UNCLE VINCE ROSS, the Australia Territory’s most recent Order of the Founder recipient, gives his thoughts on the Voice to Parliament referendum It’s amazing what people don’t appear to understand about the true history of this country we call Australia. Through this idea of the Voice to Parliament, I hope we will all start to understand this history and how it confirms the need for an official First Nations voice to be heard in government and beyond. I believe that the Voice to Parliament will amplify the First Nations’ perspective a lot better than it’s ever been in the past and even at present. So, whatever we can do to make that voice louder, stronger, and valued within government and the wider community is what’s really needed for us as a nation. Sad to say, one of the reasons for this need for the Voice is that we have people who seem to complicate the telling of our true history. It is this attitude during the past, and even now, that has been the very thing that has dampened any thought of Aboriginal people striving to be self-determining and self-managing. The only way to correct this situation is through legal and government processes of the day. Surely, we would want to find ways to build this country together rather than pull it down and pull people apart. However, regretfully, it is pulling us apart, which has been happening for many years in Australia. So, a question constantly before us all is, what is our response to find an effective way for the First Nations people to have a Voice and a Treaty that will provide the right pathway for the mob? A way has been found, and failing to secure a Voice and a Treaty will mean Australia continues to have a system that keeps supplying Band-aids to Aboriginal communities – ineffective solutions for the needs and issues. I fail to get my mind around why people struggle with what, to me, is a simple solution to this issue. We need this so we, as the human race in Australia, can move forward positively. Meaningful conversations One of the important methods to help us find solutions around issues regarding the Voice and Treaty is the need for meaningful conversations. We First Nations people know how yarning has helped us to listen well to each other for thousands of years and then decide from a much more informed knowledge base. May we as a nation get involved in deep and effective yarning. As individuals, what role can each of us play in encouraging the ‘voice’ of all Aboriginal people to be heard and acted on so that First Nations people and this nation can positively move forward together? We have seen that the action of having a referendum regarding a Voice to Parliament is causing some grief among the wider community, and some are saying this has the potential to split Aboriginal communities. I don’t have that same view because, in the past, we have experienced much change in our mob through a significant shift in the political and community decisions, but we are still trying to work together. I’ve seen development with our people in many areas during those years. I believe, out of this situation, the Voice will allow us further opportunities to address the real issues as we sit together and give enough time to find solutions. When thinking about the outcome, whether the Voice gets up or not, there needs to be a positive conversation and be culturally sensitive during the process. This nation will continue to struggle unless that positive conversation takes place – respecting each other’s comments and perspectives. Moving forward together I’ve said it before and will say it again: this nation will never reach its fullest potential until it faces its true history and decides to move forward together with that knowledge. Yes, the Voice is an important step in our history, but the most important thing is what we do on the journey to that place of allowing the Voice to be strong and proud. A positive yarning journey is the key where we all feel and believe we have been heard and we’ve heard the other side as well. Already, we are seeing significant changes in community attitudes, and the important thing is for people to get involved and contribute to it. “I believe that by being at the same table as the decision-makers, we will provide a balance and understanding of what is required for the First Nation peoples.” An important thing to remember is there will be those who will want to find a better pathway for Indigenous people to travel. A question to be asked is: What part do you contribute that will assist the government in understanding the real issues that impact Aboriginal people? Looking at our past experiences, we Aboriginal people say there’s been no real action towards rectifying what the needs are within the community and that now the community has this opportunity. We understand what some community members are concerned about – the Voice just becoming another section of the government that becomes paralysed with policies that appear to go around in circles without any real positive outcomes. I disagree with this view. I believe that by being at the same table as the decision-makers, we will provide a balance and understanding of what is required for the First Nation peoples. As this happens, it will enable all cultures in Australia to have more understanding and collaboration. Benefit to all My experience over many years growing up on an Aboriginal reserve and facing all the negative policies was that the gap continued to widen between all the groups, and there has been very little advancement for Aboriginal communities. The question is asked: Why do you want to have a Voice to Parliament when you already have Aboriginal people within government? While this is a helpful question, it forgets that any member of a party in parliament must abide by the majority decision of that party. And there are big divisions between Liberal, Labor and Greens and all the rest of the parliamentary ‘mob’, but they appear to be more focused on the political arena. We need a robust Aboriginal voice that bypasses all the politics behind the various policies and considers what the mob are saying, allowing the government to work through First Nations issues. When we have a Voice and Treaty, I’m confident that only then can we move forward into a positive partnership with the government to change the way of understanding and provide effective programs that work for the Aboriginal communities. And all Australians will experience a benefit. Attitudes are changing, and the need for people to spend some time yarning so a strong voice can be formed is vital. Yarning will start to open up ways for this nation to recognise its potential when all of us are building together. Let’s focus on the positives more than the negatives and realise what resources we have to create a new way forward for this country. Truth is the key In the Bible, Paul writes about the truth that ‘sets us free’. He is, of course, referring to Jesus as the ‘Truth’, but, as I said near the beginning of this article, Australians must know the truth of our history, then sit together, face the truth and be prepared with that truth to move forward. So, when this yarning and questioning happens, there is an opportunity to connect in a way that allows each person to express their concerns – allow time – and maybe even let the conversation be put on hold until it feels right to return to further helpful comments. Aboriginal people are committed to adding positive support to our country and moving our people away from that welfare mentality to a position of self-management and self-control. Please let us help the government make it happen through an official information-sharing process. The Voice to Parliament is not only something essential in the political arena but also something special for this nation. It will give confidence to First Nations people that their voice is heard and taken seriously and that we have a special place within government as the First Nation people of this country. Finally, I believe we are in a position where positive change can occur and that positive change rests with all of us as we understand our history. This will help us as a nation to not look back but help us to look forward to what’s possible and what can be achieved. I fully endorse the Voice to Parliament, and I do that with a strong sense that change is possible for First Nations people as we listen, and when together, we are all willing to advance the cause. Committed to the struggle. Vince Ross Elder Madi-Madi/Wamba-Wamba Need some answers? To go to Voice FAQs, click here

Today is World Teachers Day (5 October)*. In Adelaide, the Salvos’ Revolution Church has honoured the teachers in their community with an initiative called ‘Stock the Staff Room’ BY ANTHONY CASTLE Adelaide’s Suzie Casey is the pastoral care worker at a local school and a volunteer at the Salvos Revolution Church. Suzie recently put together a package for teachers in what’s called a ‘Stock the Staff Room’ initiative, a gift to cheer on those who often don’t get recognised. “We had been thinking about what it’s like for teachers, with everything they do,” Suzie says. “We thought we should put together a gift but something they could use that showed them we were thinking of them and wanted to cheer them on at this point in the year. Our church has a heart for the young people in our community. In order to see young people thrive, we figure teachers need to feel empowered and supported in their roles.” The third term of the school year is one often filled with winter illnesses, tired students, and the stress of exams just around the corner. Even in primary schools, kids can be in need of a holiday, and pressures can build up at home leading to what is sometimes a breaking point for students, teachers, and families. “I know what it’s like for teachers and how things can be this time of year,” says Suzie. “When we value schools and the tireless work they do with our kids, perhaps we give them a little boost to keep going. “The gift was simple, snacks and treats, food that might make the day easier and easy meals, like noodles or tuna. There are teachers out there that do longer hours than people think, who might not have meals ready all the time.” The Stock the Staff Room project isn’t just a handout of chocolate and crisps but a way for the church to “bless the stressed” teachers as they approach the end of the school year. The gift highlighted how great the need can be when it went so quickly. “We actually thought ‘wouldn’t it be great to stock the pantry for them’, but it was gone in a day or so,” Suzie explains. “We imagined it might be something they could go to when they need it, but people really appreciated it. “At first, I was a bit surprised, but I heard all the feedback from the teachers about how great it was. There was a sense of gratitude. While the gift itself is somewhat insignificant, the fact that staff have been thought of and that that thought has then been acted upon, is not insignificant.” *Due to school holidays, World Teachers Day is celebrated in Australia on the last Friday of October each year.

To read Bronwyn’s tribute report, click here

“We thank God for the many blessings received during the 140-year celebration Congress in the Southern Africa Territory,” wrote General Lyndon Buckingham on his Facebook page. “We pray for the leadership, officers and soldiers as they embark on their strategic plan 'moving forward together, side by side'. God bless the Southern Africa Territory.” The international leaders of The Salvation Army – General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) – were the guests of honour at the celebration of 140 years of The Salvation Army’s presence in South Africa on 22-24 September. This event included the Congress, an officers council, outreach events and meeting local dignitaries. The General and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham also received the ‘Torch of Divine Power’ during their visit. As part of the anniversary celebrations, each of the eight divisions of the territory lit a torch as a symbol of reigniting the fiery passion shared by those who began the Army in the territory 140 years ago. The eight divisions came together at the Congress with their unique flames to light one torch. Throughout the Congress meetings, the international guests were supported by the Southern Africa territorial leaders, Commissioners Torben and Deise Eliasen. More than 4000 participants represented all nine provinces in South Africa, as well as Swaziland, Lesotho, Namibia and the Island of Saint Helena. An all-female band led the festivities, with a youth band and other songsters and worship groups contributing. Salvationists also engaged in outreach initiatives, including open-air events, street ministry activities and a meal and food parcels for needy families, which created opportunities to share Jesus with local people in both Durban and Pietermaritzburg (100km to the north-west). “These efforts expressed The Salvation Army's commitment to alleviating the struggles of the communities they serve in Southern Africa,” the General said. The international leaders joined a Salvation Army delegation at Pietermaritzburg City Hall to meet with and pray for the mayor and social development officials to support local networks in a shared commitment to addressing social issues and fostering positive change in communities. In the Southern Africa Territory today, there are nearly 250 corps and outposts in South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, the Island of St Helena and Swaziland where the Christian message is preached in 10 languages.

The Equip Sydney youth camp brought together passionate young Salvos at Collaroy for an empowering and transformative experience from Monday to Friday 25-29 September. More than just a camp, Equip is a platform for nurturing and developing the talents and passions of Salvo youth, with the goal of empowering them to make a positive impact on their communities. Throughout the week, participants had the opportunity to explore a wide range of skills and interests. From kids ministry to construction, and even dance, there was something for everyone. Stream options offered an even deeper dive into personal growth and development. The program included Youth Alpha, Positive Lifestyle Program, leadership training, social justice discussions, faith exploration and even True Grit challenges. For those facing the HSC, there was also dedicated study support. Equip Sydney didn’t stop at youth but also offered an emerging adults component designed to inspire and equip participants at this unique stage of life. “Equip is a camp focused on empowering young people in their gifts and talents so they can impact their communities! We believe every young person is accepted, valued and has something to contribute.” – Anthony Castle

Papua New Guinea hosts women’s weekend Australian officers Colonel Wendy Walters and Major Vanessa Evans joined about 2000 women from the Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Territory (PNGSI) for the Women of Worth (WOW) weekend in the coastal town of Lae. Under the theme ‘Regeneration – transformed in his image’, the women, many of whom had travelled for days by foot, boat, dinghy, truck or bus, were ready to praise God, experience the power of the Holy Spirit and be an active part of a God-glorifying weekend. “Lives have been transformed and renewed through the Word,” said Colonel Tilitah Goa, PNGSI Territorial President of Women's Ministries. Colonel Wendy Walters, Head of Officer Personnel for The Salvation Army Australia and guest speaker for the weekend, shared a message with the women gathered. “Colonel Wendy shared a challenging message based on the Bible scripture 2 Corinthians 3:18,” said Colonel Tilitah. “She spoke about being committed and connected to the word of God in order for transformation to take place in each of our lives. As worship and prayer poured out from the altar, more than 70 women moved forward to the mercy seat on the first night, and 90 per cent of all gathered came forward during the final worship time. We give glory to God for all that has happened,” said Colonel Tilitah. Major Vanessa Evans, Solomon Islands District Director of Women’s Ministries in the PNGSI Territory, led a prayer meeting, after which the women had time for personal reflection and group prayer. During the weekend, deep personal testimonies were shared by women from each division and district of the territory, as well as their enthusiastic ‘war crys’, spontaneous prayer and heartfelt worship. Rich fellowship was also part of the weekend, as the women stayed in dormitories together or camped in tents adjacent to the dormitories. “WOW – these beautiful women of God in PNGSI know how to worship!” said Colonel Wendy. “I loved being with them for this weekend and feel incredibly blessed and privileged to have shared the Word with them this weekend. “There is no better way to conclude these days than singing ‘Move over me, Holy Spirit, move over me’. God bless The Salvation Army in PNGSI, and God bless all the beautiful Meris (women) as they make their way home.” UK senior citizen cycles for the Salvos Peter Langford, a 90-year-old retired vicar from Beccles in Suffolk, UK, last month became the oldest person to cycle the length of Britain to raise money for the homelessness services of both The Salvation Army and Access Community Trust. Peter rode the 1770km from Land’s End to John O’Groats in just under one month. He is passionate about The Salvation Army’s work to tackle homelessness. “I am aware of my good fortune in having a home to live in,” he said. “It makes me very aware of people who are homeless, and I pray for them almost every day … The Salvation Army has a long record of helping people who are homeless, and I have always had admiration for them.” The self-funded trip was Peter’s fourth over this challenging route. He’s already raised nearly £60,000 (AUD$113,000), including from the rides he completed at the ages of 75, 80 and 85. "I look back and think, ‘How did I manage some of those hills?’ he said, adding he would not attempt it at 95. Angela Carlucci, Salvation Army Community and Events Team Manager, paid tribute to Peter and said the money he raised would make a significant difference in people’s lives. “The pandemic and cost of living crisis has led to an increase in homelessness and many charities are struggling to meet demand,” she said. “The selfless acts of people like Peter are vital to The Salvation Army – we were cheering him on all the way.” Football partnership boosts health of the homeless The Salvation Army in the UK has partnered with the Guardiola Sala Foundation for a fourth year in a row for its annual football Partnership Trophy. “This is the 12th tournament in which 30 teams of residents from our Lifehouses (hostels) participate in a five-a-side football tournament hosted by Goals in Manchester,” said Nathan Slinn, assistant director of The Salvation Army Homelessness Services Department. “This tournament is so important in helping Lifehouse residents celebrate everything they have overcome and helps boost their confidence and mental health. “We’d like to say a big thank-you to the Guardiola Sala Foundation who generously provided custom-designed t-shirts for all players, as well as caps, footballs and reusable water bottles. They also arranged for a surprise visit from Manchester City player John Stones to the delight of everyone present.” Peter Shilton OBE, one of England’s most successful goalkeepers, also attended the event and held a Q&A session with Lifehouse residents during their lunch break. “Our annual Partnership Trophy celebrates everyone within our homelessness services, recognising the challenges and trauma that many people have overcome, and acknowledging the journey that they are on to be the best version of themselves,” said Nathan. “Sport is an excellent activity to boost both mental and physical health, build on social skills and make friendships. There are often very complex reasons that people find themselves homeless and this tournament reinforces our ethos that our services provide so much more than just a roof; we’re committed to ending the cycle of homelessness– and this is what this event is all about.”

By PHIL INGLIS In the middle of 2018, I had the privilege to be seconded to The Salvation Army Australia One Project team as a frontline liaison. For a very short time, I had a front-row seat to one of the largest not-for-profit mergers in Australia. In December, it was then announced that the wedding of The Salvation Army Southern Territory and Eastern Territory was now complete. But like every wedding, it just marks the beginning, the true challenge of the merger now began. Thousands of staff using hundreds of different systems, guided by dozens of different policies within two very distinct cultures, began to come together. To say that it has been chaotic is an understatement. Then, into this already challenging environment, a virus broke out that turned the world on its head. So, we have wrestled with this coming together through lockdown, illness, Zoom meetings, appointment changes, daily health briefings, dwindling attendance numbers, increased support requests and a lot of uncertainty. Over the past few months, I have been reading How To Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going, by Susan Beaumont. Published in 2019, I don’t think a better book could have been published at a better time to better address our current reality. Beaumont labels a state such as ours as a ‘liminal’ space, an in-between space, it exists between the old and the new. We have left the old but, in many areas, yet to see what the ‘new’ might look like. This liminal space is usually accompanied by worry, anxiety, confusion, and a certain ‘directionlessness’ (not sure this is a word, but I like it). As Beaumont fleshes out this concept in her book, she gives solid advice on specific practices and disciplines we can focus on as Salvationists at this time – practices of meditation, prayer and corporate discernment. I have taken months (so far) to read this book because I have found myself re-reading it over and over again as I encounter new stories of people wrestling in this space. I encourage everyone to get a hold of it and read it – and find in it hope for your family, your church and your Salvation Army. Leadership Podcast Series Major Bryce Davies has recorded a special 7-part podcast series with Commissioner Miriam Gluyas and Colonel Winsome Merrett, with each episode delving into the topics covered in the book How to Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going.​​ For more information on the podcast series, click here

Over the past five years, The Salvation Army has prioritised collaboration between our mission expressions to coordinate a more holistic approach – through Local Mission Delivery. Launceston Salvos is one such example of how successfully our different mission expressions are collaborating to meet community needs and create faith pathways. Our leaders – Chief Secretary Colonel Winsome Merrett and Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas – have shared a message of gratitude and recognition for the work all teams continue to do to better serve and transform lives with the love of Jesus.

BY CLIFF WORTHING ‘Thanking God for the Past – Looking to the Future’ was the theme for the Preston Citadel Band Centenary Celebration in Melbourne. “In a jubilant celebration of faith and musical devotion, the Preston Citadel Band marked its centenary with a breathtaking concert that resonated through time and hearts,” said Major Mim Adams, Preston Corps Officer. “This momentous occasion brought together a century’s worth of dedication, service, talent and Christian fellowship.” The celebrations included three events and plenty of time for social interaction, reminiscing and reconnection for those who returned to Preston Corps for the celebration. Events were live-streamed throughout Australia and overseas for those who couldn’t attend in person. Special guests for the weekend were previous corps officers Majors Graeme and (Dr) Christine Faragher and former bandmaster, composer Roger Trigg from the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. Christine reminded the audience that just as musicians use breath appropriately to play their instruments, Christians need to share their faith by breathing in and out God’s love. The band, under the leadership of Stuart Lees who spent months planning the centenary celebrations, played the world premiere of God of the Ages, specifically composed by Roger for the centenary. An afternoon of praise included an interview by Major Matt Reeve, Territorial Head of Mission, who grew up at Preston Corps and left for Officer Training College from there. He interviewed former bandmasters David Collett and Merv Collins. Merv’s book, A Band for All Seasons, was launched during the evening as a record of the band’s 100 years of service and ministry, including its history-making tours of Japan and Taiwan in the 1990s. Historical memorabilia showcased many aspects of the band’s mission throughout the past 100 years. “Preston Citadel Band’s centenary concert was not just a musical performance; it was a testament to the enduring power of faith and community,” Mim said. “The band members, past and present, came together in a heart-warming display of unity, reflecting the unchanging message of love and hope found in Christian teachings. Here’s to another century of faith-filled melodies!” A copy of Merv Collins’ book, A Band for All Seasons, is available by emailing pcbcentenary@gmail.com for a copy to be posted anywhere in Australia for $40. A review of the book can be viewed by clicking here

BY ANTHONY CASTLE The Revolution Youth program turns 20 this year. Based at Revolution Church in Oakden, South Australia, the program opens its doors each Friday night for young people. While Revolution Youth is now decades old, the way it works with young people has been consistent. “Things haven’t really changed that much,” explains Nathan Casey, former Revolution Youth Pastor and leader of Revolution Church. “We open up the space, hang out together, open the ‘Snack Shaq’. We do fun and games, and there’s worship and a message.” Known as ‘Rev’, few Salvo youth ministries have continued for so long in Australia. Launched in 2003 by former youth pastor Rowan Castle at Ingle Farm Salvos, Revolution Youth grew into a safe space and outreach initiative, transitioning to Nathan Casey’s leadership in 2008. Revolution Youth isn’t just a brand or a program but a community for those young people who need it most, offering ‘good news and good times’. “We have kids that come in from the surrounding areas,” Nathan says. “They might be experiencing real struggles with growing up or with family. So, we have fun, and lots of it can seem silly, but, really, we want them to feel like they’ve got somewhere they’re accepted and loved every week.” Revolution Youth connects with hundreds of different people across the year, with a weekly attendance of approximately 40 people. Many of the young people are from Youth Homelessness streams, as well as teenagers attending from the most disadvantaged local schools. The Salvation Army’s Social Justice Stocktake revealed people in the surrounding areas are most concerned about mental health, homelessness and housing affordability, social isolation and substance misuse. “Rev’s had a reputation among local services for being a safe space for young people,” Nathan explains. “We have leaders that have good connections with local schools and The Salvation Army’s youth accommodation houses as well. People know that kids can come our way and be safe.” Families in the area have reported feeling unable to always get the support they need, and a common theme is a feeling of disempowerment. While Revolution Youth has been an important space for young people, it’s also a community for those beyond their teenage years, with many young adults coming to find somewhere to belong and serve. “Rev was a place where I could reconnect with Jesus and faith,” explains Megan Elms, current Revolution Youth leader, alongside Sam Elms. “I came along years ago, and it was somewhere I could just be accepted for who I was. I hadn’t felt that in a long time, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.” Megan and Sam’s leadership came into play after a time of transition, including a change of location and the loss of a paid role. The shift posed challenges to Revolution Youth, highlighting the many reasons why youth ministries often struggle to function in the long term. “It was kind of like starting again,” explains Megan. “We knew we would have to rebuild some things, but we have a community of leadership we’ve developed for years, and we know what we’re about. Kids can come as they are, no matter who they are or what they’ve gone through.” While Revolution Youth may be getting older, it looks to continue for some time. New leaders are stepping into roles of responsibility, and younger kids continue to join the community. “We’re still going, and there’s been an impact over the years,” reflects Nathan. “It’s hard to say what you’ve helped young people avoid or cope with. What we see is that they’re here and keep coming back. It’s the Good News that they need.” With fun and games and a message of love, the key to getting older seems to be to remember who you are. And never grow up. *Revolution Youth is open to all young people (grade 6-12) on Fridays 7.30pm-9.30pm, 166 Fosters Rd, Oakden, South Australia

Trail running can lead to some unexpected destinations. As part of his weekly Wednesday trail-running group last week, Major Bryce Davies conducted the wedding of Enza and Pete – two fellow runners who had met in the group and fallen in love. “It was absolutely delightful,” said Bryce. “So much love, fun and genuine community, just wonderful!” Peter and Enza have been in running groups with Bryce for the past two years, including the Toohey’s Trot trail on which the wedding took place. This run is one of the tracks popular with some from the Brisbane Trail Runners Facebook group. “They are friends, and I know them well,” shared Bryce. “We share a love of running and have done several events together, such as half-marathons. We have dozens of mutual friends in these groups.” Enza and Pete also regularly support Bryce and Major Sue Davies (retired), when they lead and speak at the Salvos God’s Sports Arena in Brisbane and Caloundra, and at Brisbane Streetlevel Mission. Pete is a drummer and Enza has shared her story at Streetlevel. Bryce has now conducted three weddings with running friends over the past 12 months. “Enza shared with me well over a year ago that she and Peter were thinking of getting married,” shared Bryce. “She saw the weddings I did with Nicky and Cara, so she knew I could officiate. “She said wanted me to do the wedding because ‘You know me, and we understand each other’s worlds. I trust you and just know you would be a perfect fit for the sort of wedding we were wanting’. “To me, it’s a wonderful blessing that comes from being deeply engaged in local community.” – Simone Worthing

The Salvation Army in Port Augusta (SA) shared a slice of love on a prominent mental health day, giving community members the opportunity to have a chat and get anything off their chest. National R U OK? Day is an annual event held to raise awareness of suicide prevention through conversations and connectedness. On Thursday 14 September, The Salvation Army in Port Augusta hosted a morning tea and pizza lunch and gave participants the opportunity to air out their problems that may be weighing heavy on their minds. Jake Collins, the Homelessness Program Manager for Port Augusta, said it was a wonderful day for all involved. “Services came together to host community events to raise awareness for R U OK? Day,” he said. “The Salvation Army hosted a morning tea and pizza lunch donated by Dominoes Port Augusta. During the morning tea, participants were able to yarn about their experiences and strengthen their connection to the community. “Centacare also arranged an event at the yacht club and were supported by The Salvation Army, Headspace and Ignite Cheer and Dance. “There was badge-making, games, food and affirmation creation followed by a mindfulness activity led by Maddie from Centacare and overlooking the water. “Thanks to everyone who supported the events, and we hope to make it bigger and better next year as it is a really important issue.” If you are having suicidal thoughts, please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or calling Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others, seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000). An edited version of an article courtesy of The Transcontinental Port Augusta (author Matt Welch) Slideshow of photos: