Hi Webster listener, Today a couple of stories from Indigenous Australia and one about the loving heart of Byron Shire ;The Beggars Banquet. It’s a true community expression of generosity, equality and celebration, where all people can come together to enjoy a feast and entertainment for free in the park.

Christmas is about love and generosity so come share  yours at the Beggars Banquet on 13^th December in Rail Way park. Or get in touch with Ian, contacts below to help donate or help out prior to the day.

Love Ros

NSW Indigenous children more likely to end up in state care

Produced by Shevonne Hunt

The Department of Community Services (DOCs) in NSW is removing Indigenous children from families at a higher rate than those taken during the Stolen Generations. That’s the sensational claim, based on DOCs statistics, made in the Australian paper today. The story was published just before the release of the Special Commission of Inquiry into Child Protection Services in NSW, a report that outlines a myriad of problems at the beleaguered agency. But why are Indigenous children over represented in DOCs statistics? Featured in story: Julian Pocock - executive officer of the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Care and Amanda Bridge- Chairwoman of the Aboriginal Child, Family and Community Care State Secretariat.

The report from Special Commission of Enquiry into child Protection Services in NSW

http://www.dpc.nsw.gov.au/publications/news/stories/?a=33794

New programme to improve literacy in Indigenous communities   

Produced by Sonia Gentile

With illiteracy levels in some remote aboriginal communities as high as 93%, education programmes are the way forward. Sonia Gentile spoke to New South Wales' coordinator of Aboriginal Education, Frank Pearce, and to former swimming star, Ian Thorpe, about his "Fountain for Youth" literacy programme.

http://www.ianthorpesfountainforyouth.com.au/

http://www.ianthorpesfountainforyouth.com.au/donations.php

Beggars Banquet.

Byron’s Third annual Beggars Banquet is on Saturday 13^th December at the Railway Park. Free food from midday, free music performance and dance. Donations of food , cash or goods for redistribution or a raffle are welcome. All proceeds will go towards supporting a drop in centre in Byron

Call Ian 66807304/0403178451

http://www.finda.com.au/story/2008/11/11/byron-beggars-banquet-to-help-the-homeless/