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THE CONFERENCE PHILOSOPHY

the CLOSING THE GAP REPORT

The Prime Minister Scott Morrison tabled the Closing the Gap report 2022 titled Transforming power: Voices for generational change in March 2022, which clearly highlighted that the Closing the Gap campaign is only making small in-roads into the gap between Indigenous people and the wider community in regard to general issues and has still got a long way to go. Some of the points highlighted were;

 

This year’s report, produced by the Lowitja Institute for the fourth time, highlights how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are leading the way in transforming health and community services, policies and programs, with foundations of culture and Country at the centre, despite unprecedented health challenges from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

It focuses on themes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led transformation, gender justice and equity, and allyship – the need for trust and accountability in partnerships to enable transformative change.

Among its key recommendations are calls for action on gender and climate justice, a national housing framework, and full implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

 

Empowering Delegates

Indigenous peoples, nationally and internationally, will come together in an environment that can lead to the sharing of information via their cultural and historical values. The conference is designed as an educational tool to develop networking opportunities and information sharing to the wider community on Indigenous men’s issues. The event will focus on Indigenous men’s issues and whole of wellbeing through the encouragement of strong leadership, empowerment and self-determination within our communities. Throughout the two days, we will be facilitating small group discussions with empowering and inspirational guest speakers. The conference emphasizes on the positives of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander resilience and determination to strive for a better tomorrow without the constraints of negative stereotyping which is more prevalent due to social media and bad media coverage. Today as Indigenous men, we are making great strides to improve both ourselves and our communities. This event guarantees the opportunity to enlarge your network and information base, thus empowering all delegates to make greater informed decisions within their professional and extended communities. 

Click here to read more

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WHO SHOULD ATTEND

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Indigenous Men, Indigenous Support Workers, Indigenous Men’s Groups, Community Leaders/Elders, Indigenous and non-Indigenous People, Social Workers, Doctors, NGO Groups, Consultants, Cultural Advisors, Nurses, Health Workers, Community Workers, Rural Health or Remote Health Professionals, Indigenous Health Professionals, Government Representatives, Psychiatrists, CEOs, Police Officers, Program Managers, Human Rights Enthusiasts and all interested parties.

 

 

Calling Papers

To ensure grassroots community programs are highlighted, no less than 50 per cent of the conference proceedings are and is devoted to community groups. If your paper is selected, you may have more than one presenter to present your paper. However, only two presenters will be entitled to the registration discount. If you are chosen to present at the conference, your paper will form part of the conference proceedings and be distributed at the conclusion of the event with all other presentations. To further ensure the continued success of the conference, an Indigenous working group is being established to advise on correct adherence to cultural equilibrium. If you are interested in submitting a paper please,  Click here to read more 

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CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES

The 12th National First Nations Men`s Wellbeing Conference aims to share and celebrate our stories. Come and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, strengths, successes and empowerment. To share each other’s stories and ideas about what has work for you or your communities and how we address life’s challenges. Moreover, the conference aims to: 

•       To create a platform for open and frank discussion.

•       Highlights successful programs in the community for Indigenous Men

•       To bring together Indigenous men to show their empowerment, experiences, new innovations and excellent outcomes of Indigenous programs

•       Bring together workers, researchers, service providers, government agencies, policy makers/ developers and organizations

•       Outlining the priority area and enablers for better Indigenous men’s performance

•       Demonstrate the value of investment in Indigenous men

•       Networking and Lend support to individuals and groups working in the field of Indigenous Men’s health

•       Exchange information regarding the successes of community projects

•       Strategies for linking holistic policy with Indigenous men

•       Explore methods for improving accountability at all levels to sustain progress for Indigenous men

 

THE CONFERENCE AGENDA  

(This draft agenda may change without prior notice and published only to guide those submitting papers. Final agenda will be published closer to date.)

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day 1 December 14, 2022

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8:30 AM      REGISTRATION & Master of Ceremony Announcements

9:00 AM      Welcome to Country 

9:15 AM      Traditional Cultural Performance 

9:45 AM      Formal Opening Keynote -Closing the gap: Has it worked for First Nations Men's Health

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10:30 AM    MORNING BREAK ~ Network with exhibitors and service providers

11:00 AM    Keynote Session - State of First Nations men’s health and well being: From the community perspective                             

11:45 AM    Keynote Session -  Working with Indigenous Men in the Community  (Calling for community papers)

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12:30 PM    LUNCH BREAK ~ Network with exhibitors and service providers   

1:30 PM      Concurrent Session A: Paternal Health only we can do it - Social determinants of men's health (Calling for papers) 

                    Concurrent Session B: Family Violence STOPS with Me

 2:15 PM      Concurrent Session A: Indigenous Men’s Education: Improving Indigenous Men's Career Prospects & Self-Esteem

                    Concurrent Session B: Art, Culture, Lore: Empowering Others Through Empowering Myself  ​

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​3:00 PM      AFTERNOON TEA ~ Networking with Exhibitors & Service Providers

3:30 PM      Keynote Session -   Domestic violence: The impact on our families and communities

4:15 PM      Keynote Session -   The Power of One: Strength Through Unity - It Is The Future

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6:30 PM      Conference Networking Dinner Cruise

 

day 2 December 15, 2022

 

8:30 AM      SIGN-IN & Master of Ceremony Announcements

9:00AM       Keynote (Blackfeet First Nations Speaker)  - Exploring Best Practices For Indigenous Youth Suicide Prevention    

9:45AM       Keynote (Maori First Nations Speaker)  - New approach in New Zealand towards Methamphetamine Use and Depression

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10:30 AM    MORNING BREAK ~ Network with exhibitors and service providers

​11:00 AM    Concurrent Session A: Our Mob, Our Community - Uniting Men's Voices (Calling for community papers)

                    Concurrent Session B: Empowered Men, Empowered Families

 11:45 AM   Concurrent Session A: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Men's Mental Health Program

                    Concurrent Session B: My testimonial, My story of being a proud Indigenous Men

  

12:30 PM      LUNCH BREAK ~ Network with exhibitors and service providers   

 1:30 PM       Keynote Session - Yarning with Our Elder, Empowering Indigenous Men (Calling for community papers)

 2:15 PM       Keynote Session - Working with Indigenous Men in the Community - Getting It Together (for our mob)

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3:00 PM      AFTERNOON TEA ~ Networking with Exhibitors & Service Providers

3:30 PM      Keynote Session -  Chronic Diseases Management in Indigenous Health

4:15 PM      YARNING PANEL by Elders, Guest Speakers & All Delegates

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5:00 PM      END OF CONFERENCE: DELEGATES WHO ATTEND 85% OF THE CONFERENCE WILL BE ENTITLED TO A CERTIFICATE OF  PARTICIPATION

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day 3 December 16, 2022 (post-cONFERENCE MASTERCLASS)

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For 2022, we offer new and exciting innovation for our conferences. Day 3 is devoted to a professional development workshop or masterclass. As such, we have introduced several exciting networking and professional development innovations which is an extra cost for your chosen masterclass. Day 3 is optional so please make sure you complete your registration form with the masterclass included if you intend to attend. 

 

OPTION 1  - CONFERENCE MASTERCLASS - HEALING CIRCLE WORK

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The Healing Circle Work masterclass addresses emotional challenges and barriers faced by people who have had traumatic experiences. Healing Circle Work is not a therapeutic program, but therapeutic outcomes are experienced. As participants, you will learn to live life in the moment recognising and understanding your own spirituality, and gaining the ability to enter the moment to reaffirm yourselves. 

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This workshop will teach you to learn to appreciate and be accountable for your highest good, and the highest good of others around you.  Healing Circle Work is provided in group sessions, and is suitable for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants over 18 years of age. Reserve your place now and

let us unlock this ancient Aboriginal wisdom and knowledge shared with all peoples.

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                                                          Healing Circle Works is strictly limited to 10-12 people only. Cost is $350 per person.

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GUEST SPEAKERS

The 2022 National First Nations Men's Conference is blessed with a kaleidoscope of First Nations guest speakers, sharing stories, successes and challenges they’ve overcome, presenting great opportunities and inspiration for delegates to participate in an event that is devoted to the sharing of Culture, Empowerment, Education & Networking. Drawn from a variety of cultural backgrounds, professional careers and grass-roots community commitments, this year’s conference speakers are the difference between an ordinary and extraordinary event; one that is soon forgotten and one which lingers in attendees' memories, a source of tremendous benefit long after the conference is over. Guest speaker’s profile will be published soon.

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REGISTRATION

Register early to get a discount! Please note that registrations are set out in an affordable way for organisations, which changes on a monthly basis. Hence the earlier you register, the more savings for your organisation. Registration fees include all day access to the event, available conference papers, daily lunch and refreshments for registered delegates only. Fees do not include travel costs or accommodation. Registration fees must be received within 7 DAYS of from being issued an invoice. Otherwise, bookings will not be considered.  To register, please click on the registration button and complete the form or you can also request a conference brochure and the registration form to be sent to you by email at adminics@iinet.net.au  

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YOUR INVITATION 

We wish to invite Indigenous and non-Indigenous worker from Australia and throughout to attend the conference to share and gather information. We also extend an invitation to participants to join us at the conference dinner in a relaxed atmosphere.

 

To ensure that delegates attend and participate, it is important to note that to show accountability of delegates in meeting their obligation, each delegate will receive a Certificate of Attendance only when they attend 85% of all the conference sessions. In addition, delegates will receive a copy of all papers & presentations presented at the conference.

 

Who:     Individuals, Groups, NGO’s, Government Agencies & Others

When:   December 14-16, 2022

Where:  Hilton Cairns Hotel Cairns, Queensland

Time:     9.00am – 5.00pm

 

WARNING: Limited availability. Please register online or contact us via email, should you have any further queries.

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CONFERENCE VENUE and accommodation

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Cairns is truly a destination to impress everyone. From the moment you fly in over lush tropical green rainforest and aqua  blue reefs of the great, you know you are truly in a special part of the world. Experience the warmth of our genuine Australian hospitality at the Hilton Hotel Cairns. Prominently situated on the marina, providing guests with both a direct gateway to the reef, tours and attractions and the perfect Cairns getaway. The Hilton Cairns is deemed as the waterfront retreat near the Great Barrier Reef. Set amid tropical greenery on Cairns’ waterfront, the hotel is a gateway to  the Great Barrier Reef. The Reef Terminal, where the majority of trips depart, is just 400 meters from the hotel. It is also within 22 kilometers to reach the Crystal Cascades and Cairns Botanic Gardens. The hotel has a lagoon-style outdoor pool and treatments spa.The Hilton Hotel and Cairns is on the lands of the Mandingalbay Yidinji peoples who are the Traditional Owners of both land and sea Country and have been living on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef amongst the Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforest for thousands of years.  

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CONFERENCE NETWORKING DINNER CRUISE

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​As they say, all work and no play, makes for a dull conference. So to overcome this, the conference secretary has organized a conference dinner to be held on the first night of the event. This dinner will give delegates the opportunity to further network while letting your hair down in an informal setting. The conference dinner will be a private charter dinner cruise with the Spirit of Cairns at a cost of $150 per person including a three course meal. The conference dinner is additional to the conference fees and bookings must be made prior to the event. 

 

A Cairns Dinner Cruise is the perfect way, to end a perfect day in paradise. Boarding our sailing catamaran at the Marlin Marina, you’ll enjoy an evening of calm water cruising on Trinity Inlet, taking in the sights and sounds of this tropical port city and its surrounding mangroves, as they transition from day to night. Every journey begins with bubbles, as all good dinner cruises should. With your glasses charged, stroll the interior or exterior decks and admire the view as the sky transforms from blue to red to orange and finally a silky black, filled with thousands of sparkling stars. Your journey takes you deep into the heart of Trinity Inlet and across the waterfront precinct of Cairns, from the Cruise Liner Terminal to the Esplanade. The water is calm, the weather mild and the night is yours to enjoy, with entertainment and a delicious  3 Course Buffet Dinner  featuring some of the region’s best produce, including seafood. The luxurious Spirit of Cairns sailing catamaran is fully licensed, selling a range of beverages, including tropical cocktails. This is the ultimate in waterside dining.

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When Do We Go

The Spirit of Cairns dinner cruise departs Marlin Marina at 6.30pm and returns at 9pm. Check-in and boarding is at the boat, moored at Marlin Marina, between 6 pm. A complimentary drink is served on arrival and the bar is open for you to relax on board prior to departure. The conference dinner cruise is scheduled for the evening of Day 1.

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What Will You See / Do

Enjoy a fantastic evening of calm water cruising with entertainment, delicious 3 course buffet meal and fabulous views, including sunset over the rainforest-clad mountains (depending on the time of year). Starting at Marlin Marina, Spirit of Cairns takes you on a journey deep into the interior of Trinity Inlet and its winding tributaries. Keep your eyes peeled, you might even see a crocodile. The cruise passes along Cairns’ waterfront and Esplanade precinct, delivering panoramic views of the twinkling night lights of this port city.

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What Do You Need To Bring / Wear

​Yourself and your smile, for a great evening ahead. Tropical cocktail attire is suggested, with a light jacket for the winter months. Footwear is mandatory, with suitable shoes for boating recommended. Although it’s a calm water cruise, you will find it more comfortable moving around the boat in flat rubber soled shoes. Don’t forget to bring a little cash, EFTPOS or credit card for your bar purchases.

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Highlights & Inclusions

• A 2.5 hour calm water sunset / evening cruise

• Luxurious air-conditioned vessel

• Large outdoor decks

• Complimentary glass of sparkling wine, beer or soft drink on arrival

• Delicious hot and cold 3 course buffet, featuring fresh seafood and local produce

• Live Music by some of Cairns’ best musicians

 

TRAVEL  

One of the prohibitive factors in attending a conference is the airfare component. Our company strives in making our event a lesser burden on the individual or organisation by negotiating competitive and affordable travel packages. Indigenous Conference Services (Australia) also recognises that some NGO’s or other agencies will need to seek additional funding to attend, therefore First Nations Travel Agency quotation can be made out to either pay ASAP or to consider the time that is required to obtain funding. For the best possible airfares and seat availability, please confirm your attendance ASAP. All of our booking is made through First Nations Travel, a new 100% indigenous owned travel agency here to make booking your flights stress free and relaxing for an enquiry please phone us on +61 4557 76 668 or send us your expression of interest by email:  adminics@iinet.net.au

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MONEY SAVING IDEAS 

The event secretary has come up with some great ideas on how to save money for you and your organisation.

 

​ACCOMMODATION: We have negotiated a special room rate for delegates at the venue. To avail for this special discounted rate, contact us and advise your arrival or check-in date and departure date so we can send you the accommodation tax invoice accordingly.

 

TRAVEL: We have engaged First Nations Travel Agency to negotiate with all the relevant stakeholders for hotel rates. 

 

CONCESSION: A special registration rate for university students is being offered for a flat rate of $750

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FIRST NATIONS TRAVEL AGENCY

Contact:  Phone 07 40009111

 Email.     adminics@iinet.net.au to request a quote

 

Further advantage to using First Nations Travel Agency for your airfares is that if something goes wrong, you have greater access to your travel agent if required. Our company strives in making our event a lesser burden on the individual or organisation by negotiating competitive and affordable travel packages.

 

To book your accommodation and avail yourself of the special delegate discount rates, Indigenous Conference Services has negotiated special rates for delegates and speakers attending the conference, when you complete your registration form you will see a sector highlighted accommodation need. It is possible to stay outside the venue however this may lead to a higher cost to your organisation. Please note that when registering you have 7 days from the issue of the conference secretariat to make payment this is, so your accommodation is locked in.

 

VISA TO AUSTRALIA due to covid-19 please follow travel advisory from Australian embassy near you.

If you are an international guest or speaker, please note that citizens of some countries require visas before entering Australia. To obtain an Australian Visa, you may require a letter of invite from the conference secretariat.  To obtain the letter of invitation, the guest must have registered for the conference and paid the required conference cost. This is refundable if visas are not approved, you should allow a minimum of 60 days for visa processing at the nearest Australian Embassy.  Please note, processing visa documents in some countries may take longer, depending on your country of origin. Visas can be obtained online from the Australian Federal Government's Department of Home Affairs website at this link  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder/visit#

 

SPONSORING THE CONFERENCE

ICS Conferences have developed flexible sponsorship packages to sponsor the conference either in part or in full. Sponsorship is a great way of promoting your organisation/ company/ department to all delegates attending the conference. Sponsorship opportunities are only open to businesses and private enterprise, not individuals. Indigenous Conference Services (Australia) will be of further assistance in tailoring your sponsorship arrangement. Please phone us on +61 4557 76 668 or send us your expression of interest by email:  adminics@iinet.net.au

 

contact us

ICS-MEES Pty Ltd

Indigenous Conference Services (Australia)

Postal Address: P.O.Box 702 Edmonton LPO Edmonton QLD 4869

Web: www.icsconferences.org 

Email:  adminics@iinet.net.au

Phone: 07 4000 9111, +61 4557 76 668

 

 

 

 

 

 

Please note this website is continually being updated.

Having issues finding what you are looking for, email adminics@iinet.net.au.

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