The pioneering spirit of the people of Australia

The pioneering spirit of the people of Australia is alive and well as the Blueprint for a Better World exhibition continues its epic journey. Ballarat took on a unique approach to bring to this exhibition a ‘showcase’ of its own justice action in working towards making this a better world, locally and globally. The mammoth task of bringing the exhibition to Ballarat was taken on by Anita Adlam who transported the display in a 4 tonne truck from Adelaide. Under Anita’s direction, over a period of two days, a small group of committed volunteers assembled the exhibits.

Caritas Australia brings to the project the Catholic community but also a whole cross-section of groups within regional communities. This exhibition tells the reality of the challenge that faces those living in extreme poverty. It challenges our thinking in this economic crisis that the world is experiencing and that it has its worst effects on the extremely vulnerable and poor.


Elder Daphne Milward graciously “Welcomed guests to Country”. Tim Steers, Manager of Kirret Bareet from the Aboriginal Cultural Centre Ballarat played the Digideroo as guests were called to action.




The exhibition was welcomed in Ballarat at St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish Hall by Bishop Peter Connors on Wednesday 4 November.




Federal Member for Ballarat Catherine King officially launched the exhibition. In her address she spoke of the work of AusAID in the developing world, and the government's committment to address the MDGs.


Mayor Judy Verlin welcomed the many local exhibits showcasing their activities in areas that address the MDGs. The Mayor spoke of Ballarat's sister relationship with Airno in East Timor and her own experience and reflections from a recent visit.

Both speakers drew upon their own personal awareness and experience of the plight of those living in poverty.

The support of the exhibition’s arrival by the local community has been far reaching, including the participation of primary and secondary school students. Many activities have been planned to further engage the local community and challenge people’s thinking in addressing global poverty.

It has been delightful to witness the enthusiasm of the many school groups who have visited the exhibition. Led by a passionate team of leaders, the students have responded positively. They are stunned by the clock marking the death of another child from malaria, confronted by the row of little t shirts and amazed at how little it takes to make a difference! The water display was particularly meaningful considering that they consumed large amounts of water on the hot days of their visit.

Sue Searls, Diocesan Director for Caritas Australia in the Diocese of Ballarat.