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Welcome to the first edition of the NATSICC online Newsletter for 2009.

It is has been nothing short of a tragic week for those people in Victoria and I am sure I speak on behalf of all Catholics when I extend my thoughts and prayers to those that have been affected in Victoria.

In contrast today marks the 1st Anniversary of the Federal Apology to the Stolen Generations. Has there been any process? Where to from here? Questions such as these are highlighted in several featured articles in today’s edition.

If you have a news item or upcoming event, we would like to be able to publish and advertise it. Please send any information, suggestions, comments to:

• email: natsicc@ozemail.com.au
• mail: 185 Pirie St Adelaide, SA 5000.

Craig Arthur
NATSICC National Administrator

Victorian Bushfire Tragedy

The unprecedented destruction and loss of life experienced in the Victorian bushfires has united and touched the hearts of all Australians. The Cathnews site has written an excellent piece on ways that the community have respondedand initiatives that have been put in place to help those whose lives have been changed forever by the fires. It can be viewed here.

In addition NATSICC has decided to help raise funds by collecting donations for the Red Cross. If you wish to donate please direct deposit funds into the following account:

• NATSICC
• BSB: 805-023
• Account: 04302791
• Please use 'Bushfire' as description.

All funds will be forwarded to the Red Cross where every dollar will be used on the ground.

First Anniversary of Apology

Today marks the one year Anniversary of PM Kevin Rudd's Federal Apology to the Stolen generations.

Whilst a wonderful step forward in the process of reconciliation, many are asking what has been the practical ramifications of the Apology.

It is interesting to compare similar apologies to Indigenous people that have occurred internationally. A briefing paper that describes these similar apologies can be viewed here.

Mick Dodson– Australian of the Year

Mick Dodson AM, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner with the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity, activist and lawyer is the 2009 Australian of the year.

"Mick is recognised across the country and around the world as an exceptional but humble Aboriginal leader who's spent all his life working to explain to people why and how they can make things better for Indigenous Australians," said Mr Leibler, Reconciliation Australia Co-Chair.

"It’s impossible to sum up Mick's contribution. His official roles only tell a small part of what he does and how much responsibility he takes on in fulfilling difficult tasks, often in the public spotlight."

The Council Congratulates Professor Mick Dodson am on his wonderful achievement.

Holy Spirit in This Land 2009 NATSICC Assembly

The 2009 NATSICC Assembly is themed "Holy Spirit in This Land" and will take place 20-25 September 2009. The Bardon Conference Centre in Brisbane will be the venue.

Held every three years, NATSICC Assemblies give people the opportunity to come, sit, talk and express their thoughts with other Indigenous Catholics.

As usual there will be Keynote speakers and workshops concerned with the Future of Indigenous people in the Church.

A great emphasis is being placed on the Youth, so a program separate from the Adult Assembly is being devised to ensure that the young people have a fulfilling time in a fun atmosphere. Recognising and celebrating our Elders will be the other focus.

Everyone working in the Indigenous fields are also welcome. Registration booklets will be out soon. To be added to the mailing list please email natsicc@ozemail.com.au

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