Published Tuesday, 13 March, 2007 at 01:30 PM
Minister for Child Safety
The Honourable Desley Boyle
Bundaberg foster carers recognised for excellence
A Bundaberg couple who have cared for 100 foster children over the past 10 years have been recognised at a state-wide awards ceremony.
Child Safety Minister Desley Boyle today presented Foster Care Excellence Awards to Lynette and Arthur Plummer of Burnett Heads at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers are exceptional – in August they fostered their 100th child,” Ms Boyle said.
“They have looked after some children for short periods and others for years, depending on what the child needs.
“As Indigenous carers, they help the Indigenous children they care for to keep in touch with their own culture and communities.
“They have helped many children to return to their parents and have kept in contact with their families.”
Mr and Mrs Plummer are among seven foster families – one from each of the Department of Child Safety’s zones – who were selected for special recognition.
Ms Boyle said there were more than 1100 children in care in Central Queensland and about 440 foster carers.
“Foster carers in Central Queensland do a terrific job, but there is no doubt that we need more of them,” she said.
“A special after-hours phone helpline is being established so foster carers can get advice and support after Child Safety Service Centres have shut for the day,” she said.
“We have also increased fortnightly allowances to help cover the costs of caring for children and these range from $370-$434, depending on the age of the child.”
People interested in learning more about what is involved in becoming a foster carer can call the Department of Child Safety on 1300 550 877 or visit the department’s website: www.childsafety.qld.gov.au.
Foster and Kinship Care Week runs from March 11-18.
Ends
Note: Mr and Mrs Plummer are available for media interviews.
Media contact: 3224 7477
13 March 2007
Child Safety Minister Desley Boyle today presented Foster Care Excellence Awards to Lynette and Arthur Plummer of Burnett Heads at a ceremony at Parliament House as part of Foster and Kinship Care Week celebrations.
“These carers are exceptional – in August they fostered their 100th child,” Ms Boyle said.
“They have looked after some children for short periods and others for years, depending on what the child needs.
“As Indigenous carers, they help the Indigenous children they care for to keep in touch with their own culture and communities.
“They have helped many children to return to their parents and have kept in contact with their families.”
Mr and Mrs Plummer are among seven foster families – one from each of the Department of Child Safety’s zones – who were selected for special recognition.
Ms Boyle said there were more than 1100 children in care in Central Queensland and about 440 foster carers.
“Foster carers in Central Queensland do a terrific job, but there is no doubt that we need more of them,” she said.
“A special after-hours phone helpline is being established so foster carers can get advice and support after Child Safety Service Centres have shut for the day,” she said.
“We have also increased fortnightly allowances to help cover the costs of caring for children and these range from $370-$434, depending on the age of the child.”
People interested in learning more about what is involved in becoming a foster carer can call the Department of Child Safety on 1300 550 877 or visit the department’s website: www.childsafety.qld.gov.au.
Foster and Kinship Care Week runs from March 11-18.
Ends
Note: Mr and Mrs Plummer are available for media interviews.
Media contact: 3224 7477
13 March 2007