Queensland State Council

State President & Delegate Mrs Marilyn Dunning Slade Point


State Caritas Delegate Mrs Mary de Vries, The Gap

This was the Banner presented by Members of the Yarrabah Branch "Setting Hearts on Fire - Hand in Hand" for the Queensland State Conference hosted at St. Charles, Mackay NQ May 30th - June 2nd 2008. Approximately 140 members from all over the State travelled for the 3 days of Conference. NQ held their annual conference on the Friday commencing with an Executive Meeting over a breakfast to die for at Don and Carolynn Ford's home at West Mackay.

North Queensland Annual General Meeting and Diocesan Council Meeting filled the first day before our visitors from the south arrived.

The conference invited Bronwyn Fryar of the Prayer and Spirituality Dept as Guest Speaker. Bronwyn, now living in Rockhampton, was delighted to renew old acquaintances from what was once her home. All 3 speakers were given free reign as to the subject matter, and all 3 chose Luke 24: 13-35. Carolynn Ford of the Education Dept presented much food for though as did Rev. Ian McAlister the Diocesan Development Officer for the NQ Diocese. Rev. Ian accompanied the Organist on his Flute and introduced a segment of Bible Study by singing a Blues number on his Guitar.

Time was well used with much discussion on the Parent Education Programme and seeking further applicants to train as Facilitators early next year. Carolynn urged members to look outside the square when seeking to serve through MU Australia. The Bookshop proved a popular attraction with our remote area members - when this is their only opportunity to browse.

The Northern Outreach Grant allowed North Queensland to assist with a portion of the expenses of the Torres Strait and other remote area members. Attending Conference from the Islands is an expensive exercise, having to board 3 planes to get to Mackay.

Next State Conference will be hosted by the Brisbane Diocese in 3 years time. The next North QUeensland Conference will be in Cairns but hosted by the Torres St. Region under the Leadership of Vice President Mrs. Gerti Levi - ably assisted by Peninsula and Northern Region.