This years theme “Encouraging Dreams” was built on the last years Fashion Parade theme “Dream Big”. Thirty five children took part in the parade and a number also took part in the warm up circus act, organised by Sister Elizabeth and Louise Moriarty.
Leading by example, Mary accompanied Imogen Whyman, who dreams of being a singer, in a duet “The Climb”, originally sung by Miley Cyrus in the film ‘Hannah Montana’. The lyrics maintain that life is a journey which is difficult but rewarding and sometimes you will have a set back, but these do not stop you dreaming.
Mary said they tried to work in with Child Protection Week to strengthen the children’s knowledge of their right to be safe, no matter where they are. Mary is working on raising the awareness that the key word in the program is “RESPONSIBILITY”. Everyone is responsible for their own actions, no-one is being forced to hit another, or deprive them of a safe place to live.
There are also changes happening in the area of how women and children escape from family violence, with the idea that it is the one doing the harm should be the one to leave the family home.
Two new staff will begin work at the Wilcannia Safehouse during October.
Mary also told the paper that she has made connections with Shaunagh Scott, an Aboriginal Education Officer in Sydney who heard Mary speak at a conference. Shaunagh will work with the Central School and look at ways to give Wilcannia students a taste of city life.
See all the photos in the issue.
This article appeared in Wilcannia News, October 2024.