Oasis Youth Support Network

Christmas at Oasis sets an all time high for our young people!

Maria Ferreira — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:57:00 +1100

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Christmas at Oasis sets an all time high for our young people!

The Oasis Youth Support Network’s Crown Streetcentre was flooded with a sea of smiles last Friday the 16^th of December, as our on-site Christmas Party brought together clients, staff and supporters in one huge community celebration of holiday cheer.

With the Oasis car park transformed into an action-packed arena, passers-by could be forgiven for thinking a Christmas carnival had come to town; young and old lined up eagerly to wrestle in sumo suits, battle it out in a gladiator-style joust, tame the mechanical bucking reindeer and jump til their hearts’ content in the huge inflatable castle.

For those who were feeling less energetic, the education centre was converted into an awesome arcade, complete with a funky photo booth and Xbox games to keep entertainment levels at an all-time high.

Also hugely popular was the winter wonderland, where Santa and his elves listened patiently to an endless stream of boys and girls who came with their Christmas wish lists in hand and left with beautiful Santa photos as a precious keepsake.

For many of our young people, wishes were granted immediately, with a trip upstairs to Santa’s gift shop where the racks were overflowing with incredible clothes and accessories from General Pants – up for the taking.

To ensure nobody ran out of steam, the café team kept sausages and skewers sizzling for most of the day. Sweet tooths were also well catered for with an incredible range of tantalising treats including fairy floss, cupcakes, Krispy Kreme doughnuts, lolly stand and soft-serve ice-cream van courtesy of Virgin Mobile.

Those who weren’t occupied eating and playing took time out for well-deserved pampering, with a range of services on offer to suit every request including hairdressers, make-up artists, face-painting and temporary tattooing.

Festivities drew to a close in the afternoon with one final surprise; a huge distribution of Christmas gifts generously donated by businesses, which were happily handed out to our ecstatic (and somewhat tired) young people by the Oasis team.

All in all the day was a massive success and we’d like to send out a huge thank you to the incredible staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly.

We’d also like to spotlight the following companies, without whom this Christmas extravaganza would not have been possible;

Brilliant Logic	North Sydney Boys High School
Charter Hall	Westpac Banking Corporation
General Pants Co.	APRA
Pepper Home Loans	The Reach Foundation
Sydney Event Photography	Animal Logic
Virgin Active	Savills Australia
Virgin Atlantic	Mavi Jeans Australia
Virgin Money	FKP
Virgin Mobile	20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
Virgin Unite	Alexis & Rich Lovell

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2012 Oasis Event Calendar

Oasis Youth Support Network — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:36:00 +1100

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2012 Oasis Event Calendar

Be sure to save these dates for 2012!

2012_Oasis_Event_Calendar.pdf

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Cate Blanchett announces winners of THE OASIS HOMELESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION

Maria Ferreira — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:39:00 +1100

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Cate Blanchett announces winners of THE OASIS HOMELESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION

Dozens of young Australians from across the country have participated in the inaugural THE OASIS HOMELESSNESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION with Cate Blanchett, Patron of the competition, today announcing the winners at SydneyTheatre.

To view all the finalist films, click HERE

THE OASIS HOMELESSNESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION is a national competition for secondary school students and part of an on-going philanthropic initiative to raise awareness about homelessness in our community. Ms Blanchett has been a long-term support of this cause.

Ms Blanchett, Co Artistic Director of Sydney Theatre Company, who was a member of the judging panel, announced that Queensland secondary student, Warrick Beanland, from Harristown State High School student, has won first prize for his film Homeless.

Shark Island Productions provided a total prize of $25,000 for the competition with $7000 awarded to Harristown State High.

“Homeless is a highly original and beautifully made film which displays compassion and insight into issues surrounding youth homeless. My congratulations to Warrick and all the finalists for their outstanding efforts,” Ms Blanchett said.

Ms Blanchett also announced two second prize winners: the film Somebody’s Child, made by students from Sydney’s International Grammar Schooland ReachOut, made by Nhulunbuy High School in the Northern Territory. Both schools will receive $2000 each.

The judging panel for the film competition was Co Artistic Director of Sydney Theatre Company, Cate Blanchett, Chairman of The Caledonia Foundation and AFI-Award winning documentary filmmaker Ian Darling, Oasis Schools Liaison Officer and former Oasis client Bee Orsini, and Major Robbin Moulds, AM, Director of the Oasis Youth Support Network.

The OASIS initiative was launched in 2008 with the premiere of the AFI award-winning documentary THE OASIS on ABC1 and the release of a major report into youth homelessness in Australia, The National Youth Commission Report on Youth Homelessness, commissioned by The Caledonia Foundation.

“More than two years after the initial broadcast, we continue to measure the enduring impact of THE OASIS documentary. Supported by a comprehensive education and outreach campaign and withon-going community screenings, the film has helped ensure that youth homelessness remains on thenational agenda,” said Ian Darling.

“THE OASIS HOMELESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION a vital part of our strategy to engage young Australians in this important social justice issue, along with the THE OASIS Schools Curriculum Resource, which has been made available to every secondary school around Australia.”

For further details about THE OASIS: Homeless Short Film Competition and THE OASIS Schools Curriculum Resource – Youth Homelessness Matters, go to: www.theoasismovie.com.au

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Woolworths Carols in the Domain a glowing success

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:20:00 +1100

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Woolworths Carols in the Domain a glowing success

Whilst the candles from this year’s Woolworths Carols in the Domain concert may have all but burnt out, the glow of yet another incredibly successful fundraising event continues to warm the hearts of the Oasis team.

Brimming with Christmas spirit, our amazing Oasis volunteers and staff took to the carolling crowd at the Domain on Saturday the 17^th of December and sold over 9,000 candle bags, raising over $125,000 for our life changing programs!

“We were absolutely thrilled to be able to celebrate in this incredibly special night under the stars and would like to sincerely thank Woolworths Carols in the Domain and everyone who purchased the candle bags and helped make a meaningful contribution to our young people,” said Oasis Director Major Robbin Moulds AM.

One of the highlights for Oasis was having Bec and Faleh sing Amazing Grace and True Colours in front of a crowd of thousands in the afternoon’s entertainment line-up. Both gave a performance of a lifetime and wowed the audience with their incredible talent.

We’re so proud of you Bec and Faleh!

All funds collected from the sale of the candle bags will go directly to supporting the cutting edge programs we provide thousands of homeless young people every year.

We’d also like to send out a huge thank you to the following companies for generously offering up their amazing teams to the candle bag packing cause:

AXA

Bankwest

Buzz Numbers

CBA

Deloites

Ernst & Young

HSBC

Investa

Medibank

NAB

NRMA

Pepper Homeloans

PPG

PwC

Real Insurance

RBA

Virgin Active

VirginAtlantic

VirginMobile

Woolworths

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New Drive for Life program launches today

Maria Ferreira — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:46:00 +1100

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New Drive for Life program launches today

Obtaining a driver’s license is a monumental achievement in a young person’s life and here at Oasis we’re excited to announce a new partnership between ŠKODA and Carsguide.com.au, who have generously donated three new Yeti cars for our Drive for Life program.

Launched today, the Drive for Life program offers disadvantaged young people the opportunity to achieve the mandatory 120 hours necessary to obtain Red P’s in a safe and positive environment.

Director of the Oasis Youth Support Network, Major Robbin Moulds AM said, “For many young Australians, getting your drivers’ license is a rite of passage. However, the majority of young people who come to Oasis are without family support networks to teach them to drive, they do not have access to vehicles and cannot afford professional lessons to obtain their license.”

With more than 75 young people on Oasis’ driving waiting list, the generous donation of three dual control ŠKODA Yeti’s will make a significant difference, offering young people the chance to learn the skills necessary to drive safely, responsibly and defensively for life.

“Simply not having anyone to take me driving is what has stopped me from getting my license. I think the program is a great idea. It would really help me in my day to day life from doing things as simple as shopping to just getting around a lot easier” says Isabelle Sclippa, a young woman connected to Oasis’s Pathways employment program.

Drive for Life is a fantastic extension of Oasis’ Driving for Employment program - helping to close the gap of disadvantage for many young people by offering a wider range of education, training and vocational opportunities that will come through securing a driver’s license.

This program aims to expand nationally through the support of the Oasis Foundation.

The Drive For Life program is heavily dependent on many dedicated volunteer driving instructors who provide valued support, mentorship and time to help our young people complete their hours on a weekly basis.

Organisations and individuals interested in volunteering for the Drive for Life program can contact Oasis via oasisvolunteers@aue.salvationarmy.org or 02 9331 2266.

Visit the Drive for Life website HERE

For more information on ŠKODA, please visit HERE

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Natalie Imbruglia finds pearls at Oasis

Maria Ferreira — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:43:00 +1100

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Natalie Imbruglia finds pearls at Oasis

'Tis the season for giving and here at Oasis we’re thrilled to announce that this year Natalie Imbruglia and Kailis jewellery have teamed up to give our young people an incredibly special gift.

Available nationally from 1^st November 2011, the Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis jewellery collection is doubling the joy of giving this Christmas by donating a minimum of $30 from the sale of each exquisite piece to Oasis.

To view or purchase the Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis collection click HERE

Proudly co-designed by Natalie Imbruglia and Kailis Design Director Simon Henderson, the capsule collection of three silver pieces – necklace, bracelet and ring – features lustrous Keshi pearls set in sterling silver with Kailis' signature black diamond.

“The Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis collection is not simply about buying a piece of jewellery but contributing to someone’s life journey,” Sonia MacKay-Coghill, Kailis General Manager says. “In choosing a piece to wear or give, you are directly helping disadvantaged young people and introducing some joy into their world this Christmas.”

Oasis is incredibly grateful to have been named as the beneficiary of this beautiful collaboration and will be allocating all funds raised directly to the support of the Streetmedia program.

A vital training and development program, Streetmedia provides young people with a positive outlet for self-expression and an opportunity to understand and make sense of their story, through a variety of creative mediums.

"Through this fantastic partnership with Natalie and Kailis, we are absolutely thrilled to be able to provide more opportunities for our young people to develop their creativity and confidence through drama, dance, jewellery making, African drumming workshops and so much more," says Major Robbin Moulds, Director of the Oasis Youth Support Network.

Through the allocation of these funds to the Streetmedia program, Oasis will hope to support more young people as they work through their past to achieve their full potential.

In addition to the pearls, each piece also includes a shamrock – the traditional four-leaf clover symbol of luck and hope. And the necklace design bears Natalie Imbruglia’s personal mantra of “Breathe, Live, Love.”

Through the Streetmedia training program, Oasis plans to bring Natalie’s mantra to life, providing a safe and nurturing space for young people to find their unique voice, inspiration and self-belief.

And if all that news isn’t exciting enough, we have one more pearler for you - Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis is the most affordable collection from Kailis yet!

So this Christmas experience the joy of helping someone else - by literally giving a gift that keeps on giving.

Natalie Imbruglia has been a long-standing ambassador for Virgin Unite and with much interest and passion, continues to lend her support to the issue of youth homelessness in Australia.

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Candle bag packing has Oasis excited for Woolworths Carols in the Domain

Maria Ferreira — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:40:00 +1100

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Candle bag packing has Oasis excited for Woolworths Carols in the Domain

Thanks to the amazing support of the local community, we’re excited to announce that our candle bag packing production line is geared up and ready to go!

Over the four days our incredible volunteers will be stuffing close to 9,000 Christmas candle bags to overflowing, for sale at this year’s Woolworths Carols in the Domain concert on Saturday 17^th December.

“At this year’s Carols, we are inviting everyone to buy a Woolworths Carols in the Domain Candle Bag for $15.00, with all proceeds going directly to support the cutting edge programs we provide thousands of homeless young people every year,” said Oasis Director Major Robbin Moulds AM.

“Woolworths Carols in the Domain not only provides a great opportunity for families to come together to celebrate Christmas, but it also allows everyone to make a meaningful contribution to a homeless young person by way of supporting the life transforming services we offer at Oasis,” said Robbin.

On behalf of all of us here at Oasis we’d like to send out a massive thank you in advance, to all of our packing volunteers for literally lending us their hands!

We’d also like to spotlight the following companies for generously offering up their amazing teams to our candle bag packing cause:

AXA	Ernst & Young	Pepper Homeloans	VirginAtlantic
Bankwest	HSBC	PPG	VirginMobile
Buzz Numbers	Investa	PwC	Woolworths
CBA	Medibank	Real Insurance
Corporate Travel Management	NAB	RBA
Deloites	NRMA	Virgin Active

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The General Pants Co. bubble gets creative for Oasis

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:53:00 +1100

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The General Pants Co. bubble gets creative for Oasis

The team at Oasis are bubbling over in excitement with the announcement of the latest General Pants Co. bubble community challenge.

As of the 1^st of December, General Pants Co. have opened the creative flood gates of the bubble, calling on artists to dig deep this Christmas and create a piece of art that could be proudly hung on the walls of our Streetmedia centre!

The bubble was created in 2008 with the purpose of linking emerging artists with opportunities through a variety of challenges, and has since unearthed over 4,500 artworks from over 2,500 local and international talented artists.

To enter this challenge, artists must create an artwork that best reflects the mission statement of Oasis:

"The Oasis Youth Support Network provides a place of safety and care where, through compassion and skilful intervention, troubled young people find refuge and hope to achieve dreams and potential."

The four winning artworks will be printed onto canvas and displayed permanently within the Streetmedia centre, providing a beautiful source of inspiration for our young people.

So, without further ado; to all our budding and established graphic designers & artists – the General Pants Co. bubble community challenge is for you! We’d love to see YOUR masterpieces on OUR walls.

You have until 1 February, 2012 to get your entry in. Good luck!!!

For more details on how to enter click here

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Oasis celebration of Drug Action Week a success!

AUE Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:47:00 +1100

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Oasis celebration of Drug Action Week a success!

The Oasis Youth Support Network celebrated Drug Action Week to great success on Friday 24 June, offering disadvantaged youths ofSydneyfree activities, entertainment, workshops and a BBQ lunch cooked to perfection by Sydney Roosters players.

One of 750 registered events across the nation, the Oasis Drug Action Week celebrations kicked off at 10am with pumping music, huge jumping castle and information stalls on alcohol and other drugs.

While the line-up at the henna tattooist was seemingly unending, the African drumming workshop was a clear crowd pleaser.

“The highlight of the day for us was Ben from InRhythm who came and facilitated an African drumming workshop,” said Lara Oxman, an Oasis staff member, “It really inspired the young people and got everyone involved.”

Another key activity was the Spin the Drug and Alcohol Wheel, quizzing young people on facts surrounding alcohol and other drugs.

“There were certainly some surprised faces when we revealed the answers to the Spin the Drug and Alcohol Wheel,” said Jason Poutawa, an Oasis staff member, “We can definitely see the penny dropping for some of our kids which is a great thing.”

Beer Goggles were strapped on to many participants, with the challenge of dropping a ping pong ball into a cup holding a prize – generously donated by Joe from the Crown St Grocer.

The Aerosol Workshop provided space for young people to create their own pieces of spray-art under the professional guidance of Glenn Purcell.

Topping the day off was a visit from Roosters players Martin Kennedy and Steve Naughton, who met and mingled with the young people whilst cooking a mean BBQ for all involved.

In keeping with the Drug Action Week aim to promote awareness of alcohol and other drug awareness, participants who collected stamps from all stalls throughout the day received a complementary show bag from Drug Action Week.

The 2011 Drug Action Week was an initiative of the Alcohol and Other Drugs Council of Australia and was scheduled to take place in all States and Territories from Sunday 19 June, to Saturday 25 June 2011.

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Champions plant seeds of hope

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:47:00 +1100

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Champions plant seeds of hope

Seeds of hope are beginning to sprout at the Salvation Army’s Indigenous Ministries in North Ipswich thanks to the hard work of Oasis’ Champions, who all got their hands dirty building a community garden during a recent mission trip to Queensland.

“Champions” is a six month leadership program between Virgin Unite and Oasis, in which a number of inspiring young people connect with dedicated Virgin employees and form strong reciprocal bonds as they support each other through the lessons of life.

All members share the common goal of becoming articulate advocates against youth homelessness with the strong belief that anyone can make a success of their life if given the opportunity.

Whilst a large part of the program involves speaking engagements, Champion members are also committed to leading by example and undertook this mission trip as a means of turning words into action - through service to the community.

All alarm clocks were set for the crack of dawn last Friday morning to catch their 6am flight to Brisbane and by 8.30am they were already knee-deep in the red soil of the Indigenous Ministries gardens in Ipswich.

In addition to getting their hands dirty, our hard working Champions also generated the funds to build the community garden through the fundraising initiatives Make Over Your Mobile ($4,000) and Lycra Like Ya Care ($2,000).

Jason Poutawa (Head of the Oasis Friday Freeway Program) who took part in the trip noted that the building of a garden was not only practical, but also served a symbolic function for the community who had suffered much devastation as a result of the Queensland Floods.

“We wanted the garden to represent planting seeds of hope for the future of the community,” said Jason.

In addition to a vegetable and citrus garden, there was also a lot set aside as a memorial garden for people to come and plant a tree in the memory of loved ones who lost their lives.

The Champions barely had time to shake off the dirt before they were back on the bus to Brisbane for special dinner hosted by their Queensland counterparts.

All had the opportunity to reflect on the year that had been and discuss the incredible benefits of being part of this life changing program.

“There was an awesome sense of community and family which is a rare experience for many of our young people in the program,” said Jason. “It was like visiting cousins.”

Saturday was another big day for the family of Champions, although this time it was their turn to enjoy the fruits of their labour with a much deserved visit to Dreamworld.

The trip wrapped up on Sunday, with one last visit to Ipswich to share in a community lunch and take stock of the beautiful garden and celebrate an inspiring and successful weekend.

Sadly this marked the last official engagement for the 2011 Champions but we would like to take this opportunity to celebrate with them in all they have achieved over the past year and wish them the best of luck for the future.

Team Oasis

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Oasis says farewell to Jo Poynter

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:46:00 +1100

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Oasis says farewell to Jo Poynter

This week we celebrate one of Oasis’s unsung heroes, Jo Poynter. After founding and dedicating over 14 years of her life to running the Oasis Education Centre for Sydney’s homeless young people, Jo is sadly retiring.

A classically trained ballerina in her former life, Jo began volunteering at Oasis to help with administration in 1992. After constantly being asked by young people dropping into the office, to read aloud the information on forms or flyers, a brilliant idea was born.

In her own words, “I went to the head of Oasis and said, ‘If I go to uni and get a teaching degree, will you give me a school?’ He said yes,” says Jo.

Three years later Jo graduated from UTS with a degree in Adult Education and returned to Surry Hills to begin the Oasis Educational Centre. Jo taught basic numeracy and literacy, up to Year 11-equivalence, to any young person who simply wanted to learn.

The purpose of Oasis’ school is designed to offer a unique format of learning to young people who may have slipped through the cracks of ‘traditional’ education systems.

Providing a safe space to study, learning occurs at the student’s own pace and has the benefit of intensive one-on-one support from dedicated teachers like Jo.

Following the success of the Surry Hills school, Oasis saw the need to expand its tailored educational programs and case management model, to other areas ofSydney. In 2010, an Oasis Youth Connections school in Chatswood was launched and another school located in Ryde will be opening its doors in 2012.

When asked what one of her career highlights has been while at Oasis, Jo’s face lights up with a broad smile, “It’s seeing the aggression go out of a young person when they realise you are truly seeing them for who they are as a person inside – rather than the tough façade they project on the outside.

“Our teaching is very human, as teachers we have the same foibles as anyone else.” says Jo.

On behalf of the staff and young people at Oasis - we honour and thank you Jo for all that you have given to the Oasis Education Centre.

Your legacy goes beyond the walls of the school you founded, to the hundreds of young people who have benefited from your patience, warmth and wisdom.

You will be missed by all and we wish you every success and joy in your retirement.

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THE OASIS Homeless Short Film Comp - One Month To Go!

AUE Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:45:00 +1100

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THE OASIS Homeless Short Film Comp - One Month To Go!

With less than one month to go, entries are coming in fast and thick to THE OASIS: Homeless Short Film Competition!

Raising awareness and understanding about homelessness amongst secondary school students, THE OASIS: Homeless Short Film Competition is a national competition specifically designed to develop the capacities and knowledge of young Australians, growing them to become concerned, committed citizens and leaders of the future in social policy.

With prizes totalling more than $25,000, as well as fifteen 4GB Flip Mino Cameras for the top fifteen entries, secondary schools and students are encouraged to get on board now!

Students are asked to make a (no longer than three minute) film about any aspect(s) of homelessness; raising awareness, highlighting positive stories, inspiring action locally and nationally, and supporting existing services.

Schools from around the country are already submitting their short films and Oasis Schools Liaison Officer, Bee Orsini – herself formerly homeless - is travelling to other schools encouraging students and teachers to participate.

“Young people have the capacity to change our future to one in which no young Australian has to worry about where they will sleep at night. My job is to help young people see that they can make a difference,” says Bee.

With facts showing us that the incidence of youth homelessness has doubled in Australia over the last 20 years, with 32,000 young people under 25 defined as homeless (and when including children under 12, this number increases to around 44,500), the time to raise awareness is now.

THE OASIS initiative was launched in 2008 with the premiere of the AFI award-winning documentary THE OASIS on ABC Television and the release of a major report into youth homelessness in Australia, The National Youth Commission Report on Youth Homelessness, commissioned by The Caledonia Foundation. Under this, THE OASIS: Homeless Short Film Competition is part of an extensive education and outreach program which is central to a five-year philanthropic initiative tackling the growing incidence of youth homelessness in Australia.

Entries in THE OASIS: Homeless Short Film Competition must be in before 5pm on Friday September 16^th 2011, with winners announced in November 2011. Please visit THE OASIS website for further information.

Download The Oasis Homeless Short Film Competition flyer.jpg

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2011 Oasis Charity Media Auction - UPDATE

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:44:00 +1100

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2011 Oasis Charity Media Auction - UPDATE

Less than two weeks until the 2011 Oasis Charity Media Auction draws to a close, and the time is NOW to get yourself, your business, or your client, a brilliant deal from many of the country’s top television, radio, online and print media outlets.

With all funds raised from the media auction going directly to Oasis in Surry Hills, making a direct difference in the lives ofSydney’s homeless and disadvantaged youth, this is advertising with a feel-good twist.

Below are the current top bids – contact oasismediaauction@omd.com to place your bids NOW!

The 2011 Oasis Charity Media Auction closes at midnight Friday 19th August.

ITEM	PACKAGE DETAILS	TIMEFRAME	VALUE	TOP BID (incl GST)
SEVEN NETWORK	ROS package (0600-2400) across Seven, 7Two & 7Mate	12 months of purchase	$ 50,000	$ 11,000.00
NINE NETWORK	ROS package (0600-2400) across Nine, GO! & Gem	12 months of purchase	$ 30,000	$ 6,600.00
TEN NETWORK	ROS package (0600-2400) across Ten, ONE & Eleven	1st Aug 2011 - 1st Aug 2012	$ 25,000	$ 5,500.00
MCN	ROS package (0600-2400) across MCN properties	31st July 2011 - 31st July 2012	$ 25,000	$ 2,200.00
VAL MORGAN	National cinema package	Valid until 31st December 2011	$ 25,000	$ 5,500.00
DMG	ROS Sydney package - 30x30sec Nova, 20x30sec C'Rock	Valid until 31st July 2012	$ 20,000	$ 5,500.00
Triple M	ROS Monday - Sunday 0525-2400	1/8/2011 - 29/2/2012	$ 30,000	$ 8,250.00
ARN	ROS Sydney package - Mix, WSFM, The Edge	15th June 2011 - 15th June 2012	$ 20,000	$ 6,600.00
2UE	30x30sec spots Best Available Time between 1200-2400	1st Aug 2011 - 31st Jan 2012	$ 6,750	$ 2,200.00
ADSHEL	Approx 50 panels - any market inAustralia	Q3 2011, Q1-2 2012	$ 25,000	$ 5,500.00
OOH MEDIA	Value of media space	12 months of purchase	$ 25,000	$ 2,200.00
NEWS LIMITED	Daily Telegraph - FPC (Mon-Fri)	12 months of purchase	$ 40,306	$ 8,800.00
NEWS LIMITED - MAGAZINES	MasterChef Magazine - FPC	12 months of purchase	$ 12,860	$ 2,200.00
NEWS LIMITED - MAGAZINES	Country Style - FPC	12 months of purchase	$ 7,430	$ -
NEWS LIMITED - MAGAZINES	Sunday Magazine - FPC	12 months of purchase	$ 38,173	$ 6,270.00
FAIRFAX	1xFP Sun Herald, 1x FP Sunday Life, 1x Digital Package	6 months of purchase	$ 97,729	$ 16,500.00
MEDIA MONITORS	Monitoring package	12 months of purchase	$ 6,000	$ -
YAHOO!7	Digital package across YAHOO!7 network	Valid until 31st December 2011	$ 30,000	$ 6,600.00
NINEMSN	Digital package across Ninemsn network	Valid until 31st December 2011	$ 25,000	$ 5,500.00

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19th Annual Oasis Ball - thank you to our sponsors!

AUE Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:44:00 +1100

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19th Annual Oasis Ball - thank you to our sponsors!

The 19th Annual Oasis Ball was a brilliant success - and this is in no small part due to our brilliant sponsors!

We want to send a huge Thank You to the below companies, who donated our fantastic Live and Silent Auction Items.

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A gloomy City2Surf brings sunshine to Oasis!

AUE Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:43:00 +1100

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A gloomy City2Surf brings sunshine to Oasis!

The inaugural Oasis City2Surf team were outstanding in their fundraising efforts this year, meeting and exceeding the goal of $10,000!

With a wet and gloomy wake-up on Sunday morning, many of our City2Surf runners were faced with a strong temptation to stay in their warm beds, however while the temptation was strong, the will to run for Oasis was even stronger!

Those who did make it out of the house in the wee hours yesterday were rewarded with a (semi) dry run packed full of positive vibes, friendly runners and endorphins. The cool conditions were perfect for the long haul run and the descent into Bondi was exhilarating, with amazing beats and masses of the general public cheering runners on as they worked their way across the last kilometre to the finish line.

All in all, a brilliant day for our even more brilliant Oasis City2Surf runners!

We want to say a huge Thank You to all who ran for Oasis – whether you were kitted out in one of the official Oasis City2Surf shirts, or running in your favourite gear; whether you were running your first race, or your 21^st race; we would not have been successful without your support, and the support of those who donated to your fundraising pages.

How can we not mention the incredibly competitive and creatively minded Virgin Money team?! Without your brilliant support we would be nowhere near the total amount of funds raised. Your drive for raising funds for Oasis was incredible to see in action, and we are truly thankful for your support.

Gyton Grantley, our celebrity runner, raised not only a phenomenal amount of funds within forty hours, but also our profile. Thank you! Sporting one of our classic Oasis City2Surf running singlets, Gyton blitzed both the race and the fundraising aspect, giving his face to many budding photographers throughout the day.

Every step you ran, walked, hopped, skipped, jumped, or limped, was purposeful – your passion for the cause of youth homelessness, nominating us as your charity, makes a direct difference in the lives of the homeless and disadvantaged youth of our streets.

Your fundraising efforts enabled us to not only meet our target for our inaugural City2Surf, but exceed it. We raised an inspiring total of $10,000 and the donations are still trickling in.

From all of us here at Oasis, we thank you for your blisters, sweat and tears!

To check out more photos and City2Surf updates, visit our Facebook page here.

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Oasis Graduation opens pathways to employment

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:43:00 +1100

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Oasis Graduation opens pathways to employment

Tuesday 23 August – At The Salvation Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network today, five young people will graduate after successfully completing a month long work readiness training course that will see them gain full time employment by mid September.

Launched in 2006, the Oasis Pathways Program (formally known as Get Skilled 4 Work) was developed to cater for the needs of socially disadvantaged young people who were at risk of long-term exclusion from employment, due to a lack of appropriate education, skills and training.

“The recent Pathways Program has helped to realise the dreams and aspirations of five young people by helping them to secure full-time employment in a competitive corporate work environment,” says Caroline Nugent, Coordinator of the Oasis Training Pathways program.

“Thanks to the partnerships formed with the community and business sector, Oasis’s young people now have an opportunity to gain professional training, experience and financial independence,” says Nugent.

Oasis’s new graduates will commence full time work in administration through Pathways Partners; Australand, Mirvac, Lend Lease and the Australian Taxation Office.

The five graduates, and their employers, will have ongoing access to support and coaching from Oasis as they make the smooth transition into their respective careers.

The Oasis Pathways Program course offers life coaching, budgeting and financial management, while developing communication and interpersonal skills, personal presentation and interview preparation. All necessary components that help address the many challenges faced by homeless and disadvantaged young people.

The innovative Oasis Pathways Program is just one of more than 25 cutting edge services delivered by the Salvation Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network in Sydney to help disconnected young people get back on their feet and begin turning their lives around.

For more information:

Vanessa Birch

Vanessa.birch@aue.salvationarmy.org

02 8353 9407 / 0404 833 237

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Oasis case worker takes on the Blackmores marathon

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:42:00 +1100

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Oasis case worker takes on the Blackmores marathon

The Salvation Army’s Oasis Youth Support Network is proud to boast one of our very own, Simone Chartres, who is courageously taking up the gruelling challenge of running the full marathon at the 2011 Blackmores Sydney Running Festival.

Having already successfully completed several half marathons, Simone jumped at the opportunity to complete her first full marathon and combine her love of running with her passion for supporting disadvantaged youth.

“Not only is running the actual marathon important to me, but also raising much needed funds for Oasis, to ensure more disadvantaged young people can have access to life changing services,” said Ms Chartres.

Simone developed a strong passion for working with disadvantaged young people during her psychology internship at Oasis.

Working as a registered psychologist and case worker, Simone is a vital and valued member of the Oasis family, helping to support at-risk young people living inSydney’s north, through the Youth Connections educational program.

“The work that I am currently undertaking with Oasis has been beyond rewarding. It is amazing to see the positive changes in the lives of young people who have previously lacked support and direction,” said Simone.

While Simon’s personal fundraising target of $1,100 has been well and truly smashed she continues to raise the bar high and hopes to double this amount before next weekend.

On behalf of Oasis, we are so incredibly proud of you Simone and we wish you the best of luck for the 42km’s that’s ahead of you next weekend. If you would like to support Simone’s run for Oasis please visit here.

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Blackmores Wrap Up!

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:42:00 +1100

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Blackmores Wrap Up!

The 2011 Blackmores Sydney Running Festival proved to be a runaway success with over 350 registered Oasis runners proudly donning their red and white tees and pounding the pavement to help raise a massive $42,000 for our young people!

Waking up to a stunning (and sweltering!) spring day, the scene was set for the many bleary eyed Oasis volunteers who stood steadfast at our Drink Station from 5:30am, with much needed hydration and cheers of support for our champion runners as they courageously pushed forward toward to the finish line.

No Oasis runner was left unattended after their incredible efforts, with all sweaty bodies welcomed into the decked out Oasis Marquee - complete with free heavenly massages by Jackies’s Sports Massage Therapy, delicious wraps, fruit and desserts by MMM Catering which were literally inhaled and gratefully washed down with ice cold drinks donated by Coca-Cola.

Sydney’s Face Painting in a Flash added colour and smiles to many faces, with more than one grown man walking away with a diamanté encrusted butterfly on their cheek.

The Hacky Sack competition drew some fierce competitors, but the boys from Scots College proved to be unbeatable, with student James Gavin taking out the title, closely followed by George Bundock, both of whom scored fabulous clothing and accessories from Running Bare.

Another winner, who can now ease the aches and pains of BSRF is Leah Callon Butler, who took home the $500 voucher towards Jackie’s Sports Massage Therapy from our Lucky Draw prize. Congratulations Leah – we are all green with envy after experiencing the magical hands of Jackie and her awesome team!

We would also like to recognise the stellar efforts of David Linco, our highest individual fundraiser for Oasis who personally raised $4,600 and who has deservingly scored a three month Virgin Active Gym Membership. Congratulations David!

Oasis would also like shine the spotlight on Australian swimming legend and media personality Elka Whalan who helped to raise awareness of Oasis in the lead up to and on the day of the event…we can’t thank you enough for powerwalking your (soon to be) family of four, across the finish line in support of Oasis.

All money raised will be going directly into the innovative services and programs Oasis provides to homeless and disadvantaged young people on a day to day basis.

Be sure to check out some of the stellar shots taken from the day on our Oasis Facebook page.

We are eternally grateful to all the incredible people who took any part in this amazing day!

You are all super stars and we hope to see you sweating it out again for us next year.

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Bel is reaching new heights for Oasis!

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:42:00 +1100

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Bel is reaching new heights for Oasis!

There aren't many people who will truly attempt to test their physical limits and fly across the other side of the world - all for a charity. When Oasis found out about Belinda Gurd and her dream to climb to Mount Everest Base Camp to raise funds for our crisis accommodation services, we were beyond humbled and inspired!

Here's Bel's story...

Tell us a bit about yourself?

Growing up on the Northern Beaches in Sydney, I’m in love with Summer. I work for Virgin Atlantic doing their PR, and I’m totally crazy about travelling. I want to go to every weird and wonderful place the world has to offer. I think you are the best version of yourself when you’re exploring the world, challenging yourself, experience new things and meeting new people.

Why are you fundraising for Oasis?

Working with the Oasis program, Champions, for nearly six months, it was a total no-brainer to raise money for Oasis. Champions is an amazing initiative – representatives from each Virgin Company in Australia get together once a week with a group of extremely inspiring young people, working together, much like a think tank, to come up with ways to help raise awareness and funds for the fight against Youth Homelessness.

These kids inspire me every week and remind me of what life is really about. Anything I can do to help Oasis achieve their goals of supporting young people in crisis means more young people can get the help they need to turn their lives around.

Just how BIG is the climb?

Base Camp is 5364 metres but we will take the longer route, going past the south side of Everest called the Chola pass, reaching an altitude of 5483 metres. Taking about 25 days of walking in total, this route gives amazing views of Everest and the surrounding ranges.

What will you miss the most during your trek? A shower!

What will keep you going on the ascent?

The young people I get to spend time with every Wednesday night. Walking up a mountain is nothing compare to what some of these amazing young people have been through and come out the other side of. They are truly amazing humans, so I think that’s the thought that will keep me going.

Part of the climb you’re most looking forward to? The moment I get to the highest point. It’s going to be breath-taking and such an achievement.

Tell us about your training regime?

I’ve been training for about 6 months, roughly 3 - 5 times a week. For the past two months I’ve been doing some sort of physical activity every day including spin classes, pump classes, free weights, yoga, long long long walks, running up and down stairs and as of two weeks ago I started training at Altitude.

Top tips for those planning to follow in your footsteps?

Start exercising early – The stronger you are the more enjoyable. Get your gear online and sent from the US or UK – it’s waaaay cheaper. Start Altitude training about a month out - it helps you get fitter quicker and gives you a great indication of how well your body responds to Altitude. Eat loads.

What’s next for Belinda Gurd?! Kokoda!

If you are as inspired as we are with Belinda’s incredible trek for Oasis please click here and show your support!

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Lycra Like Ya Care a sweaty success!

Maria Ferreira — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:41:00 +1100

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Lycra Like Ya Care a sweaty success!

If you happened to pass Virgin Active in Pitt Street Mall on Sunday 25 September you may have been forgiven for thinking there was an Olivia Newton John revival happening.

With over 75 participants sporting their best spandex for the Lycra Like Ya Care charity challenge, big-hearted lycra lovers came together in a massive 3 hour sweat-a-thon to help raise a massive $2000 for flood affected communities in Northern Queensland.

Hosted by Virgin Money, Virgin Active and the Oasis Champions, each brave participant donated a $25 entry fee and completed a gruelling circuit of back to back fitness classes in Zumba, Cycling, Yoga, Body Attack and Boxing, with even the fittest of the fit showing signs of fatigue by the final rotation.

All funds raised from the event went towards a community garden which has been built by the Oasis Champions for the flood-affected, Salvation Army’s Indigenous Ministries in North Ipswich.

Many of the incredible participants walked away with more than just exhausted muscles, thanks to the generosity of the Virgin Money and Virgin Active who raffled off a bevy of amazing prizes including wine, mobile phones and a much sought after gym memberships to Virgin Active Health Clubs.

Oasis would like to send out a massive thanks to all the amazing participants who came together to make Lycra Like Ya Care such an incredibly fun and successful day. You are all super stars for surviving the day!

A big shout out goes to Virgin Money, Virgin Active and of course our phenomenal Oasis Champions for organising this stellar event.

Word on the street is Lycra Like Ya Care could soon become an annual event, with talks of Virgin Active holding simultaneous sweat-a-thons across their Sydney clubs.

Watch this space, friends! We look forward to sweating it out with you again next time!

Team Oasis

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Oasis Youth Support Network

Christmas at Oasis sets an all time high for our young people!

Christmas at Oasis sets an all time high for our young people!

The Oasis Youth Support Network’s Crown Streetcentre was flooded with a sea of smiles last Friday the 16th of December, as our on-site Christmas Party brought together clients, staff and supporters in one huge community celebration of holiday cheer.

For those who were feeling less energetic, the education centre was converted into an awesome arcade, complete with a funky photo booth and Xbox games to keep entertainment levels at an all-time high.

Also hugely popular was the winter wonderland, where Santa and his elves listened patiently to an endless stream of boys and girls who came with their Christmas wish lists in hand and left with beautiful Santa photos as a precious keepsake.

For many of our young people, wishes were granted immediately, with a trip upstairs to Santa’s gift shop where the racks were overflowing with incredible clothes and accessories from General Pants – up for the taking.

Those who weren’t occupied eating and playing took time out for well-deserved pampering, with a range of services on offer to suit every request including hairdressers, make-up artists, face-painting and temporary tattooing.

Festivities drew to a close in the afternoon with one final surprise; a huge distribution of Christmas gifts generously donated by businesses, which were happily handed out to our ecstatic (and somewhat tired) young people by the Oasis team.

All in all the day was a massive success and we’d like to send out a huge thank you to the incredible staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly.

We’d also like to spotlight the following companies, without whom this Christmas extravaganza would not have been possible;

Brilliant Logic

North Sydney Boys High School

Charter Hall

Westpac Banking Corporation

General Pants Co.

APRA

Pepper Home Loans

The Reach Foundation

Sydney Event Photography

Animal Logic

Virgin Active

Savills Australia

Virgin Atlantic

Mavi Jeans Australia

Virgin Money

FKP

Virgin Mobile

20th Century Fox Home Entertainment

Virgin Unite

Alexis & Rich Lovell

2012 Oasis Event Calendar

2012 Oasis Event Calendar

Cate Blanchett announces winners of THE OASIS HOMELESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION

Cate Blanchett announces winners of THE OASIS HOMELESS SHORT FILM COMPETITION

Woolworths Carols in the Domain a glowing success

Woolworths Carols in the Domain a glowing success

Whilst the candles from this year’s Woolworths Carols in the Domain concert may have all but burnt out, the glow of yet another incredibly successful fundraising event continues to warm the hearts of the Oasis team.

Brimming with Christmas spirit, our amazing Oasis volunteers and staff took to the carolling crowd at the Domain on Saturday the 17th of December and sold over 9,000 candle bags, raising over $125,000 for our life changing programs!

One of the highlights for Oasis was having Bec and Faleh sing Amazing Grace and True Colours in front of a crowd of thousands in the afternoon’s entertainment line-up. Both gave a performance of a lifetime and wowed the audience with their incredible talent.

We’re so proud of you Bec and Faleh!

All funds collected from the sale of the candle bags will go directly to supporting the cutting edge programs we provide thousands of homeless young people every year.

We’d also like to send out a huge thank you to the following companies for generously offering up their amazing teams to the candle bag packing cause:

AXA

Bankwest

Buzz Numbers

CBA

Deloites

Ernst & Young

HSBC

Investa

Medibank

NAB

NRMA

Pepper Homeloans

PPG

PwC

Real Insurance

RBA

Virgin Active

VirginAtlantic

VirginMobile

Woolworths

New Drive for Life program launches today

New Drive for Life program launches today

Obtaining a driver’s license is a monumental achievement in a young person’s life and here at Oasis we’re excited to announce a new partnership between ŠKODA and Carsguide.com.au, who have generously donated three new Yeti cars for our Drive for Life program.

Launched today, the Drive for Life program offers disadvantaged young people the opportunity to achieve the mandatory 120 hours necessary to obtain Red P’s in a safe and positive environment.

With more than 75 young people on Oasis’ driving waiting list, the generous donation of three dual control ŠKODA Yeti’s will make a significant difference, offering young people the chance to learn the skills necessary to drive safely, responsibly and defensively for life.

Drive for Life is a fantastic extension of Oasis’ Driving for Employment program - helping to close the gap of disadvantage for many young people by offering a wider range of education, training and vocational opportunities that will come through securing a driver’s license.

This program aims to expand nationally through the support of the Oasis Foundation.

The Drive For Life program is heavily dependent on many dedicated volunteer driving instructors who provide valued support, mentorship and time to help our young people complete their hours on a weekly basis.

Organisations and individuals interested in volunteering for the Drive for Life program can contact Oasis via oasisvolunteers@aue.salvationarmy.org or 02 9331 2266.

Visit the Drive for Life website HERE

For more information on ŠKODA, please visit HERE

Natalie Imbruglia finds pearls at Oasis

Natalie Imbruglia finds pearls at Oasis

'Tis the season for giving and here at Oasis we’re thrilled to announce that this year Natalie Imbruglia and Kailis jewellery have teamed up to give our young people an incredibly special gift.

Available nationally from 1st November 2011, the Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis jewellery collection is doubling the joy of giving this Christmas by donating a minimum of $30 from the sale of each exquisite piece to Oasis.

To view or purchase the Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis collection click HERE

Proudly co-designed by Natalie Imbruglia and Kailis Design Director Simon Henderson, the capsule collection of three silver pieces – necklace, bracelet and ring – features lustrous Keshi pearls set in sterling silver with Kailis' signature black diamond.

The Oasis Youth Support Network’s Crown Streetcentre was flooded with a sea of smiles last Friday the 16^th of December, as our on-site Christmas Party brought together clients, staff and supporters in one huge community celebration of holiday cheer.

Brimming with Christmas spirit, our amazing Oasis volunteers and staff took to the carolling crowd at the Domain on Saturday the 17^th of December and sold over 9,000 candle bags, raising over $125,000 for our life changing programs!

Available nationally from 1^st November 2011, the Natalie Imbruglia for Kailis jewellery collection is doubling the joy of giving this Christmas by donating a minimum of $30 from the sale of each exquisite piece to Oasis.