FDS 2023 Annual Report

30 • The speeches from sector thought leaders (Odyssey House, Greens MP) and Tony and his daughter talking from sibling perspective. • Hearing experiences from a variety of family and personal perspectives. Having Cate F speak about drug policy reform. • The chance for partnership for the best outcomes for the consumer. FDS offers a support no one else is offering and it is so important that that support for families be available. • Storytellers were really powerful. • Hearing other people’s stories and realising how drugs affect people from all walks of life. • Seeing the fantastic support the organisation provides. • Learning more about how family can be supported around their loved ones negotiating AOD dependence. Overall, the Sydney IFDSD event was well attended and well received. Tony Trimingham David Kelly, Programs Director, Ms Cate Faehrmann MLC NSW International FDS Day event held in Odyssey House Sydney at Surry Hills QLD – Brisbane – 24 February On 24 February 2023, Brisbane IFDSD opened with a very powerful and engaging Welcome to Country at the Premier’s and Speaker’s Hall at Queensland Parliament House. Local emerging Aboriginal leader, Jahmarley Dawson, shared his wisdom with a crowd of over 110 people gathered to support families impacted by substance use. The audience included representatives from Queensland Police Service, AOD sector organisations, family members and Government departments with ongoing feedback confirming the importance and success of the event. Brisbane, Queensland speakers and FDS staff. Back row (L-R): James Hoey, Natasha Stapleton, Angela Martin, Marzia Mattioli, Dr Wendell Rosevear, Emma Kill, Commissioner Ivan Frkovic. Front row (L-R): Alana Boulton, Anna Daglish, Ali King MP and Michael Berkman MP