“Jam for Refugees” originated in Canberra where it ran for three successive years at All Saints’ Anglican Church in Ainslie.

The aim has been to raise both money and awareness to aid the plight of refugees, especially considering Australia’s record in the treatment of refugees, and the policies espoused by both major parties, although with the election of the Albanese government, the future for refugees looks a bit brighter.  However recent events, especially Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have only added to the refugee problem and the enormous suffering being experienced by so many people.

As the number of refugees worldwide increases daily, the situation becomes almost overwhelming. All funds raised at the “Jam” will be donated to CRAG (the Combined Refugee Action group of Geelong) for their legal fund.  Neither  “Jam for Refugees” nor CRAG has any overheads, so every cent donated will go directly to assist refugees.

The Jam in Geelong will occur on Saturday 29th October from 11.00 am to 9.00 pm at St. Paul’s Church in La Trobe Terrace.  It will consist of a series of 30-minute time slots featuring local musicians, groups, choirs and school groups.

About every 2 hours we will have a short talk (5-10 minutes) by a prominent person, or someone working with refugees, or a refugee. 

This year in Geelong the Jam will be opened by well known Geelong figure Keith Fagg and will be closed by another well known figure Libby Coker.   One speaker will be the distinguished author Hugh Mackay who is our patron.  Another speaker will be a refugee who will relate some of his experiences.

Entrance is by donation, and people are encouraged to “come when you can, leave when you must.”

NORTH Children’s Choir will be singing at 2pm.