I have met with all the new children to talk about how they are settling into St Thomas More’s. They are all doing so well coming to know their teachers and classmates and their new routines. Please know their classroom teachers and myself are committed to helping them feel they belong.

Thank you very much for your time in completing the St Thomas More’s DSM Support 2019 form as it assists me in understanding how best to support our Defence Families. If you have not had the chance to do so, I would really appreciate if you could complete and return this form.

3/4 Green were the first class to partake in Monday Craft and were busy beaders making key rings, bracelets and necklaces. 5/6 Green were excellent in their first Relaxation Session of the year. Both Monday Craft and Relaxation Sessions occur on a class rotation basis throughout the term and are voluntary. Relaxation sessions help children build resilience and coping skills using techniques of deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and imagery.

There is an Education Assistance Scheme available to Defence students who have moved interstate to Canberra due to posting (applicable for up to 18 months after moving) who need help with curriculum. Please contact me if you would like the relevant information and forms.

St Thomas More’s Community Breakfast

The St Thomas More’s Community Breakfast is this coming Friday, 22 February 2019 (Week 3). We welcome our new families into our school and it is an opportunity to catch up with children’s friend’s families and teachers. Details of the Community Breakfast are under School Chaplain/Mini Vinnies News.

Defence Community Organisation (DCO) Canberra E-News February/March Highlights

Duntroon Community Centre (DCC)

DCC is for Defence and non-Defence families of the greater Canberra region. The centre has excellent facilities available for members. Programs include 3 year old Playschool (currently accepting enrolments), playgroups, community events, craft groups, short courses and social activities. Upcoming First Aid Training is offered to both members and non-members Saturday, 23 March 9am – 3pm. The centre also loan ski outfits and cake tins to members.
Contact details:

Website  https://www.duntrooncommunitycentre.org.au/ 

Phone   6265 9411

Email  admin@duntrooncommunitycentre.org.au

Address  Gymkhana Road, Duntroon PO Box 7915 Canberra BC ACT 2610

Hours  Mon–Fri  9am-2.30pm

Kookaburra Kids

Kookaburra Kids Foundation run a program for Defence kids aged 8–18 years who have a parent with a mental illness as a result of their military service (serving and ex-serving or spouse). Their Activity Days provide children with an opportunity to participate in activities, meet new friends, learn new skills and have fun. Upcoming Activity Days are planned for 22 February, 27 March and in the April School Holidays. For more information see www.kookaburrakids.org.au . To register, contact Nicola Scully on 6109 0408 or nicola.scully@kookaburrakids.org.au.

Open Arms (previously VVCS)

The calendar for programs provided by Open Arms for the first half of 2019 has been released. The programs focus on veteran issues and aim to improve general mental health and wellbeing. See https://www.openarms.gov.au/get-support/group-programs .

What  Walk Off the War Within is a community event to raise awareness and support for members in Emergency Services and Defence Force who may be struggling with PTSD, mental health issues and suicide awareness. Distance of 5, 10, 15 or 20 kms with or without a 20kg pack.

When  Saturday, 23 March 7.30am

Where  Start  Lake Burley Griffin, next to Patrick Whit Lawns (near the flags)

Info Event is free, however, there is the option of making a donation at time of registration which will go towards Lifeline, Soldier On & Black Dog Institute. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/walking-offthe-war-within-2019-canberra-tickets-51955141226  More information for the walks can be found at https://walkoffww.com/

DCO Canberra E-news is promulgated monthly via email. It includes handy information such as upcoming events, contact details for social groups and links to DCO resources. If you wish to be on the E-News mail out list, send a request to dco.canberra@defence.gov.au . Alternatively, ‘like’ the DCO Facebook Page to receive information and updates.

Feel welcome to visit or contact me on 6249 8869 or send an email to sonja.mingay@cg.catholic.edu.au .

Sonja Mingay DSM
Work hours: Mon-Wed 9am-3pm, Thu 9-11am