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PP&VA statement on news released Tuesday February 6 2018

Friday 9 February 2018

The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre has been made aware of allegations against Therese Ann Cook and Yyani Rose Cook-Williams of The Arcade Circus based in the Blue Mountains.

Both have been previously contracted to The Joan as tutors. Therese Cook between January 2013 and September 2017, and Yyani Cook-Williams from June 2013 to January 2018.

The allegations are not connected with The Joan, nor have any team members been involved in the police investigation to date. The Joan has only learnt of these allegations through media reports.

Child safety is a key priority for The Joan and all activities are delivered under strict policies and procedures. This includes all staff working with children maintaining a current working with children check, the provision for parents and carers to remain in the room with their child if they choose to, and management conducting random and regular checks during classes.

Penrith Performing & Visual Arts upholds these policies and procedures in delivering arts programs for children and young people of all ages and abilities.

As this matter is under Police investigation and currently before the Courts, The Joan will be making no further comment.

Hania Radvan
Chief Executive Officer