Page 21 - ABF Newsletter April 2025

bridge. Huge thanks to the many, many bridge play- ers and people attached to the administration of the GCC who contributed to raising the astounding amount of $20,740.
The heart of Zephyr is an incredibly selfless, gener- ous, unpaid, motivated team of over 50 volunteers attending to the myriad logistics which come with operating what is now a sizeable business. Zephyr wouldn’t exist without the hugely compassionate contribution of these tireless, great humans, some of whom you found as partners or opposition or in the admin office at the GCC. Your ongoing financial and moral support gives us the confidence to keep going.
Our focus is, and always has been, on the children and their education. But this, of course, also assists the carers of all children who fall within our scope, including mothers, fathers, grandparents, foster carers and guardians.
You’ve all got behind us and huge numbers of chil- dren have felt less alone and more loved.
Here’s what some shelter managers and casework- ers have written:
You should have seen this little boy on his first day of school with his uniform and books ready to go. Instead of being stressed his mum was able to relax and enjoy watching her baby start school. Your support has a huge impact on the lives of women and children and we can’t thank you enough!
And another:
A Mother said her kids had never had new uniforms before and that they “won’t know themselves in new uniforms.” She then broke down and cried.
From a First Nations shelter regarding uniforms and school packs for two little girls who had arrived one Saturday:
The girls were terrified about starting at their new school the following week. However, after re- ceiving their new uniforms and school packs on the Monday, they spent the afternoon parading around the shelter in their uniforms and were so excited, they couldn’t wait to go to school.
The DFV shelters and other organisations we help are not funded to supply the educational support we provide. One shelter manager wrote:
I often wonder what alternative options our fami- lies would have if it was not for Zephyr Education as there is very limited support available. As a ser- vice that works with the most vulnerable families, we are extremely grateful to be in a position where we can advocate (not have to beg) on behalf of our clients.
And I love this one which has stuck with me:
I and the family are very grateful. Wish you could have been there to see the smile of the young- est girl when she tried on her uniform. I hope you could feel it though, I’m sure it beamed all around the world.
And just one last blow of my own trumpet. A group of donors visited Zephyr recently and we received this:
Dear Carmel,
I couldn’t let today go by without thanking you [all] for your hospitality and candour in sharing your Zephyr stories.
It has affected me very deeply to have seen for myself that out of a basement carpark so much good is being done without fanfare or fuss. Your vision and practical commitment is inspiring. May your work continue to prosper as long as the need is there.
I send one email each year updating you on the pre- vious year’s activity. All donations over $2 are tax deductible and for those of you who may wish to donate by bank transfer – Zephyr’s bank account details are:
NAB: Zephyr Education Inc BSB: 084-004
ACC: 15-629-0526
Please reference your name and send your email ad- dress to
admin@zephyreducation.com.au
so I can forward your receipt.
Could I also remind you about Hedley Thomas’ pod- cast which gives you an uplifting personal insight into some of those involved in Zephyr.
Click on the following link or paste it into your browser:
http://www.zephyrpodcast.com.au/
or search for Zephyr Education on the Apple Pod- casts or Spotify app.
Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
Carmel Martin Co-founder and Treasurer, Zephyr Education Inc
ABN 47 805 738 577
ARBN 615 454 227
PO Box 6096 Fairfield Gardens Qld 4103 Phone: 0438873620 admin@zephyreducation.com.au www.zephyreducation.com.au
Australian Bridge Federation Ltd. Newsletter: April 2025
Page: 21