Nicole is a 16 year old student at Somerset College. Nicole’s school project was aimed at developing her, somewhat lacking but much needed, skill of cooking. She decided that developing a cook book which went beyond toast and cereal would enable her to learn more about food and also learn the pleasure of cooking.

She said her task was to ”collect one recipe representative of each country around the world and then select one country to represent each letter of the alphabet.” She then challenged herself to cook each dish and let her family be the judge of her efforts. “It has been one of the best experiences of my life seeing how food can bring people together, both in happiness and, only very occasionally, in unintended disgust.”

Nicole again extended her task. She said, “I wanted to make an impact on my community with my book so I decided to sell it with the funds going to a charity which reflected my goal of helping others in need.” Nicole had some knowledge of Rosies through her school so did some further research and found that “Rosies sense of humanitarianism stood out from the rest”.

Nicole said, “I am hopeful that giving my time in creating this recipe book and sharing among others heightens the aspect of bringing people together and helping people less fortunate. To make a positive difference in this world is what I had hoped to achieve and through Rosies I was able to do that”.

Our Rosies ‘angels’ have been devoutly offering refreshments, snacks, and friendship at our Southport Magistrates Court Outreach for nearly 25 years.

Rosies volunteers provide comfort and smiles, and a haven in a sometimes tense environment. Smiles can unexpectedly be seen on faces of those visiting what is known as the ‘tea and sympathy room’ located on the second floor of the building.

Everyone is welcome to join and share a cuppa, bite to eat, and a chat with our volunteers. In the words of one of our longest serving volunteer ‘angels’….
‘We meet plaintiffs and defendants and witness, families, and friends, lawyers and barristers, court staff and security officers. Everyone is equal. all can sit next to to each other sharing the simple joy of a conversation while enjoying sweets and savouries. People walk in and share their stories. They feel relieved to talk through what they are going through  whether it is a win, a loss, or an ongoing dispute. The room is like a little gem shining from smiles and laughs. Worries are not permitted and compassion is shared. It does not seem to be much. Yet, it makes a world of a difference.’

Rosies is pleased to confirm, thanks to the support and goodwill of all involved, that our angels recently relocated to a new area within the Southport Magistrates Court to continue their wonderful work.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our Beenleigh Court Angels for all their wonderful work

Over 95% of Rosies work, including this court outreach, is funded through kind donations from our local community. Find out how you can get involved.