Media Release
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Canberra Refugee Support (CRS) helping
refugees and asylum seekers build new lives in the National Capital.
To recognise this achievement, CRS will host a special anniversary dinner on
Wednesday 24 September at the Hellenic Club, Phillip. Guest speaker at the dinner will
be well-known ABC radio personality Dr Kim Huynh, who came to Australia as a
refugee. The MC for the evening will be Virginia Haussegger.
Since 2000, the many volunteers who form CRS have embraced the ACT’s newest
arrivals through its Canberra-unique ‘good neighbour’ model. Over that time, teams of
volunteers have provided practical help and a warm welcome to hundreds of individuals
and families who have arrived in the National Capital from across the globe, often
escaping desperate circumstances.
CRS volunteers help these newcomers secure housing and jobs, enrol their children in
schools and sporting teams, navigate unfamiliar health systems and encourage them to
experience Canberra’s cultural life—whatever will assist them to settle in the city
successfully.
“We are proud of the work of so many Canberra volunteers over the past twenty five
years. They have been committed to helping people who have often come here with
very little.” Doug Hynd, the President of CRS, said, “People who our volunteers have
supported have gone on to become creative and productive members of our
community.”
One of the refugees CRS has supported recently gave a speech about her experience,
which can be found here: Refugee Rally, Piume’s speech – Canberra Refugee Support
CRS can help facilitate interviews with refugees who have been supported by CRS,
subject to their availability.
The anniversary dinner is open to anyone who wants to acknowledge the contribution
that refugees and asylum seekers have made to Canberra in the past 25 years and the
vital role migration plays in the economy and culture of the ACT.
Bookings for the CRS dinner via: canberrarefugee.org.au/.
Fast Facts about CRS
- Founded in 2000 and incorporated as a registered charity in the ACT
- 350 members, including 70 active volunteer helpers
- Directly supports about 35 refugee and asylum seeker families at any one time
- Provides annual Education Awards to over 40 refugees and asylum seekers of all
ages, to gain education and employment qualifications - Collaborates with Companion House and St Vincent de Paul in administering an ACT Government program
Photo: CRS President Dr Doug Hynd
CRS Media Contact: Russell Ayres 0413 042 114
russell.ayres@canberrarefugee.com.au
CRS President: Doug Hynd 0406 376 823
doug.hynd@canberrarefugee.com.au