler Caravan Centre has all your holiday needs with a workshop on site and a store that Elaine Phillips says “has everything” and with Christmas around the corner the store offers Christmas gift ideas for all those Christmas campers.

Elaine says “It’s very important to book ahead for Christmas though, because with trade picking up, we get booked up till March.”

Through the years Bob and Elaine have overseen the growth and specialisation of their company which now employs 11 people.

exposed a scam targeting small businesses.

The scam used unsolicited advertising offers, billing businesses for work that never took place. Through Gawler Landscaping Supplies’ actions to make authorities aware of the scam it was able to be shut down.

Gawler Landscaping Supplies is a business success story and a valuable member of the Gawler Business Community.

6 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 5, December 2007

The store encourages the community to engage with their Christian message and aims to provide more than just products to sell.

“We keep a Bible in the window and every day we turn the page to the next gospel reading - as it approaches Christmas the message reflects that” Mrs Hofmeyer said.

Gawler Baptist ChurchChristmas Calendar

Gawler Baptist Church will be holding Celebration services throughout the Advent Season with our new pastor, Jeff Noble.

December 2 Celebrating “HOPE” prior to Christmas Street Festival 10.30am. Carol singing on the church’s lawns.December 9 Celebrating “PEACE” at 10.00am in the church.December 16 Celebrating “JOY” at 10.00am in the church with the young children participating.December 23 Celebrating “LOVE” at 10.00am in the church with the youth & young adults participating.December 24 Christmas Eve service at 11.00pm. Candle light service.December 25 Christmas Day service 9.00am. Celebrate the best gift of all - Jesus.

Christmas Eve @ HewettCarols on the Plaza

Hewett Community Church of Christ, Light Council, Kies, Hewett Shopping Centre and others in the local area, who sponsor the “Carols on the Plaza” invite you to come together

on Christmas Eve to take time out to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

Free sausage sizzle and ice-cream will be available from 6pm. Children will have lots of fun on a bouncy castle before the singing of carols which commences at 7pm.

A surprise visit from out of town clowns will share the Christmas story.

This is a great opportunity for families to come together and develop a tradition where the Christmas story is passed down to their children within a community context.

For more information PH 85224839

Volunteers Christine Brown and Jodie Halford with Manager Ros Hofmeyer.

Bob and Elaine Phillips.

Gawler Landscaping Supplies team, Greg, Kylie & Ken.

Edition 5, December 2007 | ENLIGHTENED | 7

Willo’s Shed Comes AliveThe work undertaken by the Gawler Men’s Health Group to establish a men’s shed in the town has received praise in State Parliament.

The shed, nicknamed ‘Willo’s Shed’, is located in a big shed on the Employment Directions site in Little Paxton Street, Willaston.

The Member for Light Tony Piccolo MP, acknowledged the work of Fatherhood Worker Aaron Phillips, Mental Health Worker Nigel Davies, Debbie Martin, Manager, Community Services, and Erik Moen, CEO, Gawler Health Services and Mr Mark Abrook, a member of the Gawler Men’s Health Group.

Mr Piccolo said the group had been supported in its endeavour to establish the shed by Carmel Rosier, CEO of the local job network provider, Employment Directions Inc.

Mr Piccolo said that the men’s

shed has been established as a way of bringing men together, particularly men who are dealing with some crises in their lives and to help them deal with them in an appropriate and positive way.

“ It is also a place where services can be delivered to men because often they are reluctant to go to institutions that are provided by government, etc. “

“This facility, which would be run by men, will assist men.” He told Parliament.

The men’s shed has been facilitated by a grant of $50,000 from the Gawler Health Service through the health department. For more information on the Men’s Shed contact Aaron Phillips on 85 21 2080.

The Northern metropolitan suburb of Munno Para is seeking a community-minded business person to open a convenience store in their area.

Since the previous “deli” burnt down last year, the local community has been without a convenience store.

Local MP, Mr Tony Piccolo, brought the matter to the attention of the owners of the site, the Land Management Corporation (LMC) to see if a new shop could be provided.

Mr Piccolo said the LMC was very sympathetic to the needs of the local community and agreed to help find a business person to establish a new convenience store.

“Unfortunately, to date they have not found a person prepared to take the new business on, despite an extensive search”. said Mr Piccolo.

The shop on offer for lease is located off Karri Street next to the Salvation Army Shop. Mr Piccolo said that he had been

Shop Needed

advised by the LMC that the shop is approximately 75m2 and would suit a variety of uses, including a convenience store or takeaway food outlet, providing a much needed service to residents in the immediate vicinity.

“There is ample off-street parking on site, as well as easy access to Main North Rd.”

Mr Piccolo said the LMC is offering the shop at a very attractive rent, as well as assistance in establishing and setting up the store.

Mr Piccolo said the store is sorely needed by the local people as they currently have to cross the busy Main North Road to access the closest shop at the petrol station down the road.

“The lack of a local shop is causing great difficulties for older people and families with young children“ said Mr Piccolo

Mr Piccolo said that if a local business person was keen to set up shop in the area they should contact Carsten Dethlefsen on 8207 0801 or his office on 85 22 28 78.

Italian language and culture classes could recommence in Gawler from next year if enough interest is demonstrated by the local community.

The program is financially supported by the Italian Government and run by the Italian Didactic Centre.

At a recent community event held in Gawler the Italian Consul for SA, Mr Tomasso Coniglio, said that the Italian Government supported these programs as they saw Italian as an important community language in Australia.

The Italian Didactic Centre runs a number of Italian language and culture classes throughout South Australia.

Local MP, Mr Tony Piccolo, who arranged the community event held at Café Nova recently, said the Didactic Centre was keen to hear from adults and young people who were interested in studying Italian.

“If the centre receives sufficient interest from the local community they will arrange for classes to be held in Gawler” said Mr Piccolo

“The classes will help people learn a new language or improve the skills of those people whose first language was Italian but have not used it for years. Importantly it is proposed that separate classes

Italian Classes will be available to both young people and adults”

“ The classes will be available to anybody in the community not just people from an Italian background.”

Local people wanting more information about the proposed Italian classes should register their interest by contacting his office on 85 222878.

Tony Piccolo MP outside the empty shop.

Buchfelde resident Mr Raffaele Carriera with Tony Piccolo MP, Italian Consul to SA Mr Tomasso Coniglio and Mr Giovanni DiSessa President of the Italian Didactic Centre.

Aaron Phillips (front centre) with the guys at Willo’s.

Christmas HouseThe Gawler Community House is having a Christmas lunch for the Homeless and Socially Isolated people of the Gawler Area.

House Co-ordinator Ms Dawn Kelson said this is the one day of the year that no-one should be alone.

Ms said anybody knew anyone who will be alone on Christmas Day they should feel free to contact the House and register for the lunch either in person at

the Gawler Community House 2, Scheibener Terrace, Gawler, or via phone 8522 4601 to book in.

Ms Kelson said the House was still looking for non-perishable items that can go into hampers.

“If anybody can help please feel free to drop them in at the Community House Monday –Friday, between 9am-3pm.”

“We would to take this time to say thank-you to all the local

Businesses of Gawler who have been fully supportive.” Ms Kelson said.

“ We would also like to say a special thank-you to all the local people who have helped in our fundraising either through buying raffle tickets, and anonymous donations”

“ Also a special thank you for those brave people who “Slept in a Box” during Anti-Poverty Week. “ said Ms Kelson.

Centenary BookThe Gawler High school Centenary Book with the theme “This Is Who We Are” was launched at the school’s Drama Centre on November 7th before more than 50 Old scholars, Staff and students. Dace Darzins, OAM, who was the 1954 Dux and Head Prefect, launched the history and spoke of how much the school had done for her and her family. Special Guests at the launch included Old Scholars Max

Fatchen OAM, current Mayor of Gawler Mr Brian Sambell, Mrs Shirley O’Dea who taught at the school for 20 years and mother of Lisa Martin-Ondeiki and former Mayor of Gawler and current Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo MP. The first edition of the book of the book is nearly sold out. Copies of the book at $15 each can be purchased from the school.

Tony Piccolo MP, Max Fatchen and Sandra Lowery.

Congratulations

8 | ENLIGHTENED | Edition 5, December 2007

Gawler high School Community Studies students, Tim Clark, Shannon Salter and Kayla Clifton recently launched their books.

Children’s writer and Gawler High Old Scholar Roseanne Hawke, launched “Old Scholar’s Remember”, while Ms Selina McKenzie launched Shannon Salter’s charming children’s book and Ros Conboy launched Kayla Clifton’s book. In launching Tim’s book Ms Hawke said that it was very enlightening to read through ‘Old Scholars Remember’ to see what others have done with their lives, and so

Old Scholars Remember Their School Days

Two local students, Milly Archagelidis of Smithfield Plains High School and Mathew Bourne of Trinity College Senior have won the inaugural Light Awards.

Milly won the inaugural “Light Academic Achievement Award” which is sponsored by the Member for Light, Mr Tony Piccolo MP, and seeks to recognise the achievements of a student who has excelled in their academic studies

Milly has attended Smithfield Plains High School since 2003 and over the years she has achieved 56 A grade levels as well as many B levels.

Light Academic and VET AwardsAccording to her teachers, Milly demonstrates thought in her reading and writing and shows initiative and is able to work independently.

At times her teachers have commented on her outstanding work that she has produced over a variety of subjects. She is a valued and respected member of all subject classes.

A VET student at Trinity College Senior Mathew received excellent reports from Vtech where he completed his certificate 1 in Automotive whilst completing Year 12 at the college.

In addition, Mathew received distinctions and credits, excellent attendance at TAFE , and good reports from employers.

gain encouragement from it.Ms Hawke commended Tim for his hard work in producing the book.

“ Tim has given us the chance to be so inspired and influenced by the stories of those who have gone before us” she said.

Ros Conboy says in the foreword: stories give guidance and advice from generation to generation and many of the memories in this book are about persistence, never giving up, aiming high and setting goals: great advice for all, and in particular, those still at school.

enlightened@cjtdesign.com.au | www.cjtdesign.com.au |

Milly Archagelidis and Mathew Bourne receiving their awards from Tony Piccolo MP.

Author of ‘Old Scholars Remember’ Tim Clark with Gawler High Old Scholars who appear in the book.

Antoni Niemz 100th Birthday 1 July 07

Don and Mary Keneally 60th Anniversary 12 Nov 07

Beryl & Sid Ey 50th Anniversary 2 August 07

Joan & Les Kemp 60th Anniversary 4 September 07

Walter and Daphne Bartel 60th Anniversary 26 June 07

Bob & Val Collins 50th Anniversary 22 June 07

Trevor & Yvonne Saltmarsh 50th Anniversary 7 November 07

Ronald & Laura Smith 60th Anniversary 14 September 07

Dudley & Ellen Kemp 60th Anniversary 25 October 07

Colin & Peg Brooks 60th Anniversary 25 October 07

Harry & Joyce Gray 60th Anniversary 6 September 07

Max & Ethyl Clifton 60th Anniversary 6 September 07

Mathew always completed his work to the best of his ability. His teachers say Mathew is a genuine, friendly young man with a great attitude, strength and maturity

From Left teacher Ms Selina McKenzie and co illustrator of “Angel Magic & Fairy Dust”, Tim Clark, author of “Old Scholars Remember”, Shannon Salter, author of “Angel Magic”, Kayla Clifton, author of “ The adventures of ...” and Kimberly Thomas, illustrator of “The adventures of......”

that will see him go far in his future employment.

The Award is sponsored by Light MP Mr Tony Piccolo.