SSPA NATIONAL WEBSITE: www.sspa.org.au

NSW BRANCH WEBSITE: nsw.sspa.asn.au

VIC BRANCH WEBSITE: vic.sspa.asn.au

Members of the New South Wales Branch met up in Forster for a lovely weekend, reaching out to members in the more remote areas of New South Wales.

S.S.P.A. members congregated in Albury/Wodonga for the annual Queen’s Birthday long weekend, a fabulous time was had by all who attended.

When it comes to fitness, short statured people aren’t that different to the rest of the population.

There are those who eat healthily, exercise regularly and keep very fit. There are those who seem to be able to eat anything, do little exercise but still keep in good shape. There are also those who try to eat well but find keeping fit to be a struggle. Of course there are many in between.

Many of us may have heard Professor Sillence stress the importance of keeping our weight down. I know I have many times. I think Ravi’s the same. I remember hearing how excess weight puts extra strain on parts of our bodies like our backs, hips and knees and how it can increase the problems we are already prone to have in those areas.

Growing up, it never seemed to be an issue for me. Despite always having a desk job, I played sport semi-regularly, usually ate ok and always stayed around the same weight. However, with more hours spent behind the desk and the wheel these days and regular basketball becoming a distant memory, the amount of exercise I do has become almost non-existent. For years I’ve considered going to the gym, but there’s always been plenty of excuses stopping me.

I hadn’t jumped on a set of scales for quite some time, then I did in early May. I was shocked. I was heavier than I’ve ever been, and considerably heavier than my old average. I decided it was time for action.

I went to a gym near my work for a casual visit. I told them about my back troubles and they told me what I should do, and what I should avoid doing. The workout went well – insofar as showing me how unfit I was! I realised how much I’d let myself go.

I returned two days later and became a member – it’s much cheaper that way and I thought it would be a good way to push me to keep returning. I’ve been about three times a week since. Whilst I know there’s a long way to go, I can already notice an improvement. A few flights of stairs aren’t so draining now and I’m feeling more energetic most of the time. My back is also having more ‘good’ days.

I’m trying not to set myself unrealistic expectations – for example I don’t plan on competing against Wim Bos in weightlifting in this lifetime! However, if I can keep motivated, lose some kilos, strengthen my back and generally feel better, then I’ll be satisfied.

Whilst I know it’s very easy to ignore the advice of Professor Sillence or Ravi, I’m glad I’ve finally listened to it. If you think some exercise could help you, I encourage you to not keep putting it off. But you don’t have to go to a gym – do whatever suits you, like regularly walking or swimming perhaps. If possible, ask someone to join you and keep each other motivated. Finally, if you know someone who is considering exercise or who has already started, encourage them too!

Last week I was sent an email by a promotions guy here on the Sunshine Coast asking if I would like to do a TV add for fun and might add for free for our local radio station. The advertisement was going to go like a scene from the movie 'Happy Gilmore’!! Yes, in that scene there is a short statured person or as the guy put it a "dwarf" then asking me if that was rude. His main aim was for it to be all done all in good humor and give the audience a good laugh! Straight away I thought of Michael's article in the last Journal about the role of our Association and as individuals to educate the public and the media on what is and what isn't acceptable. I turned down doing the add and I personally phoned the guy and had a chat to him to dispel some of these myths by explaining to him why we don't use the name "Dwarfs" and why and where the name Short Statured People Of Australia comes from. I also explained to him doing the add for me personally once again portrays to the audience that a short statured person only gives the public a good laugh and thinking that "Dwarfs" only do silly and funny things. I really felt by the end of the conversation the guy had a whole different respect and differences to Cathy and I. As Michael said it is getting better where short statured people are treated with the same level of respect by the media and the public but there is still along way to go. But by speaking to them and educating them we will and can make a difference. I have heard now that they have changed the whole TV commercial, so I'll be interested to see what the add is like when it comes on air.

I have just been given a promotion & transfer two weeks ago to Manage the Tandy Electronics Store. I am very happy with this promotion as I have worked hard and it has been my goal for quite sometime. So the last two weeks have been full on and the next two weeks are just going to be crazy as Cathy and I are off to America with Cath's family for two weeks, so I am working every day straight to get everything up and running before I go away.

I hope everyone who attended the Albury weekend had a great time. I was thinking of you all while at work, wishing I was there enjoying all the sports, and I would of been participating in everyone since I missed out at last years convention. Yes the back is finally 100% better. And of course I missed catching up with you all.

We hope that you all are well. As you’ve probably figured out by now, Lynelle is still missing in action from Editorial duties due to her still galavanting around Australia with “Barney and Friends.” Since, Rosemary, the last issue’s stand in Editor is very busy with helping to organise this years convention, Stella and I thought we would give this Editing business a go and stand in for this issue.

All we can say is that this issue of the SSPA journal is packed with punch! Especially with all the information on the upcoming national convention to be held up at Magnetic Island, QLD, information and registration forms are enclosed for your convenience. Though neither of us are attending, this years convention we do recognise and appreciate all the hard work and effort which has gone into organising the convention. I wouldn’t suspect it would be easy to help organise a convention, which is going to happen two states away from where the co-organisers: Rosemary, Gail and Patrick are located. These three dedicated people are working in conjunction with the North Queensland group who have never put on a convention but are also doing a wonderful job to have one happen so they too can benefit from what we get to experience each year. The idea to reach out to our more remote members is wonderful and should be always encouraged and supported. For instance we already recently had the Forster, Nihll and Albury/Wodonga weekends and from all the stories we have heard and read it sounds like they all have been very positive experiences for both the urban and rural members. Keep on with the good work.

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE OF THE S.S.P.A. JOURNAL IS FRIDAY 5^th AUGUST

Please send all articles, photos etc. to Lynelle Boyd at boydcook@optusnet.com.au

NEWS

An update on Muriel Cottrell, she is recovering from her surgery and is undertaking physical rehabilitation. She may be in rehab for another month before coming home. All in all, Muriel is in good spirits; and it goes without saying that all her friends from the S.S.P.A. wish her well.

Things have been pretty quiet over here since our last get together. Various circumstances have dictated a lack of organised get togethers up til now. Hopefully I can get back on track and organise the rest of the year.

Perhaps next time there will be lots of news from SA that I can write about. Until then all the best form SA.

FEES ARE DUE 1ST AUGUST!!

Members of the SSPA receive the Journal six times a year and are entitled to vote at the Annual General Meeting at the convention.

Prompt payment of fees would be appreciated. It would be very helpful if those attending convention and anyone intending to stand for office could pay their fees before the convention.

Some people might not consider Performing Arts as an avenue that is open to people like us, we are not often portrayed in popular media and hardly ever in a truthful manner. Yes, people will tell you how difficult it will be and that you would be better off doing something else, away from all that negativity. But if you’ve got that passion burning inside of you, you thrive on the nervous energy, the love of the spotlight, of the applause, it can be possible. I can tell you this first hand, my name is Emma J Cooper, I’m short statured, and a performer.

I am now making a living out of being performing artist, the reward for a long and winding road, it’s been my life ambition since I was 10. I admit sometimes I’ve had to do the occasional temporary job to top up the old bank account. But now when people ask me what I do, I say I’m a performer and proud to say it. If this is the path you want to take, my advice would be to learn as much as you can as this industry is forever growing and changing, be determined (or stubborn/pig-headed) and having a back up skill in retail, office work, making a latte, definitely won’t hurt either.

I have had the opportunity to show people a different perspective, to show someone who’s different up on stage. Seriously we are not given a very truthful view of Australia from our TV shows, we’re a country full of fresh-faced teenagers who have a lot of trouble adjusting to their everyday lives. Maybe I haven’t had a major role on tv/film yet but I have got the approval of my peers who have said to me on many occasions, “we just forgot you were any different than the rest of us.” Acceptance and respect are the greatest rewards.

In Sydney I have found someone who has had similar experiences to me, another short statured performer Kiruna Stamell who featured in Moulin Rouge. We were both frustrated by what is offered to us in the mainstream theatre world, so we decided to form our own company, Atypical Theatre Company. Kiruna and I met while we were both working for the Sydney Theatre Company. I was performing in Volpone and Kirnna was performing in “Macbeth” for the 2002 Blueprints season. After receiving compliments on behalf of the each other, we decided it was time to meet our alter egos, instead of seeing each other as competition we thought it was much healthier to form a partnership. So our company was born.

Atypical Theatre Company creates contemporary theatre and performance that includes a repertoire of traditional plays and newly devised works. It embraces an accessible arts practice, by integrating artists with and without a disability and encouraging the casting of performers from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds and abilities. Atypical Theatre Company aims to promote communication and awareness, by exploring social issues such as identity and image. Aware of the need within our community to promote positive attitudes to difference, Atypical Theatre Company presents disability in a realistic way, avoiding sensationalism and subverting typical stereotypes.

If you are interested in becoming part of this exciting new company or would like more information checkout our website at: www.atypicaltheatre.com.au or email ejcooper@atypicaltheatre.com.au.

In June, we are very pleased to present our debut production of Jean Genet’s “The Maids”, which is being co-produced with Two Hour Traffic. This production features Kirnna Stamell, Emma J Cooper and Beccy Illand. Directed by Paul Barry and Produced by Karen Boalch.

"While their mistress is out of the house, Claire and Solange embark on a macabre role play, taking it in turns to act as Madame, and abusing each other as either servant or employer. As these sessions continue, the line between fantasy and reality blurs and the maids set themselves on a course towards murder." Kiruna and I are playing the two maids. Written in 1948, “The Maids” is based on the true story of sisters Christine and Lea Papin, who murdered their employers in 1933 in a particularly gruesome fashion. Its themes of oppression, non-conformity, self-destruction and the power of illusion still resonate today and are typical of Genet’s work.

Future plans for our company. Kiruna and I were both successful in obtaining Australia Council funding, which is a pretty big deal as it’s quite competitive. Kiruna is going overseas to further research the structures of such companies as Graeae and Candoco Dance Company. I’m developing my own show, One More Than One, a physical theatre piece, which will be shown as part of the “In the Raw” festival in November this year.

Rosemary Hobbs was able to obtain a beautiful tribute to Mandy, which was read out

at the funeral service by Mandy’s friend, Jean Madden. Jean is very happy to share

her life on the 10th August 1958. Mandy was one of a large Chinese Malaysian family,

two of her sisters Mao and Sallie have been by her bedside for the past week and are here today to say goodbye.

Mandy converted to Christianity in Malaysia in the late 70's and asked the Lord if she could have her strong desire to live in Australia fulfilled...and so in 1981, with the help of many people she came to live permanently in Australia. She was sponsored by June and Brian Foy and was given work at Fantasy Glades, a popular tourist attraction in Port Macquarie, owned and operated by George and Rosemary Whittaker.

Mandy worked in the tearooms there and had her likes and dislikes! She used to complain strongly about making "mixed plates" she would say, "I hate mixed plate" (in her Asian accent it made us laugh!!) For the plate she had to get a scone from here, a little sandwich from over there and a small cake from even further away! Who would have thought that just after she left the mixed plate would be replaced by just one slice of Carrot cake! That was the 80's for you! Maybe Rosemary complained more then as she made all the carrot cakes for the tearooms!

Mandy's next request for God was a job in the bank. She always fancied working in a bank. Consequently she started a job with the Commonwealth Trading Bank in Sydney that same year. She was with the bank for 20 years...even right through her illness she strove to go to work there as she believed in keeping her brain working and her meticulas brain was always good with figures and careful record keeping. A few months after she went to Sydney she became an Australian Citizen, David attended the ceremony with her and there was great excitement. She became (in her own words) "a little Aussie"!

Mandy and David were married on 5th April 1986 in the church of the Good Shepard on the shores of beautiful Lake Tacopo in the south island of New Zealand...close to were David grew up in Fairlie. They were both keen members of the Australian Little Peoples Association, attending meetings, outings, holding positions and playing basketball. They had six years at Bellotti Ave. Winston Hills before Ryan was born on the 16th July 1992...a wonderful event! Then on 2nd August 1995 Sophie was born...Mandy's beautiful girl, making the family unit that Mandy had always longed for.

Mandy loved her children and cared for them very carefully. She raised her babies without any family or outside help at all, doing an excellent job. Always a wonderful Cook, the children and David became wonderful eaters. I can remember Ryan still sitting in his high chair eating a Chinese pork bun and loving it.

The children always had heaps, up to date toys. The family enjoyed many outings, music lessons and sports. The Royal Easter Show was an annual event...that David will ensure is kept up, with its many show bags dragged home every time. They also loved camping trips to the beach in their camper trailer...perhaps their favorite thing? Many Christmas times were spent on Auntie Pam's farm.

Over the years though Mandy became more and more independent and self strong.......I guess that was what took her through the last 3 years with cancer in such a determined and admirable spirit...that, and her deep grief at having to leave her young children without their mother.

As I sat with her last Sunday, she was very weak and I said to her "Remember that Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you that where I am you can be also. In my Father’s house are many rooms." She raised her head and said "Exactly!" Then laid back and went into a deep peaceful sleep that amazed even the staff and her sisters who had come to sit with her. God was very near to her and she had peace in His presence, she was soon to be in the place He had prepared for her.

We are grieved to part with Mandy but we are all thankful to have known her and had a part in her life...her story.

Our hearts go out to Mandy’s family and friends and especially David, Ryan and Sophie.

Everything is going great here in New South Wales, beautiful weather has now turned cold and winter is catching up to us quick....

Firstly I like to mention the next meeting, which will be held at the home of Alma and Alex. This meeting is the N.S.W. Branch A.G.M., a chance where you can vote who you would like on the committee. Committee members as present are Michael Blair: Chairperson, Ammie Markus: Secretary, Nathan Monk: Treasurer, Janice Shipley: Social Co-ordinator and Wim Bos: Sports Co-ordinator.

This meeting is on the 13th of August 2005 at 2pm, 44 Lavinia Street, Seven Hill NSW 2147. Home phone number: 02- 9896 5849 or mobile 0411 030 379. Please call Alma or Alex to let them know that you will be attending the meeting also if you don’t wish to come to the meeting it would be great if you could come for the afternoon tea catch up after the meeting has finished. Please bring a plate of food to share for afternoon tea.

What a wonderful turn out we had, and an awesome time. On the Friday afternoon, the Sydney siders arrived to the site and took in the surroundings we were then joined by a family from Coffs Harbour (Sydenham Family) and our mate Scottie and his brother-in-law from good old Muswellbrook. After getting to know the new family and getting comfie at our new place for the weekend, we all started to get hungry so we went over to the local Bistro and dined, then went back to the Motel and were ready to embrace the weekend ahead of us.

Saturday morning some of us woke at 6am for the excitement of the rest of the families soon joining us. Then in walks the Bos family with Daniel in full power and Chantal right behind him. Another family from Coffs Harbour (the Coyne family) and Shenea from Central Coast joined us. There were kids everywhere, all enjoying each other’s company, learning about each other, so we all got together and headed to the local aquatic centre for a swim. The big kids were playing water fights (some times we just never grow up). After all the fun in the pool we were getting hungry so we all headed of for a feed, and then went ten pin bowling, we made up four teams put up the bummers and away we went. The noise of it didn’t bother our little man Kobey who slept through the whole game then decided to wake when leaving, wont be long until he will be rolling the balls down the lane. The kids had a huge day and sitting back you could see friendships form. Hungry again we headed back over to the Bistro for some dinner where Wilma Stein joined us for a catch up (Lynelle Boyd’s Mum). Tired little heads were setting in so back to the motel we all went where some of the bigger kids sat up and caught up on the weekend.

Sunday morning and the kids knew they would have to say goodbye to their new friends. We all headed to McDonalds for breakie and then said our goodbyes, some even with a tear in their eyes. Some of the families went to the local park for a play before heading home.

I was so happy to organise a great weekend just to see the kids smile and allow short statured children that have never seen another get to know and become friend with people just like themselves. Thanks Janice for all your help and thanks to the families that joined us.

Forster weekend will be organised again for next April so keep an eye out for a flyer.

Also, NSW has another meet and greet coming up in November more information is to follow. This weekend will be down at the South Coast and we will be going whale and dolphin watching so please keep your calender free and a flyer will be out in the next month with all the information.

As for the Convention 2006, things are coming along nicely. We have booked a place that over looks the three sisters at Katoomba. Events are being organised and we looking forward to seeing you all there

Daniel & Mitchell thinking about their bowling strategy Ammie & Janice spectating at the bowling

Chantel Bos keeping a watching over Kobey Sheene, Anna, Kobey, Chantal and Janice

I hope this finds everyone well. Most of the Victorian Group has just got back from a wonderful weekend in Albury. The numbers weren’t as high as past years however that didn’t dampen any fun had by all. During the weekend there were lots of sports being played, the main focus from the games wasn’t about being on the winning side as much this year but more so just getting out and having a go. More people got up and played and had fun than previously. Hockey seemed to be the most enjoyed by all. There was also soccer and basketball too. As well on offer during the weekend was catching up with friends, new and old. Hopefully next year we see more people there, as it is such a great weekend for all.

The Debutant ball is fast approaching, so people taking part in that have been busy learning their dance steps for the big night. It’s so good to see people from all over Australia wanting to be a part of the Deb. This will be an event not to miss; so if you’re thinking of coming down to Victoria try and get down for this one.

The SSspitfires basketball team are still continually playing basketball every Saturday. We’ve had a couple of close matches and even a win when we last played.

I must admit, when I first heard about the Albury weekend, I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about attending. It was the sports thing that kind of put me off. Having always been a bit of an indoor gal who would rather read a book than catch a ball, and having been blessed with the hand-eye coordination of a limbless elephant, I decided that if I went along it would be purely for social purposes. I had such an awesome time at Phillip Island last year that I knew I would have at least a bit of fun, despite the sports.

So after a fairly eventful journey, which involved getting saturated on the way to the station, almost missing the train and then being forgotten by the ramp-bearing conductor at my destination, I finally arrived in Albury a bit cold, wet and tired. My misery didn’t last long though! We immediately headed to the sports centre where I had heaps of fun chatting with people and cheering during the basketball. I found a new friend in Becky, who I had heaps of fun with for the whole weekend. In fact, I don’t think either of us shut up for the whole three days!

Then came the hockey and my unexpected sporting debut! I was quite surprised to be handed a stick and asked if I wanted to play. I was a little concerned that I’d be responsible for losing the game for my team but no one else seemed too worried about it so, on I went. My one-handed dribbling was a little ‘abstract’ but I basically got the hang of it. Knowing that the sore wrist I had afterwards could legitimately be called a ‘sporting injury’ was probably the best part!

Saturday night saw us having a bit of a dance, lots more fun and a rousing game of (slightly drunken) Pictionary back in one of the cabins. Actually, my Pictionary partner, Sarah Whitaker, and I nearly didn’t make it. We were a bit late due to my very poor navigating skills. Thinking I knew where the party cabin was, I told Jim and Sarz that they should follow me in their car. I led them off down the road until I finally arrived at our destination and started motioning for them to park and get out. At this point, Jim leaned out the window and said, “um, Stell, this is OUR place, we were here ten minutes ago.” Ah, whoops. Sorry guys! We did get there eventually and we made a pretty good team, even though I can’t draw to save myself. Sarz is certainly the more talented one of the pair of us! Thanks heaps to the boys for hauling my chair up the steps. And an even bigger thanks to Ollie, who suggested that once my chair was back down the stairs at the end of the night, that I be carried down on a plastic garden chair. I know you’re just trying to fulfil my dream of being a princess but, really!

More fun and frivolity on Sunday, with more sports, some afternoon free time and bit of a shindig in the BBQ pit. The ‘pit’ aspect had me a bit concerned until Leon rallied the troops to lift my chair down. Thanks again boys! Unfortunately, Leon buggered off to bed before he got me out and I was left to rally my own troops for the return to ground level!

On the whole, it was an absolutely fantastic weekend and I’m enormously glad I went. Some particularly ridiculous conversations were had by Rose, Gail, Marilyn, Becky, Emma and I which resulted in us laughing until our bodies hurt and we had tears streaming down our faces. You girls are fabulous! Being fairly new to the SSPA I can’t believe how much I already feel a part of everything. You guys are a handy bunch of people to know for all sorts of reasons. Thanks for making me feel so welcome!

Oh, and my biggest achievement for the weekend, apart from my bona-fide sporting injury (ooohh, that sounds so cool!), was reigniting Marilyn’s love for knitting! So much so that she drove into town to get some wool and needles! How’s that scarf coming along, m’dear?

My Albury Weekend by Beccy Whichello

I was asked if I would like to write a report on the Albury weekend and I didn’t think twice about it. What a fabulous, fun, warm, funny and out there weekend. Once again, it was just like being part of one Big Family. Although it has been a while since I attended a Convention or Albury Weekend once again I was made so welcome. It was really great to see old friends and also meet so many new friends, even from as far as the sheep country (NZ).

I would like to share a few things with you all from my weekend. A big thanks is to go to those members behind the scenes who organized the weekend. I don’t think these people are thanked enough, if it wasn’t for them it wouldn’t be quite like it is. I do like the change of sports activities included in the weekend such as the indoor Hockey and Soccer, as well as the Basketball. As an unenthusiastic sports person myself, I really felt comfortable getting out there and having a go.

It was great to see almost everyone out on the field/court at some stage on the weekend, including Rosemary the Marvelous Goal Keeper and Stella the Speed Demon. I believe Stella has put in an order for new tyres on her chair due to the amount of rubber she burnt on the Soccer/Hockey field. It is great to see how many talented athletic folk we have in the SSPA.

As a tradition, I believe in obtaining as many goods from the Fundraiser Auction as possible. This year nothing really changed except I only obtained a few items (from the $2.00 shop) at TOP DOLLAR$$$$. I have informed Lee the reusable Ice Blocks are to be washed carefully because I think I paid $15.00 for them. I cannot recollect the amount raised but the support was fantastic.

The weekend was a costly exercise but well worth it. I can recommend the shopping in Albury. We all know Imelda Marcos had a shoe fetish, well I had a Handbag fetish that weekend. But as they say a little Retail Therapy cannot hurt anyone.

Last but not least, I would like to thank everyone for their tolerance of myself in my many inebriated states. I really do enjoy catching up with everyone over a few wines, but it is also good to get home to dry out. Poor Emma!!! She had me sharing a room with her and had to put up with me talking in my sleep, going clunk in the night falling out of bed, laughing all the time and just plain having lots of fun. WHAT A GREAT WEEKEND WITH SUCH LOVELY FRIENDS!