Mission Australia staff have driven 2800kms over 3 days from Sydney to Alice Springs to give their service vehicle to the tenancy support programs that Mission Australia’s Alice Springs office delivers.
The vehicle, which was formerly used by the Sydney Mission Australia team to provide support services to people sleeping rough in the Sydney CBD, was packed with toys, playstations, sporting equipment, sheet sets and blankets to be donated to Alice Springs accommodation centres and families in need.
Missionbeat Manager Daniel Strickland said he was wrapped that they could pass on the van to the Central Australian support service and this was a great opportunity to take it personally to Alice Springs.
“This visit has been extremely worthwhile,” he said.
“The Alice Springs team and I have been able to share stories and ideas on the challenges in working with homeless people and the contribution we can make regardless of an urban or remote setting.
Most of the Alice Springs work is in supporting people to sustain their government housing. Mission Australia helps people with the myriad of enquiries and challenges that come from moving into Territory Housing and becoming good neighbours and happy tenants,” he said.
Alice Springs Operations Manager, Lyanne Kerr said she welcomed the new addition to their services.
“We assist our tenants learn how to deal with rent and money management, home care and maintenance of property, all vital stepping stones to keeping their homes so that they can have the stability most of us take for granted. Once you have stable and long term housing you can plan for the future – getting the kids to the local school, learning skills and training, receiving regular mail and eventually gaining employment.
We are so grateful to our NSW colleagues for supporting us and taking time from their busy schedules to come to Alice Springs and help us with the valuable work we do here. It really is a team effort and together we can be a real force for good,” Ms Kerr said.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Friday, July 20, 2012
Urban Quest finalists shine on The X Factor Australia
Two finalists from Mission Australia’s Urban Quest are through to the next season of The X Factor Australia.
Singers Shiane Hawke, 14, and Peter Rautoka, 19, are the first Territorians to make it through to the TV auditions for popular Channel 7 program.
Shiane, who sang Duffy’s Mercy, left X Factor judges speechless at the TV audition - the same song which earned her a Mark Holden seal of approval at the 2011 Urban Quest finals concert.
This year, the Dripstone Middle School student was second runner-up at the Mission Australia finals event.
Peter Rautoka also received Holden’s trademark touchdown at the 2011 Urban Quest finals concert with his rendition of Hallelujah.
The young Territory hopefuls, who auditioned at Darwin and Cairns earlier this year, were flown to the Gold Coast for the TV auditions earlier this month.
“It was an amazing experience,” Mr Rautoka said.
“It was pretty scary singing in front of the four judges - Mel B, Guy Sebastian, Ronan Keating and Natalie Bassingthwaighte - and about four thousand people, but it’s given me a whole new confidence in myself and my singing.”
NT Mission Australia Operations Manager Jillian Smith said she was very proud to see the Urban Quest finalists doing well on the big stage.
“Mission Australia is very proud to have seen these talented young singers shine at Urban Quest, and continue to grow and follow their dreams,” Ms Smith said.
“Urban Quest is a celebration of young people, which aims to improve confidence through music. Hopefully the mentoring they both received from Mark Holden helped them believe in themselves and realise their true potential.
“I encourage everyone to support Shiane and Peter on their X Factor journey.”
Territorians will have to wait and see if the young Territorians make it past The X Factor Bootcamp in Sydney and onto the live TV show.
The next season of X Factor airs on Channel 7 in the coming months.
A sneak peek of Shiane’s TV audition can be seen here: http://au.tv.yahoo.com/x-factor/video/-/watch/30023977/sneak-peek-is-shiane-next/
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Vista Gold Australia invites local community to come say hello
Vista Gold Australia invites the Katherine local community to come say hello to staff from the Mt Todd Gold Mine project at the Katherine Show tomorrow and Saturday.
Ray Iacono, Vista Gold Australia Director said that the Show provided a great opportunity for the company to keep in contact with the community.
“We welcome people from Katherine and beyond to visit our stall at the Show for an update on the project.
Both the Environmental and Site Managers will be available to talk to the community and answer questions on the progress of the project to date,” he said.
Vista Gold recently announced that the company had revised the scope of the Feasibility Study on the Mt Todd gold project to incorporate a larger processing facility, a redesigned open pit and plans to recover gold from the existing heap leach pads.
The Company is now targeting the release of the Feasibility Study in late 2012 or early 2013.
“If you have ever wondered what the gold actually looks like in the ground, come and have a look at our display. Our mining experts will have a drilling core sample on show and be able to answer questions of how the gold is processed,” Mr Iacono said.
“Community sentiment has been very supportive of reopening the mine, it is very important to us to stay in contact with the community so that we have a clear understanding of the issues that are matter to them.”
Vista Gold’s Mt Todd display will be located in the Commercial Building at the Katherine Show.
Ray Iacono, Vista Gold Australia Director said that the Show provided a great opportunity for the company to keep in contact with the community.
“We welcome people from Katherine and beyond to visit our stall at the Show for an update on the project.
Both the Environmental and Site Managers will be available to talk to the community and answer questions on the progress of the project to date,” he said.
Vista Gold recently announced that the company had revised the scope of the Feasibility Study on the Mt Todd gold project to incorporate a larger processing facility, a redesigned open pit and plans to recover gold from the existing heap leach pads.
The Company is now targeting the release of the Feasibility Study in late 2012 or early 2013.
“If you have ever wondered what the gold actually looks like in the ground, come and have a look at our display. Our mining experts will have a drilling core sample on show and be able to answer questions of how the gold is processed,” Mr Iacono said.
“Community sentiment has been very supportive of reopening the mine, it is very important to us to stay in contact with the community so that we have a clear understanding of the issues that are matter to them.”
Vista Gold’s Mt Todd display will be located in the Commercial Building at the Katherine Show.
Friday, July 06, 2012
Mission Australia swamped during the dry season
An influx of teenagers are roaming the streets of Darwin, Mandorah and Adelaide River these school holidays.
More than 32 students aged between 10 and 18 years are seeing the sights of the Top End after Mission Australia's school holiday program booked out.
Running to the end of July, the teens are attending activities and tours that include the Adelaide River Queen Cruise, Lake Leanyer, Duck-About-Tour to Mandorah, Palmerston Water Park, Fishing Charter and Crocosaurus Cove.
Youth Service Manager Adrian McCann said the activities help young people build confidence and connect with their local community.
"We've had a great response to the program and are really pleased with some of the outcomes," he said.
"I believe this is a great way for students to be active within the community and encourage all young people in Darwin and Palmerston to get involved in our programs."
Mr McCann said parents should get in early for the wet season school holiday program.
Activities offered as part of Mission Australia's school holiday programs are organised by local staff who encourage and inspire the young teens to make informed lifestyle choices.
"We provide a safe atmosphere for them to grow and learn important life skills," Mr McCann said.
Mission Australia contributes heavily to the lives of young people across the Darwin and Palmerston region with several programs for teenagers to be more involved with their communities.
Anyone interested in Mission Australia's school holiday program is encouraged to register their interest by calling 08 8935 0900.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Juggling youth affairs
Now Adrian McCann will juggle his biggest role yet as Mission Australia’s new Youth Services Manager for Darwin and Palmerston.
The laid back father of two, has more than ten years industry experience and developed the highly successful Desert ED project, which brought music, circus and positive health messages to young indigenous people in communities across Western and South Australia.
“It was a great program that engaged young people in healthy living in a fun and entertaining way,” Mr McCann said.
Born and raised in Northern Ireland, his childhood memories full of frosty mornings are poles apart from the hot and humid weather that Territorians experience for most of the year.
With a double degree in Social Science and Community Development, Adrian’s passion for working with young people stems from teaching placements and creating youth development projects.
“I’m really looking forward to working with my new team and other youth service providers across the region to identify what areas and programs need improvement or expansion.”
Mission Australia has offices in Darwin and Palmerston and run a range of programs that help young people engaged in dangerous behaviour or at risk of homelessness, stay on the straight and narrow.
They also manage popular singing competition, Urban Quest, which aims to help young people build self esteem through music and mentoring.
“I want to be proactive, and make and contribute to programs so they count and help the lives of young people.”
Thursday, June 07, 2012
Young Territorians wanted for national survey
Mission Australia is calling on young Territorians to help highlight important issues in their lives by taking part in the charity’s 2012 Youth Survey – the nation’s leading annual stocktake of the views, concerns and values of young people between the ages of 15-19.
In launching the 2012 survey, Mission Australia’s NT Director, Phillip Leslie, said it gave young people a voice across a range of issues with the information being used to help community groups and governments plan and develop youth services.
“Mission Australia’s annual national youth survey is a ‘temperature check’ on what young people are feeling, what issues concern them, what they think are the main challenges facing the nation and how optimistic they are about the future,” said Mr Leslie.
“Responses to the survey help governments, youth agencies and ourselves improve and develop programs and strategies that are shaped by the voices of young people themselves.”
When asked to rank their personal concerns from 15 issues, NT participants in last year’s survey believed school/study problems was the most pressing issue, placed in the top three by 33.0 per cent of respondents.
This was followed by body image at 28.6 per cent and family conflict at 28.1 per cent.
Concern for school/study problems among young Territorians increased by more than 17 per cent since the 2009 survey.
“Young people’s concerns can be quite volatile – moving around from year to year – so it’s important we conduct this survey annually to obtain an accurate picture.
“The range of concerns – from school to stress, family conflict and body image – also suggest young people are facing increased challenges as they make the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
“We’ve also taken the opportunity to refresh the survey – now in its 11th year – and make it more relevant than ever.
“In addition to the questions we’ve asked every survey, this year we’re also asking young Territorians for their thoughts on their financial situation, family connectedness, neighbourhood safety and health,” said Mr Leslie.
Mission Australia’s 2012 Youth Survey can be completed online: www.mayouthsurvey.com.au.
The survey closes on Friday, 27 July with the results to be published later this year.
Monday, June 04, 2012
ZUCCOLI - master planned community goes on sale
The first release of land in the new suburb of Zuccoli will be made available to the market this week.
The land forms part of a new master planned suburb in Palmerston that will eventually contain over 2,300 dwellings for more than 6,000 Territorians.
Stage 1 of the suburb, to be developed by Urbex in partnership with the Northern Territory Government’s Land Development Corporation, is on track to deliver more housing as the Territory prepares for an increase in demand as a result of recently announced major projects.
Urbex Project Director Andrew Bartington said that over 100 registrations of interest in the land had already been received to date.
“Zuccoli lots will enable Territorians to choose from a variety of housing options, from acreage lots through to duplexes, and unit style developments.
“We will encourage purchasers to choose designs that are energy efficient, considerate of the topography and the natural aspect Zuccoli offers,” he said.
More than 30 per cent of the first stage of Zuccoli will be dedicated to parks and conservation.
Boardwalks and cycle paths will traverse the native bushland and Mitchell Creek that fringe the suburb.
Zuccoli will be well serviced with public transport and education facilities, including the recently opened Mackillop Catholic College, and includes plans for a village centre and commercial hub.
“We invite Territorians to be part of the village life,” Mr Bartington said.
Zuccoli is located to the south of Lambrick Avenue between the Stuart Highway and Mitchell Creek.
Residents looking to buy land in Zuccoli can visit Urbex Realty, Sales and Information Centre at 18 Cavenagh Street, Darwin.
For further information visit www.zuccolivillage.com.au or call Janzey Pratt on 1300 662 746.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
AAco to proceed with acquisition of land for Darwin Meat Processing Facility
AAco has decided to proceed with the acquisition of the site at Livingstone Farm for a price of $13.275 million, subject to satisfaction of conditions precedent with settlement expected to occur by late June 2012. The Company is confident that outstanding conditions precedents will be satisfied shortly and then the contract can proceed to completion.
In May 2012, AAco announced that it had received an Exceptional Development Permit (EDP) approving the development of an abattoir south of Darwin. The approval contains 5 conditions precedent that must be met to enable the development to proceed. The Company has satisfied itself that these EDP conditions precedent have either been met or are capable of being met as part of the final development and approval processes.
The Livingstone site is approximately 600ha in size, of which approximately 14ha will be occupied by the abattoir. The balance of the site will comprise irrigation zones, natural wetlands, ponds and other areas providing facility and amenity to the site. The additional land purchased will ensure a sufficient buffer zone between the abattoir and adjoining areas.
CEO of AAco, Mr David Farley, said: “The project fundamentals around a processing plant in the Northern Territory are compelling, and will secure the long term future of Australia’s northern pastoral industry.”
“The economic benefits extend well beyond northern Australia and we believe will also have substantial positive flow on effects for our northern neighbours,” Mr Farley said.
Subject to final project endorsement by the AAco Board to proceed with the development, the proposed Darwin Meat Processing Facility will be developed at a total estimated capital cost of circa $83 million (including land). This plant will be built as a Hot Boning plant with flexibility to incorporate chillers when required, and a design capacity of up to 225,000 head pa. It is proposed that the plant will process circa 180,000 head pa once full production levels commence.
The project is forecast to meet return criteria established by the AAco Board. The Board will review the final tendered delivery costs prior to construction commencing to ensure these benchmarks are achievable.
While AAco is prepared to invest 100% of the required capital, the Company will seek investment partners in the facility and will hold a minimum of 50% of the equity in the company developing the Darwin Meat Processing Facility, “Northern Australian Beef Limited”, which is currently a wholly owned subsidiary of AAco.
The new facility will be state‐of‐the‐art and when operational, will have the capacity to process up to 1,000 head per day at full production, create up to 260 full time jobs including substantial new opportunities for indigenous and female workers in the region. It will be efficient from a carbon emissions standpoint, and improve animal welfare outcomes.
Mr David Farley said, “A possible move by AAco into meat processing is a natural next step in vertical integration, particularly given our proximity to the growing Asian markets and the quality of our end product.”
*ends*
http://www.aaco.com.au/_upload/20120530121841859.pdf
In May 2012, AAco announced that it had received an Exceptional Development Permit (EDP) approving the development of an abattoir south of Darwin. The approval contains 5 conditions precedent that must be met to enable the development to proceed. The Company has satisfied itself that these EDP conditions precedent have either been met or are capable of being met as part of the final development and approval processes.
The Livingstone site is approximately 600ha in size, of which approximately 14ha will be occupied by the abattoir. The balance of the site will comprise irrigation zones, natural wetlands, ponds and other areas providing facility and amenity to the site. The additional land purchased will ensure a sufficient buffer zone between the abattoir and adjoining areas.
CEO of AAco, Mr David Farley, said: “The project fundamentals around a processing plant in the Northern Territory are compelling, and will secure the long term future of Australia’s northern pastoral industry.”
“The economic benefits extend well beyond northern Australia and we believe will also have substantial positive flow on effects for our northern neighbours,” Mr Farley said.
Subject to final project endorsement by the AAco Board to proceed with the development, the proposed Darwin Meat Processing Facility will be developed at a total estimated capital cost of circa $83 million (including land). This plant will be built as a Hot Boning plant with flexibility to incorporate chillers when required, and a design capacity of up to 225,000 head pa. It is proposed that the plant will process circa 180,000 head pa once full production levels commence.
The project is forecast to meet return criteria established by the AAco Board. The Board will review the final tendered delivery costs prior to construction commencing to ensure these benchmarks are achievable.
While AAco is prepared to invest 100% of the required capital, the Company will seek investment partners in the facility and will hold a minimum of 50% of the equity in the company developing the Darwin Meat Processing Facility, “Northern Australian Beef Limited”, which is currently a wholly owned subsidiary of AAco.
The new facility will be state‐of‐the‐art and when operational, will have the capacity to process up to 1,000 head per day at full production, create up to 260 full time jobs including substantial new opportunities for indigenous and female workers in the region. It will be efficient from a carbon emissions standpoint, and improve animal welfare outcomes.
Mr David Farley said, “A possible move by AAco into meat processing is a natural next step in vertical integration, particularly given our proximity to the growing Asian markets and the quality of our end product.”
*ends*
http://www.aaco.com.au/_upload/20120530121841859.pdf
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Dundee gets behind cancer research
The small community of Dundee has got behind Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, raising more than $700 for cancer research and support.
The community raised almost $2 per local resident – if their efforts were repeated across Australia that would equate to around $44 million for this great cause.
The Biggest Morning Tea was held at Dundee Beach Markets today with freshly baked cakes and slices from local cooks.
Organiser Tracy Jones said it was a great effort from such a small community.
“Our community really got behind the cause to support cancer research and services,” she said.
“It was a mammoth effort and a real testament to what individuals can do when we get together.
“Virtually every one of us has been touched by cancer at some stage and Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea gives us all an opportunity to say thanks to those who have been there for us when one of our own family or friends has been affected by this terrible disease.”
Australia’s Biggest Morning tea is an annual event and the community of Dundee is already planning its event or next year.
“We’ve had great support from local businesses, including the Lodge of Dundee, Dundee Boat Hire and the Dundee Beach Tractor Pull,” Tracy said.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Vista Gold Corp. reports drilling and test results for historic heap leach pad at Mt. Todd
Denver, Colorado, May 16, 2012 - Vista Gold Corp. (TSX & NYSE MKT: VGZ) (“Vista” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the initial results of a sampling and metallurgical testing program on the existing heap leach pad at its Mt. Todd gold project in Northern Territory, Australia.
To date, the existing heap leach pad has been considered an environmental liability; however, as part of the ongoing feasibility study, Vista completed a review of the historic blast hole and production data associated with the heap leach pad and concluded that there may be potential to recover additional gold from the existing heap leach pad.
Fred Earnest, Vista’s President & CEO, stated “the drilling and subsequent bottle roll test results from the existing Mt. Todd heap leach pad are causing us to consider some new aspects of the Mt. Todd gold project.
The potential to convert what we had previously considered to be a brownfield site liability to a potential revenue generating component of the project could represent a potentially significant source of additional value.
We are in the process of evaluating the potentially favorable implications and timing of gold production from the existing heap leach pad and believe that the heap leach pad should be incorporated into the definitive Mt. Todd feasibility study. We are currently evaluating the impact this may have on our current feasibility study.”
http://www.mttodd.com.au/news
To date, the existing heap leach pad has been considered an environmental liability; however, as part of the ongoing feasibility study, Vista completed a review of the historic blast hole and production data associated with the heap leach pad and concluded that there may be potential to recover additional gold from the existing heap leach pad.
Fred Earnest, Vista’s President & CEO, stated “the drilling and subsequent bottle roll test results from the existing Mt. Todd heap leach pad are causing us to consider some new aspects of the Mt. Todd gold project.
The potential to convert what we had previously considered to be a brownfield site liability to a potential revenue generating component of the project could represent a potentially significant source of additional value.
We are in the process of evaluating the potentially favorable implications and timing of gold production from the existing heap leach pad and believe that the heap leach pad should be incorporated into the definitive Mt. Todd feasibility study. We are currently evaluating the impact this may have on our current feasibility study.”
http://www.mttodd.com.au/news
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