The Body Shop Activist

Happy 50th Anniversary Amnesty International

noreply@blogger.com (Adam Valvasori) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:58:00 PST

Watch this fantastic new video celebrating Amnesty International's 50th Anniversary.
Find out all the amazing things they do to defend human rights.

Support Amnesty International now! www.amnesty.org.au

In the lead up to Christmas 2011 The Body Shop Australia sold 79,020 Amnesty International Christmas cards - generating $102,330.90 in sales (100% of proceeds go to Amnesty International). We also proudly displayed the below posters in our windows promoting their Homelands campaign.

Support Amnesty International now! www.amnesty.org.au

Christmas Gifts that keep on giving...

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:51:00 PST

Have you finished your Christmas Shopping yet? There are plenty of great gifts you can give that help people in need all over the world.

How about scaling back on the gifts for family this year, and buy a gift for someone in need.

Below are some fantastic websites with great gift ideas that 'keep on giving'. And after all, giving to others is what Christmas is all about!

Give Now
Christmas Tips
Useful Gifts
Oxfam Gifts
The Smith Family
Berry Street Merry Christmas Appeal
World Vision Gifts

Labor party pledge moves live export debate forward

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:55:00 PST

Text and photos courtesy of WSPA

Labor has rejected a move to phase out live exports at this weekend’s National Party Conference, but WSPA is encouraged by moves to support alternatives to the cruel trade.

WSPA Captains demonstrating at the Labor Party conference

At Sunday's National Labor Party Conference in Sydney, MP Melissa Parke put forward an amendment asking delegates to support a four-year transition away from live export to a strengthened Australian chilled meat export trade – a move that would both protect Australian animals and promote Australian jobs.

The vote was so close that it was put to an official count, however sadly, support for the amendment fell just short with 173 votes for and 216 against.

WSPA Campaign Manager Jodie Jankevics said, “Whilst we’re disappointed Ms Parke's amendment didn't get through, we’re also very encouraged by Minister Ludwig’s move to create infrastructure that would support alternatives to the live export trade in the North.”

“Coupled with a stronger Labor focus on the elimination of chilled meat trade barriers such as tariffs, we believe practical steps are slowly being put into place to allow the supply chain to reduce its reliance on live export and move to a more humane and sustainable alternative.”

WSPA supporters’ efforts across the country through our "Move Forward" campaign have played a key role in raising awareness of the benefits of transitioning away from the live export trade with both the general public and importantly many key decision makers.

Since October, with the support of more than 100 volunteer Captains and their teams, we have generated over 80 pieces of media coverage nationally, had face-to-face meetings with almost 40 Labor representatives and union officials and collected over 11,000 new petition signatures.

Just one of many examples of a Captain who got published in her local paper.

It was all of this tremendous activity that helped make yesterday’s historic vote possible. Together we really have moved the debate around live exports forward and are now one step closer to ending this cruel and unnecessary trade.

On another positive note, Ms Parke also put forward an amendment this weekend calling for an Independent Commission of Animal Welfare, which was passed. WSPA would like to thank Ms Parke for all of her efforts to help improve animal welfare.

WSPA will continue to work with industry and Government to transition away from the live export trade to an alternative that protects animals from cruelty. With the start of a New Year just around the corner, we now have some new opportunities for change for animals that we can pursue - keep a look out for some exciting new initiatives in 2012!

Daniel Johns and Chris Cheney join forces with Wspa and offer signed guitar to help dogs around the world

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:47:00 PST

Text and photo courtesy of WSPA

Two of Australia’s most prominent and successful rock musicians, Daniel Johns and Chris Cheney, have exclusively joined forces to raise funds and awareness for WSPA’s ‘Collars not Cruelty’ a campaign to help improve the lives of tens of thousands of street dogs around the globe. Both musicians are taking part in a competition to win a rockin’ Epiphone Les Paul Studio guitar signed by both and kindly donated by The Gibson Foundation.

Chris said, “Typically the only times where Daniel and I reconnect is for something purely for our own benefit, like at a gig or a festival. This is a cause, a mission, a message and something of importance.”

Daniel added, “This is something we could do on a selfless level, as soon as Chris and I heard about WSPA’s campaign and the 20 million dogs brutally slaughtered every year, we knew we had to ‘man up’ and do something about it.”

To enter the competition visit dollarsforcollars.org.au and buy a virtual collar for just $10 and tell us in 25 words or less why dogs mean the world to you. Two exclusive videos will then be unlocked featuring Daniel and Chris, one a more serious insight into the inhumane culling of dogs around the world, the other a candid and fun quiz where Daniel and Chris answer a series of dog-related questions with comical results.

All entries will be judged by Daniel and Chris and the most creative answer will win this fantastic piece of rock history. Each entry and virtual collar bought will donate vital funds to help convince the world to stop killing dogs in response to rabies and will help work with governments to stop the cruelty and instead run effective dog vaccination programmes.

Daniel will also personally sign a copy of Andrew Zuckermann’s acclaimed coffee table book ‘Music’ in which he is featured, as a special runner-up prize. Chris is generously providing a The Living End merchandise pack that includes a signed copy of Guitar Australia Magazine with him on the cover, a signed copy of ‘The Ending is Just the Beginning Repeating’ album, a signed The Living End t-shirt as well as a The Living End iPhone 4 cover, stickers and badges.

WSPA spokesperson Joanna Tuckwell said, “Every year up to 20 million dogs are inhumanely culled across the world - that’s the equivalent of 38 dogs every minute. These dogs are often poisoned, beaten or gassed to death as part of this culling process. Such cruelty is clearly unacceptable and we are proud and excited to have Daniel and Chris join WSPA as ambassadors for the ‘Collars not Cruelty’ campaign.”

Chris concludes, “The vital funds raised at dollarsforcollars.org.au will ensure that WSPA can campaign to let people know that vaccination and not culling, is the solution to the rabies problem. Upon vaccination these dogs are given red collars and communities then know that these dogs are safe from the disease, this is a noble and practical solution and you can help make it a success.”

To buy a virtual collar, unlock exclusive video content and a chance to win the signed guitar, visit dollarsforcollars.org.au. To see a special teaser video featuring Daniel and Chris visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9DbnJqb0wI

Herd of local people hits Melbourne’s streets to demand action from Labor on live exports

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:55:00 PST

Text and photos courtesy of WSPA

A herd of animal activists wearing sheep and cow shaped billboards delivered end live export petitions and the findings of a new live export public opinion poll to the offices of Martin Ferguson, MP for Batman and Michael Danby, MP for Melbourne Ports today.

The national Lonergan Research survey, was commissioned by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and reveals that over 77% of the Australian public believe live export is cruel, and 80% of the population believe the Labor Party should reconsider its support of the disgraced live export industry and embrace a transition to locally processed chilled meat export.

The protest is part of a nationwide program of local events co-ordinated by WSPA, which is calling on Labor MP’s to shift support away from live export, and transition to a chilled meat export trade when they meet for the national Labor Party Conference in December.

Adam Valvasori, spokesperson for the group and Values Manager at The Body Shop said, “We’re here to let people know that live export is still happening. Australian cows and sheep are still being subjected to long, overcrowded and deadly transportation overseas; with the prospect of inhumane slaughter while fully conscious when they reach foreign abattoirs.

“Our local politicians need to know that the public still care about this national shame, so we’re presenting them with a humanechain.org.au petition, signed by over 800 people in Batman and 700 people in Melbourne Ports calling for an end to live export,” he concluded.

Jodie Jankevics, campaign manager at WSPA said, “Over 100,000 Australians have signed the humanechain.org.au petition calling for an end to live export, and we know many Labor politicians feel that protecting Australian jobs and animals by supporting a transition to chilled meat export makes sense.

“Labor currently supports live export, but the December Labor Party conference gives MP’s the opportunity to vote for a planned transition away from live export, to the more humane and economically viable chilled meat trade.

“We are calling on Martin Ferguson, Michael Danby and the rest of the Labor Party to take a stand for common sense and compassion by supporting a change in party policy that will end this unethical and outdated trade,” she concluded.

Live Animal Export Condemned in National Opinion Poll

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:31:00 PDT

Below text and images courtesy of WSPA

A new national survey commissioned by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has revealed 77% of Australians still think the live export industry is cruel, despite Governments recent claims that new reform will reduce the abuse of exported Australian animals.

The poll conducted by Lonergan Research, also found that 80% of Australians believe Labor should support a phase out of live export, in favour of a local chilled meat export industry.

WSPA campaign manager Jessica Borg, said “No amount of spin can disguise the fact that live export is still an industry where sheep and cattle can be slaughtered inhumanely, while fully conscious.”

“Due to live export, tens of thousands of animals will still die horrific deaths from stress, starvation and disease on lengthy and overcrowded sea voyages."

"The poll results show Labor should not underestimate the continuing depth of public concern over this issue.

“In addition, more than 100,000 Australians have joined humanechain.org, WSPA’s online petition calling for an end to the live export trade and continue to do so.

“The local chilled meat export industry is a more humane and profitable alternative to live export and clearly has overwhelming support from the Australian community, as an alternative that also creates more rural jobs.

“The upcoming National Labor conference is a golden opportunity for the party to reconsider their stance, paving the way for a well-managed, practical transition away from the inherently risky live export trade,” she concluded.

Paul Crane, Export and Meat Manager at V&V Walsh’s said, “Labor are planning to pour over $10 million of public money into the live export industry, to help its overseas operations reach a lower standard than we already have in Australia.”

“With government and industry support given to the Australian chilled meat industry instead, we could grow the infrastructure needed to expand a more sustainable and profitable alternative to live export, which also brings bigger benefits to the rural economy and employment."

For more information, please visit: http://www.moveforward.org.au/

Join our new initiative and show the Labor party a clear way forward for live exports

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 17:23:00 PDT

Below text, images and video courtesy of WSPA

We have a huge opportunity for supporters to get even more involved in our Humane Chain campaign aimed at ending live animal exports.

On December 3rd and 4th the Labor party will hold their National Conference. This usually takes place only once every three years, and during it they’ll consider amendments to the Party platform and a number of resolutions.

This is a critical window of opportunity!

So on September 1st a group of WSPA supporters, volunteers and staff got together to put together a plan to ‘move forward’.

Together we decided that from now until December, we’ll be asking our supporters to encourage the Labor Party to adopt a policy at their upcoming conference which aims to phase out live exports. In addition we’ll be asking them to instead support the alternative; the alternative being a more humane and economically viable chilled meat trade, which would keep our animals and our jobs here in Australia.

There are already a number of Labor representatives onside with this argument. MP Kelvin Thomson was recently quoted saying “I personally think the live export trade should come to an end, and I believe both animal welfare interests and our economic interests would be better served by our processing all meat domestically in Australia, as New Zealand does.”

However at the moment, it seems MPs like Kelvin Thomson are forced to vote with their party, highlighting the need to change Labor’s stance to allow change to happen!

Here’s where we need your help.

We’re looking for 100 Captains around Australia to lead their electorate in lobbying and public engagement activities.

If you decide to take on this challenge, and help millions of animals, we’ll supply you with a free Captain action pack, full of the tools, props and information you’ll need to be a campaigner for animals. We’ll also discuss our plan with you in further detail and we’ll assign a WSPA Buddy to you, to support you the whole way through! All you need is the will and a couple of hours spare each week leading up till the Labor Conference.

We invite you to join us on this exciting initiative by applying to be a Captain using this quick, easy form no later than 16 September.

As a Captain you’ll lead your team throughout October and November to:

1. Inspire at least 100 people to join the Humane Chain in your electorate
2. Obtain media coverage of your campaign activities
3. Deliver the message to your Labor representative that ending live export is the clear way forward for Australia

We hope our video will inspire you to come on board as we move forward together to end the cruel live animal export trade!

I want Oscar's Law!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 22:10:00 PDT

By Rachel Muraca - Retail

I am absolutely unable to contain my excitement, or control my tears. Oscar, the small dog who was the inspiration for Oscar's Law, has finally been rescued and returned to the amazing Debra Tranter, who initially saved him over 18 months ago, before he was returned to his puppy farm prison after being seized by the police.

Be a voice for the thousands of dogs imprisoned in puppy farms across Australia and attend the Puppy Farm Awareness Rally on Sunday the 18th of September from 12 Noon on the steps of Parliament House in Melbourne. For more information, visit www.oscarslaw.org and/or visit the facebook event here.

Please see the below article featured in today's Sunday Herald Sun.
All below text is property of the Sunday Herald Sun.

Where did your puppy come from?

Debra Tranter and Oscar, who inspired her campaign to put an end to puppy farming. Picture: Supplied.

If you're not sure, there's a good chance it started life in a puppy factory where profit comes before welfare.

For six years, Oscar has lived as a stud dog. His entire universe has been a tiny, filthy cage. No walks in the park, no sunlight, he’s never even seen the sky. All he knows is being locked inside a giant shed with hundreds of other dogs on a remote property in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges. His life is an endless cycle of breeding and pain. Prized for his miniature size, Oscar’s pups, which he’s never seen, are marketed as ‘teacups’ and sold for a premium. Until one night a woman appears, opens his cage, gives him his first cuddle and takes him away.

Pet-shop puppies are the very definition of cute. But what if you knew the vast majority of them started life in a puppy factory, where conditions are so horrendous, it beggs belief?

Puppy factories and backyard breeders are commercial breeding facilities. They can house up to 1000 dogs, producing masses of puppies sold for around $1000 each over the internet, through classified ads and in pet shops.

For almost two decades, Debra Tranter has dedicated her life to exposing the mistreatment taking place in secluded sheds across the country. She sacrificed her $90K job, suffered burglaries and assaults, and even has an ‘If Mum gets arrested or goes to jail’ plan for her kids, now in their 20s. But early last year, Tranter and her campaign fell apart when Oscar, a dog she’d rescued, was returned to his puppy farmer.

“When we found Oscar, he was in a really bad way,” says Tranter. “His fur was so thick; it was like a concrete block attached to his body. His genitals were actually matted to his leg. He had an ear infection, which I could smell straightaway, and his ear canals were full of black sludge, fur and ear mites.”

Tranter rescued Oscar and took him directly to the vet. The vet said the dog’s teeth were so infected, he couldn’t eat, which explained his 2.2kg weight. Malnourished, Oscar’s skin was as delicate as tissue paper and the matted fur caused tearing when he moved. He had to be given a general anaesthetic so he could be shaved, which exposed a number of wounds and abscesses and left him a meagre 1.6kg. While under anaesthetic, Oscar was de-sexed in anticipation that he’d go on to a ‘forever home’ with a new owner.

Oscar after he was rescued for the first time 18 months ago. His condition was horrendous.

That night, Tranter took Oscar to her home in Ferntree Gully, 40 minutes east of Melbourne, intending to find a foster carer for him the following day. Shortly after midnight, 10 police officers raided her house.

“The whole place lit up. They shone spotlights through the windows and officers banged on my door. When they said they had a search warrant, I knew they’d come for Oscar. I said, ‘Please don’t take him, he’s had surgery today.’ But they took him from my arms and put me in a divvy van. I was in the lock-up for two hours and could hear Oscar crying somewhere in the station.”

Tranter was charged with theft and Oscar was returned to the puppy factory.

“After the raid, I was a mess,” she says. “It was probably the lowest point in my life. All these years, I’d been fighting for these dogs, and I felt I’d completely failed. I’d rescued Oscar from that shed and given him hope. Now he was back there. It was the worst thing that could have happened. I drove to the country, sat under a tree and cried.”

Oscar earned Tranter her first criminal conviction in 18 years spent rescuing dogs and documenting puppy factories, a journey that began with a phone call when she was volunteering at an animal welfare agency.

“A voice said, ‘There’s a puppy factory with 1000 dogs near Ballarat. Look for a clearing in a pine plantation.’ Then they hung up,” she recalls. “Everyone kept saying, ‘Only chickens and pigs are factory-farmed, we don’t do that to dogs. It’s a hoax, forget it.’” But the voice haunted Tranter.

Armed with old fire brigade maps, she and a friend began scouring the region. Unsure of what they’d uncover, after three months, deep in a remote forest, they found it.

Tranter describes it as a cross between a pig farm and a concentration camp. An “industrial landscape” with rows of wire pens and hundreds of dogs pacing incessantly in never-ending figure eights. There were triangular metal kennels across the length of the compound, surrounded by a low fence. Left speechless by the scale of it, they waited for nightfall before going in to document their discovery.

“As soon as we entered the property, there was an eruption of sound, the dogs went nuts. At first it was excited barking, but after a while they calmed down and started howling,” Tranter recalls. “The smell was terrible. It was full of parvovirus [a contagious disease that causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea].” On later visits, she found many dogs also suffered from “a kind of flesh eating disease.

“When you look in the cages, it’s as though they’re screaming at you, not just with their bark, but with their eyes,” she says. “But it’s the ones who don’t bark – they’re the ones you know have been there for years. They don’t even move. Their spirits are broken.”

Tranter says the worst thing she’s seen is maternal cannibalism. “It’s when a mother gives birth to puppies and, as soon as they’re born, she starts eating them. She’ll chew off their limbs. The first time I saw it, I didn’t understand what was happening and I stood there and filmed it. When I saw it at home, I was so ashamed and disgusted with myself that I destroyed the tape. I said to my friend, ‘Don’t ever tell anyone we filmed that and did nothing.’ But now, I know it’s so common, the industry has a term for it. On the documents that are leaked to me, I always read, ‘Mother killed puppies.’”

Serious health issues related to prolific births is another problem arising out of puppy farming, says Tranter. “I’ve seen dogs dragging ulcerated and weeping mammary tumours on the ground. A prolapsed uterus is when the mother, nearing the end of her breeding life, has had so many litters, the uterus comes out of her body.

“Unspeakable cruelty goes on in these sheds, and once you’ve seen it, you can’t un-see it.”

Tranter has since investigated around 70 puppy factories and backyard breeders in Victoria and NSW.

While mandatory legislation requires all dogs to have shelter and regular access to food, water, exercise and veterinary care, the problem is enforcement, which rests with local councils and state governments.

“Many puppy factories are in rural areas. Often, the council ranger and the puppy farmer are mates; they drink at the same pub, their kids go to the same school. Not one puppy factory I’ve been to operate in accordance with the legislation, but there’s no one out there enforcing it,” Tranter says, also acknowledging that her own activities are illegal. “The illegality of what I do pales into insignificance compared to what these dogs are going through. I believe the public has a right to know and the dogs need people to know. If someone calls me a criminal for jumping a fence with a camera, so be it.”

But after Oscar was taken away, Tranter questioned her resolve. “Sitting under that tree, I believed I’d failed. Then I thought, I wish there was some law I could use to get him back. If only I had Oscar’s Law. And that’s how I had the idea for the campaign.”

Tranter had been running Prisoners for Profit, an anti-puppy factory campaign that “bombarded people with horrific images”, which she now believes were too confronting.

“With Oscar’s Law, I feel I need to reach ordinary people with dogs, not necessarily dog people. I want it to be positive and empowering,” she says.

“Oscar’s Law aims to abolish puppy factory-farming and the selling of dogs in pet shops, but it’s not about showing negative images all the time and making it seem hopeless,” she explains. Tranter believes success will come from enabling consumers to make informed choices, so people know that if they buy from a pet shop, their money will keep dogs in those sheds.

Oscar’s Law has received overwhelming support from the animal rescue community, as well as Kindness Trust (who fund its offices) and public figures including Derryn Hinch. The website has had half-a-million visits, but social media is where you see how the campaign is gaining traction, with endorsements from Sia, Jon Stevens, and The Scarlets.

A rally, held six weeks after the campaign launched, attracted 5000 protesters to the steps of Melbourne’s Parliament House. Tranter hoped for 50. “It was amazing. It made me realise people really care. It won’t be me that gets Oscar’s Law over the line, it will be everyone.”

And what of Oscar, the dog who inspired a movement? In July, Tranter visited the puppy factory again, this time in disguise.

“We responded to an ad in the Trading Post that said there were adult dogs for sale,” says Tranter. “I asked if we could look inside the sheds and the man said, ‘If you can stand the noise and smell, I’ll let you have a peek.’ I made a beeline for Oscar’s cage. He was at the very back, shaking and terrified.

“The man said, ‘That one was taken by some people and de-sexed; he’s no good. You can have him for $400.’ To think he sat in that rotten cage for 18 months and they thought he was no good.

“Now we have him back, it’s unbelievable,” Tranter says. “It’s a sign that you can never give up. This little dog doesn’t just belong to me, he belongs to everyone. He’s already inspired so many people. It’s wonderful that we have Oscar. Now we need Oscar’s Law.”

Join the rally for Oscar’s Law next Sunday, September 18, at Sydney’s Belmore Park, or at Parliament House in Melbourne from midday.
Visit www.oscarslaw.org.

Puppy Farming VS. Responsible Breeding

There’s a difference between responsible breeders and puppy factories.

Legislation such as the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (Vic) rules that any person who runs a dog breeding business for profit must register with the local council. Enterprises must operate in accord with the state government’s Code of Practice, which outlines minimum standards of care.

The RSPCA considers puppy farming to be a significant national welfare issue. In its view, a ‘puppy factory’ is defined as an intensive breeding facility operated under inadequate conditions that fail to meet the dogs’ behavioural, social and/or physiological needs. The organisation advocates regulation of the breeding, supply and sale of dogs to help set minimum standards and stamp out the mass-production of puppies for profit.

WANT TO BUY A PUPPY?
Choose one from a shelter or an adoption agency, or visit the breeder’s premises before you commit. For more information, see the Smart Puppy Buyer’s Guide on the RSPCA website (www.rspca.org.au).

Visit closepuppyfactories.org and oscarslaw.org for more information.

Global Condemnation of ‘Un-Australian’ Live Export Delivered To Labor Members of Parliament

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 PDT

Text & Images courtesy of WSPA

Australian Meat Industry Outlines an Ethical, Profitable and Sustainable Alternative

The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has presented Members of Parliament Kelvin Thomson, Janelle Saffin and Melissa Parke with a global photo petition against live export at Parliament House, Canberra.

In accepting the petition Kelvin Thomson MP said “I find the animal welfare and economic arguments for a transition away from live export to chilled meat export compelling.”

MP’s Melissa Parke and Kelvin Thomson accepting the Global Petition from Campaign Manager, Jessica Borg

Since WSPA launched its Humane Chain campaign, over 170,000 supporters have taken action internationally, calling for an end to the live export trade. In the last month, over 11,000 of them have uploaded photos with arms outstretched to visually represent this call, forming a global ‘Humane Chain’.

In addition to the petition, Labor MP’s also heard from a representative of major Australian processed meat exporter, V&V Walsh’s, about the negative impact of live export on rural jobs and economic growth, and how a transition to local processing for export could provide employment and stability across the livestock industry supply chain.

Jessica Borg, Campaigns Manager at WSPA said, “We’ve had an overwhelming response from our supporters right around the world, horrified and surprised the Australian Government are condoning the cruelty involved in live exports. In the last month alone, over 10,000 people have joined our photo petition from over 80 countries, including Egypt, Brazil, the USA, Great Britain, Italy and even Panama.”

A WSPA supporter in Rio de Janeiro

“The fallout from exposure of welfare abuses in the Australian live export industry has been reported in mainstream international media, and across our global animal welfare network. Leaving many asking why, as a developed country, Australia allows this double standard to continue.”

“New Zealand effectively banned live export in 2003 and replaced it with a more profitable, and ethical, domestically processed chilled meat export trade – hard questions need to be asked about why Australia isn’t doing the same.”

Peter Cody, plant manager at Australian processed meat exporter V&V Walsh’s, said, “There’s been a lot of talk in the media about financial and job losses if live export winds down. The irony is that live export is actually stifling growth and job opportunities in rural areas where we could be processing and value adding across the supply chain.”

Peter Cody, Plant Manager, V&V Walsh’s

”What’s been lost in the storm around live export recently is a practical and constructive debate about the alternatives. By transitioning to a chilled meat trade, we’ll actually keep more money in the Australian economy, create more jobs in rural communities and we’ll have a more sustainable and stable market option for producers,” he concluded.

Jessica Borg, Campaigns Manager at WSPA said, “Over 170,000 of WSPA’s supporters and the Australian meat processing industry call on the Government to recognise the golden opportunity they have to make some meaningful progress in this ongoing catastrophe; shift Labor Party policy away from unquestioning support of live export and put a framework in place to replace live exports with a locally processed chilled meat export trade.”

For more information on this issue and to take action, go to http://www.humanechain.org.au/

SMILE AND JOIN WSPA’S GLOBAL HUMANE CHAIN

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 19:00:00 PDT

Text and photos courtesy of WSPA

Help demonstrate that people around the world want the Australian Government to stop live animal exports.

WSPA has launched a worldwide campaign, calling on supporters to tell the Australian Government to end live animal exports for good.
By adding your photo to our Global Humane Chain, you can show them that the world is watching and urging them to do the right thing.

After the government’s recent shocking decision to reinstate live exports without completion of its animal welfare inquiry, WSPA Campaign manager Jessica Borg said:
“Enough is enough. It’s time to tell the Australian Government that the world is watching and we will not put up with its excuses any longer. There is simply no such thing as humane live export and for that reason Australian live exports must be stopped.”

We’ve been hearing from our supporters around the world who agree!

So many of you have already taken important actions by writing to your MP and meeting your MP which has created a huge impact. We’ve now created another fun and easy way for supporters to visually demonstrate the international support to end live animal exports.

Add your photo to be part of this global visual petition calling on the Australian Government to end live exports once and for all. Simply stand with your arms outstretched, like in the photo above, to join hands with WSPA supporters from around the world who are opposed to this cruel practice. The photos will be tallied and the most iconic from each country will be presented to the Australian Government at an upcoming press conference.

Call for ideas to defend children from sex tourism

noreply@blogger.com (The Body Shop Activist) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 20:53:00 PDT

A search has begun today for ideas to make an impact on the issue of child sex trafficking and tourism, through a unique competition.

The Body Shop, Child Wise and Intrepid Travel have teamed up and are calling for a slogan to promote ethical, child safe tourism and urge Australians to report on suspicious behavior.

The most impactful slogan will be developed into a billboard advertisement in Phnom Penh Cambodia, to create awareness of this shocking crime and empower travelers to take action.

The winning entrant will experience a nine day Intrepid Travel small group adventure to Cambodia, to visit Child Wise’s grassroots programs and view their billboard.

This initiative is running through the ‘Stop Sex Trafficking of Children and Young People’ campaign, now in its third year.

Together with illegal drugs and arms, human trafficking is one of the largest criminal industries in the world. Australians have been identified as travelling sex offenders in at least 25 countries and as the largest group of sex tourists prosecuted in Thailand (31% of the total).

“It remains an appalling fact that Australians contribute to the demand for sex with children. Current attempts to stop child sex tourism are not working, and this competition aims to stop travelling child sex offenders by creating greater awareness about this heinous crime and empowering Australians travelling overseas to protect children,” Bernadette McMenamin, CEO and Founder of Child Wise said.

The competition will run in The Body Shop and Intrepid Travel stores around the country as well as on the Child Wise website until 31 August.

Additionally, both Intrepid Travel and The Body Shop will be handing out free Activist Kits nationally.

The Activist Kits are pocket sized resources, containing practical steps towards taking action against Child Sex Trafficking and tips on being a child safe traveler, including Child Sex Tourist report cards.

"We are appalled about the statistics around child sex tourism and strongly believe that the travel industry needs to play a role in tackling this issue. There is no place for sex tourism in the world and we hope this campaign sheds some light on a practice that is just plain wrong," Geoff Manchester, Manager and Co-founder, Intrepid Travel said.

The Body Shop will continue to sell the Soft Hands Kind Heart Hand Creams, with 100% of proceeds going to Child Wise.

What has been achieved so far?

Through lobbying and fundraising the ‘Stop Sex Trafficking of Children & Young People’ campaign has had enormous success to date. 225,328 signatures were collected from Australians who believe the Government should do more to stop the demand and supply of children into the commercial sex industry. The petition, one of Australia’s largest ever – was tabled in Parliament on 23 March 2011, and has succeeded in opening a dialogue with the relevant Government Ministers.

Nearly half a million dollars has been donated to Child Wise from the proceeds of Soft Hands Kind Heart Hand Cream sales.

“The campaign has already funded 10 best practice projects to stop child sex trafficking in Cambodia, by educating and empowering children, teachers, parents, community leaders and politicians. We are proud to have made a difference by supporting thousands of children in Cambodia who are vulnerable,” Mark Kindness, Chief Executive, The Body Shop Australia said.

About the Limited Edition Soft hands Kind Heart Hand Cream:

Nurture your skin with Soft Hands, Kind Heart Hand Cream, which in turn helps provide protection and care to children and young people trafficked or at risk. All profit from the sale of the hand cream will be donated directly to Child Wise. Soft Hands, Kind Heart Hand Cream RRP $10.95 will be available for purchase from 25 July until sold out. All proceeds are donated directly to Child Wise’s vital programs in Cambodia.

About the Cambodia competition:

The ‘Stop Sex Trafficking of Children and Young People’ campaign and competition will run from 25 July to 31 August 2011 and ideas can be submitted at The Body Shop Stores and Intrepid Travel My Adventure Stores nationally or online at www.childwise.net/competition

For further information please contact:

Adam Valvasori
Values Manager
(03) 9565 0500
(03) 9565 0598 (Direct)

Meg Koffel
PR Manager Intrepid Travel
(03) 9473 2626

Bernadette McMenamin
CEO and Founder Child Wise
(03) 9645 8911
www.childwise.net

Live Export Reversal Defies Logic, Triggering Community Outrage

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 21:52:00 PDT

Press release from WSPA regarding the resumption of the Live Export Trade.

The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has been inundated with emails and calls from members of the community outraged by the Government’s decision to resume live cattle exports to Indonesia.

The announcement by Senator Ludwig comes without any robust information on how animal welfare safeguards will be put in place, and before the Government’s own inquiry into the trade has been completed or released.

Jessica Borg, campaigns manager for the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) said, “It seems the government has knee-jerked into a hasty politically-motivated decision that will ultimately benefit no-one. Sadly the Government seems to be switching from one band-aid solution to the next, rather than focusing on the long term.”

“Responsibility for animal welfare has once again been foolishly placed into the hands of a live export industry with no genuine interest or authority for improving conditions in Indonesia.”

“What excuses are the livestock industry and Government going to make when we see new horrific footage of the same inhumane slaughter from Indonesian abattoirs in six months or a year’s time?” she concluded.

WSPA has been conducting a long-term campaign calling for a transition from live export to locally processed chilled meat export; an alternative that independent research says could deliver long-term sustainability and increased revenue for the Australian livestock industry and rural economy.

Jessica Borg said, “WSPA is not simply calling for a ban, we’re calling for the chilled meat trade to take the place of live exports. Economic analysis has shown that live exports actually cost Australia $1.5 billion in lost GDP, $270 million in lost household income and around 10,500 in lost jobs.”

“This approach is supported by the Labor Party in WA who voted at their recent party conference in support of a transition from live exports to a chilled meat trade, encouraging industry diversification and supporting a strong processing sector that in turn creates local jobs.”

“It’s time for the livestock industry and Government to rethink this industry rather than focus on short-term solutions and political outcomes. A transition from live export to a viable local processing and chilled meat export system will create a more sustainable industry that benefits animals the farming community, and the rural economy,” she concluded.

The Government needs to know that this announcement is unacceptable. WSPA is encouraging supporters to call their local MPs to express their concerns. You can find contact details for your local electorate office here: http://www.aph.gov.au/house/members/mi-alpha.asp or call into your local radio station with your views to keep this issue in the media.

BREAKING NEWS!! LIVE EXPORTS SUSPENDED! TAKE ACTION TO END IT FOR GOOD!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 16:46:00 PDT

Text and images courtesy of WSPA

More needs to be done to end live animal export for good.

Just over a week ago, we were all shocked and outraged by the horrific evidence provided by Animals Australia and RSPCA that aired on Four Corners, exposing the cruel live cattle export trade to Indonesia.

Following an onslaught of pressure from the public, including supporters like you, Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced a temporary suspension of all live cattle exports to Indonesia.

While this is welcome news, we stand firm that this band-aid solution is simply not good enough. Minister for Agriculture, Senator Joe Ludwig says he will be working with industry to resume exports within six months.

There is simply no such thing as a ‘humane live export trade’. Tell Julia Gillard to end live animal exports once and for all. There is no feasible way to guarantee that the 120+ Indonesian abattoirs that process Australian cattle will come up to our standards in just six months. So far the industry has had almost 20 years and millions of Australian dollars to improve animal welfare, but no significant progress has ever been made.

Whether it’s cattle shipped to Indonesia or sheep shipped to the Middle East, we have no means of protecting our animals once we send them off shore. The only control we have is whether or not we send them.

Instead of wasting tax payers’ money trying to improve the inherently cruel live export trade, our Government should be focussing on our local higher value and more humane chilled meat trade.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial we continue to send the message that the only solution is a COMPLETE ban of ALL live animal exports. Ending live exports will protect Australian animals and promote Australian jobs.

WRITE TO JULIA GILLARD.

It’s ultimately up to Prime Minister Julia Gillard to ensure her Government does the right thing. We thank you for your continued support and now ask you to please write to Julia Gillard today and join us in calling for an end to ALL live animal export.

On behalf of the animals, thank you for your help.

10,000 Humane Chain letters sent to MPs against live export since Monday; clearly Ministers announcement hasn’t suppressed welfare concerns

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:05:00 PDT

Text and images courtesy of WSPA

Since Monday’s Four Corners program airing the horrific footage captured by Animals Australia, of tortured Australian cattle in Indonesian abattoirs, there’s been a colossal outcry from the community calling for an immediate end to the trade. Not surprisingly this outcry hasn’t at all been softened since the Minister’s announcement of suspending the trade to just the 11 abattoirs where footage was captured, and an inquiry into the rest.

In fact the Minister’s announcement has actually sparked even more outrage, with thousands of people continuing to take a multitude of actions today, including sending letters via the Humane Chain website, which again caused the website to crash momentarily due to such high use. It’s not only the general public that are completely outraged by this decision, Members of Parliament are too. Independent Senator Nick Xenophon told the ABC, “Given that there are something like 100 slaughterhouses in Indonesia this is only an 11 per cent solution.”

During a heated Labor caucus meeting yesterday West Coast Sentinel reported that around twenty MPs rose up and demanded more. ''We told him (Minister for Agriculture) an inquiry was bull….,'' said one MP. ''We have had enough inquiries.''

On a promising note West Coast Sentinel also reported “two MPs, Janelle Saffin and Kelvin Thomson, presented a notice of motion to be debated by the caucus in a fortnight which calls for a ban on live exports to Indonesia.”

WSPA commends Saffin and Thomson on their action and is pleased that so many MPs are standing up for what is right. What’s not right is continuing to let our animals go to Indonesia and suffer horrifically, until the Australian Government figures out what to do. What needs to happen is for the Australian Government to really take head of the evidence Animals Australia and the RSPCA have provided and immediately end the cattle trade to Indonesia.

A suspension to just 11 abattoirs is not acceptable, in fact WSPA isn’t confident even this will really be achieved. Dr Bidda Jones the RSPCA's chief scientist told the ABC, “What happens in Indonesia is that butchers will come to the feedlot and buy animals individually. Then they will take them to the slaughterhouse. We can't understand how that would be possible to actually restrict that ability. Even if you could do that those cattle would merely go to the next available slaughterhouse. They will all suffer cruel treatment.”

It’s clear animal welfare groups, the meat processing industry and the Australian community will not stop campaigning until the Australian Government ends this trade once and for all.

Four Corners Report Exposes Horrific Abuse Faced by Australian Cattle in Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Mon, 30 May 2011 18:33:00 PDT

The following text & images courtesty of WSPA

Following the exposure of horrific footage bravely captured by Animals Australia on last night’s ABC Four Corners report, showing cruel treatment of Australian cattle within Indonesian slaughter houses, welfare groups and the meat processing industry is calling for an immediate halt to live cattle export to Indonesia.

Jessica Borg, campaigns manager for the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) said:
“As an international animal welfare campaigner I’ve witnessed some truly distressing scenes in my time, but even I was shocked by the Animals Australia footage aired on Four Corners, showing Australian cattle being senselessly tortured and forced to endure completely unnecessary pain and fear. This is a trade that needs to end immediately.”

“Surely no-one in government, MLA or the farming industry could possibly justify the widespread and absolutely horrific abuse cattle endure in largely unregulated Indonesian abattoirs. If we continue to supply live Australian cattle to this system we are condoning the appalling treatment documented in the program.”

“Whether it’s cattle shipped to Indonesia or sheep shipped to the Middle East, we have no means of protecting our animals once we send them off shore. The only control we have is whether or not we send them.”

“For years veterinarians have been calling for an end to this horrific trade, clearly it’s time for the Government to stop trusting the live export industry’s advice on animal welfare matters and start listening to the experts.”

WSPA supports Animals Australia and the RSPCA in their call for the live cattle trade to Indonesia to be halted immediately and for the Australian Government to announce an end date for live animal exports to all other countries.

The meat processing industry is also shocked and concerned about the impact live export cruelty will have on our local meat processing industry’s reputation. Tom Maguire, Chairman of the Australian Meat Industry Council’s (AMIC) Animal Welfare Committee said: “The footage we’ve seen clearly damages the global image of the $15 billion dollar Australian meat industry, and the situation needs to be fixed.”

“If this live export trade is going to continue, the Australian government needs to ensure the welfare of export animals for their whole life-cycle – not just when they’re on Australian shores. Nothing less will be acceptable to our customers and the Australian public.”

Paul Crane, Export and Meat Manager at V&V Walsh’s said: “We already export locally processed lamb and beef to many parts of the world, reducing both the stress of transportation and ensuring that Australian livestock is slaughtered and processed to the highest international standards.”

“With government and industry support we can grow the infrastructure needed to make chilled and frozen meat export an even larger trade, one which is a more sustainable and a more profitable alternative to live export with bigger benefits to the rural economy. We have always believed that we should export meat not jobs.”

In addition, last year over 1,000 meat workers lost their jobs in Australia, mainly due to live stock shortages which were exacerbated by the live export trade. Since the Four Corner program Australian Meat Industry Employees Union (AMIEU) Federal President Grant Courtney said: “The Australian meat processing industry provides income and stability to the rural economy, but it’s being devastated thanks in large part to competition from the live export industry.”

“Australian farmers are happy to take the risk of live exports presumably because they feel comforted that the Australian processing industry will always be here to fall back on. However if live export continues and continues to weaken the processing industry, there won’t be anything to fall back on and cattle producers will be bound to the terms and conditions of importing countries, just like we saw with the Indonesian restrictions last year.”

Grant added, “We call on the Government to face up to its responsibilities and stand up for the domestic processing industry and economy by making the live export horror show a thing of the past.”

WSPA continues to urge Australians to contact their MP via http://www.humanechain.org.au/ and also the Prime Minister Julia Gillard at http://www.pm.gov.au/contact-your-pm

The Small Miracles Foundation

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Baxter) — Thu, 26 May 2011 19:07:00 PDT

The Small Miracles Foundation is the counseling arm of the Bonnie Babes Foundation, which is a not for profit organisation which is established for the health and well-being of families. Sadly one in every four pregnancies ends in a loss from miscarriage and stillbirth. One in every ten babies are born prematurely.

The Small Miracles Foundation counsels families through this extreme hardship with free grief counseling services.

Until June 3rd The Small Miracles Foundation is asking families who have lost a baby past or present to Light a Candle. They are trying to get 120 candles lit on their light a candle website by Friday next week.

If you would like to call 1300 266 643 and speak to a counselor, sharing your story and lighting a candle at www.lightacandle.org.au. you will be contributing to the 120 candles. If you hover over each candle you can read the messages. Friends of the family or other family members also count and their acknowledgement and messages will go up on the site.

The Small Miracles Foundation would like to continue running this project but funding will run out on 3rd June unless there are 120 candles lit. If the foundation receive enough funding for the website, many other families will be able to continue to acknowledge their babies.

STREET FOOTBALL FESTIVAL KICKS OFF

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Baxter) — Wed, 25 May 2011 20:08:00 PDT

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

ISSUED 26 MAY 2011

STREET FOOTBALL FESTIVAL KICKS OFF

The Big Issue Street Football Festival, presented by NAB, was launched at Darling Harbour today.

Launching the event, NSW Minister for Major Events George Souris announced the NSW Government had committed funding until 2015 to support staging The Big Issue Street Football Festival annually.

"The festival will not only showcase the power of sport to change lives, but bring together people from all walks of life for nine days of football action," Mr Souris said.

Staged on a purpose-built floating pitch at Cockle Bay, the festival will include the National Championships of The Big Issue's Community Street Soccer Program, which provides weekly training to homeless and marginalised men and women at 25 sites across the country. The festival will also incorporate a Government Agency Cup, a Corporate Cup and a junior competition.

"Staging our National Championships in Darling Harbour is a major boost to the program and our players," The Big Issue CEO Steven Persson said.

"Street Soccer transforms lives by reconnecting people with the community and this festival provides a wonderful opportunity for players from across the country to come together and meet other football lovers."

The Community Street Soccer Program has engaged more than 3500 Australians since it was launched by The Big Issue in 2007. Outcomes for participants include re-connection with family and the community, improved confidence and self-esteem, improved physical and mental health and a sense of belonging.

NAB Group Executive Business Banking Joseph Healy said: "We are pleased to support this community initiative and look forward to some great football action on this unique stage."

The free event runs from May 28 to June 5. The National Championships will be played on June 4-5.

ENDS

Media Contact: Eszter Vasenszky, The Big Issue Media and Communications Coordinator
0415 319 421 or evasenszky@bigissue.org.au

Abolish the Game Council

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 05 May 2011 17:36:00 PDT

Please join us and the Greens in calling for the Game Council to be abolished. Sign the petition here.

The following text is taken from the RSPCA NSW’s blog, which you can read here.

"The Game Council of NSW is at it again, this time calling for ‘expressions of interest’ for volunteer hunters to use dogs to hunt feral pigs in NSW State forests. RSPCA NSW today condemned the Game Council’s proposal, saying it flies in the face of the progress made in recent years to improve humaneness in wildlife and pest animal management.

“The RSPCA accepts that in some circumstances there is a need to control introduced animals such as feral pigs, but we firmly believe that any control measures used must be justified, effective and humane,” said RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman. “This is certainly not the case with hunting pigs with dogs.”

“Recreational hunting of pigs does not have any significant effect in reducing the agricultural or environmental impacts of these animals. Pig hunters do not apply their activities in a coordinated manner nor do they target their efforts in ways that would reduce impacts.”

“Pigs hunted with dogs are chased, held down and may be attacked and wounded by the dogs before the hunter is able to dispatch the pig. This is especially likely where dogs are poorly trained or are not called off quickly after they have located the pig. This means that the pig has suffered considerable pain, suffering and distress prior to death. Accredited game hunters (professional game meat harvesters) have an incentive to ensure that the pig is not mauled or injured, as the carcass would not be acceptable for processing. Recreational hunters have no such incentive or requirement for training or applying humane practices.”

“Not only is the use of dogs cruel to the pigs, it also places the dogs themselves in danger of injury and death. Some hunters will treat injured dogs themselves by sewing up their wounds, rather than take them for appropriate veterinary treatment. In addition, pig dogs are frequently lost during hunting and can end up as stray/wild dogs causing stock losses to farmers.”

The RSPCA NSW urges members of the public to contact their local political representatives, including NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell, to voice their disgust at this barbaric form of recreational hunting."

The WSPA Humane Campus Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 20:41:00 PDT

Throughout the month of May WSPA is holding a Humane Campus Challenge.

The challenge is for Australian universities to generate as many letters to Members of Parliament as possible, urging them to end the cruel live sheep export trade. You can learn more about this issue and our campaign at http://humanechain.org.

The university that collects the most letters during the month of May will be rewarded with $500 to put towards a party on their campus to thank them for their work, with an additional prize for student leaders.

For each university we are seeking 1-2 student leaders to head up the project and act as a point-person between WSPA and the school.

Those interested in becoming student leaders should fill in the attached sign-up form by April 27. We’ll send out flyers and an information pack to empower students to become activists online and off, and involve students on campus.

Participants must be part of a recognised Australian University.

Email Sharon Troy at sharontroy@wspa.org.au or call 02 9902 8000 to receive a sign-up form, or for any additional information.

For more information on the Humane Campus Challenge, please visit the Humane Chain blog posts here and here.

Women's Homelessness: Corporate Australia Agrees - It's a very Big Issue

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 16:18:00 PDT

Australia’s most respected social enterprise, The Big Issue, today thrust the issue of women‟s homelessness firmly into the spotlight.

With more than 46,000 Australian women homeless every night, it has become a critical issue which needs immediate attention.

Under the banner of The Big Issue’s ground-breaking initiative – the Women’s Subscription Enterprise, a panel of high-profile experts from the business and community sectors joined 100 influential corporate guests at a ‘round table’ event at NAB in Melbourne’s Docklands to discuss the issues surrounding women’s homelessness, and practical solutions which can address this critical social issue.

Facilitated by news reader Helen Kapalos, panelists included the 2011 Australian of the Year, Simon McKeon, the Barefoot Investor, Scott Pape, NAB deputy group CEO, Michael Ullmer, anthropologist and general manager of research and service development, Hanover Welfare Services, Dr Shelley Mallet, CEO of McAuley Community Services for Women, Jocelyn Bignold, the head of the Women‟s Subscription Enterprise, Natalie Pryles, and Jenna, formerly homeless and now a dispatch assistant with the Women‟s Subscription Enterprise.

With every 100 subscriptions sold to The Big Issue magazine, the Women‟s Subscriptions Enterprise can employ one homeless woman to sort, collate and insert the magazine for distribution to subscribers every fortnight.

While helping to shape corporate and community opinion on the issue, the goal for the ‘round table’ event was to sell 1,000 subscriptions to The Big Issue magazine, and give another 10 disadvantaged women an opportunity to earn an income and turn their lives around.

With domestic and family violence the largest single cause of homelessness in Australia, which overwhelmingly affects women and children, The Big Issue identified the need for a program addressing the specific needs of homeless women.

‘While the Street Magazine Enterprise (where The Big Issue is sold on the street), shows remarkable outcomes for homeless and marginalised vendors, 85 per cent of those vendors are male,’ said Natalie Pryles.

‘Selling The Big issue on the street is unsuitable for many homeless women for a variety of reasons, including child care responsibilities and the unwelcome connotations that come with working on a street corner.

'Something needed to be done that specifically targeted the issues of women‟s homelessness in a safe and appropriate way.

‘It is financially self-sustainable and entirely scalable – the more subscriptions we sell, the more women we can employ.’

With every 100 subscriptions to The Big Issue magazine, another disadvantaged woman is given the chance to earn an income in a safe, secure and rewarding environment. They can develop the skills necessary to change their lives and control their futures. As a stepping stone, it provides participants valuable work experience and skills to help prepare for a mainstream job.

2011 Australian of the Year, prominent investment banker, philanthropist and social entrepreneur, Simon McKeon, spoke of corporate Australia‟s responsibility to support social initiatives such as The Women‟s Subscription Enterprise.

‘It‟s the right thing to do,’ McKeon said. ‘Homeless women are among the most vulnerable in our society. ‘Businesses work best on a „hand up‟ rather than a „hand out‟ basis, so supporting a social enterprise such as The Women‟s Subscription Enterprise, which provides women with opportunities to earn an income, is a no brainer.’

Jenna, an Indigenous Australian who grew up in the Tiwi Islands, shared her story of homelessness with three small children on the streets of Melbourne, and the hurdles she faced in trying to start a new life.

‘Working at the Women‟s Subscription Enterprise has given me a lot of confidence,’ said Jenna. ‘I‟ve met a lot of people with the same experiences as me, and we can share stories, support and advice. I also like being a role model for my kids and having them look up to me.’ As a foundation subscriber, NAB is already behind the Women‟s Subscription Enterprise with 225 subscriptions to The Big Issue distributed throughout their business banking centres.

Deputy Group CEO, Michael Ullmer, believes that corporate social responsibility must be a sustainable part of the business structure.

‘We are exposing our staff to The Big Issue magazine across the country, which provides our staff with a better understanding and awareness of homelessness.

‘We believe that when employees participate in community activity through the organisation, they are more engaged and more productive. We are also helping others to achieve their full potential.’

** Eszter Vasenszky on 0415 319 421 or evasenszky@bigissue.org.au or Kirsty Hardt on 0438 123 184 or khardt@bigissue.org.au **

Kick Climate Change Competition

noreply@blogger.com (Adam Valvasori) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 22:03:00 PDT

While we wait for the Government to introduce a carbon tax, taking personal responsibility on Climate Change is easy with a new simple equation: Action on climate change = reduce your emissions + purchase offsets. Climate Friendly and The Body Shop have come together, encouraging Australians to make a pledge to apply this equation to their daily lives.

The Body Shop has a long history in environmentally responsible retailing, and strongly believes Australian businesses do have an ethical responsibility to protect the environment in which they operate, both locally and globally.

“We have taken significant steps towards being carbon managed, and since 2007 have reduced our CO2-e emissions by 12%, and now offset all carbon emissions from electricity, LPG gas, company cars and air travel. We encourage other businesses, and our staff and customers to follow the Climate Friendly formula too,” says Mark Kindness, CE The Body Shop.

To take action on climate change now, we suggest customers turn appliances off at the wall, walk or cycle instead of using the car and use lower energy light bulbs. Residents can then measure and offset their carbon footprint using Climate Friendly’s high-quality carbon offsets. Each carbon offset purchased prevents one tonne of carbon pollution from entering the atmosphere.

Visit www.climatefriendly.com/tbs or any The Body Shop store in Australia* and make a pledge to reduce your carbon emissions today. The person who pledges the most significant reduction will win their CO2-e emissions offset for a year PLUS a year’s supply of The Body Shop’s eco-conscious haircare and shower gel products.

* South Australian stores not included.

Earth Hour 2011 - This Earth Hour, go beyond the hour

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:26:00 PDT

By Rachel Muraca - Customer Service

Remember Earth Hour is this Saturday, the 26th of March at 8:30pm!

Below text & image taken from the Earth Hour website:

Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, when 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. Only a year later and Earth Hour had become a global sustainability movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries/territories participating. Global landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, CN Tower in Toronto, Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and Rome’s Colosseum, all stood in darkness, as symbols of hope for a cause that grows more urgent by the hour.

In March 2009, hundreds of millions of people took part in the third Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 88 countries/territories officially switched off to pledge their support for the planet, making Earth Hour 2009 the world’s largest global climate change initiative.

On Saturday 27 March, Earth Hour 2010 became the biggest Earth Hour ever. A record 128 countries and territories joined the global display of climate action. Iconic buildings and landmarks from Asia Pacific to Europe and Africa to the Americas switched off. People across the world from all walks of life turned off their lights and came together in celebration and contemplation of the one thing we all have in common – our planet.

Earth Hour 2011 will take place on Saturday 26 March at 8.30PM (local time). This Earth Hour we want you to go beyond the hour, so after the lights go back on think about what else you can do to make a difference. Together our actions add up.

Max the cat joining in on the 2010 Earth Hour

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Baxter) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 20:14:00 PST

By Deb Baxter- The Body Shop
Every night 46 000 Australian women sleep rough or in non-secure housing. The largest single cause of homelessness in Australia is domestic and family violence, which overwhelmingly affects women and children.

While The Big Issue Street Magazine Enterprise has shown remarkable outcomes and positive change predominantly for men, many homeless and disadvantaged women do not have a means to make money; presenting with a far greater and more complex range of needs including safety and security (often caused by a history of abuse), mental and physical health (sexual and pregnancy related), disability, drug and alcohol dependency and childcare. As such, they face limited opportunities to enter the workforce in a secure and appropriate way.

The Women’s Subscriptions Enterprise (WSE)
In August 2010 The Big Issue launched a new initiative – to address the needs of homeless and marginalised women.
Following an extensive Feasibility Study funded by the Minister for Housing and Minister for the Status of Women, the Hon Tanya Plibersek, MP, The Big Issue recognised the need to establish a viable and sustainable social enterprise that could provide appropriate employment, training and pathway opportunities for disadvantaged women in vulnerable situations; giving them financial independence and ultimately allowing them to change their lives and have control over their futures.
The Women’s Subscription Enterprise, a new social enterprise by The Big Issue Australia was launched, providing employment, training and pathways opportunities for disadvantaged women.

How does it work?
Through the sale of subscriptions (subs) to The Big Issue magazine, homeless and disadvantaged women are employed to work in a Distribution Centre, sorting, collating and inserting magazines for distribution to subscribers every fortnight. As well as paid employment, the women will also receive ongoing training and pathways opportunities, and the chance to develop their skills in a safe, secure and rewarding environment.

From Sunday February 27 – Sunday March 27, 2011 and coinciding with International Women's Day on March 8, The Body Shop Australia will be raising awareness of the issue of women’s homelessness, selling 3month $39 and 12month $155 subscriptions to The Big Issue and collecting messages of support for women working at the Women’s Subscription Enterprise.
For every 100 subscriptions sold, the Enterprise can employ one woman. The more subscriptions sold, the more women can be employed.

The on-the-job training the women receive and new skills they acquire, is essential in helping to develop their skills and confidence and providing financial independence. It will help the women to lift themselves and their children from the cycle of poverty and build a successful future whilst positively impacting the Australian community.
If you would like to purchase a subscription to The Big Issue, drop in to your local The Body Shop or visit http://www.isubscribe.com.au/bigissue/

Can you believe what they're doing?

noreply@blogger.com (Deb Baxter) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 19:00:00 PST

Look at what GetUp are doing to show just how much they care about clean energy and climate change.

The fear campaign against a price on pollution has become so absurd that talkback radio hosts are claiming that a price on pollution means the end of our economy and life as we know it. Independent MPs are even receiving death threats.

Now, these same radio hosts have joined with climate deniers and far-right politicians to organise anti-climate action rallies as part of Tony Abbott's so called "people's revolt". They start on Saturday outside Julia Gillard's electorate office in Melbourne. We must make sure that on the other side of town, our movement comes together to present the positive, mainstream views that hard-line 'shock jocks' prefer to ignore.
If we're successful, the media won't be able report on the anti-carbon price rallies without also reporting that more people turned out to express support for a price on pollution.

Can you join us?

Where: Treasury Place, Melbourne.
When: This Saturday (March 12) at 11am
RSVP: https://www.getup.org.au/campaign/ClickHereToRSVP

Right wing shock jock Chris Smith said last week on MTR radio: "I'll do my best on a daily basis to spread the word". We don't have a radio network to promote our rally, but GetUp members have proved before that, when it counts, we're willing to publicly show how much we care about clean energy & climate action.

Click here to RSVP

In Canberra last week almost every politician and journalist met with, talked about the anti-climate action rallies. Assuring them that the campaign for climate action is just as strong -- we need to demonstrate this.

That's why it's so important we join together for a few hours this Saturday March 12 -- not to have a louder, angrier rally, but to show the difference in both size and tone. While they're shouting their angry slogans and misinformation, on the other side of Melbourne we'll hold a positive, family-friendly gathering to stand up for our vision for clean energy and preserving a safe climate for our kids.

With your help, we'll prove there are more of us than there are of them and in doing so we'll make a powerful statement.

See you this Saturday.

Simon Sheikh
National Director
for the GetUp team

P.S. We're counting on more then just your presence. We counting on your creativity (as you make a clever homemade banner if you can) and your persuasiveness (as you charm your friends into joining you). RSVP here

'Design for Good’: A competition with a cause

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 21:10:00 PST

Etiko, Australia’s pioneering Fairtrade fashion brand, is seeking T-shirt designs Australia wide that promote the Fairtrade movement

The competition, which will launch on March 1, encourages people from all ages to participate by sending in fun, creative and vibrant designs on Fair trade, which brings justice to workers in third-world countries.

Daniel Mackey, Fairtrade Australia & New Zealand (ANZ) Business Developer says, “While roughly two thirds of cotton is currently produced in developing countries, cotton growers in these countries face a number of obstacles to ensuring that their hard work results in a sustainable and dignified life for themselves and their families.”

The ‘Design for Good’ competition will create greater awareness of the Fairtrade organic cotton industry, which has been somewhat over-shadowed by the growth of Fairtrade coffee and chocolate.

There are prizes available to the competition winners, which will be judged by Facebook friends, Fairtrade ANZ, and Etiko.

The winners will be announced during Fair Trade Fortnight (May 7 – 22) via the Fairtrade ANZ website and the ESP website.

To enter, visit: http://www.etiko.com.au/www/626/1001127/displayarticle/1002807.html

For further information please contact:

Jessie Cargill - pr@espoz.com.au or
Nick Savaidis - Nick@espoz.com.au
Ph: 03 9752 3082