Well as I sit here at Norwest office the pervading thoughts to mind following last nites CEO Sleep Out in no uncertain order were…..:
I arrived at White Bay yesterday in good time for registration after 5pm
We were allocated into groups of folk who were then fortunate to be able to listen at close confines to the stories of both people who have been in need of help from Vinnies and also from Vinnies volunteers on frontline food van services as well as case workers.
This gives rise to a cocktail of emotions - confronting, disturbing and full of hope all at once if that makes sense.
Following this session folk were then able to find a spot to put their sleeping bag and cardboard down.
As a big open waterfront area some folk opt for the protection of the overhanging awning. Always the boy from the region myself I had to take a waterfront view…..
We then dispensed back to the main auditorium for deliveries of addresses from Vinnies Execs on how funds are disbursed and the progress of fundraising to date.
An interval then allowed for the standard issue soup and bread roll.
This was followed by more accounts from people outlaying their vulnerable stories to the audience.
I cant think of anything much more brave really than to bare all like that to a large audience.
The proceedings ended by about 10pm and it was a case of bunkering down as best as possible.
An early rise this morning of course as not really conditions for feeling like making the most of the waterfront view.
Thank you to everyone for their support and enthusiasm for my participation.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and found it renewing as always.
Have a wonderful Friday.
Best Regards
Justin
266 Howick Street
PO Box 690
Bathurst NSW 2795
99 Oberon Street
PO Box 332
Oberon NSW 2787
Suite 208, 20A Lexington Drive, BELLA VISTA NSW 2153
Suite 6/3 Hampden Ave
Orange NSW 2800