2003

17th April 2003
Water Works Wonders
The success of the Newcastle Knights against Canterbury last Friday evening was an omen for the success of "Wet and Wild", an event held at Riverwood Downs from Friday night 11th April until Sunday afternoon 13th April and sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

The fact that participants watched the Knights play to victory on a wide screen, then adjourned for prayers modelled on the style used by the Taize community in France, captures the contrasts presented by the weekend program.

Chief organiser Paul Toohey, Diocesan Young Adult Ministry Co-ordinator, felt that the aims of the event - to raise awareness and galvanise action to better manage and protect the crucial resource of water - were well and truly achieved. There were displays by Earthcare, the Wilderness Society and Native Wildlife Fund and activities ranging from bug testing of the river to meditation.

A highlight for the children present was the arrival of Knights player Anthony Quinn on board the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, followed by Robbie O'Davis travelling more conventionally. He lent his support for most of the weekend, answering questions, signing autographs for the young and not so young and just being part of the cause.

O'Davis feels strongly about being involved in community activities that bring about positive change for people and their environment. While he grew up in Queensland he now calls Newcastle home and believes that he has benefited from the support of the Hunter community and is committed to finding ways to "give back to that community".

He says that the availability of fresh water is something that we take for granted. "Like most things in life, it's not until we don't have it that we realise how dependent we are on it. But unlike most things, we need fresh water to exist."

Former children's magistrate Barbara Holborow and Caritas Australia (Catholic overseas aid and development agency) representative Cath Leary were among others who addressed participants on the weekend. Both stressed the importance of ordinary people feeling empowered to make a difference and offered practical ways of doing so.

Bishop Michael Malone celebrated Palm Sunday Mass with a difference, commenting on how it was appropriate that the journey of Lent draw to a climax for the gathered community in the beautiful surrounds of Riverwood Downs. Like the whole weekend, the story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ presents innumerable contrasts and challenges for all people of goodwill.

Back to Media Releases