Brisbane Indian Times April 13 issue

Brisbane

Indian Times A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 10, Number 7 Saturday, April 13, 2013

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Telephone: (07) 3356 0102 Fax:(07) 3352 7693 E-mail admin@indiantimes.com.au

Margaret Thatcher passes away, world reacts COMBATIVE and determined to believe she'll go down as the get her way, Margaret Thatcher greatest British peacetime prime divided opinion down the middle in minister." life – and in death.

In Washington, President Barack Many leaders lauded Thatcher for Obama said many Americans her steely determination to "will never forget her standing modernize Britain's industrial shoulder to shoulder with landscape, even at the cost of President (Ronald) Reagan, strikes and riots, and to stand reminding the world that we are beside the United States as the west not simply carried along by the triumphed in the Cold War versus currents of history. We can shape the Soviet Union. Others saw a them with moral conviction, pitiless tyrant who preferred unyielding courage and iron conflict to compromise. will."

British Prime Minister David And former first lady Nancy Cameron lauded his 1980s Reagan said her husband and predecessor as "a great Briton," but Thatcher "enjoyed a very special others – particularly Europe's relationship" driven by a common socialists who often clashed with hatred of Communism. "Ronnie her – were less enamoured in their and Margaret were political soul reactions to the death Monday 8 mates," she said in a statement April of the conservative icon. that lauded Thatcher's "clear Flags at Buckingham Palace, vision and strong determination Parliament and across the United to stand up for her beliefs at a Kingdom were lowered to half- • Margaret Thatcher leaving 10 Downing Street after the Conservative time when so many were afraid staff.

Buckingham Palace said Party won a convincing majority in the General Election. to rock the boat."

Queen Elizabeth II would send a In Poland, Foreign Minister private message of sympathy to the the odds," Cameron said in Madrid. He cut Radoslaw Sikorski said his country should Thatcher family. Government officials short his trip to Spain and cancelled a visit erect a statue of the British leader. In a began preparations for a London funeral to France to return to London for the tweet he praised Thatcher as "a fearless with military honours at St. Paul's funeral preparations. champion of liberty, stood up for captive Cathedral, followed by a private cremation. "The real thing about Margaret Thatcher is nations, helped free world win the Cold "As our first woman prime minister, that she didn't just lead our country. She War." Margaret Thatcher succeeded against all saved our country," Cameron said, "and I AAP

Nando’s Mt Gravatt - Palmdale S/C, 2120 Logan Rd. Ph: 3420 6644

TO ADVERTISE IN BIT CALL 07 3356 0102 E: admin@indiantimes.com.au PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

Milestone birthdays celebrated

Holi Hai Bhai Holi Hai!!!

TWO prominent Brisbane personalities celebrated their milestone birthdays recently.

Firstly Pundit Raj Kumar Mishra celebrated his eightieth birthday and fiftieth wedding anniversary on 23rd February.

Pundit Mishra is a very respected and well known Punditji in Brisbane. He enjoys travelling, reading religious books, promoting Hindu tradition and cultural values.

Most of all he enjoys the company of his grand children.

Punditji is married to Mrs Gyan Mishra.

Family and friends from abroad and interstate attended the program, Pundit Daven from Auckland renewed the wedding vows, entertainment was provided by Brisbane Babas Band, Dreas Dance Group, Shere Punjab Bhangra group and local folk singers .

The second milestone birthday was of Mr Surendra Prasad (OAM), who celebrated his seventieth birthday with family and friends on Saturday 23rd March. Surendra Prasad being a community person and having held various positions in organisations such as Hindu Society of Queensland, Federation Of Indian Communities of Queensland, Fiji Indian Senior Citizen and Satsang Association had an impressive line up of dignitaries in attendance including two mayors, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and Ipswich Mayor, Paul Pisasale. Politicians, multicultural community leaders, family and friends were all present at this milestone event. Many speakers including Dr Maha Sinnathamby reflected on Mr Surendra Prasad's tireless community work, achievements and awards. Mr Prasad is married to Mrs Sushila Prasad.

Both Pundit Raj Kumar Mishra and Mr Surendra Prasad hail from Fiji and both the functions were held at Greek Orthodox Hall in Mt Gravatt.

From the Publisher WELCOME to our April issue, hard to believe that the first quarter of this year has already gone.

March was the month of Harmony week, Holi festival, Holla Mohalla and Easter just to name a few.

For Harmony week I was invited to Townsville as a speaker, this fitted right in as my role of a People of Australia Ambassador.

The event was very well organised and I know it was but one of many organised throughout the country. The second harmony week function I attended was the citizenship ceremony at Stretton State High School were one hundred and nine new citizens were welcomed. The third Harmony week celebration I attended was on the actual Harmony day, this was at the parliament house in Canberra. The function was organised by Australian Multicultural Council and hosted

by Minister Kate Lundy. It was an excellent opportunity to meet new People of Australia Ambassadors, my term has been extended for another year, three new People of Australia Ambassadors from Queensland have joined the ranks.

I missed the Holi function in Brisbane because of conflicting appointments, but attended a mega Holi celebration in

Auckland organised by Waitekere Indian Association, the annual function was one of the first of its kind in Auckland. Waitekere Indian Association also hosts the very successful annual Diwali function.

Light showers did not deter the celebration held at Trusts stadium grounds. I was delighted to attend the birthdays of Pundit Raj Kumar Mishra and Mr Surendra Prasad, Punditji celebrated his eightieth birthday and fiftieth wedding anniversary while Mr Surendra Prasad celebrated his seventieth birthday.

On the political scene there is a lot of talk on the 457 visas and there have been allegations that they contain elements of racial discrimination, this has become a real political debate. The argument is that Australian citizens should be given first preference to available jobs, I believe it is a condition that anyone sponsoring a 457 visa category has to satisfy that they have exhausted their quest to find a local. Unions have defended their say on the 457 visas saying that the debate should be around the exploitation of worker on 457 in Australia, they maintain that they never opposed the idea. They would like to see the 457 visa workers enjoying the

Inside • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Letters to the Editor.......................2 Migration Matters...........................4 Local News.................................5-19 Business News................................20 Wedding / Travel Feature.......21-32 Who, What, Where, When...........33 Health & Well Being................36-37 Astrology.........................................38 Real Estate...............................39-43 Business Directory/Classifieds...44-45 What’s On.................................45-48 Bollywood & Entertainment...48-49 Sport..........................................50-51

2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April 2013

HOLI - festival of colour, is around the corner. Bal Samskar Kendra celebrated Holi in all its shades on the 24thof March.

As usual classes started at 2.30 pm and children started with 15 minutes of meditation. Om was chanted 21 times.

Importance and origination of “Super Brain Yoga” was explained. "Super Brain Yoga", so called, by the Americans, is nothing but the simple way of praying to Lord Ganesha, which is called "ThoppuKaranam” in Tamil. This has been practiced by Hindu’s since ancient times. The same has only recently been researched by Americans and recognised, as being very beneficial for optimum functioning of brain, when done following correct procedures. Children practiced with enthusiasm and joyfully did about 15 – 20 squats.

Everyone's brains were now activated and energized by practicing Thoppu Karanam/Super Brain Yoga, they were explained the relevance of Holi festival to Hindu scriptures and the way of life in general, which goes hand in hand with nature. Children knew the story of Prahlad, son of the king of demons Hiranykashipu and nephew of Holika, narrated in previous classes. They were explained how the story relates to burning of the bonfire on the night before the Holi and the observance of victory of good over evil. Holi marks the end of winter and welcoming of upcoming spring with vibrant colour of

same rights as any other worker in Australia, question is do they have to become Union members or not?

In the lead up to the elections this will remain a point scoring ground. Queensland Parliament debated the oppositions private member's Multicultural recognition bill 2012 (the Bill). The government opposed the Bill. The government says that the bill was seriously flawed and they will be making real changes to deliver better outcomes for the sector. Mr Frank Peach had been commissioned to review Multicultural Affairs Queensland, after his report is received their plans to change the way Multicultural Affairs Queensland operates, later this year they plan to unveil a government Multicultural Affairs Policy.

Wayne Briscoe has replaced Gary Page as the executive Director of Multicultural Affairs Queensland.

On the scene of settlement services I attended the opening of MDA's new office in Nundah, I also attended a focus group meeting of community leaders and settle service providers at ECCQ, the sector is concerned about the cuts in funding and the call for competitive bidding for settlement services. They are worried about the misperception in the community

that a lot of taxpayer funds are spent on settlement services for asylum seekers and refugees and not enough is being done for our indigenous population.

The trade figures showed a improvement, this time round the strong dollar actually got a positive remark, online shopping has become attractive riding on the high Australian dollar, this has worried local retailers as the trend increases for overseas on line shopping. The high cost of producing goods in Australia has given rise to imports. Imported goods still cost less after overseas manufacturing, shipping, duties and handling. The high Australia dollar always gets the blame but other major contributing factors are often not mentioned, it was quite interesting when this became a discussion topic at a dinner function during my recent visit to New Zealand, where people from around the globe were present and all of them basically pointed out the one major problem, one that is so obvious but no one owns up to it. The high labour cost of production has been a stumbling block for exports, even from my building days the building cost ratio worked out to two third labour cost and one third materials. Increases to the mini-

Brisbane

Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: Trudi Tarres EDITOR: Trudi Tarres JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS: Ram Jattan (UK) Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) Dhaval Vyas (India) Rama Gaind (Canberra) Sudesh Aggarwal (ATO News) ML. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi Imam Muhammad Aslam Sundar Gopal Das Yadavendra Das Pastor Joseph Dass Haji Abdul Rahman Deen Janeth Deen Jitendra Deo Atul Dighe (Spiritual Science Research Foundation) Mehraban Farahmand (Baha’i International)

Indian Times A D ivi sio n of Qld Multi cultural Time s

Kiran Goel (Immigration Matters) Jatinder Kaur Vinaya Natarajan (Inspire - Prem Rawat) Peter Lane Rai Parth Raval Shobhana Shet (Spiritual Science Research Foundation) Gurjeet Singh Matt Young (Sport) Suite 5, 2281 Sandgate Road Boondall Qld 4034 TELEPHONE: (07) 3356 0102 FACSIMILE:(07) 3352 7693 E-MAIL: prod@indiantimes.com.au Subscriptions: 12 months $40.00 (incl GST) 6 months $24.00 (incl GST)

ADDRESS:

www.indiantimes.com.au

nature, in India. Children immediately knew it was time for them to emulate the same. They were all excited, once the Holi colours were out in the plate.

They pounced on the plate, everyone got each other smeared in colours and drenched in water with the water guns.

They laughed and chased each other and had a blast. The colours used were non chemical based.

The day ended with soft traditional games and all departed, exhausted, but at the same time looking forward to meet at the start of 2nd term, as when Bala Samskar Kendra reopen's at the Sunnybank State High School, Turton Road Sunnybank at 2.30PM, to learn about the values of Hinduism, Scriptures, Sanskrit and to celebrate the coming festivals.

Happy Holi to you all from BSK Families Regards, Poornima Bala Samskar Kendra, Brisbane Email: bskqld@live.com.au mum wage and super will see further rises in the cost of goods and services these will invariably be passed onto the consumer, so come 1st of July we can expect price rises in many sectors.

Overseas India's GDP grew by five percent a growth that many counties would envy to have however Prime Minister Mammohan Singh said the country could do better than that and get back to the double digit growth that it used to enjoy. Cyprus banking crisis and the looming war crisis in Korea dominates the news.

Now onto some good news our wedding / travel feature this month has generated quite a bit of interest and it has blown out to a twelve page feature, this month feature theme is wedding and travel, it is a very timely feature as we embark upon the wedding season. It will be an interesting read and provide a good reference for anything to do with weddings.

There are few enhancements being planned for the future, I am sure you will like it. May I take this opportunity wish everyone happy Ram Naumi, until next Month Happy Reading.

Umesh Chandra

Brisbane Indian Times is a monthly newspaper published in English. No material, including advertisements designed by Brisbane Indian Times, may be reproduced in part or who without the written consent of the manager. Opinions carried in Brisbane Indian Times are those of the writers and not necessarily endorsed by Brisbane Indian Times. Brisbane Indian Times will not be held liable for any advertising / editorial content - Advertisers supply/approve content therefore should any content be deemed inappropriate it is the advertisers responsibility. While every effort has been made to capture the true likeness to colour printing is an art and therefore we cannot guarantee an exact matching of product to image. Refund / Credit is not given as a result of the previous mentioned.

All correspondence should be addressed to: Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018.

PH: (07) 3356 0102 Fax: 3352 7693 admin@indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 3

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Strengthening the integrity of the 457 program THE Minister for Immigration and Citizenship has announced a number of important reforms to the subclass 457 program. These reforms are aimed at strengthening the ability to identify and prevent employer practices that are not in keeping with the criteria of the subclass 457 program.

The measures being brought forward include: • Introducing a requirement for the nominated position to be a genuine vacancy within the business. Discretion will be introduced to allow the department to consider further information if there are concerns the position may have been created specifically to secure a 457 visa without consideration of whether there is an appropriately skilled Australian available.

• Introducing a provision to allow the department to take action against sponsors who engage in discriminatory recruitment practices.

• Strengthening the market salary rate requirements to provide discretion to consider comparative salary data for the local labour market when deciding whether a nominated position provides equitable remuneration arrangements. Additionally, the market salary exemption threshold will be increased from $180 000 to $250 000 to ensure that higher paid salary workers are not able to be undercut through the employment of overseas

labour at a cheaper rate.

• Strengthening the English language requirements by removing exemptions for applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds who are nominated with a salary less than $92 000 and requiring applicants who were exempt from the English language requirement when granted a visa to continue to be exempt from, or to meet the English language requirement when changing employers. Additionally, the definition of English language will be better aligned with the permanent Employer Sponsored.

• Strengthening the requirement for sponsors to train Australians by introducing an ongoing and binding requirement to meet training requirements for the duration of their approved sponsorship.

• Clarifying that 457 workers may not be engaged in unintended employment relationships by requiring workers to be engaged on an employment contract (as opposed to a business contract for services) and not on-hired to an unrelated entity unless they are sponsored under a labour agreement, or in an exempt occupation.

• Strengthening the existing obligation regarding recovery of costs to ensure that sponsors are solely responsible for certain costs.

On 18 March 2013, the Minister for Immigration

and Citizenship, Mr. Brendan O’Connor MP, together with the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Mr. Bill Shorten MP, announced that the power to investigate compliance with sponsorship obligations will be extended to the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO), to ensure that subclass 457 workers are employed in their nominated occupation and are receiving market salary rates.

These changes will empower Fair Work Inspectors to monitor key aspects of employers' compliance with sponsorship obligations, namely: • Whether Subclass 457 visa holders are being paid the market rates • If the job being done by the Subclass 457 visa holder matches the job title and description approved in their visa.

Currently the Department has 34 active inspectors to investigate sponsors' compliance with the sponsorship obligations.

In 2011-12 there were over 22 000 active sponsors of Subclass 457 visa holders. The FWO currently has over 300 appointed inspectors across the country. Their appointment as inspectors under the Migration Act 1958 (Migration Act) will substantially expand the sponsor monitoring inspectorate, and the government's capacity to

monitor the Subclass 457 program.

This will have the effect of significantly improving the coverage of sponsor monitoring and will send a strong signal to sponsors doing the wrong thing that they must fulfill their sponsorship obligations. The alternative is to risk facing administrative sanctions, being issued with an infringement notice or possible civil action. (source DIAC website) Changes to All Tourist and Medical Visas DIAC has announced significant changes to the Visitor and Medical Treatment visas categories effective from 23 March 2013. The following categories of visitor visa and medical visas are no longer applicable: • Tourist visa (subclass 676) • Sponsored family visitor visa (subclass 679) • Business (short Stay) visa (Subclass 456) • Sponsored business visitor (short stay) visa (subclass 459) • Medical Treatment (short stay) visa (subclass 675) • Medical Treatment (long stay) visa (subclass 685) • Electronic Travel Authority (visitor) (subclass 976) • Electronic Travel Authority (business – short validity) (subclass 977) • Electronic Travel Authority (business – long validity) (subclass 956) Continued page 10

Are you working in Automotive Workshop!

Covert your Skills into Australian Recognized Qualifications

Come talk to us about getting qualified

Enrol now in courses:

Automotive Mechanical Automotive Diesel (Cert 3) Automotive Electrical Cert 3) Automotive Management (2 years ) EngineeringͶWelding and Fabrication (Cert 3) Information TTeechnology (Cert 4 & Dip & Adv Dip) Business (Cert 4, Diploma & Advanced Diploma)

2 YYeear Advanced Diploma in IT 2 year Business Courses 2 YYeear Diploma of IT Package up to 3 years or more Www.intech.edu.au RTO30100, CRICOS 02035F

28 Russell Street or 44 Hope Street, South Brisbane, QLD, Tel: 3846 7774 4 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

EEXCEPTIONAL XCEPTIONAL VA VALUE LUE EEARLY ARLY B BIRD IRD FFA FARES ARES Too India, T Ind Bangladesh, Sri Lanka Lanka & Nepal

KG BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE ss KG BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE DESTINATIONS AVAILABLE# ss DESTINATIONS AVAILABLE ss /VVER mIGHTS A WEEK TO )NDIA

ER mIGHTS A WEEK TO )NDIA

Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Nepal#

CHENNAI CHENN AI

KATHMANDU KA ATH MAN DU

11018 018

1031 1031

*

$

RETURN RETURN

RETURN RETURN

COLOMBO COLOM BO

11037 037

$

MUMB MUMBAI AI

*

RETURN RETURN

11067 067 RETURN RETURN

1040 1040

*

$

RETURN RETU RN

DHAKA DHAKA

$

*

$

NE NEW WD DELHI ELHI

*

1074 1074 4

*

$

RETURN RETURN

Singapore Singapore Airlines, the world’s world’s most awarded awarded airline, and SilkAir, SilkAir, the regional regional wing of Singapore Singapore Airlines, are are offering early bird fares fares at exceptional value value to India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal. Fares Fares shown are are for departures departures from from Melbourne. FFares ares fr from om Adelaide, Brisbane, avvailable. Visit singaporeair.com.au reairr.com.au or contact your local licensed AFTA AFT TA travel travvel agent aggent Darwin, PPerth erth and Sydney ar aree also available.

Visit singapor ent today to book these fares. fares.

FOR MORE GREAT FARES, VISIT

*Conditions *C onditions apply: Fares F ar es shown are ar e for rreturn eturn trav travel el in Economy Class, in low season, fr from om Melbourne and include the price of the air ticket, associated tax taxes, es, levies and sur surcharges char g es including cr credit edit card service fee corr correct ect as at 02/04/20 02/04/2013.

13 . FFares ar es from fr om Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Perth P erth and Sydney are ar e also available. av ailable. Fares F ar es are ar e valid v alid for f or departures departur es from fr om 01/0 01/0 9/13 9/13 to 29/10/13 29/10/13 and 12/11/13 12/11/13 to 3 0/11/13 0/11/13 to Ne New w Delhi and Mumbai and 0 01/0 1/0 9/13 9/13 to 3 0/11/13 0/11/13 to all other advertised adv ertised destinations. destinations . Other fares far es apply for travel trav el outside these periods. Some taxes, tax es, fees and surcharges sur char g es are ar e imposed by government g ov ernment authorities or airport operators and some surcharges sur char g es and fees are ar e imposed by Singapore Sing apor e Airlines. Taxes Tax es and surcharges sur char g es are ar e subject to change chang e due to currency curr ency fluctuations. Fares F ar es do not include optional charges, char g es, such as service fees that might be levied for bbuying uying tickets at ticket offices, trav travel el agencies ag encies or via telephone sales. A few countries still levy airport taxes, tax es, which can only be paid by the passenger, passeng er , in cash, at the airport prior to departure. departur e. Maximum Maxim um stay is 3 months. Date change chang e fees and cancellation fees may apply apply.. Booking Class – V V.. Fares F ar es are ar e eligible for 10% KrisFlyer mileag mileagee accrual, bbut ut ar aree not valid v alid for Velocity V elocity mileage mileag e accrual or redemption r edemption upgrades. upg rades. KrisFlyer member terms and conditions apply apply.. This offer is subject to availability av ailability and confirmation. Singapore Sing apor e Airlines reserves r eserv es the right to alter or extend this offer without notice. Final booking and payment date is 26/04/2013.

26/04/20 13 . Additional terms and conditions may apply. apply . To To make a booking, contact Singapore Sing apor e Airlines Reservations Reserv ations on 13 10 11, or visit your local travel trav el agent. ag ent. #Combined Singapore Sing apor e Airlines/SilkAir netw network. ork.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 5

Indian Street Food at Spice Valley, Nundah DOES the word Chaat get the mouth watering and make you impatient to taste crunchy Paapri dipped in curd and sweet tamarind chutney? Then head to Spice Valley Vegetarian Restaurant in Nundah. The visit will take one on a memorable trip down the back lanes of Old Delhi through the variety of chaat and other street food on offer.

And for those who are not familiar with the wonderful flavours of Indian Chaat, this is an opportunity to surprise the taste buds with the addictive flavours of Chaat.

Indian Chaat is incredibly flavourful, it is tangy and spicy and sometimes sweet too.

The texture differs from one to another and most chaat are crunchy while some soft and moist.

The need for this type of restaurant was identified by the owners of Spice Valley, who have been very active and supportive with the Indian community. The restaurant is one hundred percent vegetarian, only authentic Indian spices and ingredients are used with no additives.

Paneer Chilli a Indian Chinese fusion is a one of the favourite dishes. The menu is designed to please young and old alike.

Special attention is paid to the cleanliness

of the restaurant, for which they have received many compliments.

From the Chole Bhatura of North to Idli and Dosa of South, you name and they have it.

For those with a sweet tooth, they can dig into kulfis, gulab jamun, rasmalai and the like. Just imagining them in all their sweet glory is enough to want to try them.

Indulge the love for street food as chefs of Spice Valley Vegetarian Restaurant rustle up a variety of chaats with tasty variations.

Enjoy the spice, the crunch, the tastes and aromas. Every bite is a delight!. Great Indian flavours with quality Aussie service.

Spice Valley Vegetarian Restaurant is located at 11 Nundah Street, Nundah.

Dine-in or take-away are available - Phone 07 3260 6133. Opening Hours are: TuesFri 4pm-8.30pm / Weekends 12pm8.30pm.

Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Assn. receives wider support

By Kartik Menon Joint Secretary, GCHCA Inc. TOUTED as the tourist capital of Australia, the Gold Coast is famed for the glitz and glamour of its beaches, night-life, theme parks and other holiday hotspots.

The Gold Coast Hindu community however, is determined to add another dimension to the largest non-capital city of the • Indian High Commission - First Secretary, Mr Tarun Kumar with country. Driven by the the with GCHCA Representatives. the India-Australia Day recently formed Gold Coast Hindu Cultural attended Association (GCHCA), members of the Celebrations organised by the Federation of 3000-strong community have drawn pro- Indian Communities Queensland, were posals to build a ‘Hindu Education and pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming Cultural Centre’ that would serve as a spir- support the association received from variitual, intellectual and artistic abode for ous segments of the wider Queensland Indian community.

Hindus in Southeast Queensland.

The mission to build a ‘Hindu Education “The Centre seeks to act as the cornerstone for the spiritual and cultural life of Hindus and Cultural Centre’ on the Gold Coast has in the region. Here, we hope to see the pro- also been championed by local government liferation of classical literature, music, representatives, with Cr Margaret Grummit dance, languages and spiritual education”, offering her strong support for the associasaid GCHCA Vice President, Dr tion’s initiatives.

“The GCHCA project will contribute to Murugesampillai Anandakumarasamy.

“We have received overwhelming support creating and supporting a diverse and for this project from Hindus both within vibrant society with more fulfilled lives. In Gold Coast City and beyond. I am confi- this Asian Century, the GCHCA activities dent that the Centre will be an iconic hub will not only enhance facilitating the local and serve many generations to come”, said economy but also broaden the understandGCHCA Treasurer, Mr Rathinam ing for prosperous and creative communities,” Cr Grummit said.

Srinivasan.

The GCHCA is currently involved in These sentiments were further echoed by Founder Member, Dr Ganesamoorthy fundraising efforts to turn this vision into Subakumar who said he has been very reality. Members of the wider community encouraged by the level of enthusiasm and who are interested in being involved and support the association has received from learning more about the initiatives of the Hindu communities both within GCHCA may contact GCHCA Secretary, Mr Indrajit Siva - phone 07 5676 8530 or Queensland and interstate.

GCHCA representatives who recently email gchcan@gmail.com.

Namasté!

A Applying pplying for a 457 visa?

provides working working visitor health covers that meet IMAN provides requirements. the DIAC visa requirements.

Over 30 years’ experience

Meets DIAC visa requirements requirements

Visa letter provided provided upon application approval approval

Singles, couples or families cover

Switch or apply today 1800 22 11 33 Monday - Friday, 8:30 - 6:00pm (AEDT)

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

BBCC0273_MX_B

austhealth.com/IMAN RETHINK YOUR RUBBISH

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

We Provide Professional & Reliable Services for: * 457 Visa * Employer Sponsorship * General Skilled Migration * Business Migration *Partner/Family Migration * MRT / RRT Appeals

SATELLITE E DISTR DIST TR RIB IBUTO ORS

SALE!! SALE!!

Contact: Virendra Singh; Mobile:0404014208 Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 1170192 ) Email: info@migrationmantra.com.au www migra m tionma m ntra com. m au

Self Ins nsttallation Kit For Dish Dish TV Channels

EX XTRA $80 UPG PG GRADE TO ME MEPG4 SATE ELL LITE RECE EIV VER

Provide fix dish i , motorize dish, KU dissh and TV antenna installlation service for all Indian free satelllite TV channells.

Wholesale and rettail Ku diissh, C C--band mesh dish, TV antenna, satellite decoder er, digital TV box.

Address: 2 / 1 Stockwell Place Archerfield QLD 4108 Tel: 07-32555211 Fax:07-32555126 Mobile:0433275763 Email: sales@joysat.com.au Mon-Fri 9:00am-5:00pm Sat:9:00am-1: Web: www.joysat.com.au 1:00pm

LOTU

www.indiantimes.com.au

GN EXCH REI AN LTD

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

FO

GE

S

WIN!

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 7

AWGP Brisbane to host 2014 Ashwamedha Yagnya FOLLOWING the visit of Hon. Dr Therapists, London. This council has Pranav Pandya, All World Gayatri accepted DSVV as an esteemed memPariwar Brisbane has been given the ber of the council. With this membergo ahead to host Ashwamedha Yagnya ship, the staff and students would get 2014. For Brisbane it will be a historic the recognition in the field of mental program, being the first ever to be held health practices and academics. in Brisbane and the second one to be Worldwide Accreditation of Yoga held in Australia. The event will be Organisations has selected DSVV as held from 18th to 20th (Easter weekone of five Institutes, as a chartered end) April 2014. The venue is yet to be member for monitoring the yoga finalised. During his visit Hon Dr organisations at America and India.

Pranav Pandya visited a few potential Brahmvarchas Research Institute is venues for Ashwamedha Yagnya 2014. where Scientific experiments to Ashwamedha Yagnya by All World investigate the effects of Gayatri Pariwar has been previously Ayurveda and Herbal Medicine, Yoga organised at twenty four different Sadhana, Yagya, Gayatri-Sadhana locations in India and the following and Panch Karma, on different bodoverseas locations; 1993 Los Angeles, ily and mental functions are conduct1993 Leicester UK, 1995 Chicago, ed at this institute. The subjects 2005 Sydney, 2009 New Zealand. (experimental and the control groups) Dr Pranav Pandya is head of the are the trainees of the sadhana proGlobal Organisation All World Gayatri grammes/camps of spiritual refinePariwar. Chancellor of the Dev ment and personality development Sanskriti University. Research leader organized regularly at Shantikunj, at Brahmvarchas Sodh Sansthan.

Haridwar. The courses are of one Editor of Akhand Jyoti (Eternal month and three months duration. Dr Flame) monthly magazine. President Pandya is oversees the research curof Swami Vivekananda Yoga • Hon Dr Pranav Pandya with All World Gayatri Pariwar (Brisbane) members during his lecture on "Keeping rently taking place at this centre. The Calm and use of the power of thought" at Maya Ram Achal's residence.

Anusandhana Samsthana. major areas of research are: Ayurveda Dr Pranav Pandya graduated from the and Herbal Science, Yagyopathy, of members world-wide. As the head of the Department of English, Department of MGM Medical College, Indore in 1975 organisation, Dr Pandya has undertaken Education, Department of Journalism and Indian Culture and Psychology, Life achieving first class honours. He was extensive tours in India and around the Mass Communication, Department of Management (Stress, Time & Thought awarded a gold medal for an outstanding world to spread the message of humanity Tourism Studies, Department of Computer Management), The Science of Mantra and performance in being placed first in his and universal brotherhood. He has held Science and Department of Rural its Therapeutic Applications, The year. Dr Pandya specialised in cardiology numerous workshops and seminars encom- Management and Entrepreneurship.

Philosophy and Science of Yoga, Science of and was the supervisor for the intensive passing a broad range of topics, such as, DSVV is a hub of ground breaking Spirituality, Panch Karma Therapy and care unit in BHEL Hospital, Bhopal. It was The Power of Thought, Effective research offering doctoral and master’s Complementary and Alternative Medicineat this hospital where he started to experi- Leadership, Balancing the Ecosystem qualifications. Some Ph.D. awards have Pranic Healing, Reiki, Acupressure. ment with the clinical effects of a Vedic through Vedic Practices, The Biochemistry included the following subject matter: The During his visit to Brisbane, Hon Dr hymn, the Gayatri mantra. Through the of Meditation and The Clinical Benefits of study of the psychological effects of yoga Pranav Pandya (13th to 19th March) held inspiration of his spiritual teacher and his Yoga. postures, Depression Management through workshops, delivered lectures and religious initial findings about the Gayatri mantra, Dr Dev Sanskriti University (DSVV), Dr Psychospiritual Package, The Scientific and discourses at various venues including Pandya turned down an offer to work in the Pandya is the Chancellor of the Dev Spiritual Secrets of Cosmophysics - An Gayatri Mandir in Boondall and Shree USA and instead elected to devote his life Sanskriti University which admitted its first Exploratory Study and Development of Laxmi Narayan Temple in Burbank. to humanity and the scientific basis of spir- students in 2008. The university has nine Personality Traits among Adolescents as Members of All World Gayatri Brisbane did ituality. faculties: Department of Scientific Related to Perceived Home Environment. a marvellous job of facilitating the tour, the All World Gayatri Pariwar, is a global not- Spirituality, Department of Yoga and DSVV has been honoured by the team was lead by Tirat Achal, Pankaj for-profit organisation has tens of millions Health, Department of Indian Culture, International Council of Professional Upadhyay, Vijay Kumar and Dipak Pathak.

8 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 9

Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Academy QLD Lord Mayor to welcome refugees to Brisbane celebrates Sikh Environment Day SRI Guru Granth Sahib Ji Academy Queensland joined Sikh Organisations throughout the world in celebrating the 3rd Annual Worldwide Sikh Vatavaran Diwas (Environment Day) during the week of March 14th 2013. This day marks the New Year in the Sikh calendar and the Gurgaddi Diwas of Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji (the Sikh’s 7th Guru), who is remembered in Sikh History for His deep sensitivity to nature and its preservation. At Kiratpur Sahib Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji established a wildlife sanctuary and planted flowers, medicinal herbs, and fruit-bearing trees.

Guru Ji created a salubrious environment, attracting birds and animals to the town and turning it into an idyllic place to live. Naulakha Bagh became famous for wide varieties of rare medicinal herbs.

The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s son Dara Shikoh was also cured by medicine from Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji’s gardens.

The week was organised for Sikhs

across the world to share what the environment means to them, and realise awareness about the state of ecology. This was the third celebration planned by Eco Sikh, an organisation that was created as the Sikh community’s contribution to the Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) ‘Plans for

Generational Change Project’.

The project works with the major world religions on long term-plans to improve their relationship with the environment.

Supporting the global Sikh efforts SGGSJA Qld celebrated the day at three sites. The special occasion was marked with an Eco Sikh power point presentation highlighting the importance of being environmentally conscious.

The Gurmukhi reading for the day was based on the life of Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji. Sakhia of Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji provided reflections in our history of how Guru Ji promoted being environmentally responsible.

Students were provided with a Sikh Environment Day info pack.

It included fact sheets and activities. Suggestions were provided on different ways to reduce the impact on the environment such as recycling, reducing our carbon footprint, conserving nature, tree planting, caring for God’s creatures, use of compost bins, etc. Together we can all make a difference.

LORD Mayor Graham Quirk will host a refugee welcome ceremony on April 17, to give refugees an opportunity to meet with community leaders and learn about the range of services available to them.

The Lord Mayor said the ceremony was open to all newlyarrived refugees in Brisbane.

“This event is held annually to demonstrate Council’s commitment to supporting refugees and further promote our understanding and harmony with other cultures,” Cr Quirk said.

“It’s an opportunity for refugees to network and access a range of local programs and services provided by government and nongovernment bodies including schools, health, legal services, language assistance and housing.”

During last year’s ceremony, 350 people were welcomed to Brisbane. The top 10 source countries for refugees settling in the Brisbane area are Iran, Afghanistan, Somalia, Iraq,

Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Pakistan, Burma and Ethiopia (since February 2011).

Cr Quirk said this year’s ceremony marked the eighth year running Council had welcomed refugees to Brisbane and more than 1,800 refugees had been welcomed since the initiative began.

“This ceremony aims to support and enhance Brisbane’s global reputation as Australia’s New World City, attract talent, build global connections and contribute to the development of Brisbane as a vibrant, creative and inclusive city,” he said.

A variety of booth holders will be present at the event to provide relevant information and speak directly with the newly arrived refugees.

Council staff will attend the ceremony to advise refugees of services available to them including services at the Brisbane Multicultural Centre in Woolloongabba and libraries.

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Continued from page 4 Five new subclasses have been announced as follows: • Temporary work (short stay activity) visa (subclass 400) • Visitor visa (subclass 600) • Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) • Medical Treatment visa (subclass 602) • eVisitor (subclass 651) We will be reviewing the requirements for a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) and other visas will be discussed in future issues.

The Visitor visa (subclass 600) is a temporary visa for people who want to travel Australia as tourists, for business or to visit family.

This visa has four streams: • Tourist stream: for people travelling to Australia for a holiday, recreation or to visit family / friends. If you apply for this visa in Australia, you must be in Australia when the visa is decided. If you apply for this visa outside Australia, you must be outside Australia when the visa is decided.

• Business Visitor stream: for business people travelling to Australia for a short business visit (incl. conference, negotiation or meeting). You must be outside Australia

when you apply and when the visa is decided.

• Sponsored Family stream: for people travelling to Australia to visit their family. You must have a sponsor who might be asked to provide a bond. You must be outside Australia when you apply and when the visa is decided. You cannot apply for another visa after you have arrived in Australia (non further stay conditions may be applicable).

• Approved Destination Status stream: for people from the People’s Republic of China who are travelling in an organised tour group. You must be outside Australia when you apply and when the visa is decided.

This visa lets you travel to Australia to: • have a holiday or visit family and friends in Australia • study in Australia for up to three months • engage in business activities while in Australia, provided you: - do not work for or provide services to a business or organisation in Australia - do not sell goods or services to the public.

The department will advise whether the visa is single entry or multiple entry and generally you may be allowed to enter only

once. If so, you will need to apply for a new visa if you want to return to Australia again after you leave. You may be able to travel to and from Australia as many times as you want while your visa is valid, but the time you spend in Australia cannot be more than the period of stay that you have been granted.

Under the tourist stream - you must show that you are travelling to Australia as a genuine visitor, for example as a tourist, for recreation or to visit your family and friends. If you apply in Australia, you must be in Australia when the visa is decided. If you apply outside Australia, you must be outside Australia when the visa is decided.

You might be granted a visa under this stream for regular extended visits to Australia if you are either: the parent or step-parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident; the parent of an eligible New Zealand citizen. It is advisable that all visitor visa holders hold 12 months of health insurance cover.

Visitor visas for parents of Australians Due to the length of the permanent Parent (Migrant) visa (subclass 103) queue, and the desirability of family reunion, the department may grant a more generous

Visitor visa. You will automatically be considered for this if you are a parent or stepparent of: an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

OR an eligible New Zealand citizen.

The department will consider these applications on a case-by-case basis and can grant visas that last up to: • five years for parents outside Australia who are in the Parent (Migrant) visa (subclass 103) queue • three years for parents outside Australia who have had a previous Australian visa and complied with the visa conditions, and either: - have not applied for a Parent visa - have applied for a Parent visa (subclass 103) but are not yet in the Parent visa queue - 18 months for parents who have not previously travelled to Australia and either - have not applied for a Parent visa, or - have applied for a Parent visa (subclass 103) but are not yet in the Parent visa queue.

The visa will have 3 extra visa conditions: - Maximum 12 month stay in 18 months: You cannot stay in Australia for more than 12 months on any visit or for more than 12 months in any 18-month period.

- Health insurance: You must maintain fully comprehensive health insurance while you are in Australia. You could be asked to provide evidence of 12 months health insurance cover when you apply. Reciprocal health arrangements are not adequate to meet this requirement.

- No further stay: You cannot apply for a new visa while you are in Australia. You must leave Australia no later than the date on which your visa ends, except in extremely limited circumstances.

Changes to South Australia Occupation List The South Australian Government have announced some recent changes to their South Australian Skilled Nomination Occupation List (SA SNOL), outlined as follows: • Quality Assurance Manager (139914) Low Availability to Special Conditions Apply • Accountant (General) (221111) - High Availability to Medium Availability • Recruitment Consultant (223112) - High Availability to Medium Availability • CT Business Analyst (261111) - DIAC Occupation Ceiling Met, no more applications until after 1 July 2013 • Systems Analyst (261112) - DIAC Occupation Ceiling Met, no more applications until after 1 July 2013 This article is intended to provide general information on migration issues and does not constitute migration advice, and no responsibility is accepted by Kiran Goel or AIEES for the accuracy of material appearing in the Brisbane Indian Times.

(Ms Kiran Goel MARN: 0639149)

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 11

Harmony Day at Banyo Park HARMONY Day (21 March) is a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home – from the traditional owners of this land to those who have come from many countries around the world. By participating in Harmony Day activities, one can learn and understand how all Australians from diverse backgrounds equally belong to this nation and enrich it. It is a day widely celebrated across schools, childcare centres, community groups, churches, businesses and federal, state and local government agencies.

The newly formed local Banyo District Community Group (BDCG) (http://banyo.qld.au/), out of a project by the Multicultural Development Association (MDA) is aimed at welcoming new neighbours to the community. As part of this initiative, invitations were sent out to various local cultural groups to celebrate Harmony Day and the opening of the newly constructed Banyo Bandstand on 23 March 2013.

The construction of the Bandstand was funded from the sale of Banyo RSL Memorial Hall and cost $160,000.00.

Community groups were asked to perform at the Bandstand

or organise a stall to provide more information about their respective culture, community or group.

The local Punjabi Community Group did a wonderful job by showcasing Bhangra and Giddah performances at the Bandstand, served authentic Indian finger food including Samosaas, Jalebis, Gulab Jamuns and Chai. Various traditional Punjabi artefacts were also displayed in the Meeting Room in Banyo Library.

The cultural program started at 2.00pm with a performance from the Brisbane Symphonic Band. This was followed by the Earnshaw State College Band and the Strawberry Fields Band.

The official opening was at 3.00pm with speeches by Local Councillor Mr Kim Flesser, Local RSL Representative Ron Virgen, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and Brisbane artist Jeremy McLean.

The Brisbane Bhutanese Community continued celebrations with a cultural dance performance.

The highlight was the Bhangra Dance performance by Sharay-e-Punjab Bhangra Group. The audience was captivated by the colours and the Dhol beat. The Nuer Community Cultural Group preformed a Southern Sudanese Dance and the event was concluded by a Giddha Dance by local

Banyo Punjabi community. It was very successful event thoroughly enjoyed by the audience. The celebration has already begun for the Great Divali event in 2013 on 3rd of November 2013.

Fruits of “GIRMIT NIGHT” Fundraising

By Sarat Maharaj WHEN people make donations to community service organisations, they often ask if their money was ‘well spent’, and do we follow-up on the progress of students.

Below is an example of one of many thousand students we keep an eye on, from our well-kept extensive database. It is not possible to publish a list of all the successful students, but we do post some selected ones, from time-to-time, onto our website www.icfi.org.au.

The e-mail correspondence below from one

of the students is an indication that the money you donate on the ‘Annual Girmit Night’ does bear fruits for which you, as the donor, get the ultimate blessings and the great satisfaction in your hearts.

To: icfisceretary@hotmail.com The secretary ICFI Australia Dear Sir, I (name suppressed for privacy reasons) would like to express my thanks and deepest appreciation for the help you have given to me for my studies. With the help of ICFI

2013 People of Australia Ambassadors congratulated

• Queesland People of Australia Ambassadors (from left) Mustafa Ally, Dr Farvardin Daliri, Mohit Tolani, Minister Kate Lundy, AMC President Judge Rauf Soulio, Umesh Chandra, Adele Rice and Jim Bellos.

THURSDAY, 21 March 2013: The Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Senator Kate Lundy, today congratulated 53 Australians who have been recognised for their outstanding work building strong and cohesive multicultural communities.

The local champions have been independently selected as People of Australia Ambassadors and were officially appointed at a ceremony at Parliament House.

'These ambassadors are leaders in their community and will play a critical role in providing the Australian Government and the Australian Multicultural Council (AMC) with important grassroots information about life in multicultural Australia,' Senator Lundy said.

'I am particularly pleased to announce 17 new ambassadors from around the country will join the program this year.'

The new ambassadors are all people with a demonstrated commitment to the community and Australia's rich cultural diversity.

They reflect a call for nominations from youth and regional areas and join 36 ambassadors continuing in the program from last year.

The 2013 ambassadors' appointment coincided with Harmony Day celebrations at Parliament House.

'Harmony Day is a day of cultural respect and an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate our diversity,' Senator Lundy said.

'The ambassador program speaks to the strength of our communities and our capacity as a nation to welcome people from all over the world.'

The People of Australia ambassadors are appointed for a one-year term.

From Queensland three new Ambassadors have joined the ranks Sergeant Jim Bellos, Mohit Tolani and Mustafa Ally (OAM).

Umesh Chandra, Adele Rice, Dr Farvardin have been reappointed for a second term.

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

organisation I have successfully graduated on 7th December, 2012. Now I am working at Morris Hedstrom in Suva, putting all my efforts into succeeding and supporting my family in Labasa. Sir, without your help I would not have reached here and help my parents. Thank you for all your help to me and to my family.

Your generosity was not just the money, it was the kindness and the help you have given us during our hard time when we had no school fees, collected cent to cent for our bus fare, sometimes had no food to eat, no family, no one was there to take out from that situation.

I do not have any words to describe and thank you and whole organization. It just means a lot. Please say a special thank you to (ICFI member) for the time he took out for me and went to my school to help in paying my fees. Also to (ICFI representative in Fiji) who always guided me through emails to do my projects and school work on time.

Sir, attached is my Certificate, results and one graduation photo. Please do have a look at it.

(Copy of certificate is on our website) God Bless (name of student suppressed for privacy reasons) International Congress for Fiji Inc (ICFI) in its eleven years of operation has kept an accurate tally of all funds raised and exactly how it was spent. As we have done in the previous years, in the May 2013 issue of this newspaper, we will again publish an account list of the many schools we have assisted all over Fiji and in what amounts.

We again wish to inform all our donors and

• A student receives her Diploma in Business Studies after graduating last year from Fiji National University (FNU). ICFI funds only diploma level students at FNU and in Forms 5, 6, & 7 and Vocational, because of limited budget.

sponsors that members of ICFI travel to Fiji at their own cost to interview students and pay the money directly to the schools.

Some of these costs are Air Fares, Hotel Accommodation, Road Transport, etc. No administration fee is taken out from the money raised through public.

It is our humble appeal and request to you as a reader to please donate generously to this very worthy project. If you can attend the Live Musical Evening ‘Girmit Night’ function on Saturday 25th May 2013, it will be even better. Should you need any further information, please phone Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or on mobile 0407 111 709, or email on regmaharaj@gmail.com.

Job preparation training 1 week training at No Cost!

15-19 April 2013 - Monday – Friday 9:30am – 2:30pm

• How to create a professional resume • The best ways to apply for jobs • Interview preparation techniques • Writing Cover letters • Effective job searches • Assistance to look for jobs Plus MUCH MORE! Address: 14 Proe Street, Newstead QLD 4006 Eligibility Criteria: • Must be an Australian Permanent Resident or Citizen • Must be unemployed • Must be competent in English Contact: MCC 07 3257 1868 (option 1) for more details or email your enquiry to karuna@mccbrisbane.org This project has been funded by the Department of Education, Training and Employment.

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Mach 1 creating new jobs for those less fortunate Clothes wanted for new recycling / collecting project‌.can you help?

Courtesy Illiaz Mohammed Business Development Manager MACH 1 Australian Inc. MACH 1 is a non for profit disability organization that is funded by the Government to provide jobs for those that are less fortunate than most of us. Mach 1's main purpose is to find work for clients with severe disabilities who aren't otherwise suitable for open employment.

Mach 1 has contacts with many business employers who give basic jobs such as assembly work to our clients. The jobs can

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

be repetitive at times but it gives our clients a sense of responsibility and self-satisfaction.

As of March, Mach 1 has created a new project of recycling / collecting used clothes. Once the clothes are collected, it creates sorting jobs for our clients.

After sorting is done, the clothes are packed in bales and placed into shipping containers to be shipped to 2nd and 3rd world countries.

Most of these countries are so poor that the majority of people do not have proper clothes to wear.

By Mach 1 collecting unwanted clothes we are not only saving our environment but are putting clothes on the backs of those who need it most. We need the support of the local community by way of donating the following items; Acceptable items * Any sort of used clothing (including cultural / ethnic wear) * Household linens, etc * Belts / purses / bags * Head scarves * Sports wear * Shoes

www.indiantimes.com.au

Non acceptable items * Non-textiles * Wet textiles * Oil soaked * Rugs and carpeting * Pillows * Mattresses / furniture * Books, CD's, VCR tapes * Bric-a-brac, glassware, etc My humble request is that if anyone has items listed above that are of no use anymore that they please contact Illiaz on 0433 190 996 to come and personally pick it up from your house.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 13

“Lead and inspire” says Hindu Youth Australia “LEAD and INSPIRE” was the message as Hindu Youth Australia (HYA) executed a highly professional and innovative Youth Leadership Workshop on Sunday 3rd March 2013 in Melbourne. The HYA team showed amazing enthusiasm sparking a series of thought-provoking presentations and dynamic teambuilding exercises. Over 40 delegates attended this unique maiden event of HYA Melbourne. In her address, Mayor Micaela Drieberg congratulated Hindu Youth Australia’s efforts and encouraged all youngsters to “follow their dream, their passions and never give up”.

The workshop commenced with traditional Vedic chanting and honouring of the local Aboriginal tribe by MCs Rohith Kuntumalla and Chethana Padki. In his introductory address, HYA coordinator Krishna Ramarathinam articulated the leadership process and illustrated five states that a person typically undergoes to become an inspiring leader.

Pavan Raju extended Krishna’s introduction by exploring the leadership skillsets required for planning and organising. A mixture of absorbing content and subtlety were the key to Pavan’s practical yet highly informative presentation.

The post morning tea session concentrated on science, spirituality and culture.

Kanchana Rao took the participants on a physical journey through ‘pranayama’, the science of breathing and described it as relaxation for the body, mind and soul.

The supreme mantra ‘Om’ was chanted around the auditorium, creating a powerful sense of vibration and solitude. In the next session, Sarang Mujumdar had the audience attention with his insightful interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita and discussed the leadership qualities relevant to current day youth. By focussing on two separate chapters of the Gita, he demonstrated that the ancient wisdom provided by Sri Krishna to Arjuna is still practical and applicable in today’s world.

Sushyanth Subramaniam complemented this session with his presentation on the Hindu civilisation and leadership. He then went on with an in-depth examination of literature covering socio-economic factors, architectural principles, spiritual benefits and the scientific wonders of ancient Hindu temples.

Manikkam Iyer, a junior economist in the

making, took on the huge responsibility of relating ancient economics and politics to modern times. Manikkam’s main objective was to draw some light on the teachings of Chanakya from his well-known text Artha Sashtra. Chanakya, often referred to as the “Indian Machiavelli” is considered the pioneer in the field of economics and political science (370 BCE). Manikkam progressed through a timeline of events, exploring Chanakya’s policies on politics, taxation, human resources and the impact of these policies on society.

In the post lunch session, Chethana Padki facilitated a vibrant workshop on consensus and collaboration. Participants were split into groups and provided various scenarios for resolving conflicts, negotiation and problem solving. Answers were discussed amongst group members and points were awarded to each group. The collaboration skills of participants were then further tested during the team game “Raksha the Anda”. The aim of the game was to design and construct a structure, which would protect the egg from breaking when dropped from shoulder height.

Teams revelled in this exercise and the creativity flowed endlessly during the design and planning phases. Friendly competition amongst groups ensured that each team was working as effectively and efficiently as possible.

The highlight of the workshop was the inspirational session with two young community leaders, City of Monash Mayor Micaela Drieberg and Mr Vamsi Budige.

Both leaders shared their experiences with the audience and encouraged them to seek out the best qualities within themselves and in their interaction with society around them. Mr Vamsi Budige remarked he found the workshop to be “thought provoking”.

The main purpose of this workshop was to sustain the growth of young leaders in Australia by providing youth with the necessary skills and relevant education.

The Youth Leadership Workshop is a wonderful initiation for the Melbourne HYA team and its success will be attributed to the promising young leaders of Melbourne.

Hindu Youth Australia is a not for profit organization and the affiliated wing of Vishva Hindu Parishad Australia Incorporated (VHP Australia). HYA extends its sincere gratitude to all volunteers of VHP Victoria for making this event a grand success.

Please visit www.hinduyouth.org.au for more information.

Multicultural Development Assn expands operation to Nundah MULTICULTURAL Development Association officially opened their office in Nundah on 14th March.

Deputy Prime Minister and Local member Hon Wayne Swan did the honours. The opening ceremony was attended by many community leaders, dignitaries and politicians.

MDA settles every newly arrived refugee in Brisbane, Rockhampton and Toowoomba.

Established in 1998, they are one of the leading settlement agencies in Queensland providing support to refugees and migrants through community development, advocacy and a range of client services.

The opening of the Nundah office expands MDA operation in the North Side of Brisbane, the Northsiders welcomed this move and said that they were pleased that the need was identified .

Deputy Prime Minister said he was pleased that MDA had opened an office in Nundah, he commented that the area was very popular amongst the Fiji Indian Community, after whom the Sikh community came to the area many of whom were employed at Golden Circle cannery. He welcomed main beneficiaries of MDA's services, the refugee migrants to the area.

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

APSQ - Dayanand Bodh Diwas and Holi celebration

• Members singing Chautal during Holi celebrations.

By Jitendra Deo President APSQ IN the Vedic/Hindu tradition, there are many festivals that are observed throughout the year. There are different festivals to celebrate, some honour the seasons, harvests and a number of them to remember and pay tribute to very special people who have had a major influence on the general public. It has been a busy month for members of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland as Arya parv activities were prevalent in March.

Dayanand Bodh Diwas was celebrated at Finnish Hall on March 3rd. This event marked the day when Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati was enlightened and he went for search of truth. When he was a teenager, he wanted to find the true God. This led him to begin a personal quest, lasting nearly three decades, for knowledge revealing the true nature of god. Swamiji was founder of Arya Samaj movement, and his teachings were based on VEDAS, the oldest Hindu Scriptures in the world today.

Mr Sukarm Singh addressed the audience on Dayanand Bodh Diwas, and he spoke on Swamiji's life and how he started Arya Samaj movement. After observing a prayer meeting with his parents, he decided to find the true God. When he did not get answers from his parents he left his home, wondering Northern part of India to find a Guru who could answer his questions. He found Guru Swami Virjanand at Mathura, where he gained his knowledge and found most of his answers.After spending few years in

Ashram of Guru Virjanand , Mool Shankar became Swami Dayanand Sarawati.

Swamiji was instrumental in transforming India to modern India, we see today.His major achievments included spread of true knowledge of VEDAS, fighting for discrimination against women and educating them ,speaking against the caste system and evil practices,revival of hindi and sanskrit and bringing forward the spirit of nationalism and independence. Swamiji authored many books and Sanskar Vidhi,Satyarth Prakash,Rigveda Bhashya and Yajurveda Bhashya are among the many. The programme included Yajna, Bhajans and refreshments. The Havan Yaj was sponsored by Dr Sukhvir Singh Family.

The Sabha also celebrated Holi - Festival of colours at Finnish Hall on March 17th.

Holi is a major Hindu festival that welcomes the spring. Holi celebrates the new life and energy of the new season. Holi is preceded by harvesting of a variety of crops and, therefore, it gives the farmers and their families a genuine springboard to go in for real merriment.When the barns of the farmers are full they have every reason to enjoy the fruits of their hard labour. The fresh grain is offered as ``aahuti` in the havan.

The function started with Yajna, and Pandita Usha Rai highlighted about the significance of Holi. Holi songs, also called "Chautals" were sung by Master Lalta Prasad, and members from community. The Chautal's entertained the audience and event was full of fun. The members also enjoyed playing with colours and powder.

The programme concluded with refreshments and "Holi sweets".

Harmony Day in Townsville TOWNSVILLE Intercultural Centre held their Harmony Day on Monday 18 March at the Monument of Unity in Diversity, Harmony Park.

This year's Harmony Day theme was "Many Stories - One Australia". This highly significant event showcased the commitment of the Townsville Community to Harmony Day and to the many stories that unites all Australians as one people.

The function on the day began at 11:30am with community cultural performances, the official opening was at noon when Dr Farvadin Daliri (OAM) of Townsville Intercultural Centre delivered his opening remarks and welcomed and welcomed everyone to the event.

Umesh Chandra (Brisbane) addressed the gathering as a People of Australia Ambassador, People of Australia Ambassadors are required to speak at these events. Nicole Harvey from Department of Immigration and Citizenship was the other speaker. Umesh Chandra focussed on the community perspective and emphasised on the united force with which we can influence and impact on building strong and cohesive local communities, he reflected on Australia's Multicultural Society and on strengthening the local and culturally diverse communities. Nicole Harvey spoke

www.indiantimes.com.au

from the Government perspective and reassured the gathering on Government policies on immigration a settlement services. Both Nicole Harvey and Umesh Chandra presented the Gratitude Awards 2013. Three youth representatives also spoke at the event.

Following the official speeches the Gratitude project Mural was unveiled to officially launch it. Project Gratitude is about giving individuals an opportunity to say thank you to someone who has supported and helped them in their settlement journey in Australia.

The overall function was well organised and attended by dignitaries, political representatives, schools, community and cultural groups. The diverse cultural performances were of very high calibre and carried the message of social cohesion in today's communities.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 15

Australian migration and settlement awards PRIME Minister Julia Gillard and Minister for Multicultural Affairs Senator Kate Lundy have congratulated Sir James Gobbo for being awarded the Australian Migration and Settlement Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Australian Migration and Settlement Awards.

The awards, which are presented by the Migration Council of Australia, recognize finalists from around the country who are exemplary in their commitment to providing world-class services to migrants.

The Gillard Government congratulates the Migration Council Australia for showcasing the dedication of community organisations and individuals, who work tirelessly to assist new migrants to settle, feel included in communities and participate in the • Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Minister Lundy and David Fricker, Director-General of the National workplace.

The awards show that Australians are Archives, inspecting old migration records. making real differences to settlement can foster a sense of belonging, acceptance experiences, and this support is vitally and understanding of other cultures. important to assist new migrants to navigate The Migration Council Australia was the path in establishing a new life in their launched on 1 August 2012, and is a nationadopted country. ally recognised policy and advocacy notThe major award, presented to Sir James, for-profit organisation, seeking to bring former chairman of both the Australian together corporate Australia and the settleMulticultural Foundation and Council of ment sector to enhance the productive benMulticultural Affairs, is in recognition of efits of Australia’s migration and humaniSir James’ ongoing commitment to Italian tarian programs. community affairs in areas of welfare, language teaching, oral history and care of the aged.

Other winners at the awards include: * Settlement Innovation Category – Diversitat for the Northern Community Hub * Case Workers of the Year Category – Say Htoo Eh Maero (Wyndham Community and Courtesy IMCQ Education Centre) * Business Inclusion Category – Luv-aAS an effort to collect support for its plan Duck * Sports Leadership Category – The to establish a new Mosque for Muslim communities in Queensland, the Indonesian Huddle, North Melbourne Football Club * Journalism Excellence Category – Back Muslim Centre of Queensland (IMCQ) will to Where You Came From Series 2 (Nick hold a fundraising dinner on Saturday 27 April at the Islamic College of Brisbane, Murray) * Diversity and the Law Category – Legal Karwatha.

The event, which has received endorseServices Commission of South Australia for the Migrant Information Legal Education ment from the Islamic Council of Queensland, will also become the moment (MILE) The awards took place during Harmony to formally introduce the newly established Week. This year’s theme for Harmony Day organization and to inform members of the is Many Stories – One Australia, which state’s Muslim communities about its ongorecognises that by sharing our stories we ing Mosque establishment project.

Get set to win with MoneyGram M

oneyGram, a leader in global payment services, has today announced exciting new money transfer prize promotions for South Asia.

The competitions, which will run from 1 April to 30 June 2013, give MoneyGram customers the chance to win prizes like iPads and home theatres simply by transferring money home. There are prize draws for India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan sends with weekly winners over the promotional period.

The ‘Send to South Asia’ promotion • Ram from Lotus Foreign Exchange with a new iPad, features weekly iPad draws. Melanie ready to be won!

Allan, Marketing Manager for atre to watch the cricket with family and MoneyGram's Australia and Oceania friends. The new ‘Win with ICC Cricket’ region, commented “We're excited to have promotion will have a weekly home theatre the chance to reward our South Asian cus- winner for the month of June. tomers with our new prize promotions. We MoneyGram is also conducting free gift also get a chance to introduce our new and prize promotions in the home countries Indian pricing campaign, whereby cus- with India Post and Supreme Securities in tomers can send up to $2500 to India start- India. There are also promotions in ing from only $10.”

Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. It's a Ram from Lotus Foreign Exchange adds win-win for customers on both sides of the "This is the first time with MoneyGram that money transfer. we've had a chance to do such a promotion.

If you want to be in with a chance of winI love tech and new toys so I know my ning iPads or home theatres, it’s simple.

South Asian customers will want the chance Just make your way down to any the win."

MoneyGram Agent location anywhere in Moneygram’s sponsorship of ICC Cricket Australia from 1 April to 30 June and comtournaments continues with a promotion in plete a MoneyGram Money Transfer.

June. With the 8 top national cricket teams Promotional terms and conditions apply. kicking off the knockout phase on 3 June To find out more, go to your local with a series of exciting match-ups in the MoneyGram location or visit UK, it’s the perfect time to win a home the- www.moneygram.com.au

IMCQ invites Queenslanders to fundraising dinner to support the establishment of a new Mosque To participate in the event, guests can buy the dinner invitation for $35 per seat or $300 per table (10 seats) form selected places or simply by contacting the organizing committee.

“All the profit form the event will go to our Mosque project,” IMCQ President Aris Winarno says.

Established in August last year, IMCQ is a non-profit organization that has been organizing the establishment of a new Mosque in Queensland to accommodate the increasing number of Muslims in the state.

Queensland, for example, currently has more than 1,000 Indonesian Muslims working or studying in many parts of the state.

Once established, the Mosque will not only be the shelter for Indonesian Muslims but also for other Muslim communities to hold their religious and social activities.

“Queensland’s Muslim communities in general will clearly benefit from the establishment of the new Mosque since they will have more venue options to perform their religious activities,” Mr Winarno says.

IMCQ estimates that it will need around $750,000 to establish the new Mosque, which will be built in a Brisbane suburb which has no Mosque, like Indooroopilly, Taringa, Toowong or Kedron.

Life of a dedicated Educator - Mrs Saroj Kumari Prasad LIFE of another very dedicated primary, secondary and tertiary educator suddenly ended at the age of 73 when she passed away at the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital on Thursday 14th March 2013.

She was Mrs Saroj Kumari Prasad who lived in retirement in Brisbane since 1995.

Her final farewell was conducted by Pundita Usha Rae at the Centenary Memorial Gardens in Brisbane amidst a large gathering of her family members, relatives and friends on Saturday 16th March from 11 in the morning.

Mrs Saroj Prasad was professionally prepared to go forth and serve the community as a primary teacher at the Nasinu Teachers’ College from 1959 to 1960. She was elected as Vice- President of the Students’ Council and on graduation received awards for an Outstanding Student and an excellent leader. Then she taught in various primary schools of Nausori, Suva, Nadi and Navua for ten years from 1961.

Mrs Saroj Prasad was the eldest daughter of Mr Chandar Pal Sharma erstwhile sub accountant of Fiji Government and she was educated at Dudley Boarding House for her primary and secondary education by such missionary teachers as Miss Campbell, Ms Suruj Kali and Miss Furnivall just to mention a few.

Mrs Saroj Prasad was one of the quality teachers and was given an in-service award by the Education Department of Fiji to complete her teaching degree from the University of the South Pacific in 1972.

Then she taught English language at the 16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

Suva Grammar School, AD Patel and Khalsa Colleges in Ba and at Nadi Muslim College for ten years until 1971. She was promoted as a Senior Lecturer to train teachers of Fiji at the then Nasinu Teachers’ and Lautoka Teachers’ Colleges until 1995.

In her thirty five years of dedicated service to the education sector of Fiji Mrs Saroj Prasad touched the lives of thousands of primary, secondary and tertiary students. She was an excellent educator who was honoured with several outstand-

ing achievements. She served as an assistant head teacher, a Head of Languages Department in High Schools, a Senior Lecturer and an examiner for various local examinations.

Mrs Prasad was a very caring, calm, collected, compassionate and considerate teacher well qualified to manage her teaching, her classroom and her students with complete dedication and excellence. This was one of the reasons for her popularity among her professional colleagues, her students and the communities she served.

She did not worry too much on what she had done well because she wanted to look at what remained to be done. We remember her favourite words, “I always liked being taught and that is one reason why I am always ready to learn”. She motivated her students with a lot of her encouraging remarks such as “If you find that doing your best is not enough then you should do what is really required of you as a good human being”. Such were some of the qualities of giving without expecting any rewards for this lovely person.

During her teaching career she performed a variety of community services to organise women’s clubs, youth clubs and helped with the work of Girl Guides and some religious activities for the village ladies.

She always had the interest of her students at heart and nurtured her own four children very successfully.

She was a humanist who believed in equality for everyone and promoted peaceful living for families. She had written various short stories and poems in Hindi for

www.indiantimes.com.au

Shanti Dut and Jagriti. Saroj was an excellent presenter of various programs for school children at the schools’ broadcasts unit of Fiji for a few years.

Mrs Saroj Prasad migrated with her husband Dr Ram Lakhan Prasad to Brisbane in 1995 to join her four children who were working in Australia. She continued her education at the Queensland University of Technology and completed her Bachelor of Teaching degree in Early Childhood education. She then worked for Education Queensland and other private educational institutions for six years as a teacher and a group leader in various Childcare Centres of Brisbane until her retirement in 2002.

Saroj Prasad has left behind her grieving husband, four married children and eight grand children as well as many other relatives in Fiji and various parts of the world.

She will be greatly missed by her students, family members, relatives and friends.

Contributed by Mrs Saroj Prasad’s professional colleague (Mr) Virendra Pratap Singh (Former Principal of Tilak High School, Lautoka ) now teaching and living in Brisbane and Mrs Sarita Ram Swarath (Mrs Prasad’s student) also now living and teaching in Brisbane Queensland Australia.

Further information and the details of the article can be got and verified by contacting Dr Ram Lakhan Prasad of 76 Ghost Gum Street, Bellbowrie Qld 4070 Phone 07 32028564 Mobile Ph 0409518515 and email srlprasad@bigpond.com.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 17

Dear Brisbane Indian Times readers, WELCOME to the fourth article of our exiting journey through the Inspired Indians column.

What is the purpose of this article?

The main purpose of this article is to inspire our BIT readers and families to excel in their life, work and be proud citizens of Australia.

Additionally, it is to explore the deeper potential for which we have been created.

To find insights, wisdom and understandings that will help us make daily better choices.

In our past three articles we have discussed human potential, true joy, communication and inspiration. You can read them in the online version of BIT pages 17-19.

In this article let us explore the meaning of the word ‘grace’.

What is grace?

Where can you find grace?

How can you receive grace?

These three questions look simple, but they are significant for helping you live a life that is inspired and purpose filled.

The general dictionary grace means, elegance or beauty of a form, pleasing or attractive quality, favor or good will. This explanation does not really justify the true meaning of ‘grace’. It is like showing a thirsty person photo of chilled glass water; it fails to meet the thirst of a weary soul.

To find the true meaning of ‘grace’ we need to look beyond our limited human wisdom. We need to look to the story of a prodigal son (lost son) in the book of Luke, Chapter 15 (Message version).

Then Jesus said, “there was once a man who had two sons. The younger said to his father, ‘father, I want right now what’s coming to me.’

“So the father divided the property between them. It wasn’t long before the younger son packed his bags and left for a distant country. There, undisciplined and dissipated, he wasted everything he had.

After he had gone through all his money, there was a bad famine all through that country and he began to hurt. He signed on with a citizen there who assigned him to his fields to slop the pigs. He was so hungry he would have eaten the corncobs in the pig slop, but no one would give him any.”

That brought him to his senses. He said,

‘All those farmhands working for my father sit down to three meals a day, and here I am starving to death. I’m going back to my father.

I’ll say to him, Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son. Take me on as a hired hand.” He got right up and went home to his father.

“When he was still a long way off, his father saw him. His heart pounding, he ran out, embraced him, and kissed him. The son started his speech: Father, I’ve sinned against God, I’ve sinned before you; I don’t deserve to be called your son ever again.”

“But the father wasn’t listening. He was calling to the servants, ‘Quick. Bring a clean set of clothes and dress him. Put the family ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Then get a grain-fed heifer and roast it.

We’re going to feast! We’re going to have a wonderful time! My son is here—given up for dead and now alive! Given up for lost and now found!’ And they began to have a wonderful time.

The lost son did not expect such an extraordinary undeserved favor from his father.

The lost son experienced the true grace; this is the true nature of father God. He let people receive the free gift of ‘grace’ when they turn to God with heart of repentance. Jesus paid the price for our wrongs on Good Friday, and He rose to life on Sunday morning to grant us grace.

A teacher once explained grace to me with this acronym: God's Riches At Christ's Expense.

So, today begin to receive the ‘Grace’ by the inspiration God’s love in the name of Jesus. Are you hungry for more inspiration?

Please write to us by email: navig8grace@gmail.com

MCF News.....

By Janeth Deen WITH so many boat people being released into the community on visas that do not include any support, the Muslim Charitable Foundation has been busy in meeting their needs. Many of these people have undergone traumatic events in their lives, especially those from minority groups who are denied citizenship in the countries of their birth. Not only have they had to escape persecution, many have had to become illegal migrants or refugees in countries that cannot cope with their numbers. Then, in desperation work towards becoming boat people at great expense and risk to themselves and those with travelling with them. After being intercepted they are transferred to a detention centre for long periods of time, not knowing what the future holds for them. No person willingly wants to leave their roots and their own country unless the incentive of a better life or opportunity exists.

Some of the people who are granted visas are settled with the assistance of the government, but those who are not find themselves in dire straits. The government does provide accommodation for many of them but nothing else. The Muslim Charitable Foundation has come to the assistance of a great number of these unfortunate individuals and has assisted them, not only financially, but also in fulfilling other needs.

One such family helped recently is a young man with four young sons whose wife is in Indonesia with their youngest son. He is in in-house detention having to care single handily for his young sons. He is also trying to find help to support his wife and son still in Indonesia living in poverty with her mother. This young man witnessed his father, brother, sister and the brother's family including children, burnt to death in Burma. He fled to a neighbouring

country, married an Indonesian lady who worked as a servant in the country he fled to. They had five children. In the country he fled to he worked illegally slaughtering chickens for a living. When he saved enough money, he escaped by boat to Indonesia with his family. His marriage, and the birth of his children could not be registered at the time of these events, as he was an illegal migrant. His children have never been to school in their lives because they were not registered. When they reached Indonesia, they hid on various Islands, having to keep the children quiet, (imagine trying to keep four young boys quiet!), until he could be taken on a boat from Indonesia into International waters.

Whilst on the boat for five days, they lived on noodles and water and were bullied for positions on the boat by bigger refugees. At the end of the journey they were sent to Christmas Island for eight months, then on to Darwin and finally settled into in-house detention in Brisbane. They could be waiting from five to ten years to have their claim for residency assessed as Naru and Christmas Island refugees have to be processed first. The trauma is not over for them, as the young family find it difficult to cope without the wife and mother. The children cry incessantly at night for the mother and the father is trying to cope with daily tasks he has never performed before as well as sleepless nights. An MCF member frequently calls on the family to offer help with the daily tasks and relieving the father for short periods to enable him to do the weekly shopping. This is just one story of a refugee who has sought help from MCF. Once again the floods hit Queensland during February and March. MCF collected funds for this flood raising event amounting to $5,000. These funds were sent to Bundaberg to help with the cost of repairing the extensive damage to the Mosque in Bundaberg. Thanks must be extended to all those who donated towards this cause.

109 take up Australian Citizenship THE Sunnybank RSL Sub Branch and Stretton State College, jointly coordinated and hosted an Australian Citizenship Ceremony as part of Harmony Week 2013, on Saturday 16 March 2013. The ceremony was held at Stretton State College.

One hundred and nine new citizens were welcomed as part of the ceremony. The event was

attended by many community leaders, politicians, students and teachers.

After the ceremony the new citizens were treated to a networking morning tea and each was gifted with a pot plant.

David Forde as the MC facilitated the ceremony. This was one of the many citizenship ceremonies held during harmony week.

• The official party at the Australian Citizenship ceremony.

Helping multicultural communities Brisbane residents encouraged recover from the floods to join ‘Ideas Fiesta’

QUEENSLAND Health is urging communities to support migrants and refugees following severe weather events, such as the recent floods.

Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre Manager Rita Prasad-Ildes said newly arrived refugees and migrants may feel isolated after a severe weather event if they don’t feel they have social support. ‘‘This can often be due to language and cultural barriers which can prevent them from seeking help and information on where they can find help,’’ Ms Prasad-Ildes said.

“Multicultural communities across Queensland are generally strong, resilient, close knit communities who, with the support of family, friends and community, bounce back quickly from adverse events. ‘‘It’s important the entire community looks out for one another.’’

Some people may require extra support if they: * Do not know what support is available to them * Do not have many personal resources to help them rebuild and recover * Have lost work due to being employed in a weather affected industry * Have experienced a past trauma “To help migrants and refugees, Queensland Health has placed bilingual support workers in some recovery centres,’’ said Ms PrasadIdles. ‘‘We have also utilised interpreters when

required.

“Remember, following a distressing event it is common to experience a number of different reactions in our body and mind. ‘‘Normal reactions can include problems sleeping, experiencing body pains, difficulty concentrating, not feeling like doing the things you normally do, feeling tired, irritable, sad and anxious or difficulty getting through your daily activities.’’

Resources are available in a number of languages to help you be a good source of support within your community, as well as encourage others to seek help where necessary.

Some useful websites include: • Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre www.health.qld.gov.au/pahospital/qtmhc/ multilingual.asp • Mental Health in Multicultural Australia (MHiMA) www.mhima.org.au/mental-healthinformation-and-resources/resourcesandpublications/translations.

If you would like to speak with someone about where to get help or how to encourage someone to get help, you can contact the Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre by calling (07) 3167 8333 or 1800 188 189, or emailing QTMHC@health.qld.gov.au The Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre can contact you via an interpreter if you prefer to speak in a language other than English.

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

LORD Mayor Graham Quirk is encouraging Brisbane residents to get involved in an ‘Ideas Fiesta’, a vibrant community consultation hub which aims to generate ideas for the City Centre Master Plan.

The Lord Mayor said preparation works were well underway for the Fiesta, which was being held from Friday, April 12 to Friday, May 3.

“Everyone who lives, works or plays in our city centre has a vested interest in ensuring it is the best that it can be, and while significant strides have been made to enhance the CBD over the past 20 years there is still work to be done,” Cr Quirk said.

“The Ideas Fiesta is being held because we have a genuine interest in hearing what people have to say. Each event is designed to stimulate conversation and generate feedback, by showcasing how spaces can be activated and providing ample opportunity for people to share their thoughts and opinions.”

Cr Quirk said there would be an event or activity to suit all ages and interests including street picnics, live music and a fashion parade, and Council officers would also be on-hand to accept feedback and capture ideas.

“We want to know whether you would like to see more live music and entertainment in outdoor spaces, or if you are interested in concept designs for how the city could evolve,” he said.

www.indiantimes.com.au

“Your suggestions and questions are what this Ideas Fiesta is all about.”

The Fiesta will also offer a rare opportunity to go onsite at Howard Smith Wharves to check out the pre-1940s heritage buildings which have been derelict for more than 20 years and see what restoration works have been taking place, and the plans for the site going forward.

Council has also challenged leading design teams and planning, design and architecture students to come up with ideas on how to transform inner city spaces, and will be revealing their designs throughout the Ideas Fiesta and inviting community input.

Snapshot of Ideas Fiesta

Friday 12 April: Spencer Lane Live: Arabian Night, flavours, music and crafts of the Middle East Monday 15 - 17 April: Albert Street Picnic: Three-day community picnic Saturday 20 April: Howard Smith Wharves Community Open Day Wednesday 1 May: Ideas Gallery King George Square: design team and student displays Friday 3 May: City Chic Burnett Lane: Music, fashion parade, lighting display

For further information visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ citycentremasterplan or phone Council on (07) 3404 8888.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 19

LNP Government again fails Ipswich business group pleased at contact with Egyptian delegation multicultural communities WEDNESDAY 6 March, 2013: Shadow Multicultural Affairs Minister Desley Scott says the LNP Government has voted against legislation which recognises and supports multicultural communities in Queensland.

“The aim of the legislation, introduced by the Labor Opposition, was to recognise and advance multicultural principles in Queensland,” Mrs Scott said.

“The Bill also would have ensured that Government policy and service delivery better meets the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse people and communities.

“The legislation was supported by all stakeholders who made submissions, as an important step forward in Queensland to strengthen and support multiculturalism and diversity in Queensland.

“The LNP Government’s claim that the Bill would be an impost on community groups is untrue and not reflected in stakeholder

feedback.

“It is disgraceful that the LNP Government voted against this Bill and shows how out of touch they are.

“The LNP Government obviously does not think it is important to make sure this State remains the multicultural and harmonious community that it is,” she said.

Mrs Scott said the LNP Government’s failure to support the multicultural community tonight is further evidence of the LNP turning their back on our diverse cultural groups across Queensland.

“Last year’s State Budget cut $3.2 million from Multicultural Affairs which represents a huge 40% reduction in funding for 2012-13,” she said.

The LNP Government has also cut funding from a number of multicultural organisations including: * $335,000 from the Community Action for a Multicultural Society (CAMS) program and Local Area Multicultural Partnerships (LAMP)

* Funding cut from the peak body representing multicultural communities, the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland * $500,000 from the Multicultural Queensland Partnership Program which funds community events and festivals across the state * Axing Skilling Queenslanders for Work – migrant skilling and employment programs * Funding cut from the Queensland Multicultural Festival * Abolition of Premier’s Multicultural Photographic Awards * Abolition of interpreter and translator scholarships “The Government’s failure to support this Bill is another demonstration of their lack of support for multicultural Queensland,” Mrs Scott said.

“The Government should have supported this Bill which would have cemented Queensland’s position as a welcoming and inclusive place for people of all cultural and linguistic backgrounds and religions.”

Council plans for new public pools LORD Mayor Graham Quirk is delivering on his 2012 election commitment to build two new public swimming pool complexes in Parkinson and Bracken Ridge, with planning now underway.

The Lord Mayor said the announcement followed the success of the ‘Three Pools Project’ which saw new pools delivered in Runcorn (February 2009), Mt Gravatt (March 2009) and Colmslie (July 2010) and would

bring the number of Brisbane’s public pools to 22.

“We want Brisbane to be a city where people lead active and healthy lifestyles and these facilities will offer communities in our outer suburbs more opportunities for fun, fitness and recreation,” Cr Quirk said.

Cr Quirk said the preferred sites were 523 Telegraph Road (Bracken Ridge) and 751 Algester Road (Parkinson), but Council

IPSWICH's Chamber of with.

Commerce welcomed “We want to encourage the visit to the city by the them to remember our Egyptian Ambassador to city should any investAustralia. ment opportunities arise The Canberra-based in the future.” diplomat visited the city Ipswich Chamber of Thursday March 21 as Commerce and Industry part of an 11-strong delePresident Brett Kitching gation meeting with said Dr El-Laithy's visit Ipswich Mayor Paul was a clear sign that the Pisasale and councillors work put in over the past and representatives from decade to improve the Ipswich's business comimage of Ipswich had munity. paid off.

Cr Pisasale said it had “It is a wonderful pat on been wonderful to welthe back for the whole of come His Excellency Dr the community to have Hassan Hanafy • Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale (left) wel- Dr El-Laithy and the Mahmoud El-Laithy to comed His Excellency Dr Hassan Hanafy AACCI representatives Ipswich for this special Mahmoud El-Laithy to Ipswich. visit Ipswich,” Mr meeting.

Kitching said.

“This is the first time our city has wel“It demonstrates that Ipswich is well-posicomed an Ambassador from Egypt and we tioned in terms of education, lifestyle, are delighted to have been able to spend affordability and employment opportunitime with Dr El-Laithy introducing him to ties.

Ipswich,” Cr Pisasale said.

“We have worked hard to build a wonderDr El-Laithy was accompanied by repre- ful city and it is this work which prompted sentatives from the Queensland chapter of the visit by Egyptian ambassador keen to the Arab-Australia Chamber of Commerce see the first-hand the road we have travelled and Industry (AACCI) as well as two offi- to this point.” cers from Austrade.

Dr El-Laithy was appointed to his current Cr Pisasale said the visit was designed to post last September and is also the Egyptian familiarise the group with the many attrib- Ambassador-Designate to New Zealand, utes of Ipswich from its solid business base Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa and the to its fantastic lifestyle.

Marshall Islands.

“Our main aim is to build a relationship with the Ambassador and the AACCI to He also has also served as the Ambassador encourage interest in our region from busi- to the Slovak Republic and is fluent in nesses and organisations they are associated English, German and French.

would be subject to the normal Development Application (DA) process.

“While both these projects are still in the concept stage, both the Parkinson and Bracken Ridge pool facilities may include an outdoor plus an indoor heated pool, an entry building, kiosk and change room facilities,” he said.

“We are expecting the detailed designs for both projects to be underway towards the end of this

year and completed by mid-2014.

“That will mean people should be able to enjoy these two new swimming facilities by the end of 2015.”

Council will be spending $7 million each on the two new complexes, as part of Council’s broader commitment to deliver $20 million in suburban swimming pool upgrades over the next four years.

The two new complexes are in addition to $1.4 million being

spent on new aquatic playgrounds at various locations, $1.5 million on a new heated pool and gym at Sandgate Pool, $4.85 million on refurbishing the heritage listed Centenary Pool and $2.65 million on a new entry building, kiosk, toilets and change rooms at the Bellbowrie Pool.

For more information on the pool projects or other Council pools, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call (07) 3403 8888.

Fact sheet for contractors in the building and construction industry

Do you work as a contractor in the building and construction industry?

Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal IF you are a contractor in the building and construction industry then there are some changes you need to know about.

From 1 July 2012 businesses in the building and construction industry will have to report to the ATO each year the total amount they paid you for building and construction services.

The information reported to us will be used to identify those contractors who have not included all their income in their tax return, or not lodged tax returns. It is important to include all of your income in your tax return to avoid any penalties.

If you have not met your tax obligations and you choose to do nothing, you could be selected for a review or audit and may face penalties.

WHAT ARE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES? Building and construction services include specified activities that are performed on, or in relation to, any part of a building, structure, works, surface or sub-surface.

For a list of examples of building and construction services (in English), visit our website at www.ato.gov.au/taxablepaymentsreporting Example Ming is an electrician, and has been contracted by Mohamed, who has a business in the building and construction industry.

Ming has been contracted to install wiring in a building, which is a building and construction service.

Ming issues invoices to Mohamed for the work completed. Ming keeps records of all the income he has received and reports this in his tax return, which he lodges with the

ATO. Mohamed will lodge a taxable payments annual report to the ATO and it will be used to check that Ming has lodged a tax return and included all the income he received ! If you are a contractor in the building and construction industry and have met your tax obligations, you do not need to do anything. from Mohamed and other businesses in his tax return.

IF YOU PAY OTHER CONTRACTORS If you pay other contractors for building and construction services you may be ! For more information on taxable payments reporting or paying contractors in the building and construction industry visit www.ato.gov.au/TaxablePaymentsReporting required to report these payments to the ATO each year.

Five tips to check you are on track • Make sure you lodge your tax return by the due date and include all your income.

• Lodge any tax returns for previous financial years as soon as possible.

• If you think you have made a mistake in a tax return you have already lodged, contact us as soon as possible to discuss your situation. If you voluntarily let us know of any mistakes in your tax return, any penalties that apply may be reduced.

• Keep records of all the income you receive and payments you make in relation to providing building and construction services. Keeping records of your business transactions is a legal requirement, and will help make sure you report all the income

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

you receive and claim all the deductions you are entitled to.

• Check that you have met your other tax obligations.

guidance you can rely on, so we make every effort to ensure that our publications are correct.

If you follow our guidance in this publication and it turns out to be incorrect, or it is ! For more information on meeting your tax misleading and you make a mistake as a obligations visit www.ato.gov.au and search result, we must still apply the law correctly. for ‘Checklist for people starting a new If that means you owe us money, we must business’ ask you to pay it but we will not charge you a penalty. Also, if you acted reasonably and MORE INFORMATION in good faith we will not charge you interFor more information on taxable payments est. reporting for the building and construction If you make an honest mistake in trying to industry: follow our guidance in this publication and • visit our website at you owe us money as a result, we will not www.ato.gov.au/ taxablepaymentsreporting charge you a penalty. However, we will ask • refer to the following information (in you to pay the money, and we may also English), available online charge you interest.

- Taxable payments reporting – building If correcting the mistake means we owe and construction industry (NAT 74162) you money, we will pay it to you. We will • phone us on also pay you any interest you are entitled to.

- the ATO business tax infoline on 13 28 66 If you feel that this publication does not from Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 6.00pm fully cover your circumstances, or you are Eastern Standard Time (EST) unsure how it applies to you, you can seek - If you do not speak English well and need further assistance from us. help from the ATO, phone the Translating We regularly revise our publications to and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50 take account of any changes to the law, so - If you are deaf or have a hearing or make sure that you have the latest informaspeech impairment, phone the ATO through tion. If you are unsure, you can check for a the National Relay Service (NRS) on the more recent version on our website at numbers listed below, and ask for the ATO www.ato.gov.au or contact us. number you need: This publication was current at December 2012. © COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA 2012 * TTY users, phone 13 36 77 work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted * Speak and Listen (speech-to-speech This under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced relay) users, phone 1300 555 727 by any process without prior written permission from the * Internet relay users, connect to the NRS Commonwealth. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the at www.relayservice.com.au Commonwealth Copyright Administration, Attorney• visit an ATO shopfront General’s Department, Robert Garran Offices, National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 or posted at • speak to your registered tax agent. http://www.ag.gov.au/cca OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU PUBLISHED BY Australian Taxation Office We are committed to providing you with Canberra, December 2012

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Hindu Marriage Rituals & Customs A HINDU wedding not only involves the bride and groom but the entire community, friends, family and relatives as everybody participates in their coming together of the to-be couple. The first and the foremost step is the selection of the bride and the bridegroom.

While in love marriages, a boy and a girl themselves select their life partner, it is crucial when it comes to arranged marriages. Talking about arranged marriages in the Hindu custom, the parents select the prospective bride/groom for their son/daughter.

After the selection procedure is over, the family members of both the girl and boy ask the priest to suggest an auspicious date for the engagement of the two also known as misri or ring ceremony. Since India boasts of diverse cultures and traditions, the engagement ceremony rituals differ from region to region and community to community. However, the basic of all the rituals, mentioned here, form an indispensable part of Hindu wedding. In the betrothal ceremony, the to-be bride and the groom exchange wedding rings among each other. Sweets and garlands are also exchanged among the couple.

After the festive spirit of engagement, the next important ritual is the mehndi party. It is believed that the color of mehndi signifies the essence of love in a marriage, so it is put on bride's hand to strengthen that bond of love. The bride's family and friends

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

mainly celebrate this ceremony. The female friends and family members of the bride rejoice and celebrate this occasion, as henna gets painted on her hands and feet. Apart from the bride, the family members also get their hands painted with henna. Singing traditional songs and dancing to the beat of music forms a major part of this ritual.

Among the other important rituals is the Sangeet party, wherein all the family members and friends of the bride and groom celebrate, by singing and dancing the night away. Along with song and dance there are arrangements for food and drink. A large affair, Sangeet party is most popular among Punjabis, Marwaris and Gujaratis, although most of the regions today also practice this ritual. Ghari puja is also another important religious ceremony, which is performed on the eve of the wedding day at the groom and bride's place separately.

On the morning of the wedding day, Pithi or Haldi, the cleansing ceremony is practiced during which the bride and bridegroom are pasted with turmeric powder in their respective homes, as a part of their beautification process. Talking about the actual marriage ceremonies, the Hindu wedding mostly takes place in a mandap or a tent, which is beautifully decorated with flowers. The main Hindu wedding ceremony is a long and elaborate affair, which lasts for several hours and is attended by a large number of relatives, friends, acquaintances and so on.

One of the most significant rituals the bride and the groom perform is the Saptapadi or saat phere around a scared fire and light, which is symbolic to God. While the bride and the groom take the seven circles, the priest or purohit recites the mantras and speak of the real essence and significance of marriage. It is also during this time that the groom fills vermillion or sindoor in the center parting of the bride and puts mangalsutra around her neck. Both sindoor and mangalsutra have strong religious implications and are sacred symbols of a married woman. These were some of the rituals and customs, which were generally followed in all the Hindu marriages.

www.indiantimes.com.au

Source weddings.iloveindia.com

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 21

Memorable moments at Eatons Hill Hotel & Function Centre THE Eatons Hill Hotel and Function Centre has been influenced by the grand ballrooms and theatres of yesteryear with its elegant use of ornate ceilings and velvet curtains.

Arriving into the space from the lower level, visitors are instantly drawn to the pressed metal ceiling.

The space then dramatically opens up to expose the ornate ceiling roses offset by stylish use of bold patterned carpet, rich velvet curtains and mosaic tiled bars, creating a memorable experience for up to 2,100 guests it can comfortably accommodate a variety of different sized functions and events.

Such ambiance isn't restricted to those at a function, the civilised, yet relaxed, atmosphere is palpable throughout the nine bars over four levels of the hotel, including the showcase rooftop cocktail bar.

Another key feature is the cellar. The cellar is truly a unique function space quite like no other, one word to describe this area….sophistication. The options are endless and limited only by your imagi-

nation - from sit down intimate dinners, wine & cheese evenings… the list could go on. It has the feel of a charming piece of yesterday, equipped with its own private bar and a complete floor to ceiling glass wall that looks out to the majestic fig tree garden, lit up by light at night just gives the perfect backdrop to your function.

For those who like to unwind over a chilled beverage, Eatons Hill Hotel has over a hundred beers on tap with all your favourites, to appease the tastebuds. There is great food in the bistro and to fill the

time and test your luck in the sports bar or the gaming room where there's 40 machines.

Every weekend at Eatons Hill there is something different to entertain the masses no matter what our customers are into we see no limits when it comes to quality entertainment. We are ready for them to enjoy it every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday!

Weekends see thousands of people come through our venue.

Our customers dance the night way to the latest & greatest tunes around! Combined with our state of the art sound and lighting, creates the ultimate party atmosphere!

The Eatons Hill Hotel and Function Centre is stunning in design and appointed with contemporary flair, the Eatons Hill Hotel is the new standard for a good time.

For further information contact Kaileb - Sales and Events Department AT EATONS HILL HOTEL on 3325 6777 or Email kaileb@eatonshillhotel.com.au

A journey to remember…

A HONEYMOON is a very special, personal journey that a couple in love take together, a journey to cherish the rest of your life.

The Indian subcontinent is a true romantic paradise with awe-inspiring pools, spas, rooms with secluded balconies and the true beauty of quiet lakes. The stunning Himalayan Mountain ranges, or the deserted sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean Islands.

Spoil yourselves with massage treatments, candlelit dinners, travel like royalty with Elephant rides and a journey in a vintage car, spend an afternoon being pampered, followed by a romantic dinner.

For all the romantics, see the Taj Mahal and stay by the romantic lake Pichola, yoga, massages and gentle strolls through the streets of India, will revitalize your mind, body and spirit.

Explore the Thar Desert by horseback, camel, jeep or foot and visit the colourful remote villages of Rajasthan. While a game of polo and private tour of the forts and museum await in Jodhpur, new boutique hotels and luxury tented camps provide the much awaited comfort.

In the Southern part of India awaits you to travel through the lush backwaters of Kerala and across to the Garden City of 22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Bangalore, along the way, an incredible array of experiences await you, from the night you will spend aboard a houseboat, the private eco-tour and visit a bird sanctuary in the backwaters.

Seen the movie? Wander through the city of Jaipur and enjoy the riot of colour with sights, sound and excitement. Finally, be enchanted by "The best exotic Marigold Hotel".

Target Travel and Tours offers a variety of packages for honeymooners. For more information visit our website www.targettraveltours.com.au or call us on 07 3844 2088.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 23

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 25

PLANNING the biggest day of your life can at times feel overwhelming, the Tavernetta Function Centre located at Carseldine helps alleviate wedding day worries ensuring you can relax and enjoy your special occasion.

A one-stop venue for your wedding day, the newly renovated outdoor ceremony area means you can hold your ceremony, offer canapes and host your wedding reception all at the one venue.

Tavernetta is one of Brisbane's favourite venues for functions and events. From conception to completion, events staff will design your event, personalised to your requirements.

"Your event is unique and we aim to enhance and create your perfect function in a friendly, cost-effective and consultative process," said business manager Sharon Panettiere.

"Our aim is to remove all anxiety and stress so that you can have a ball at your party, conference or wedding."

Sharon said the Tavernetta offered a range of venue options to cater to individual needs and desires.

Their wedding planner will assist you with every detail when choosing menus, flowers, linen, musicians, and photographers to put together a wedding reception to remember.

The largest and most glamorous room, La Grande Sala (grand ballroom), captures the

guests can party the night away on the dance floor.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the newly renovated courtyard flows from the grand ballroom and has access to licensed bar, seating for up to 100 guests and includes the option of red carpet for a stylish entrance.

The smaller private function room, La Sala, seats up to 180 guests, has a dance floor, licensed bar and retreat room.

Both rooms also include a kids space with DVD's and game consoles.

Sharon said family was important to them, so from their chef's delicious Italian cuisine, to the fun and festive atmosphere, you'll be assured of having a great time at your function.

"We can accommodate any event or budget, from business conferences to large weddings or casual family affairs," she said.

"We look forward to showing you through and once booking / menu is confirmed we will then offer you a free tasting plate." essence of Italy and features lavish chandeliers, spectacular carpeting and your own discreet bridal retreat for the duration of your reception.

The sophisticated bridal retreat has a full length mirror to make sure your gown is

perfect and you can pop on a complimentary robe to touch up your make up before your grand entrance.

The grand ballroom has seating capacity for 350 guests, and the generous stage is perfect for a band or DJ so you and your

Tavernetta Function Centre is located at 144 Dorville Road, Carseldine.

Phone 07 3263 1674 or

visit www.tavernetta.com.au.

Mehendi Celebration

Chandni Events is Queensland's luxury wedding and event design company, specialising in designing and installing bespoke theming and arrangements FOUNDER and Creative Director, Aivan Chand, is the creative force behind Chandni Events. After completing his qualifications in Interior Decoration & Design, Aivan was invited to work with multiple internationally renowned luxury designer brands such as Chloe & Missoni. After extensive travels to fashion capitals back to back, Aivan set out to use his expertise and strong attention to detail to create extraordinary wedding and event experiences for the discerning customer. "My approach to wedding events begins with understanding the client's desires and ensuring that we deliver above and beyond their expectations. I dedicate myself to turning that dream into a lavish and glamorous affair no matter the budget, large or small. Chandni Events is current and on trend when it comes to decor�.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

Chandni Events pushes the boundaries by offering affordable yet luxurious theming solutions using the latest international trends to provide only the highest quality products. Its products come from all over the world including India, Dubai, and Istanbul. Chandni Events offer a range of exclusive mandaps, an assortment of decorative accessories, artistic inspired centrepieces and the largest collection of table and chair colours for the Asian market in Australia.

To ensure a tailored approach, Chandni Events prides itself with a Signature consultation and execution process. In this process clients are presented with a breathtaking showroom experience that includes details of every element of the event design and theme which allows the client to immerse into an interactive touch and feel experience.

www.indiantimes.com.au

WEDDINGS in India are considered to be a sacred and sanctified ritual. They are long ritualistic and elaborate affair with lots of prewedding, wedding, post wedding ritual. The occasion of Mehendi is one of the most important pre-wedding rituals. It is fun a filled ritual, which is celebrated mainly by the bride's family. Different regions of the country celebrate the ritual in a different way according to their own marriage customs, rituals, and culture. The celebrations also depend on the wealth and status of the people. The bride's family celebrates Mehendi party for gathering brides friends and relatives for blessing the bride as well as for amusement.

The ceremony is mostly held at bride's place or sometimes in a banquet hall on the eve of the marriage ceremony or few days before the marriage. On this occasion a professional henna designer or some relative applies mehendi to the brides hands and feet. There are few places in India where it is a ritual that the first motif of henna or mehendi is applied by the brides sister-in-law whereas there are some places where the first mehendi motif is said to be auspicious if applied by brides mother.

The Mehendi or henna motif is not only the adoration of the bride rather it epitomizes her transformation from a virgin girl to a temptress for her husband. As per Kama Sutra, henna is one of the sixty four arts of women. Popular motifs of the bridal mehendi are conchshell, flowers, Kalash, peacock, doli and baraat patterns. The intricate motifs of the bridal henna also hide the husbands name. It is said that the husbands name in the intricate henna motifs is made for the groom who has to find out his name in his brides mehendi as an evidence of his sharp eyes and active brain to impress his girl.

Mehendi function is usually organized with the sangeet function. So, it has a festive feel to it with the women dancing and singing traditional songs on the mehendi ritual. The bride is dressed in light color clothes with light jewelry. According to the custom the bride must not step out of the house after the mehendi ritual until the wedding day. It is believed that the darker and deeper the henna stains the more the husband and the in-laws will love her bride. The ritual of mehendi signifies the strength and power of love in a marriage so it is regarded good omen for the would-be bride. It is said that the long the bride retains the mehendi, the more auspicious would be her future.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 27

Beauty tips for Brides to be beautiful on their dream day

By Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty (Mobile 0412 350 013) HEY girly, every bride cherishes a wish to look beautiful and their best on the day of her wedding. Wedding outfits, jewellery, makeup and hair must be such that they accentuate the bride’s natural beauty. It is very important for a bride to look pretty and radiant. On the day of wedding, the bride is the centre of attraction so she has to put in all efforts to look “The Best”.

Not all women are gifted with glowing skin and silky long hair, for them there are bridal beauty treatments that aim at improving the quality of the bride’s skin and hair and involve regular facials and hair treatments. Beauty treatments, for helping the bride look like a dream princess, should start at least 8 weeks before the day of the wedding.

Before starting with any beauty care treatment, a cosmetologist should be consulted first to get the complete analysis regarding present skin conditions that includes acne, any skin problems like skin rashes, blemishes, black heads, moles etc.

Skin and Hair Care Tips for the Bride to be: 1. Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day to stay hydrated. To nourish skin from within, have at least 2 glasses of mint-carrot-beet- tomato juice every day.

2. Avoid very oily food and switch to a regular cleansingtoning and moisturising routine before going to bed.

3. If you are using soap to wash your face, switch over to a face wash which has cold cream content.

4. Sign up with a beauty parlour for a weekly head massage and hair spa treatment. Though costly, this treatment is worthwhile as it is a major de-stressor.

5. It has been seen quite often that brides with short hair

attempt to grow their hair before the wedding. If that is the case, do not forget to go in for regular trims to maintain the shape of the hair.

6. Stick to the regular hair and skin products, including makeup, which you are used to. Try to avoid experimenting with new brands of hair and skin products, just before the crucial day.

7. If you colour your hair, ensure to complete the hair colouring treatment at least a week before the date of the wedding.

8. Before going out in the sun, apply SPF 15 or higher half an hour before to avoid sun damage to the skin.

9. You can increase the consumption of vitamin rich food to add a natural glow to your skin as they helps in warding off the damage causing free radicals from the body. Also you can take fresh oranges or lime water.

Beauty package for would-be-bride: An ideal beauty package includes body cleansers, facial peels, and various hair therapies. Take note of the following tips before starting with any beauty package: 1. Go for deep hair conditioning once a week. Here the beautician will give you a protein hair mask that you have to apply for half an hour along with oil massage. This helps in in-depth conditioning of your hair.

2. Don’t forget your hands and feet. Go for regular professional manicure and pedicure.

3. Go for body polishing every 10 days.

4. 3 days pre-wedding go for final facial, scrubbing, waxing and body massage.

5. Most important to note is that don’t experiment anything new on the skin. This can lead to disastrous results.

Skin and hair tips for the actual wedding day: 1. Finish off with your exfoliation and waxing sessions at least 3 days before the wedding.

2. Oil and shampoo your hair, just a day before the wedding. Ensure to condition your hair, to avoid fly away strands.

3. Try out your hair do, after donning your bridal outfit well before the wedding date to avoid last minute harassment.

4. In the case of traditional Indian weddings, the bride wears flowers and ornaments in her hair. Ensure that your wedding make up kit contains plenty of U Pins and clips to keep the hair ornaments and flowers pinned in place

throughout the ceremony.

5. The hair do for the after wedding reception should complement the outfit. Keep the hair do simple and easy to manage, particularly if the outfit and jewellery are ornate and heavy.

6. Modern brides aim for a natural, glowing look with makeup. Traditional heavy layered make up in bold colours has given way to light, sheer make up shades. Use of a bronzer instead of blusher lends a natural, glowing look to the makeup.

7. If your wedding is planned in summer, then go for water proof make-up.

8. Red shades of lipstick look good with traditional Indian wedding outfits besides making the teeth look whiter.

Hope this helps the bride and to all of you, have a nice time. See you soon.

Wedding Kalash and Top Indian Honeymoon Spots Thali Decor tips...

THE ceremonies and rituals performed in Indian weddings have certain social significance. The rituals that are performed before, during and after the wedding symbolize the physical, spiritual and mental unison of the couple, who has tied the wedding knot, as well as the special bond between the families of the two. To indicate the union, certain things are used as 'symbols' of shagun for the ceremony. These include kalash and thali. The symbols indicate the strong tie between the newly married couple as well as their families. If you want to get some ideas for decorating your kalash and thali, this article will be handy. Go through the following lines and get some ideas for kalash and thali Decor.

Decoration Ideas For Kalash and Thali Kalash Decor • Typically, kalash is a sacred pot containing a coconut that is surrounded by mango leaves. The sacred pot is usually made of brass. Silver kalash is also considered auspicious for the occasion, although it is hardly put in use.

• Kalash can be decorated in a number of ways. Traditionally, people make beautiful designs on the outer portion of the pot.

Painting is done outside the kalash.

• If you are not adept at painting designs, then you may paste stickers on the outer portion of the kalash. Choose designs that look ethnic and truly Indian.

• Earthen pot can be used as kalash, if it is beautifully adorned with designs. In many regions of the country, people apply a sacred red vermilion on the pot.

• Since the arrangement of mango leaves (surrounding the coconut) is considered sacred for the entire 'symbol' of shagun, you should choose fresh leaves.

Wash them well before use.

• Talking about the coconut, you may either smear turmeric paste on it and apply a tilak made of vermilion, or leave it as such.

• Ensure that the coconut you have chosen for the kalash fits into it, perfectly. It should be neither too small, nor too large

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

for the container.

Thali Decor • People from different community of India decorate their puja thali for wedding, according to their own custom and traditions.

• Thalis made of silver or brass is considered auspicious for the wedding ceremony.

• To give a festive look to your thali, make use of banana leaf to cover the thali and draw a 'swastika' symbol at the middle of the plate. You may place a diya at the center of the thali and adorn its border with colorful flowers, to complete the look.

• In some regions of the country, people also put arrange a handful of rice, flower petals, kumkum (sacred vermilion), sandalwood paste and various items required for puja in small clay containers, along with an incense stick.

• To give a traditional and ethnic touch to your thali, make use of small clay containers to place the puja items and then keep the rest of the things around them.

• You may also decorate your thali with bright golden and silver color paper. For the purpse, wrap the thali with the silver/golden paper and put zari border around it to give a bright look Source: weddings.iloveindia www.indiantimes.com.au

Hill Stations - If you are one of those who would love to snuggle closer to each other, in chilly weather, then the hill stations in India will surely woo you. The options include Mussoorie, Dalhousie, Darjeeling, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Srinagar, Shimla, Nainital, Manali, Mount Abu and Gangtok. Visit any of them and find yourself wandering along meandering hill roads and gazing at the refreshing greenery of forest-covered hills, holding each other's hands. Watch the clouds drift over the snow-capped mountains, as you walk through meadows of flowers.

Take a stroll through the orchards and breathe in the fresh air of the mountains, experiencing the heavenly fragrance of blooming flowers.

Beaches Galore - In case playing with water and soaking the rays of sun is what excites you, then the beaches of India are at your disposal. Apart from the beach capital of Goa, you will find Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh providing you with sea as the companion. All of these places are dotted with picturesque beaches, offering the best combination of the sand and the sea. Many of them have not been explored by tourists much. So, you might find yourself walking on for miles, without sighting even a single other soul.

Wow! So much privacy, that too amidst such a romantic ambience!

Then, there are those beaches that offer loads of adventure sports, to thrill your senses.

Backwaters Beauty - If you love water, but are not much interested in visiting a beach, then the backwaters of Kerala will surely appeal to you.

There are so many places in the state that would offer you the experience of living amidst the backwaters, in a houseboat. The most popular amongst them are Alappuzha, Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvallam, Kumarakom, Kottayam and Kasargod. As you move around the water, exploring one picturesque destination after the other, it feels as if you have become one with the nature. The green vistas beckon you with their virgin beauty and you come back all refreshed from the honeymoon, feeling much closer to each than before.

History Beckons - For all those who love to explore history, through the rich architectural legacy of a place, Rajasthan would prove to be the perfect honeymoon destination in India. Also known as the 'desert state of India', it abounds in forts, palaces, havelis and other structures of the bygone area, all of them providing a taste of the state's rich heritage. You can even stay in any of the heritage hotels of Rajasthan and get a real feel of the royal times. You can also undertake a tour of the sand dunes, explore the rich and varied wildlife and even go on a camel safari. Whatever you do, one thing is for sure - you will never ever forget a tour of Rajasthan and will cherish its memories throughout your life.

Source: weddings.iloveindia

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Honeymoon in Goa

• Vagator.

SITUATED on the south bank of the Mandovi estuary in north Goa is Panaji or Panjim the State Capital. Built around the Altinho hill, its Portuguese appeal can still be seen in its elegantly red roofed Portuguese villas, boats plying up and down the Mandovi river, gardens and avenues lined with Gulmohor and Acassia trees as well homes built using Latin architecture.

Panaji has a very rich Goan cultural heritage. Music, dance and folklore are deeply rooted in the heart of the goans and the rhythm runs in the blood of the Goans.

Goan folklore comprising of folksongs, dances, music, visual arts and folk tales, are rich in content and variety. The folk music has devotional as well as contemporary overtones, and it displays a lively rhythm.

And the folk dances reflect that rhythmic vitality.

When in Goa, you must try its local cuisine that includes pork vindaloo, chicken xacuti, fish/prawn/chicken caldine, sorpotel, bebinca and balchao. The seafood is, of course, the freshest fare in the town.

All the beach towns in Goa have shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts from all over. The Friday flea market at Anjuna is one place you should visit for home-made toddy, carvings, T-shirts, sarongs, chillium, spices and Port wine (a must buy). Baga and Calagute are swamped with Kashmiri traders. One can buy Kashmiri carpets as well as Rajasthani and Tibetan crafts here.

Tourist attractions: Dona Paula - An idyllic picturesque spot, it commands a fine view of the Zuari River and Mormugao Harbour. Water scattering facilities are available here.

Church of St. Francis of Assissi - The entrance and the choir are in the Manueline style, the only fragment of its kind in the East. The interior is illustrated with exquisite paintings. The adjacent convent, now houses the Archaeological Museum.

Vagator - It is a popular beach, dominated by the Chapora Fort, to the North, on its imposing headland. To the South of Vagator is Calangute beach.

Source: honeymooninindia.net

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 29

River Park Place: affordable and stylish function centre for hire INDIAN culture celebrates marriage as a rite enabling two individuals to start their journey in life together. River Park Place Function Centre has proudly hosted more than 50 Indian functions over 4 years, many as wedding or engagement functions. River Park Function Centres unique qualities and atmosphere, we believe, can help create happiness, harmony and growth for the start of the couple’s journey together.

The features of the centre include a grand entrance foyer, clean and stylish décor, fully carpeted and air-conditioned, unlimited decoration options with high ceilings for Mandap decorations, seating for 400 guests in style and comfort with plenty of free parking. The centre is located in Morningside on Brisbane’s South East in park lands with the Brisbane River as the backdrop and is only 10 minutes from the CBD and Gateway for easy access from anywhere in Brisbane.

What also makes River Park a favourite amongst our happy wedding couples is the fact we are situated in a parkland reserve so there are no noise restrictions,

Engagement ceremony ndian weddings are known for their elaboIBesides, rate ceremonies and opulent celebrations. they are held in a very traditional

enabling you to organise your event your own special way with your own DJ, cultural dancing, or even live fire performers along with the many other variety of performances we have had at the centre.

As we cater and make great events for different communities, the centre allows for self-catering food options so you can organise your own favourite cuisines. River Park also has a fully equipped kitchen that can be hired if you need to cook on site as many of our guests have done while catering for large functions, not a problem, your food, your way! We have also worked with local Indian and other Asian restaurants to cater in house fresh food if

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

required.

We understand that there are different needs for different communities, so our friendly function coordinator will provide you with a number of options and packages to provide flexibility and an affordable price for a great function that your guests will remember.

Please go to our website at www.riverparkplace.com.au for many photos of our events, options and testimonials from Indian wedding parties or email functions@riverparkplace.com.au or call on 07 39021055 to ask our friendly and helpful function coordinators for more information. We are pleased to make appointments to show the centre, wedding displays tables, decorations and backdrops that will give you great ideas for your unforgettable wedding event at River Park Place.

www.indiantimes.com.au

manner, commemorating numerous rituals as per the ancient Vedic era. This has sanctified the institution of marriage, making it one of the most important happenings in one's life.

Engagement ceremony is one such ceremony which marks the beginning of the wedding concord. It is also knows as the sagai ceremony or ring ceremony.

It is one of the first ceremonies that takes place between the two families and the would-be bride and groom. The engagement ceremony is basically a brief ritual wherein the couple exchanges gold rings. This ensures both the parties that the girl and the boy are now hooked. This is why it is also called the ring ceremony. This is followed by exchange of gifts between the families like sweets, dry fruits etc. this is followed by either a lunch or dinner party.

In some families the sagai ceremony is clubbed with the engagement itself. This is another pre wedding ceremony, which strengthens the bond between the both families. In sagai, the bride is given jewelry, clothes, make-up kit and baby toys, by the mother of the groom. On the other hand, the groom is put tilak and given gifts by the family of the bride. A havan is also performed at times. Here also a lot of gifts such as fruits, sweets, clothes are exchanged between the two.

These ceremonies are performed differently in different parts of the country and are even called by different names, such as aashirwad ceremony, chunni chadana, sagan ceremony, magni etc.

However, the essence of all these ceremonies is the same. Besides, quite often, the date of the marriage is also decided and confirmed at these ceremonies. These ceremonies thus, conclude with the blessings of the elderly and the Almighty.

Source: culturalindia.net

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

…

… unveiling the beauty in you ….

Specialists in Bridal, Event Make Up & Beauty Therapy Find/ ‘Like’ us on Located in Kuraby, 4112 • Tel 1300 88 76 29 Email: info@thebluelotusretreat.com www.thebluelotusretreat.com or scan the QR code on the left to access our website.

Calamvale Market Place Shop 5A, 2605 Beaudesert Rd Cnr Nottingham Rd CALAMVALE Qld 4116 where you get the best deals everytime!

Fiji - India - Pakistan Los Angeles - Auckland - London Cheapest fares available

for these and many more

destinations around the world OPENING HOURS

Mon-Fri: 9.00 - 5.00 Thurs: 9.00 - 7.00 Sat: 9.30 - 1.30

Please contact

JAVED RAHMAN Mobile: 0413 140 610 (Optus) 0433 212 907 (3 Phone)

Ph: (07) 3711 6040 Fax: (07) 3711 6141

Email: Javed.Rahman@bestdealtravel.com.au - Web: www.bestdealtravel.com.au Award Winning Agent - Select Group’s Top 5 Agents in Qld, Brisbane Indian Times Tourism Award 2006 & Southern Cross Galileo’s Most Improved Business of The Year

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 31

Unveil the beauty in you on your wedding day!

Heena Mohanlal The founder of The Blue Lotus Retreat INDIAN weddings are renowned for their opulent and vibrant looks. It is a perfect blend of serious rituals and customs along with numerous fun filled frothy moments.

And dare I say are exhausting!

As a woman I can completely understand the anxieties, fears and excitement a bride feels. I love sharing my knowledge and expertise focusing on preserving, protecting and nourishing your skin.

Looking fabulous on the day As a bride, your primary focus tends to be on looking and feeling like a princess on your special day. The key to a stunning bridal look is flawless skin enhanced with colours to suit your skin tone.

The better your skin is, the more amazing your wedding make up will look. The added bonus to having beautiful skin is that you will still look fabulous once the make up is off especially while on honeymoon.

So how long will it take Proper skin care takes several weeks even months to pay dividends. But the effort put in will have an enormous effect on the result boosting your confidence and the way you feel. It is a good idea to get a professional skin analysis done. A skin care range suitable for your skin type would be most beneficial.

Creams alone aren’t enough While we continue to slather on creams on our faces, there is growing evidence the path to having a gorgeous skin might be through your tummy. Your skin clearly reflects your inner environment. By following a cleansing program that includes anti inflammatory or low stress foods would aid the removal of excess toxins and help improve the condition of your skin. It’s all about shining on your big day.

But what about those scars Camouflaging scars, spider veins, burn marks etc has become increasingly popular especially with low back sexy blouses.

These products are designed not to rub off or transfer and last for up to three days.

Feeling shattered already You always look how you feel. However we all know by the wedding day everyone is exhausted from the previous three days of ceremonies and parties, the bride is not an exception. Indian weddings are hectic and

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

our face often is the first to betray how tired we are.

You and close family members would look and feel magically revived and revitalised by squeezing in an aromatherapy massage before grooming. If you feel good, you would look great!

The ever evolving fashion Indian fashion is constantly evolving and with every change, bridal hair and makeup becomes more exquisite.

Having realised that there is a massive demand for experts in this field, I enrolled myself in the beauty industry’s leading company, Ash Kumar Academy.

Ash Kumar’s elite talent and innovative

www.indiantimes.com.au

henna designs has lead him to having the privilege of working on numerous Bollywood and Hollywood superstars like Madonna, Julia Roberts, Demi Moore, Aishwariya Rai, Kareena Kapoor and the list goes on. His work has been featured in blockbusters such as Kabhi Khushi Khabi Gham, Kal Ho Na Ho, Hum Tum to name a few.

Be yourself and have fun On this special day you deserve to be pampered with a keen sense of style and a vision of perfection. It is important that you still look like yourself-just the most beautiful you have ever looked. You will need assistance to your dream look, limited only by your imagination. Having at hand a professional package consisting of high quality therapies that are fun, creative and innovative takes the stress away from grooming on the big day. Remember, all dreams appear impossible until someone makes them happen.

To keep a lid on stress, try to exercise, yoga, meditate and deep breathing.

Prescribe yourself a daily dose of something that makes you laugh!

Last but not the least, don’t forget to enjoy and treasure those special moments. At the end of the day, it is your wedding and your memories.

Get started!

As the saying goes ‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step’. So do something today that will take you one step closer to your dream!

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Who, What, Where, When

• Invited guests at Shadow Minister of Productivity and Population Shadow Minister of Immigration and Citizenship Scott Morrison dinner function hosted by Hon Teresa Gambaro, Federal member for Brisbane.

• Ramnavi celebrations at Chinmaya Mission Brisbane.

• Indian Senior Citizens Association celebrating Holi with Shri Sanatan Dharam Qld.

• Dr Madan Meena (Left) and Rekha Meena during a radio interview at Radio 4EB with Umesh Chandra of the Indian Programming Group. Indian programming group presents the weekly Hindi program from 9:30 am till 10:15 am every Sunday morning on 98.1 FM.

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - Holika Dahan! On 26 March, close to 200 devotees gathered at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir and witnessed Holika Dahan and chanted Holi bhajans in a circle around the holika bonfire. A huge feast was enjoyed by everyone afterwards.

• From Left, clockwise: Visitor from India, Lata, is pictured with grandson Rohit Koshe, daughter Vrishali Koshe, daughter Deepa and grand daughter Sam Koshe at the newly opened Spice Valley Vegetarian Restaurant in Nundah.

• From Left: Indian High Commission - Honorary Consul (Brisbane), Mrs Archana Singh with the GCHCA representatives.

"Neha Darshan darling daughter of Sunil and Sangeeta Darshan of Aspley, Brisbane celebrated her 21st birthday on the 16th of March with loving friends and family, an enjoyable night for all that attended the birthday bash. Lots of love from Aaji, Nani, Sailesh Kaka and family, Soni Massi and family and Salend mama of New Zealand and Pravin dada and family from Sydney."

• Imam Dr Tariq Asadullah Syed explaining Muslim funeral protocol at the information session organised by Indonesian Islamic Society of Brisbane.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 33

PJ Randhawa: South Dakota’s first Sikh Broadcast Journalist

By Parker McClain RAPID City is a city with a metro population of 128,000 people, in the heart of South Dakota’s Black Hills, and in the shadow of Mount Rushmore. Eighty-six percent of the population identify themselves as ‘white’ … ten percent above the national demographic average. While the area is a hotbed for global tourism in the summer seasons, there is very little diversity to speak of year round. Less than 1% of the population identify themselves as being of ‘Asian’ descent.

For TV viewers in the area, much of the only diversity they see is on the local morning news. Born in Manitoba, Canada to Punjabi Sikh immigrants, Journalist PJ Randhawa is a highly visible TV anchor and reporter at Rapid City’s ABC affiliate.

After graduating from DePaul University with a master’s degree in journalism and working in some of the top network newsrooms in Chicago, Randhawa, 26, began working in Rapid City, investigating crime, social issues and human interest topics. Her morning news segments are broadcast in five states, including North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska and Montana to thousands of viewers. Randhawa is the first Sikh broadcast journalist in South Dakota, and for many, she’s the first “East Indian” person they’ve ever seen. I sat down with the TV broadcaster to find out how she is representing diversity and Sikhism in one of the most racially uniform states on the North American continent.

PJ, how did you first enter the journalism field?

There’s an old family video me singing to a Gurdas Mann song when I was four or five years old, and I guess that performance convinced my parents that I should be some kind of TV presenter. I don’t think it was the singing that persuaded them because it wasn’t great, they just recognized something in me that wanted to be seen and had something to say.

But, it wasn’t until college that I had the confidence and technical skills to present the news. I was always a writer and actor, but terribly shy for many years.

Did you your family or you have any hesitation about being a broadcaster, as there are not many Punjabi’s in the news field?

I think to everyone, that was a big bonus. I wanted to standout and represent my heritage proudly. Growing up in Canada with

friends from every background and walk of life, it was important for me to represent the changing face of an ever-shrinking world. I feel like my eyes are open to something not a lot of people see here in places like South Dakota, like how racially diverse the world really is. Having been to India a few times in my life, I’ve seen such poverty and culture that many in the Western world have their eyes closed to, so I believe that experience adds a unique perspective to my stories.

What did you do as far as education to prepare for broadcasting?

I completed my master’s degree in broadcast journalism from DePaul University in 2011. Throughout my university career, I studied filmmaking and communication.

At some point, I couldn’t hide behind actors or technology anymore. I stepped in front of the camera and began to present issues that were most important to me, like crime and social justice. The truth is more interesting than anything you can make up or write in your studio or get actors to re-create.

Through my investigative reporting, I’ve been able to interview top South Dakota government leaders, like Governor Dennis Daugaard, US Attorney Brenden Johnson and Attorney General Marty Jackly to explore a range of issues, including synthetic drug trafficking, cold case murders on the Indian reservations, and criminal reform legislation.

How did you end up in South Dakota?

I was fortunate enough to secure a position as a reporter here after I graduated in 2011.

I would go anywhere in the world to do what I love, so it was an easy decision and I had the full support of my family to pursue my dream.

How has being Sikh affected your career so far?

My religious beliefs have always guided me to keep and open heart and open ears to the people and issues I report on. It lends itself well to being objective. That’s invaluable when you’re telling sensitive stories about

murder, crime, poverty and justice. I seek to bring out subtle and impactful truths on the subjects I report, and Sikhism has taught me no one should turn away from injustice. The media has a great power to cause harm, but my beliefs as a Sikh and as a trained journalist always lead me to put people first, instead of headlines.

What advice would you have for any Sikh who wants to be a reporter or broadcaster?

Set your own limits. You will constantly be asked to change who you are. I had to shorten my real name because many people have difficulty saying it. My mom was very upset about that for a while, but some comprises are ok and some aren’t. I didn’t take on an Anglicized name, but chose to use my initials instead. I’ve also been asked repeatedly to dye my hair blond so it would look “brighter” on camera. It’s easy to lose yourself when you’re trying to please other people. You have to find your own limits, without forgetting who you are.

Was it difficult for you to report on the Wisconsin Sikh temple massacre?

It was a terrible day for everyone who values liberty and religious freedom.

Unfortunately, being the only Sikh person in the area, the only thing I could do was educate my co-workers and community about the peaceful nature of Sikhism. I hope to report on Sikh issues more as I continue my career, and I think viewers will be responsive to learn more about the great things we have accomplished. I’ve been very surprised to encounter racism (although not directed towards me) in many communities here, and I believe through thoughtful reporting, some barriers raised by racial ignorance can be torn down.

What do you see for your future?

I would like to work on longer format investigative reports in a big city market on the west coast. Crime will always be my passion because it has the most severe consequences on society … just as damaging as inaction and ignorance. My inspiration will forever be my parents and their lifetime of hard work. They immigrated to Canada almost forty years ago, spent much of their life working in factories and saving every penny for tomorrow. Immigrants at that time bled for their children’s future and scarified so much for a better life. I continue to work hard and pursue not only my dreams, but the dreams of my parents.

To learn more about PJ Randhawa, visit her website at www.PJRandhawa.com

Government accepts recommendations from the independent Access and Equity Inquiry Panel THE Gillard Government will implement the full suite of recommendations from the independent Access and Equity Inquiry Panel report to ensure government services are responsive to the needs of Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, Minister for Multicultural Affairs Kate Lundy announced on 21 March.

Senator Lundy said the Inquiry proposed 20 recommendations to strengthen the Government’s Access and Equity framework, improve communication and reporting, and establish a whole-of-government approach to the implementation of the policy.

“The Government has accepted the recommendations from the independent panel and will implement the changes to ensure the needs of the community are at the centre of government services,” Senator Lundy said.

“More robust reporting obligations for government agencies will drive better outcomes for people from diverse backgrounds and ensure all Australians can access services equitably.

“The 2011 census figures highlight our nation’s unique diversity and the importance of ensuring government services meet the needs of the community.

“The Gillard Government believes that respect for our diversity should be at the centre of the business of government and that a strong Access and Equity policy is the backbone of a strong multicultural Australia.

“The Government recognises that strong cohesive communities can only be sustained if government services reach all Australian equitably.”

Key recommendations from the report that will be implemented include: * Designing a toolkit of resources and better practice guidelines for all government departments; * Developing updated Standards for Statistics on Cultural and Linguistic Diversity by the Bureau of Statistics; * Incorporating Access and Equity considerations and obligations into funding partnerships and agreements with the states and territories; * Developing a whole-of-government policy on communication by its agencies in languages other than English; * Incorporating Access and Equity considerations and obligations into the whole-of-government communication and advertising guidelines; * Periodic performance audits by the Auditor-General of selected agencies’ performances meeting Access and Equity obligations; and * Tabling reporting in both Houses of Parliament.

The full response to the Access and Equity Inquiry is available on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website at www.immi.gov.au.

Sydney’s many lively attractions are a bonus

By Rama Gaind SYDNEY has a certain undeniable lustre, a vibrant energy that’s perceptible and an endless number of attractions that are sure to attract return visits.

The city's famous landmarks include the iconic Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, historic Rocks precinct, the beautiful Botanic Gardens, Taronga Zoo, Sydney Aquarium and Sydney Tower.

Other top tourist attractions include the harbourside Luna Park and the Sydney Tower Eye, the highest point above Sydney with breathtaking 360 degree views of the harbour, beaches and the Blue Mountains in the distance.

Wild Life Sydney zoo is located on the city side of the Darling Harbour leisure and retail precinct, next to the Sydney Aquarium. It features interactive displays, daily animal feeding sessions and walk-through habitats including Koala Encounters, The Outback and Butterfly Tropics.

Check out Featherdale Widlife Park, a 40-minute drive from the centre of the city, featuring more than 2,200 animals including little penguins, koalas and kangaroos.

At the aquarium and Oceanworld

• Two iconic landmarks—the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House—take pride of place in this panoramic view of Sydney.

Manly, the kids will see Australia’s beautiful marine life at close quarters.

Why not try getting into a submarine or board a destroyer at the Australian National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour or observe the night sky and stars of the Southern Cross from the Sydney Observatory.

Shopping spree Shopping in the NSW capital is always a treat, as is visiting museums and galleries.

There’s endless choice of retail outlets in the city. There’s old world charm at two shopping precincts in George Street: the Queen Victoria Building is more

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

than 100 years old and The Strand is a smaller Victorian shopping thoroughfare.

Also in George Street, expect the unexpected at The Galleries that is a novel, boutique shopping experience.

The Central Business District has some of the most prominent and famous global brands. Luxury boutiques include Prada, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Gucci, Hermes and Bvlgari.

Also likely to appeal to the discerning public are Myer and David Jones department stores, the new luxury fashion destination The Star, in Pyrmont Street, Westfield Sydney has more than www.indiantimes.com.au

300 fashion, lifestyle and food outlets, Harbourside is located on the edge of Darling Harbour or you can visit Birkenhead Point outlet centre which is only 10 minutes from the CBD. Heart of the city Stay at the ParkRoyal Darling Harbour which is conveniently located on the eastern fringe of the Sydney CBD, placing it within walking distance of many of the city’s finest dining and entertainment options.

With views looking out over the city’s stunning Darling Harbour and across the western side of the CBD, the 10-storey, 340-room hotel is a gateway to the best city

attractions.

It has been rejuvenated with the redesign balancing the new aesthetic with functionality after having undergone a multi-milliondollar refurbishment.

Numerous exhibitions If the art scene is your preference, then you will not be disappointed.

Here, too, the choice is endless.

The Australian Museum, established in 1827, has an international reputation in the fields of natural history and indigenous studies research, community programs and exhibitions.

Other displays include Archibald, Wynne & Sulman Prizes 2013 at the Art Gallery of NSW, The Domain, featuring Australia’s finest portraits, landscape and genre paintings; Wicked Women at Justice & Police Museum, Phillip Street, features pulp fiction-inspired paintings of contemporary femme fatales including Tara Moss and Rachel Ward; Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo, has Wallace & Gromit’s World of Invention; and Alexander the Great: 2000 Years of Treasures at the Australian Museum, College Street.

The choices are amazing—and seemingly never-ending—so, just enjoy!

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Excellent deeds to closeness to Allah Ta'ala

By Imam Aslam ALL praise is due to Allah subhana wata ala and peace and blessings upon his beloved Messenger Muhammad sallalahu alaihi wassalam.

This article mentions deeds that lead us towards Allahs closeness.

It should be the desire of every Muslim to draw nearer and closer to Almighty Allah the most compassionate and the most merciful. By drawing closer and near to Allah we gain his help in every aspect of our lives in this world and to be merciful to us so that we may gain mercy in the hereafter in order to enter Jannah in the next world When we call upon him he would answer our calls and when we ask of him for anything he would give it to us and when we draw nearer to him then our sincerity and intentions will enable us to become closer to him.

So we should strive to draw nearer to Allah, the Glorified the Exalted, who is the majesty of honour and generosity and the giver of peace, the most high and the most honoured.

So what can we do to draw closer to him? The following are 10 steps for us to draw closer to our Almighty Allah: 1. Fulfilling obligatory duties and abstaining from prohibited matters: The Prophet (May Allah bless him and grant him peace) has guided us. And Allah, the Glorified and the Exalted, has guided us how to draw near to Him. As He said According to Hadith Qudsi: “Whoever draws near to Me among those drawn nearby fulfilling what I have made obligatory on them….

You do not draw near to Allah except by fulfilling the obligatory duties which Allah has made obligatory on you; (that is) the obligatory duties from the obligatory duties (Faraid) such as Prayers, and Zakat (obligatory charity), and Hajj, and Fasting and being good to Parents and all these obligatory duties on you draw you near to Allah, the Glorified and the Exalted. And the faraid (obligatory duties) are the first things that draw you near to Allah. You do not reach the door of nearness nor do you reach to the presence of nearness except by fulfilling the obligatory duties. This is the first thing that draws you near to Allah, the Glorified and the Exalted, and you are in His Presence.

So the first thing we need to do is fulfil ALL of our obligatory duties and abstain from that which Allah and his messenger have forbidden us from.

2. Nawafil prayers (superogatory prayers): Allah says in Hadith Qudsi:….and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (voluntary deeds) until I love him, so I become his sense of hearing with which he hears, and his sense of sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he grips, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks Me, I will give him, and if he asks My Protection, I will protect him…” [Bukhari] A Source of Elevation for you The Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Ask (anything).” Rabi’ah said: “I ask of you to be your companion in paradise.” The Prophet said: “Anything else?”

Rabi’ah said: “That is it.” The Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) said to him: “Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., supererogatory prayers).”

[Muslim] Tahajjud Allah Most High said, “Establish worship at the going down of the sun until the dark of the night, and (the recital of) the Qur’an at dawn. Lo! (the recital of) the Qur’an at dawn is ever witnessed. And some part of the night awake for its recital, as voluntary worship for you.

It may be that your Lord will raise you to a praised estate.” [Qur’an, 17: 78-79] Abu Hurayra (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said, “The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer.”

[Muslim] Abu Umama al-Bahili (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, his family, and companions) said, “Hold fast to night prayer, for it was the way of the righteous before you, a way of drawing closer to your Lord, an expiation for wrong deeds, and a shield from sin.”

[Tirmidhi, and others] In some narrations, there is an addition, “And it repels sickness from the body.”

And because night vigil time is the best of times for voluntary worship and prayer, and the closest a servant is to his Lord.

So let us make the habit of reading as many Nawafil prayers as we can for more prayers means more prostrations and one is truly the closest to Allah in prostration. ….bow down in prostration and bring yourself the closer (to Allah).” (96:19) 3. Zikr (remembrance of Allah) and glorification of Allah: “…Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (13:28) Remembrance of Allah indeed is the greatest virtue.(29:46).

O ye who believe, remember Allah much. And glorify Him morning and evening (33:42-43) Remembrance of Allah is the foundation of all good deeds. Whoever succeeds in it is blessed with the close friendship of Allah.

Remembrance of Allah the best of deeds.

The Prophet, peace be upon him, would often tell his Companions, “Shall I tell you about the best of deeds, the most pure in the sight of your Lord, about the one that is of the highest order and is far better for you than spending gold and silver, even better for you than meeting your enemies in the battlefield where you strike at their necks and they at yours?” The Companions replied, “Yes, O Messenger of Allah!” The Prophet, peace be upon him, said, “Remembrance of Allah.” (Tirmidhi, Ahmad) Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The similitude of one who remembers his Rubb and one who does not remember Him, is like that of the living and the dead.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Zikr can be done anywhere and anytime A person may ask, ‘How can we do Zikr all the time whilst we have so many things to do in life such as we go to work, feed the family, pay bills, etc.? Well, the answer to this is that, firstly, it is the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger to work and feed the family which is rewarded by Allah and, secondly, that when a person is working or at school or wherever a person may be this does not mean that he should stop remembering Allah while he is working, while he is serving his customers or while he is programming his computer.

In fact the heart of the believer should be attached to Allah’s remembrance throughout his day to day activities such that he protects himself from falling in love with the materials and temptations of this world and that his

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

love for Allah and his Messenger becomes stronger and stronger as time goes by. When a person begins to remember Allah all the time it is then that he becomes conscious of his actions. “… And the men and the women who remember Allah much with their hearts and tongues. Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e., Jannah).”

(33:35) 4. Calling upon Allah in Dua (supplication): Allah the most compassionate says in the Holy Quran, “Call on Me. I will answer your prayer, but those who are too arrogant to serve me will surely find themselves humiliated in Hell” (40:60).

Allah the Exalted, has said: “And your Lord says: Pray unto me: and I will hear your prayer” (Quran 40:60), “Call upon your Lord Humbly and in secret” (Quran 7:55), “When My servants question thee concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me” (Quran 2:186), “Is not He (best) who listens to the (soul) distressed when it calls on Him, and who relieves its suffering.”

(Quran 27:62) Dua’s are never wasted.

Aisha radhiallaahu anha said, “No believer makes Dua and it is wasted. Either it is granted here in this world or deposited for him in the Hereafter as long as he does not get frustrated.”

Allah’s anger at those who don’t make dua.

In fact, it is even wrong to never make Dua, “Whosoever does not supplicate to Allah, He will be angry with Him.” [Saheeh Jaami`as-Sagheer #2414] Dua is a weapon for the believers.

Rasullullah is reported to have said, “Dua is the weapon of a Muslim”.

Dua for ones brother in his absence “The supplication that gets the quickest answer is the one made by one Muslim for another in his absence.”

[Abu Daw'ud and Tirmidhi] So let us build a close relationship with Allah by making much dua to him. He loves it when his slave calls upon him and it angers him if his slave does not call upon him.

Let us have full hope that our dua’s will be accepted and if you think they won’t they know Allah is keeping the rewards for you in the hereafter and those rewards are so great that one would wish that none of their duas were excepted in this world just so that one can gain all the rewards for their duas in the next world.

5. Building a close relationship with the Qur’an: Recite the Holy Qur’aan as much as we can for It will come as an intercessor for its reciter’ on the Day of Judgement [Muslim] Learn the Qur’an and recite it, because the example of one who learns the Qur’an, reads it and recites it in Tahajjud is like an open bag full of musk whose fragrance permeates the entire place. And the person who has learnt the Qur’an but sleeps while the Qur’an is in the heart is like a bag full of musk but with its mouth closed.

Virtues of reciting the Qur’an “Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah will receive a hasanah (good deed) from it (i.e. his recitation), and the hasanah is multiplied by ten. I do not say that Alif-Laam-Meem is (considered as) a letter, rather Alif is a letter, Laam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.” [AtTirmidhi, Ad-Darimi] “There is no envy (acceptable) except in two (cases): a person whom Allah has given the Qur’an and recites it throughout the night and throughout the day. And a person whom Allah has given wealth, that he gives out throughout the night and throghout the day.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] It was narrated that Abdullah ibn Mas’ud said: Whoever reads Tabarakallahi Biyadihil Mulk [i.e. Surah al-Mulk] every night, Allah will protect him from the torment of the grave. At the time of the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) we used to call it al-mani’ah (that which protects). In the Book of Allah it is a surah which, whoever recites it every night has done very well. (anNasa’i) Abdullah Ibn ‘Abbas and Anas Ibn Malik (Ra) reported that the Prophet (Peace be upon him) said, ‘Whoever recited Surah Zilzilah (99) would get the reward of reciting half the Qur’an. Whoever recited Surah al Kaafirun (109) would get a reward as if reading a quarter of the Qur’an. Whoever recited Surah al Ikhlas (112) would get a reward as if reading one third of the Qur’an’. (AtTirmidhi 2818/A) Reading, understanding and implementing the Qur’an in our daily lives The virtues of reciting the Qur’an are too numerous to list. In order to get closer to Allah we need to recite the Qur’an, understand it and implement it in our daily lives.

We should make a target of reading at least a chapter a day. If one can’t manage that then at least half a chapter.

If one still can’t manage that then recite at least quarter of a chapter or even a page a day. However much we can manage we should try to recite each day with its meanings and implement what we learn into our daily lives.

Reading a little each day is better than reciting a lot once in a while. We should build a close relationship with the Qur’an which is in fact building a close relationship with Allah!

6. Keeping good company: One of the most important things we must do, which sadly many people neglect, is that we should avoid bad company. People we should avoid taking as friends those who speak too freely, who miss Salah, who backbite, slander etc.

The company of such people is poison; just even sitting and talking with them will lead one to commit sins. Just as a person who sits for a long time with a perfume seller begins to smell nice, and a person who sits by a gutter cleaner begins to smell awful, similarly a person who spends time in the company of the wicked eventually gets affected badly by them.

Rather, we should seek out pious friends who fear Allah taala and who have the qualities of humility, charity, compassion, modesty and knowledge. If we sit with them we will always benefit and they will be a means for us to get closer to Allah taala!

The Prophet (saws) said, “The case of the good companion and the bad companion is like that of the seller of musk and the blower of the bellows (iron-smith). As for the seller of musk, he will either give you some of the musk, or you will purchase some from him, or at least you will come away having experienced its good smell.

Whereas the blower of the bellows will either burn your clothing, or at least you will come away having experienced its repugnant smell.” [Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim] Remember: “All friends will be enemies of one another on that Day (Day of Judgment) except those of the virtuous.” (al-Qur’an 43:67) 7. Having fear and hope in Allah: One must be hope-

ful of Allahs mercy and forgiveness and fearful of His punishment. It is this fear that should lead one to seek Allahs forgiveness with hope. Allah says: Know that Allah is severe in punishment and that Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. (Surat al-Maaidah 5:98) In the above verse, Allah gives us reason to fear because His punishment is justly severe, as well as good reason to have hope, since He is the Most Forgiving and Merciful. There should be a balance between fear and hope and not too much or too less of one or the other.

We should always remain between fear and hope. For, the right and the approved kind of fear is that which acts as a barrier between the slave and the things forbidden

by Allah. But, if fear is excessive, then the possibility is that the man will fall into despair and pessimism.

On the other hand the approved state of optimism is of a man who does good in the light of the Shari’ah and is hopeful of being rewarded for it. Or, conversely, if a man committed a sin, he repents sincerely, and is hopeful of being forgiven.

In contrast, if a man indulges in sins and excesses, but is hopeful that he would be forgiven without doing anything good, then, this is self-deception, mere illusion and false hope. Abu ‘All Rowzbari has said, “Fear and hope are like the two wings of a bird. If they are well balanced, the flight will be well balanced. But, If one is stunted, the Right would also be stunted. And, to be sure, if the two are lost, the bird will soon be in the throes of death.” Allah has praised the people of hope and fear in the following verse: ‘Is one who worships devotedly during the night, prostrating himself or standing, fearing the Hereafter, and hoping for the mercy of his Lord (is equal to him who doesn’t do these things)?’ (Al Zumar, 9) Hope then also demands fear. If that was not the case, one would be in a state of false security. Conversely, fear demands hope. Without that it would be despair.

Fear and hope, both should be equally proportioned in our hearts, in our worship, and in our dua to Allah. Allah says: Call out to Him with fear and hope. (Surat al-Araaf 7:56) They forsake their beds to call their Lord in fear and hope. (Surat as-Sajdah 32:16) 8. Voluntary fasting for the pleasure of Allah: Fasting in general and voluntary fasting in particular is a great worship. Fasting is not restricted to Ramadhan, but it is an act of worship that can be [and should be in some cases] performed at any time and at any place except when not recommended. Indeed, it is a worship that draws the believer closer to Allah and closer to perfection.

Fasting Mondays and Thursdays: `Aa’ishah said: The Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa salam, used to fast Mondays and Thursdays”. [An-Nasaa’i; Sahih] Fasting three days of every month (White days): Abu Tharr Al-Ghefari said: “The Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said “O Abu Tharr! if you fast three days of every month, then fast the 13th, the 14th and the 15th [these are call the al-ayaam al-beedh, the white days]“. [Ahmad, an-Nasaa'i and at-Tirmithi; Sahih] “Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede for the slave on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say: ‘O My Rabb!

I prevented him from food and desires, so accept my intercession for him.’ And the Qur’an will say: ‘I prevented him from sleep during the night, so accept my intercession for him.’ He (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: ‘And they will (be allowed to) intercede.’”

[Ahmad, at-Tabarani, Al-Hakim, Sahih] So let us get closer to Allah by fasting Mondays and Thursdays or at least 3 days every month on the 14th,15th and 16th. If we leave something for the pleasure of Allah then we will get MUCH greater in return!

9. Sincerely repenting to Allah: Allah says: O son of Adam, if your sins were to reach the clouds of the sky and you would then seek My forgiveness, I would forgive you.

When a person sins and then sincerely turns to Allah for forgiveness, one will find Allah ready to accept his repentance and to forgive him, as this verse indicates: And whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself, but then seeks forgiveness from Allah, he will find Allah forgiving and merciful. (Surat an-Nisaa 4:110) Everyone commits sin and does wrong, but Allah is always willing to forgive and He always gives them a chance to repent and seek His forgiveness. A believer should never forget the fact that Allah is so forgiving. If Allah had willed, He could have held everyone accountable for his or her sins, but He has decreed that He shall allow His servants to seek His forgiveness and that He shall in fact forgive who and what He wills. In fact, Allah commands that His servants seek His forgiveness: And seek Allahs forgiveness. Certainly, Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

(Surat al-Muzzammil 73:20) Repentance is an act, which purifies the soul and brings the servant closer to Allah. It puts the heart at rest from guilt. It protects one from falling prey to his desires and lusts and increases his faith.

We must ask ourselves this question: Would we be willing to forgive anyone who hurts us and disobeys us constantly as easily as Allah is Able to forgive? Most probably, the answer would be no. But our Creator is the Most Kind and He is the Most Perfect.

Lo! Allah is a Lord of Kindness to mankind, but most of mankind give not thanks. (Surat al-Baqarah 2:143) In this Hadithi Qudsi, mankind is encouraged to seek Allahs forgiveness and repent, but there are five conditions of repentance, which must be met for ones repentance to be accepted. The first and most important is that the act of repentance be sincerely for Allah alone.

Secondly, the person must feel remorse and guilt over his actions so much so that he wished he had never done it in the first place. The third condition is that the person must immediately cease performing the wrong and sinful act. Fourthly, the repentant person must have a firm intention to never commit the sin again. And lastly, the person must repent before it is too late, meaning before death approaches.

Allahs forgiveness and mercy is far greater and vaster than the sins of the creation. One must always have trust and hope in Allah in both good times and bad times and especially when seeking Allahs forgiveness. And the believer who calls out to his Lord for forgiveness demonstrates his true weakness and that he is totally dependent on the Creator.

When one confesses his sins to Allah and sincerely repents with hope in Allahs mercy, the heart should come to peace and the soul should feel rest. When a person has hope, he has no reason to despair because it only leads to destruction. Allah gives hope to all, especially those who despair that there is no reason to despair because Allah is the Most Merciful of all those who show mercy. Allah praises those who repent and turn to Him:

www.indiantimes.com.au

And those who, when they commit a lewd act or wrong themselves with evil, and remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins and who forgives sins except Allah? And they do not persist in what (wrong) they were doing while they knew it. For such, the reward is forgiveness from their Lord and Gardens with rivers flowing through, wherein they shall abide forever. How excellent is the reward of the doers (of good)! (Surah Ali Imran 3:135-136) 10. Having good manners, character and being humble: Many of us think that “a perfect Muslim” is simply one who is correct in the observance of the salah (ritual Prayer), the fasting, the zakah (payment of a certain portion of one’s wealth to the poor), and the Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah). This indeed is not the case.

If the ritual observances do not help the person to be humble, virtuous and truly God-fearing, then he or she is not a real Muslim. A Muslim should be good and just in dealing with others, no matter their religion.

One can never get close to Allah by being arrogant, full of pride and having a bad character and manners. Those who have humility and are humble and have good character and manners are the closest to Allah and Allah raises their ranks in the hereafter.

The superiority of good character: Hadrat Abu Darda, may Allah be pleased with him, relates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Nothing is heavier in the scales of a believer on the Day of Judgement than his good behaviour. Allah detests a person who is obscene and shameless”. (Tirmidhi) Having humility and being humble: The Prophet (PBUH) said: “He who was humble for the sake of God by one degree, God (SWT) would then elevate them to a degree till they reach the uppermost of high Orders, and he who was arrogant to God (SWT), God (SWT) would then lower him for a degree till he reaches the lowest of low Orders”, (Narrated by: Muslim (Hadeeth: 6535).

Al-Nawawi said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “And no one humbles himself before Allaah but Allaah will raise him (in status).”

Humbleness is to know the value of oneself, to avoid pride, or disregarding the truth and underestimating people. As the Prophet sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam said, according to Muslim and others, “Al-Kibr is rejecting the truth and looking down upon people” [Muslim, Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud].

Humbleness is for one who is important and significant and he fears to gain notoriety or to become too great among people. Humbleness is that one should humble himself with his companions.

Humbleness is to humble oneself to one who is below you. If you find someone who is younger than you, or of less importance than you, you should not despise him, because he might have a better heart than you, or be less sinful, or closer to Allah than you. Even if you see a sinful person and you are righteous, do not act in arrogance towards him, and thank Allah that He saved you from the tribulation that He put him through. Remember that there might be some riyaa’ or vanity in your righteous deeds that may cause them to be of no avail, and that this sinful person may be regretful and fearful concerning his bad deeds, and this may be the cause of forgiveness of his sins.

Humbleness is that your deed should not become too great in your eyes. If you do a good deed, or attempt to get closer to Allah ta`ala through an act of obedience, your deed may still not be accepted, “Allah only accepts from those who have taqwa (fear of Allah).” (Surat alMaida: 27) Humbleness is that, when you are advised, if Shaytaan calls you to reject the advice, you must negate him.

Because the purpose of advice is that your brother points out the defects that you have.

The arrogant never gives credit to anybody or mentions good about someone, and if he needed to do so, he would also mention five defects of that person. But if he hears somebody reminding him about his own defects, he will not be flexible nor comply due to his inferiority complex. This is why it is among man’s moral integrity to accept criticism or comment without any sensitivity or discomfort or feelings of shame and weakness.

We can summarize the teachings of Islam about the Muslim character in the following list: Be truthful in everything, don’t lie.

Be sincere and straightforward, don’t be hypocritical.

Be honest, don’t be corrupt.

Be humble, don’t be boastful.

Be moderate, don’t be excessive.

Be reserved, don’t be garrulous.

Be soft-spoken, don’t be loud AND Harsh.

Be refined and gentle in speech, don’t curse and use foul language.

Be loving and solicitous to others, don’t be unmindful of them.

Be considerate and compassionate, don’t be harsh.

Be polite and respectful to people, don’t be insulting or disrespectful.

Be generous and charitable, don’t be selfish and miserly.

Be good natured and forgiving, don’t be bitter and resentful.

Share and be content with what Allah has given you, don’t be greedy.

Be cheerful and pleasant, don’t be irritable and morose.

Be chaste and pure, don’t be lustful.

Be alert and aware of the world around you, don’t be absent-minded.

Be dignified and decent, don’t be graceless.

Be optimistic and hopeful, don’t be cynical or pessimistic.

Be confident and have deep faith, don’t be doubtful and wavering.

Be spiritually oriented and not materialistic.

Be confident of the mercy of Allah, don’t be despairing and lose heart.

Be diligent and vigilant of your duties, don’t be negligent.

Be thankful to Allah and constantly pray to Him, don’t be forgetful of His innumerable blessings.

Finally as the righteous say, “The love of Allah is the axis around which all good revolves.” If you fall in love with Allah, and then strive to be true in your love–in accordance with the way of the Beloved of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace), then you’ll find nothing but increasing light and contentment in your life.

And Allah alone gives success.

May Allah Ta'ala accept our all Ibadats done in the month of Ramadan(Ameen).

Islamic Society of Algester wishes Eid Mubarak to all.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 35

Why to wear jewellery MANY people of various cultures wear jewellery on a daily basis and some jewellery can carry significant meaning, e.g. if it is an heirloom passed on within the family. While we often think of women wearing jewellery, it is also common for men to wear rings and bracelets. When we look back in history, we can see that various types of jewellery made of different metals and gems have been worn by people of different civilisations.

At SSRF we have conducted spiritual research which revealed that a person can obtain spiritual benefit from wearing jewellery. These benefits include allowing the person to imbibe Divine consciousness, reducing the black energy in the body, giving protection from attacks of negative energies as well as spiritual healing through acupressure therapy.

The various types of jewellery that we wear are associated with specific parts of the body. Each part of the body is associated with a specific chakra. Divine consciousness that is activated around the body where the jewellery is worn purifies and awakens the chakra associated with that part of the body. For example if the chakra at the heart region (anahat-chakra) is awakened then spiritual emotion towards God is awakened.

Another benefit to wearing jewellery includes receiving the benefit of acupressure therapy. Acupressure points in the body where the jewellery is worn are also pressed. This results in the removal of black energy in the body and enables Divine consciousness to flow freely. Physical, psychological, and spiritual distress can be alleviated through acupressure therapy.

Importance of the material used to make the jewellery The type of metal used The type of metal that is used to create the jewellery is important in determining how much spiritual benefit the person wearing the jewellery can imbibe. The table below explains the proportion of Divine consciousness that is found in each type of metal. The most sattvik metal is gold followed by silver.

• Gold - 70% proportion of Divine Consciousness • Silver - 35% proportion of Divine Consciousness • Copper - 15% proportion of Divine Consciousness • Others - ie iron, zinc, bronze - 3% pro-

tamasik design:

portion of Divine Consciousness As per spiritual science, jewellery worn above the waist should be gold to protect from stronger negative energies. The gold augments the Absolute Fire Principle that enables the chakras above the waist to absorb positive energies.

Jewellery worn below the waist should be silver to protect from lower level negative energies. Silver has the ability to imbibe the Raja-predominant waves of desire.

The type of gem used Gems like diamond, ruby, sapphire, coral, and emerald that are embedded in jewellery have a spiritually beneficial effect on us.

The subtle-rays coming from the Sun, Moon and other celestial bodies are reflected from these gems based on the principles they attract.

The following explains the benefits according to each gem.

Ruby - provides protection and energy to the gross body Diamond - purifies the gross and mental body. It is associated with the Absolute Fire Principle.

Coral - kindles the divine consciousness in the body in the form of vital energy. It increases enthusiasm in the person to perform various activities.

Pearl - enables the person to have more alertness and joyous nature due to continuously activating divine consciousness in the body. It is associated with the absolute water principle.

Emerald - keeps consistency in the unmanifest divine energy principle.

When the jewellery contains sattvik metals or gems, divinity is attracted towards them with the help of the five Cosmic Principles (Panchatattva).

The effect of the design of the jewellery When we look through a jewellery catalogue, the number of the various designs, shapes and patterns are astounding. Often we base our choice of jewellery on aesthetic appeal, but from a spiritual perspective there are other factors we can keep in mind.

The design of jewellery can either be sattvik or tamasik. Sattvik designs emit positive energy and impart feelings of Bliss.

Often they are round or petal shaped.

Tamasik designs emit negative vibrations.

These negative vibrations can have detrimental effects on the person’s health by affecting the chakras of the body.

The following is an example of a gold chain with a sattvik design and another with a

Having a vision for your life DEAR reader, it is with then chances are they great joy we bring you can talk you out of it. I the word of God. At the know of this young man beginning of each year who had a great vision people make resolufor his future. He wanted tions where they want Pastor Joseph Dass to be part of this very to finish at the end of rewarding profession that year. Proverbs after graduating. At his 29v18 says "where there is no vision people first high school, he had some friends who perish." That means if you don't know did not have a big vision for their future. where you are going, chances are you will They did not believe they could get anyfinish off in a place you don't want to where in life and their vision for the future be. You have to see where you are going was very hazy. After some time he stopped before you get there. If you want to be in believing and seeing himself where he good health, then you have to have a vision wanted to be. Fortunately his parents of yourself as being healthy, if you want to realised that and put him in a new school, be debt free than you have to see yourself where his new friends had big plans and as being free from debt before you get visions for their future. Soon his attitude there. Some people do not finish well not began to change and he went on to fulfill because they do not have the resources or his dream. Scripture says "come out from education but because of lack of vision. among them...". It doesn't say separate othSomeone asked Helen Keller, who was ers but separate yourself so you can keep born deaf and blind, what was worse than the vision alive. being born blind. Her reply was, having b) God told Abraham to look up. When you eyes but no vision. get a vision for your life you have to stay In Genesis 15v1-5 God came to Abraham focused. There are circumstances and situain a vision. Abraham was a very rich man tions that can keep you distracted. Even with many servants but he was childless doubt and past experiences can cause the and his vision for the future was bleak. He vision to be delayed. Abraham was to trust thought Eliezer his servant was going to be God. his heir. But God gave him a vision of his c) God told Abraham to start counting the future. That Abraham was going to be stars. Abraham had to see it before he could father of many descendants. God did 3 have it. When you see where you are going things for him. you will always be moving towards it. a) God separated him from his house, his So today have a vision for where you want people and brought him outside. When you to be. And remember the kind of vision you get a vision for your life you have to protect have for your future is where you could finit. If you share it with people with no ish. vision, who are negative, who don't believe, God bless you, Ps Joseph Dass 36 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

From these examples we can see the importance of choosing jewellery based on spiritual principles and not based on aesthetic appearance. When selecting jewellery we can try to perceive the subtle-vibrations that emit from it.

Purification of jewellery: The jewellery that we wear is effective in protecting us from the attacks of negative energies. When negative energies try to attack us with their black energy, they first attack the jewellery that we wear before affecting us directly.

Due to this, it is important to regularly purify the jewellery we wear to remove the

black energy.

There are various ways that we can spiritually purify jewellery using the five Cosmic Principles.

Absolute Fire Principle: Holy ash from SSRF incense-sticks can be applied to the jewellery from all sides.

Absolute Air Principle: Blow holy ash from SSRF incense-sticks on the jewellery or allow the smoke of the incense-sticks to touch them.

Absolute Ether Principle: keep the ornaments in an empty box for some time.

You can read more about this article on http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/ why-to-wear-jewellery You can e-mail us your comments and queries at shobhana.shet@ spiritualresearchfoundation.org

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc AUM Pranayam for perfect peace

make a beginning with a chant of AUM. Please exhale gradually and stop the air from making an entry until you feel Jitendra Deo uncomfortable. When stoppage President of air outside the body makes you uncomfortable, breathe- in.

One may do it thrice at the beginning. In the second phase, take the THE Vedic Rishis, sages and saints had breath in and stop it inside. When you feel paved a perfect path of peace and prosperi- uncomfortable, take more air in. Then ty for mankind. Among them Patanjali exhale slowly. At the beginning, practice Rishi in his thought and practice of YOGA thrice in the morning and thrice in the led us to Ashtanga Yoga or the eight-fold evening. One may do it many more times path to be walked on with ease. In the pre- later depending on the stamina, will power sent age, Swami Satyapati Parivrajak has and perseverance. Of course, intake of a enlightened the common man on Yoga balanced diet which promotes health plays Darshan by his discourses and treatises. a vital role in successful practices of His book titled "Saral Yoga Se Ishwar Pranayam.

Sakshatkar" (Simplified Yoga for God There may be many variations in the Realization) helps us achieve our aim of method of practice but the ultimate goal Peace: internal and external both. remains the same as enunciated earlier. Let Pranayam, which leads to perfect peace, is us pass on to the Bhramari Pranayam. Let a part of the Ashtanga Yoga. This eightfold the air go out of both the nostrils making a path of Yoga comprises eight steps to real- bee-like nasal sound rhythmically. It clears ization of God. These are given hereunder: the respiratory passage and generates enerYama or social ethics, Niyam or personal gy too. A practitioner may be able to keep ethics, Asana or correct postures, Pranayam common cold at arm's length. After a little or control of breath, Pratyahara or drawing gap of time, one may practice Kapal Bhati. sensory organs back from sensuous plea- You may throw out with force through both sures, Dharana or intense concentration, the nostrils as much air as possible. Let the Dhyana or meditation and Samadhi or com- air come in again effortlessly and repeat the munion with the Almighty. Pranayam first action. If unbearable, please stop cleanses a man or a woman of sins and ills. immediately. We may pass on to Bhasrika It gives a tremendous power of concentra- Pranayam. You may start doing Kapal Bhati tion, patience, perseverance and perfect in quick time, commencing with exhaling. health to a practitioner.

One may call it internal jogging. Bhasrika A practitioner's personality achieves an all tones up the breathing system tremendously round development. Peace prevails there- and a practitioner will always earn a "Lungs after. One moves a step closer towards real- Clear" certificate from his physician. ization of God and attainment of Moksha, Last but not the least in the present that is, emancipation from the bondage of sequence is Nadi-shodhan. Let us start it by birth, death and rebirth. As per the Vedic exhaling air from the left nostril while philosophy of life, Moksha is the ultimate keeping the right one closed with the goal of a soul or the Jeevatma. Pran is our thumb, stopping the air outside till its life-giving breath and Ayam means control. absence becomes unbearable, inhaling and In other words Pranayam is control of the stopping the air in the lungs until it is time speed and sequence of inhalation and exha- to release through the right nostril. Let this lation. In this sequence, the air that a person go on with a rhythm till you have completbreathes in is called Shvasa and that which ed the beginners' number, viz. - three in a is breathed out is Prashvasa. session. One may go on and on with other A practitioner of Pranayam controls the variations in process but let us now say: process of Shvasa or inhalation and period. One may ask what the mental activPrashvasa or exhalation as per his or her ity will be while the process of Pranayam is capacity. With a gradual practice, one may going on. Well meditate on AUM or say suspend the process of breathing-in and silently the Pranayam mantra. It is this: breathing-out for a period of one's own Aum Bhuh, Aum Bhuvah, Aum Swah, Aum choosing without causing discomfort. There Janah, Aum Tapah, Aum Satyam. The medare certain pre-requisites to embarkation on itation or the silent chant will prevent the a practice session. One should go by rules mind from aimless wandering and distracof personal and social ethics called Yama tion. Further, it will enhance a Pranayam and Niyama. practitioner's capacity of concentration of Yama comprises: Love and non-violence, mind tremendously. Let us not be oblivious Truth, Shunning-Urge to Steal, Celibacy of the cleansing of mind and bad Sanskara and Non-possessiveness. Niyam comprises that is going on simultaneously. It is indeed points of personal ethics like cleanliness, benefit plus. contentment (not to be mixed up with lack Please remember, dear practitioner, of initiative), austerity or absence from Pranayam is for bodily, mental and spiritual ostentation, continuous self-study and enjoyment of a higher plane and a practiunflinching faith in the Almighty. Of tioner should never allow it to degenerate course, a practitioner should learn to sit in into a burden that may not be easy to carry the correct posture or Asana in a clean place and difficult to shake off. and in a peaceful environment as far as posWishing you all a happy and healthy sible.

Pranayam session for experiencing a spiriOne should prepare one's self physically tual pleasure or VEDIC ANAND. and mentally before starting a practice ses- Adopted from Arya Samaj America By sion of Pranayam. Let not the stomach be Brigadier Chitranjan Sawant,VSM loaded with undigested food or drinks and Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or let the bowels be empty. Ego, jealousy, Hari Chand 33454716 for information on avarice, greed, jealousy and other negative activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of thoughts should be kept out of a practition- Queensland or log on: er's mind. Under the guidance of a Guru, www.aryasamajqueensland.com

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Disease in kids curable with old drug ingredient WASHINGTON, April 3 (IANS) Scientists have shown that a compound in old drugs can provide a new approach to treating a rare disease affecting children globally, says a study.

Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis is playing a leading role in one of the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) first clinical trials to improve treatments for rare and neglected diseases.

In this case, the disease is Niemann-Pick Type C, a disorder that causes excess cholesterol to accumulate in the brain, liver and spleen.

It affects about 500 children worldwide, leads to neurodegeneration, and usually causes death in the first two decades of life, reports Science Daily.

The compound to be tested is called cyclodextrin, a cyclic sugar long used as an ingredient in other drugs.

"You probably ingest cyclodextrins all the time and don't realize it," says Daniel S. Ory, MD, professor of medicine and of cell biology and physiology. "It's used as a car-

Changes in food habits can impact genes WASHINGTON, April 2 (IANS) Scientists have shown in new research that dietary changes are linked to alterations in gene expressions that could affect overall health and physiology.

Even the most health-conscious eaters find themselves indulging in junk foods from time to time. New research by scientists at the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) raises the striking possibility that even small amounts of these occasional indulgences may produce significant changes in gene expression that could negatively impact physiology and health.

A pair of papers published by A.J. Marian Walhout, Ph.D., co-director of the Program in Systems Biology and professor of molecular medicine at UMMS, describe how metabolism and physiology are connected to diet.

Using C.elegans, a transparent roundworm often used as a model organism in genetic studies, Walhout and colleagues observed how different diets produce differences in gene expression in the worm that can then be linked to crucial physiological changes.

rier in many drug formulations because of its ability to solubilise drugs that don't dissolve well in water."

"We've been studying this disease for many years, and we began looking at this drug in earnest about five years ago," Ory says.

"In animal models of NPC, we see significant benefit in both neurological function and survival. It's superior to all other compounds we have tested in the animal models."

Based on successes in animal studies, Ory says cyclodextrin delivered directly to the brain acts as a key to unlock the trapped cholesterol and allows it to redistribute in the cell where it can be properly metabolized and removed.

What each breath tells us Miscarriage Courtesy Vinaya Natarajan WE get caught in so many of the dramas that happen in our life. Life is full of them. It's just like driving down the road a little too fast and coming to a stoplight.

You come to a screeching halt because the light is red. People are turning right and left, going in different directions.

Someone is running into someone else.

There is a little drama here and a little drama there. Life is very much like that.

With all the dramas that are taking place, there is one thing we cannot afford to forget: The happenings in life are not what life is all about. The coming and going of breath is not about a drama. If you find yourself in the midst of a drama, remember what your life is all about.

Imagine a flight captain who is a very sociable person. Once he's taken off, he gets up to talk with the passengers. There he is, talking to one person about one thing and to another person about something else. The flight is only two hours long, and the time passes quickly. Fortyfive minutes go by, then an hour-and-ahalf, then an hour and forty-five minutes.

The captain is still socializing. Now he only has fifteen minutes to get the plane on the ground. He has to remember what his main focus is. Even though all this socializing is wonderful, what is the main point of the journey?

What is the main point of the breath that is coming into you?

The main point happens to be fulfillment. When we are fulfilled, we are the

most beautiful. That's when we attain our purpose. When a flower blooms, it is no mistake that it looks beautiful. This is how it is supposed to look. This is when it is supposed to be the most attractive— so it can attract the bees. It's no mistake.

An instrument sounds best when it is tuned. That is the nature of its design. I don't know how to tune a guitar, but someone once told me that the secret is to tune each string slightly sharp or flat.

My first reaction was, "Wait a minute."

But that is what makes the harmony, and the main point of a guitar is the harmony it can produce.

What harmony can you produce? When there is harmony in a human being, we call it peace, we call it love, we call it fulfillment. A human being is finely tuned when they understand that existence has been given as a gift.

We try so hard to understand why we are alive, when all we want is to feel thankful. Gratitude automatically happens when the heart is full. Gratitude will flow, and there is nothing you can do about it. Just try stopping it. Right now, you may have a problem remembering that, but when gratitude comes, try stopping it.

Each breath that comes to us is saying, "Make it happen." With the gentlest persuasion imaginable, each breath is saying, "Be fulfilled in this life." Life is not about dramas and traumas. Life is about fulfillment. This is your possibility. This is what can happen.

Maharaji

http://tprf.org • http://maharaji.net • http://contactinfo.net/

Early intervention can help tackle autism

By Prathiba Raju NEW DELHI, April 1 (IANS) Six-year-old Tanvi Roy flaps her hands continuously for hours, while Ankit Prakash, 17, doesn't go to the toilet but eases himself in the kitchen or drawing room every night. These children are not mentally retarded but suffer from autism, a neuro-development disorder.

It is not just about Tanvi or Ankit, according to Autism Society of India (ASI). About one in 80 people are known to suffer from Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), characterised as social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behaviour.

Early diagnosis and social acceptance of children suffering from the neurological disorder are necessary for their welfare, say experts.

"Autism needs a multi-discipliCall Trudi on 07 3356 0102

nary approach. There are only a few organisations and schools that cater to children with autism in India, most of which are NGOs and parent-run centres," ASI secretary Lambodar Ray told IANS. "But there are thousands of parents outside its fold, craving to help their child but with services simply beyond their reach," he added.

He said the need of the hour is to train more care-providers.

Doctors and experts say although they are slow learners they can be prepared for the future if guided properly.

Autism, a developmental disability that remains for the entire life and affects the brain's functions, appears in the first three years of birth.

"The first signs usually appear before a child is three years old.

Those with autism usually find social interaction difficult and have problems with verbal and

non-verbal communication," Niti Pall, a child psychiatrist, told IANS. According to Sameer Malhotra, head of mental health at Max Healthcare, children with the condition avoid eye contact, have difficulty in speech, repeat an activity many times and do not react when they are hurt or don't communicate.

"Their condition needs to be detected early. The doctors can check their IQ levels, as certain ASD kids are exponentially good in arts, music and mathematics," Malhotra told IANS. He said that such children should avoid food that is high in sugar like chocolates and candy as sugar items make them hyperactive.

"My advice to parents is to surround them with unconditional love, patience and understanding. They should remember that these individuals are one among us," Malhotra added. www.indiantimes.com.au

Vandana Prakash, mother of 17-year-old Ankit who was detected with autism at the age of five, said children with such a condition should not be considered a burden.

"They are definitely not the laughing stock of society and should not be treated as burden or mentally retarded," Vandana Prakash told IANS. "Such persons may be slow learners, but they are highly talented. Patience and proper training from tender age is necessary," she added.

Vandana Prakash also wanted more training centres for such children.

"To train people with autism is a tough and huge challenge, but people with AKD can do well in academics. But a lot more needs to be done," said Shayama Chona, president of Tamana special school and former principal of Delhi Public School at R.K.Puram.

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham IT is estimated that 15 percent of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. The medical term for miscarriage is spontaneous abortion. It takes place before the 20th week.

Although very little can be done to prevent a miscarriage, the pregnant women must take some steps to avoid heavy falls and road accidents. Although some accidents cannot be avoided, it is possible to stop drinking and smoking. It is also possible to live without much stress.

Most miscarriages occur because of congenital abnormalities. The causes of miscarriage are due to abnormalities of the fetus.

Miscarriage may be due to a fault in the placenta.

The placenta nourishes the fetus in the uterus. There may have been a problem with the implantation of the embryo in the womb.

Early symptoms of a threatened miscarriage are light bleeding, mild lower abdominal pain and reduced nausea.

Often these symptoms will disappear.

Pregnancy will continue as normal. But on the other hand, if bleeding becomes heavier, blood clots and pregnancy tissue may be passed out resulting in miscarriage.

In many cases, miscarriages prevent malformed babies from developing. In some cases what is assumed to be a late period is actually a very early miscarriage. Most miscarriages take place till the 12th week of pregnancy.

Having a miscarriage is a traumatic event.

The mother needs the support of the partner, family and friends. Her partner also requires moral support.

They need proper sleep, food, rest and time to get over their loss. They must avoid sexual intercourse until the bleeding has settled.

They can get professional help from doctors, counselors and therapists.

They have to live happily. They have to move on. About eight out of ten who have had a miscarriage go on to have a perfectly normal second pregnancy. The majority of women recovers physically quickly after a miscarriage.

Occasionally some women experience problems after a miscarriage. If part of the growing baby or placenta did not come out during the miscarriage, medical consultation is a necessity.

Six months before you start trying to conceive, you must begin to prepare your body.

Eat a sensible diet.

You must take plenty of exercise. You must not smoke. You must reduce alcohol and caffeine intake to a minimum.

After conceiving, you may continue to take regular, gentle exercise during your pregnancy. You must consult your doctor as to what type of exercise you can do.

You must avoid taking medication unless prescribed by your doctor. You must take adequate rest, especially around the time a period would have been due.

Check with your doctor before taking supplements.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 - 37

Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20 This appears to be a favourable month for people with career as their top agenda currently, foresees Ganesha. You most probably are likely to stumble upon new and lucrative work opportunities, something that you may have been waiting for quite sometime now. However, since you may be rather comfortable in your present circumstances, it is advised that take up a new opportunity only once you have researched well, checked everything and the offer is irresistible. Assured rapid growth could be one reason to consider this offer. Your workload may continue to be heavy, but you will pace your work well, thereby managing everything nicely. Your self-confidence would be high, and you shall leave a mark on others.

However, make sure that your aggressive attitude does not cause friction with any of your colleagues. Even at home you will have to be careful of hurting your near and dear ones with your cocky attitude. Don't speak harsh words; rather demonstrate your love, and see the magic work. New furniture and fittings may prove to be a drain on your resources.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22 The things may swing between two extremes, especially at your domestic front, this month.

The entire situation may be far from ideal, but it would be in your best interest to carry on relentlessly. You may refuse to look eye to eye with your spouse on certain matters, feels Ganesha. Remain pliant, if you wish to improve the situation. Plus, as the time rolls by, you two will start getting better in your attitude and moods, so much so that you may even decide to take a vacation together. On the professional or business front, things are going to be rather hectic.

However, as your energy levels are likely to peak, you may not really feel the burden of extra work; rather you would manage to complete everything with supreme ease. Try not to work solo, though. Carry your team with you, as team-work is likely to fetch you better and sustained success. As for the money matters, you may have to spend the better part of the month on a shoestring budget. Happily, towards the month-end finances may pour in.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 The overall picture for the month is optimistic, says Ganesha. Things shall gain momentum, and you may not really need to swim upstream. However, there may be something lurking at the back of your mind, which may become the cause of some anxiety for you. Further, the frustration at not being able to identify it could make you lose your temper, but Ganesha advises you to maintain your calm, as far as possible. You may also depend on others for getting your work accomplished, but it would only work to your detriment. So, try not to pass on your responsibilities to others, as it may send out negative signals to your superiors. Workload, however, is bound to keep increasing, and to cope with it you may have to rework your strategies and manage your time better. Also, you might want to revise your long-term goals. It is likely that you may be offered a new job around this time, and if the pay package is

www.ganeshaspeaks.com higher and the work profile better, you should jump at it. At home, things would be happy; you may feel like taking a small vacation.

Cancer - June 22 - July 22 This may be a bit of an up-and-down month.

The work pressure is likely to vary drastically.

At times, the scenario may be like a pressure cooker and at others, the pace may be very easy going.

Luckily, you would take both in your stride. If you are a businessman, expect your turnover and margins to increase, and consequently your monetary inflow to grow. Try to capitalise on the good times and work harder to diversify your business. This busy pace may leave you very little time for your loved ones. Foreign contacts may also benefit your business, and you may even be required to make a trip abroad. During the slack periods, you would do well to take stock of the situation and utilise the time making strategies for the future. Your family life will be happy, more or less, but there may be some challenges in the latter part of the month.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 You may be prone to fits of anger and restlessness, caused by the spiralling work pressure that you may be unable to cope with. This irritability, if you don't control it forthwith, could prove to be harmful to you, reminds Ganesha. Take care not to hurt anyone with your words and deeds, especially your loved ones at home. The month is also not favourable to kick-start new projects, so if you have any such thing lined up, postpone that. If, on the other hand you come across a lucrative job offer, it would be imprudent to spurn it, because such opportunities don't come often. The best thing would be to listen to the voice of your intuition! Overall, your work would hardly leave you any time for your family, but you need to be grateful that your loved ones are so understanding that they will not resent it. However, it would be best to keep a close watch on your health. Follow a strict and nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle. Plus, keep a close tab on your expenses.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 Ganesha foresees an auspicious month ahead for you; whether you are a businessman or a professional, things shall, well, be charming. If you are a businessman, you are likely to think out of the box, coming up with novel ideas in the process.

And if you are a professional, you may expect not just recognition but even rewards coming your way. Your work atmosphere would be genial, and you would get along with your colleagues like a house on fire.

However, there could be times when the monotony of your work will get under your skin, disrupting your equanimity and tossing you into the depths of depression. Avoid too much multi-tasking. Instead, experiment with new methods and strategies to get your work accomplished. Accept that things can't always be perfect; you would only be happier, says Ganesha. In the latter part of the month, overall the things shall get better. De-stress on a periodic basis. Health and finances shall be satisfactory.

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

Libra - September 23 - October 22 You may expect to have a great month on the work front, foresees Ganesha. Although, you would yourself be brimming with ideas, you would do well to remember that you mustn't discount the ideas of others, for they could be better than even yours. Be broad-minded and receptive! You may somewhat be in a hurry to reach the top, but this month you need to moderate your goals, slow down your pace, and, especially, avoid blowing your own trumpet. On the other hand, let your amiable disposition shine forth, endear yourself to your colleagues and do your mite in making the office atmosphere happier. On the personal front, the month looks set to be very favourable. Happy times are indicated for the married ones; romance shall bloom for the singles too. Socially too you will be busy and scintillating. Financially, however, there may be roadblocks, but nothing that can't be tackled with some careful planning.

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 Ganesha foresees that the planetary configurations are very well disposed towards you this month. Especially in matters of job or business, you may expect to be successful in almost all your endeavours. However, you are warned against becoming complacent, a danger that follows success like a shadow. So whether you get a promotion or increment, or, in case you happen to be a businessman, your turnover and profitability increase, refrain from boasting about it and don't let it go to your head. As for the finances, you may be quite comfortable. Even if your expectations are not being met, stay steady and carry on. On the domestic front, things may not be all that great, though. You relationships may remain strained, so stay positive. In love, however, things shall be rosy, especially as the month progresses, and your eyes meet the eyes of someone special, smiles Ganesha. Expect things to improve in the latter half of the month, if you are married.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22 As the stars shine down on you munificently, you can expect to make progress by leaps and bounds in your career or business, foretells Ganesha. Energy, enthusiasm, self-confidence – you would possess all these in ample measure. These may help you accomplish your own targets in double-quick time. Help your colleagues along the way Your superiors would be appreciative of your stance, and then the rewards may soon follow in its wake. Then there may be times when you may be feeling low on your own reserves of zing, and that is when you colleagues will lend you a helping hand. On the personal front, there may be niggling issues, but nothing major that would catch your attention for long. Remain considerate in your behaviour towards the loved ones; don't be brutal with truth, says Ganesha. Socially too, this would be a busy time, so you need to take care of your health. You may filled with an urge to change something, towards the end of the month.

Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 Ganesha predicts that there may be no limits to what you can achieve this month, owing

www.indiantimes.com.au

mostly to the fact that you are fully charged, both physically and mentally, after having taken a wonderful break. You may set a scorching pace, and others would not only be in awe, but may fall way behind you. And, if you happen to be the boss, Ganesha advises you not to expect the same productivity and dedication from your employees; not everyone can be equally fervent in the work matters. The more you make them feel at home, the more you would be able to motivate them.

However, there may be moments when negativity may besiege you. At such times, though you may not feel physically drained out, your mind may refuse to cooperate. Ganesha advises you to maintain your equanimity under all circumstances, for your workload is only going to increase, and you can scarcely afford to take another break. At home, things may be normal and cordial. If buying a vehicle has been on your mind, go for it. But, if proposing someone is on your agenda, hold your horses. Love vibes are happy, but it's best to wait for some more time.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 A very productive month is on the cards for you, predicts Ganesha. Though you may be overflowing with brilliant ideas, you shall avoid being impulsive. You are likely to tread cautiously, but firmly, and may go about the task of implementing your ideas in a very methodical and thorough way.

However, the workload will be so heavy that you would probably have to burn the midnight oil in order to get your projects accomplished within the set timeframe. And as the month rolls on, your work pressure would only increase. This, obviously means that you domestic life would get side-lined. But worry not, there shall be ample time for them once you have met your current set of aims and objectives. If you put your excellent communication skills to good use, you may consider half the battle won. Though work may hardly permit it, Ganesha says this is the right time to start a family.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 Ganesha predicts that your creative ideas will come in extremely handy this month in both your personal as well as your professional life.

Usually diffident, your self-confidence is likely to touch new heights during this phase. You are a big dreamer, and if you can utilise this confidence, and your full reserves of energy, to achieve your dreams, you may well succeed. Much of it will, of course, also depend on how persistent you can bring yourself to be, as you are known to lose interest in things rather quickly. At any rate, this month you are likely to be far more positive and pro-active, qualities which are unlikely go unnoticed by your superiors. So material rewards may very well be on the cards. Your status both in your workplace and in social circles is bound to get a boost.

Ganesha advises you to keep even the shadow of negativity at bay.

Disclaimer: This is only a guide and is not directed towards any particular individual and the writer shall not be responsible for anything to do with the articles content.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Real Estate News Inspection road-trip tips SO you jump in the car with iPad in hand (while your partner drives) and hit the road for some weekend open houses.

It’s fun to start, but by the fifth one you’ve already dodged a few potential arguments about carpet or tiles and you’re getting hungry. Things can only get worse.

This is supposed to be a fun experience, looking for your first home with your spouse. And it can be. There are just a few things to think about before heading out.

Plan your trip Don’t over do it. Pick a region like the western suburbs and do southern suburbs next weekend.

You don’t want to be on the road all day, you want to maximize your time in the properties. Also you don’t want to be rushing from house to house to get there in time from across town.

Pick a route that makes sense.

Do a circuit from home to home so you don’t back-track too much.

Plan to stop somewhere for lunch. I know when I’m hungry I get cranky. This way you might be able to be objective about why you want a place with a third bedroom for your model trains, rather than just sounding like a three-year-old having a tantrum. And why not, you need the decompression time to reflect on what you’ve just seen.

If you end up somewhere new and don’t know where to stop for lunch try local mind. It’s a location based Q&A app, ask a ques-

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Room with a view...

Nicola McDougall - REIQ

tion – where’s good for lunch in X – and you’ll have a few responses in 20 minutes. It’s also a useful app to see what’s available in the area you’re looking in. With the list view you can see all the shops, cafes, train stations and services around you.

Speaking of location-based apps: you can give highlight a go to see what kind of people are in the area. It links to your Facebook profile and highlights nearby people with similar interests. Just another way to see if the suburb is right for you. It’s a fun way to kill time while waiting for the agent if you’re a bit early too.

Bring bottled water Yes mum. And a cardigan too.

But seriously, it’s a good idea. If you’re fair-skinned you might want to remember to put sunscreen on too, hopefully you’ll

be looking at a few nice gardens.

Have a good breakfast You’ll need the energy. I like to go out for breakfast in the area and do my planning from the cafe. You kill two birds. You get a feed and get to know the area a little better at the same time. Ask the waitstaff for grassroots information. This is also a good time to talk about expectations, so you and your partner are on the same page. If you know what you’re looking for it’s more likely you’ll find it.

Take notes & photos If you’ve got the iPad out already use Evernote to snap a few pics and take notes. Or just use the old pen and paper. There will likely be property flyers available, but the features that you are looking for and finding will have subjective value. Be a good student.

REIQ

www.indiantimes.com.au

YOU’VE probably read or seen TV footage over the past few weeks about a young guy in Sydney who is living on balcony and paying $215 a week for the privilege – at least he wouldn’t have to worry about airconditioning in summer, but winter might be a little nippy.

The report says that the 23-year-old, let’s call him Josh because that is his name, lives on a balcony that is accessed through his housemate’s bedroom. It has a large windowless arch next to his bed that no doubt brings in all manner of flora and fauna as well as plenty of fumes and noise from the street below, which just happens to be King Street in Newtown.

I like Newtown. It’s like West End in Brisbane, only much, much bigger. If I lived in Sydney I would live in Newtown, although I probably wouldn’t live on a balcony if I couldn’t afford a decent roof over my head in that neck of the woods. I might have in my 20s, mind you.

Reaction to the story has been mixed as those faceless, nameless online commentators often found on news stories and social media sites indicated that his story was less about the ridiculous cost of rent in Sydney and more about someone possibly wanting to live amongst all the action but without the financial wherewithal to realistically do it.

In my opinion, these unknown assailants have probably never tried to live in London or New York when they were young. When I lived in the British capital in the mid-90s,

we had people living in rooms no bigger than cupboards, as well as on the lounge-room floor where they “dossed” until a space– no matter what size or shape – came up. It sure taught you to appreciate what was available back home in New Zealand or Australia.

Anyone who has been a university student will also remember the necessity of living with more people than is healthy for your mind, body or soul because you only had enough money to pay a minimal amount rent and still be able to afford beer. It was squishy sometimes but I rarely look back on those days without smiling.

When it comes down to it, Josh lives on a balcony in Newtown because he is cool with that. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea – and the wind would probably make his tea go colder much quicker than is necessary – but each to their own. It also is a very good indicator that Sydney really is very expensive. By comparison Brisbane is much more affordable. To rent and buy.

In West End, for example, for the equivalent of what Josh and his housemates combined pay in rent for their two-bedroom unit, you could probably get a cute little cottage or a river-front apartment less than 2km from the city. And breezes would only be blowing through your bedroom because you had the window open. That sounds much more agreeable to me.

Nicola McDougall is the REIQ’s Executive Manager Corporate Affairs

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 39

Real Estate Is Our World ONLY 2 REMAINING, BRAND NEW TOWNHOUSES!

DEAGON $429,000

3

2.5

1

LARGE DUAL LIVING HOME WITH CITY AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS!

LOW-SET BRICK HOME WITH SUN-ROOM AND LANDSCAPED GARDENS!

BOONDALL $595,000

BALD HILLS $420,000

5

4

2

4

2

1

LARGE HIGH-SET FAMILY HOME WITH BIG IN-GROUND POOL!

OWNERS ARE RELOCATING! URGENT SALE! WAS $499,000 REDUCED TO OFFERS OVER $455,000!

BOONDALL $450,000

BOONDALL Offers Over $455,000

4

2

2

4

DUCTED AIR-CONDITIONED HOME OVERLOOKING PARKLANDS!

COMPLETELY REFURBISHED 3 BEDROOM HOME!

BOONDALL $475,000

ZILLMERE Offers Over $370,000

MEMBER

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland

40 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

4

2

2

ww.globenetrealty.com.au (07) 3865 4466 Shop 5, 2281 Sandgate Rd, Boondall, Qld 4034 www.indiantimes.com.au

3

2

1

1

2

Usha Chandra 0419 775 416 Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

SELLING NOW Architectally designed resort style 4 Bedroom Town Houses 28 luxury appointed spacious 200sqm (21 squares)

From only $410,000 Display Suite Open Saturday - Sunday 10am - 4pm 51 Lacey Road, Carseldine, Qld 4034

Sales enquiries: 07 3480 4030 | savannah@cspm.com.au www.campbellscotthomes.com.au/projects/savannah

New stage release at Pioneer Valley Land now selling from $315,500

Levelled lots Free hold – no body corporate Railway within 2 minutes 30 minutes from CBD Convenient access to

*DWHZD\ DQG 3DFLĂ€F 0RWRUZD\

leig

hR

Kuraby Primary School

Millers

Kuraby Station

en

Logan Rd

Be

Rd

Underwood Rd

Allingham 7OV[VZ WSHUZ HUK THWZ HYL PSS\Z[YH[P]L VUS` HUK Z\IQLJ[ [V JOHUNL HUK JVU[YHJ[ [LYTZ @V\ T\Z[ YLHK [OL JVU[YHJ[ JHYLM\SS` HUK [HRL SLNHS HK]PJL HIV\[ P[ ILMVYL THRPUN H I\`PUN KLJPZPVU

( KL]LSVWTLU[ I` -HPYTVYL ,U[LYWYPZLZ 7[` 3[K ()5 +LUUPZ 7YVQLJ[ 4HUHNLTLU[ 7[` 3[K ()5 PZ H WYVQLJ[ THUHNLY MVY 7PVULLY =HSSL` 705

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

Pioneer Dr

d

07 3341 7946 or visit us online at pioneer-valley.com.au

R ton

Phone

Underwood Marketplace

s King

St Andre ws St St

d

Compton

Rd

SALES OFFICE OPEN 10am – 4pm Sat to Wed Pioneer Drive, Kuraby

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 41

Real Estate News

Review of Queensland Ranita Patel first time finalist wins REIA Award body corporate law ATTORNEY-GENERAL Jarrod Bleijie announced on 19th of March that the Government will be reviewing the Body Corporate and Community Management Act. Property law is seeing a fair amount of attention in Queensland, as mentioned on REIQ TV late last year.

The Attorney-General indicated that this particular review was ”long overdue”.

“As part of the broader review, we’ll look at how body corporate schemes are determined, community management schemes, dispute resolution and response to the review of management right,” he said.

As with the split of the Property Agents and Motor Dealers ACT (PAMD Act) the Queensland Government intends to seek input from the public.

“Public consultation and input will feature as part of the legislative review and the

irst-time finalist, Ranita Patel, was named F the Nation's top Residential Property Manager on March 14th 2013 at the eight REIA

terms of reference, and review processes will be announced shortly.”

These changes will likely impact the fees unit owners pay. Mr Bleijie said that under the new legislation, lower unit owners would pay a lesser amount than penthouse owners.

In a boarder view, the legislation review intends to continue to reduce “red tape, regulation and property law duplication”.

REIQ

Queensland Unit and Townhouse activity grows

Save Chillies from Winter chill!

By Charlie Compost Why? You’ve spent time and money cultivating your chilli plants.

With winter looming, they will start weakening and come the first frost and they’ll be dead. In warmer tropical climates many chilli varieties survive winter but not in Brisbane.....unless you’re willing to invest 10 minutes of your time.

How? Save large plastic bottles like coke and cooking oil then simply cut off the bottom and voila!

In this picture the plant had been protected from frost and had in fact continued flowering under cover. You need to ensure that the bottles are not blown over by gusty winds. The plant should also be watered about once a week. Once the weather begins warming up in Spring, you will notice new shoots emerging and this is the plant’s way of telling you to remove the bottle.

The Results

receiving free seeds, subscribe to the newsletter so that you don’t miss out when they become available. Please submit any interesting photos or tips you may have for publication in this column.

What’s Growing in My Garden Now!

• Drumsticks

• White Mealies

• Radish in container • Above right: Brinjal Black-Beauty • Right: Tomato - Giant Beefsteak

• Zimbabwe birds-eye • Schechuan long chilli chilli

The results are astonishing. Not only will you have saved your favourite chilli plants, but they will also bear large amounts as soon as the weather settles. No waiting for new plants to germinate and grow. Check out the photos of some varieties I save from winter chill last season.

My Favourite Chilli Varieties For more information, tips and advice, logon to my website. If you are interested in 42 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

National Awards for Excellence, held in The Great Hall at Parliament House in Canberra.

According to the young Property Manager, it was her industry knowledge that won her the prestigious award. “I live and breathe the industry. I do long hours, probably a minimum of 10 hours a day, but I am always researching and reading up about what people are doing in the industry outside of hours.”

Ranita, from Place Newmarket, Brisbane, has refined skills in customer service, ethics, legislative compliance as well as performance indicators which regularly exceed her set targets.

Ranita cited Place Newmarket principal, Mario Sultana and his wife Karen as instrumental for her success. She also acknowledged her husband Tony King and her mother Niyanta Patel and her work colleagues for their support which contributed in her performing her role tirelessly.

Ranita was born in India and raised in Fiji before settling in Brisbane. She believes she was destined to work in property management. She says "Property Management is like me", "Fiery and impatient but full of empathy and care". We understand each other".

When not dealing with the pressures of property management, Ranita enjoys travelling, reading, shopping and spending precious time with family.

For more detailed information and instructive videos, log on to the website at www.worldvegetablegarden. blogspot.com.au If you have any comments or questions, or photos of your veggie plants to share, please email them to aesat56@gmail.com

QUEENSLAND units and townhouses have followed the positive lead of the house market, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) data.

The REIQ’s December Queensland Market Monitor (QMM), released today, showed the numbers of unit and townhouse sales across the State continued the property market’s upward trend compared to the year before.

The numbers of unit and townhouse sales increased 8.9 per cent in the December quarter 2012 compared to the same period in 2011.

REIQ CEO Anton Kardash said the driving force behind the improving sales volumes was the southeast corner.

“Compared to the December quarter in 2011, the numbers of sales in Brisbane and the Gold and Sunshine coasts continues to trend upwards, which of course partly reflects the concentration of, and demand for, these types of properties in South East Queensland,” he said.

“Also this quarter, there has been an increase in the numbers of affordable unit sales across the State, especially for properties priced between $250,000 and $350,000, as buyers take advantage of some attractively-priced properties.

“And Brisbane has posted its second quarter where the annual median price change has been in the positive, which is another sign that prices are heading in the right direction once more.”

According to the QMM, the numbers of sales in Brisbane was up 16 per cent compared to the December quarter in 2011; sales on the Gold Coast were up 8 per cent; and on the Sunshine Coast, the sales numbers increased an impressive 23 per cent over the same periods.

“The median price of units and townhouses on the Sunshine Coast also increased 1.1 per cent to $328,500 over the quarter with Noosa Heads and Noosaville also both recording price growth,” Mr Kardash said.

The Brisbane median unit price decreased 4 per cent to $389,000 over the quarter but posted an increase of 0.3 per cent over the year ending December. Over the period there was also a marked rise in the numbers of sales between $250,000 and $350,000 which reduced the overall median price.

“Inner Brisbane suburbs continue to do well with median prices in

www.indiantimes.com.au

New Farm and South Brisbane all posting solid price growth,” Mr Kardash said.

“Brisbane’s middle ring suburbs have also recorded some good results with Mount Gravatt East edging up 6.6 per cent over the quarter and Morningside recording growth of 9.9 per cent.”

Cairns recording median unit price growth of 5.5 per cent to $205,000 over the December quarter and also posted an increase in sales of 8 per cent compared to the same period in 2011.

“While there has been an increase in demand for units in the Cairns region, discounting has been partly responsible for this rise in interest as the area is still struggling with high body corporate and insurance levies following Cyclone Yasi more than two years ago,” Mr Kardash said.

According to the QMM, Townsville posted median unit price growth of 10.3 per cent to $308,875 over the December quarter however this was partly due to the compositional change in sales over the eriod. That is, the numbers of sales in the $350,000 to $500,000 price range increased significantly over the quarter which pushed the overall median price up.

REIQ

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Real Estate News Residential market shows positive signs THE capital city weighted average median price increased by 3.8% for houses and by 2.4% for other dwellings over the December quarter, according to the Bendigo Bank/REIA Real Estate Market Facts publication.

Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) President, Peter Bushby says “The weight ed average median house price for the eight capital cities is now $533,099.”

“All capital cities contributed to the increase, with the largest increases in Melbourne and Hobart, up 7.8% and 7.4% respectively.”

“Sydney continues to have the highest median house price across the capital cities at $656,415, 23.1% above the weighted average, while the Brisbane median house price increased the least - 1.2% to $435,000,” noted Mr Bushby.

“Adelaide’s median house price increased by 2.4% over the December quarter to $398,500, while the median house price in Perth increased by 3.3% over the quarter to $495,000.”

Mr Bushby says the signs are positive.

“Compared to the December quarter of 2011, the weighted average price has increased by 3.8%. Darwin recorded the largest increase over that 12 month period (12%) while the median price declined in Canberra by 1%.”

“Investors are holding firm with strong yields, thanks to tight vacancy factors and the impact on rental returns coupled with lower borrowing costs. Darwin continues its climb with a 6.9% rise in the median rent for three bedroom houses over the December quarter, to $638 per week.”

“Adelaide has the cheapest three bedroom house rent at $320 per week. National vacancy rates remain low,” concluded Mr Bushby.

REIA

Applying for a rental property AS we head into the peak demand period for rental properties it is important for tenants to understand the attributes of successful rental applications.

Demand for rental properties increases across the State, demand historically peaks during February and March when, based upon historical Residential Tenancies Authority data, leases for about 40,000 rental properties will be negotiated in just two months.

According to rental listings by REIQ accredited agencies on reiq.com, there are currently about 13,000 properties available for rent across Queensland.

Queensland’s rental market was in a

state of undersupply for most of 2012, it is more important than ever for prospective tenants to understand the rental process.

Property managers generally use two equally important criteria when assessing prospective tenants for a rental property.

The first is proof of their ability to pay the rent as property managers have a fiduciary duty to the owner, or landlord, to effectively manage the risk of their client’s investment property.

Part of the rental process is to assess whether there is sufficient evidence from the prospective tenant that they

would be able to meet the rent. The calculation is generally that rent should not exceed 30 per cent of the total income of all tenants named on the lease.

The second criterion is evidence of ability to care for a property. Proof of this criterion generally can be provided through a rental or home loan history and/or proof of previous living arrangements, references from previous landlords, and/or personal references.

In times of increased demand, landlords are also reminded that they must advertise their rental property at a fixed amount.

REIQ

Home buyers not responding to rate cuts THE Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) says the latest housing figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show that the interest rate cuts of 2012 are having little impact on home buyers.

Housing finance figures for January 2013 show, in trend terms, that the number of finance commitments is down by 0.7 per cent - the fourth consecutive monthly drop.

If refinancing is excluded, the decrease, in trend terms, for January is 0.6 per cent and is the third consecutive monthly drop.

REIA President, Peter Bushby says, “Decreases were recorded in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria, Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania and Western Australia. The largest fall was in the ACT, down 1.7 per cent, in trend terms, whilst increases were recorded in South Australia (0.2 per cent) and the Northern Territory (1.2 per cent).

“Decreases were evident for the purchase of established dwellings (down 0.8 per cent in trend terms) and the construction of new dwellings was down by 0.3 per cent, in trend terms. The number of commitments for the purchase of new dwellings was up 0.2 per cent, in trend terms,” Mr Bushby continued.

“The decline in first home buyers continues to be a major disappointment, remaining at 14.9 per cent for the second consecutive month. This is the lowest since June 2004 and compares with the long - run average proportion of 20.1 per cent.”

“In large part, this drop can be attributed to some State Governments withdrawing previous levels of support for first home owners buying existing dwellings.”

The value of investment housing commitments rose by 1.7 per cent, in trend terms, in January resulting in the third consecutive monthly increase.

“It is a major concern that home buyers are not responding to the easing in monetary policy. Of particular concern is the drop in first home buyers to the lowest level in over eight years,” concluded Mr Bushby.

REIA Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 43

Business Directory MIGRATION SERVICES

PHOTOGRAPHY / VIDEOGRAPHY

TABLA LESSONS

Pinal Patel PHOTO VISION WEDDING VIDEO & PHOTOGRAPHY Mob: 0433 730 345 UNREEL EYES - VIDEO/PHOTO. Your Eyes - My Lens...Weddings, Events, Parties, Love Stories, Videography & Photography. Call 1300 308 618 or visit www.unreeleyes.com - E: info@unreeleyes.com Find us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/unreeleyes

RELIGIOUS SERVICES For all Vedic Sanskaar Sanskrit prayers: Hawans, Weddings, Death rites; new homes, anniversaries, birthdays etc Pandit Dr G A Tularam 0410 649 736

TABLA LESSONS

Classifieds....

RESTAURANT FOR SALE

MATRIMONIAL 53 year old widow, Fiji born, Hindu and holder of Australian PR looking for a suitable partner aged between 43-53. Currently in Fiji and will return to Australia by July.

Contact details as follows: Calls from Australia (+6799343897). Calls from Fiji (9343897)

POSITIONS VACANT

Part-time Sales / Threading Assistant wanted to work in Upper Mount Gravatt. For more information please call 0432 630 370.

BOOK YOUR BUSINESS DIRECTORY / CLASSIFIED TODAY! LISTINGS START FROM $11 P/M includes website listing!

CONTACT admin@indiantimes.com.au

Brisbane Indian Times MAY ISSUE DEADLINES ADVERTISERS / EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS - 29 April

Special Food Feature in May 2013 issue, To book Ph 07 3356 0102

or email admin@indiantimes.com.au Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

WHAT’S ON! Community Events...

Creativity of Meenas – On now until 15th June - FREE admission: Creativity of Meenas, an exhibition all the way from India, celebrates the dying craft of Mandana painting by the Meena tribe of Rajasthan, India. Gallery Artisan is located at 381 Brunswich Street, Fortitude Valley - Gallery open from TuesFri 11am-6pm, Sat 11am-5pm.

Closed Sun-Mon This exhibition is curated by Dr Madan Meena, an expert in Meena art and an accomplished artist. To learn more about Meena art and the Creativity of Meenas exhibition, visit www.creativityofmeenas.org.

RAM NAUMI - Thursday 11 April to Saturday 20 April – Gayatri Mandir, 178 Lyndhurst Street, Boondall. Pooja will commence daily from 6pm. Paravachan

by Pt Parveen Shandil form 7www.indiantimes.com.au

APRIL 13 - MAY 13

To Subscribe to Weekly updates of What’s On email admin@indiantimes.com.au

8.30pm. Dinner provided Daily. On the last day, Sat 20 April, celebrations will commence from 10am followed by the birthd of Lard Rama at 12 Noon. This will be followed

by Hawan, Aarthi and Prasad and lunch. For more information please contact: Mr Prakash Shandil (President) 0408 876 414, Mr Jiten Lal (Treasurer) 0409 737 753, Mr Sunil Maharaj (Secretary) 0488 324 891

Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Brisbane Mandram - Bajan Sunday 14 April – from 5-7pm at 1 Lalina Street, Middle Park. For more information contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483, Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064 or Sakthi Kalyanasundaram 0411 165 067

The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) - Monthly Bhajan - 19 April - Monthly Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir Bhajans held every third Friday of Ram Navami from Thursday 11 the month starting at 7.15pm at April - Saturday 20 April – the Helensvale Community Centre Prabhu Shree Ram Katha by: OUr 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale. dharma guru Pundit Tripathi Ji Activities include Bhajan recitals, Sat & Sun 4 to 6pm. Other days short educational presentations and 6.30 to 8pm. Daily program: free vegetarian dinner. All are corBhajans, Kirtans, Katha, Aarti and dially invited to attend. For furthen Maha Prasad (Dinner). ther information please contact Saturday 20th April - Whole day Director/Religious Activities, Mr S. program! 86 Scott Lane, North Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or Maclean, Qld 4280. For more gchcan@gmail.com Additional information is available on the web information contact Dhiru Desai www.goldcoasthindu.org 0406 213 153 or Bharat Solanki 0411 131 485.

Cont’d page 46 THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 45

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsor What’s On section!

Associations / Places of Worship...

AUM - Arya Pratinidhai Sabha of Qld Inc. Vedic Yaj (Havan) Venue: Finnish Hall, 62 Newhnam Rd, Mt Gravatt, April 21 10am – 11:30 am Tune to Radio Brisvaani on Sundays 7-7.30am for Vedic Sandesh Program. Read about Vedas in this paper.

Contact: Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or log on www.aryasamajqueensland.com for further information.

Brahma Kumaris Australia, Mermaid Waters Offers Free meditation courses, Free positive awareness courses and Free afternoon retreats.

Contact 5575 2126 or email goldcoast@au.bkwsu.org BRISBANE BELIEVERS FELLOWSHIP “Expect Great things from the Lord and Attempt Great things for the Lord”.

Address: Zillmere Community Hall, 54 Handsford Rd, Zillmere. Worship time: Every Sunday at 9.30 AM. Activities: Holy Communion (First Sunday of the Month), Sunday school, Fasting Prayer, Youth Meeting, Bible Study and Ladies Meeting.

Contact:Pastor John Thomas & Mary Thomas Sanju P. (Secretary) Phone: 0402 551 220 / 0402 907 776 or 0422 815 782 Email: maryhoney59@hotmail.com Brisbane Christian Assembly, Herston, QLD. Expect a miracle from God, Come and pray for any need in your life, with us in Herston (near RCH Hospital) every Saturday from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. We are praying and God has been doing miracles in many people’s life. Contact Pastor Prakash Jacob 07 3162 5207 or 0413 347 562.

Brisbane Christian AssemblyAddress: 5/15 Aberleigh Road, Herston QLD 4006 Pastor: Prakash Jacob Events: Prayer, Fellowship, Worship, Adult Bible Study, Kids Bible Study, Love in Action, and much more.. Saturday Schedules: 6:00pm7:00pm: Kids Bible Study, 7:00pm-09:00pm: Intercessory Prayer Sunday Schedules: 10:00am01:00pm: Worship in Truth & Spirit, Bible Study, Prayer, etc.

Email: prakashjacob@yahoo.com Ph: 07-31625207, 0413347562 Brisbane Malayalee Association Brisbane Malayalee Association (BMA) represents the Malayalee community in and around the city of Brisbane to preserve and maintain the Kerala culture and heritage. BMA is a non-profit, non-political, non-religious cultural organisation that has a constitution and by-laws. BMA provides a forum for the Malayalees residing in Brisbane and neighbouring areas to meet and exchange views and to foster their friendship, goodwill, moral, social, educational, literary, artistic and cultural heritage. For more information contact Secretary Rajni Nair on 0431 299 376 or President Gigie George on 0432 510 045 - brisbane.malayaleeassociation@gmail.com www.brisbanemalayalee.org Brisbane Multinational Church NEW ADDRESS - 757 Gympie Road Lawnton.

Church service time if from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Special times of prayer for the sick. We will be praying for people with all kinds of sicknesses, needs, spiritual problems etc. This will be followed by free lunch, service time 9.30am -12 noon.For more information please contact Pastor Joseph Dass on 0424 180 240 or Assistant Pastor Shrish Chand on 0450 612 304.

Brisbane Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) 2679 Logan Rd, Eight Mile Plains. www.brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Brisbane Sikh Temple is open 7days a week, free food (langar is served daily) Sunday Service is from 9am to 1pm. Weekdays evening service is from 6pm to 7pm including meditation. Mr Baljit Singh Secretary of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all bookings enquiries) Ph: 0412 057 554, Email: secretary@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Gianni Kuldeep Singh Priest of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all religious functions) Ph: 0422 705 936 Email: priest@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Brisbane Tamil School – Holland Park State School, Bapume Road, Holland Park. For more information on the School please contact President B. Saravanan – saranb@bigpond.com or visit www.brisbanetamilschool.org Burnie Brae, a Senior Citizen’s Centre in Chermside, are pleased to advise the start of a special social programme for Indian Senior Citizens.

We meet on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. It is an opportunity to socialise, participate in a variety of activities and enjoy some delicious vegetarian meals. Transport maybe provided to and from the Day Social Club if you live near the Centre. If you have any queries please contact Sandra or Naomi on 07 36242141 Chinmaya Mission Australia – Family programs every Sunday morning at Holland Park State High School from 10am-11.45am. Balahivar classes for children and teenagers and gita classes for adults are conducted under the guidance of spiritual teacher, Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya. Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au or email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au Eben-Ezer Pentecostal Church, Brisbane – Sunday School, Prayer & Fasting, Youth meeting & worship (Malayalam) Contact: Pastor Mathew Tharian 07 3165 7617, 0431 413 482 or Eng. Victor George 07 3359 8946, 0413 069 477.

Fiji Senior Citizens’ Satsang Association of Qld Inc

46 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

1 Kensington Place, Wishart 4122. Monthly meetings will be held on th last Sunday of the month at 2pm. All members are invited to attend. For further information contact President Surendra Prasad OAM 3849 5435, Secretary Raymond Saran 3290 0653 or Treasurer Surya Narayan 3208 5823 Forest Lake AOG Church Hindi Service - Second Sunday of every month commencing @ 4.30pm. Cnr of Alpine Place & Forest Lake Boulevard Road. Contact Sudesh on 0401 519 541.

Hindi Speaking Christian Fellowship Meets at 2.30 p.m. last Sunday of each month at Merthyr Uniting Church, 52 Merthyr Rd, New Farm All welcome. Contact Irene 3715 8659.

Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir NEW ADDRESS - 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld Every Sunday 4pm to 6pm - Bhajan/Kirtan, Pravachan by Pt Tripathi Ji, Arati and Dinner is provided. Every 1st Sunday of month from 2-4pm - Program by Brisbane Bhajan Group. All welcome. Website: www.laxminarayan.com.au For further information contact: Resident Priest 07 3216 8848, Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202 Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. Gayatri Mandir (178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall).

Gayatri Mandir opens every Sunday from 8am to 11am. Mandir opens with Punditji. Weekly Programs & Mandir Openings: • Every Tuesday from 7pm - Ramayan & Bhajan recitals • Every 2nd & 4th Friday from 7.00pm – Ramayan & Bhajan Recitals. • Open Every Sunday from 9.00am – 12.00pm For further information contact President Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 Hindustani Language School conducts lessons in Hindustani language and Indian Culture every Saturday from 2pm to 4pm, at both its major centres at Calamvale Community Intermediate College, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall. Hindi is our mother tongue. Students of all ages wishing to learn: * Hindi Language *Indian Culture * Dance & Drama * Music * Leadership and Personal Development Contact: Secretary Jay Haripersad on 3243 7062 - Vice President Mul Chand on Mobile 0418 461 960 or President Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or Mobile 0407 111 709 Indian Church Service News Every Sunday 9.30am - 11.00am. Southern Springs Community Church 59 Marshall Road, Rocklea. Meet with Indian Christians for prayer, praise & worship. Fellowship & refreshments after the service. contact Ps. Sivanus Naidu (Senior Pastor) 3274 2542 or 0417 197 747 Indian Senior Citizen Association Committee meetings are held 3rd Sunday of every alternate month from 2pm to 4pm. For further information contact: President: Mr Bir Sahai 3344 4715, Secretary: Mr Tirat Achal 0407 620 663, Treasurer: Mr Hari Prasad 3209 5174 International Multicultural Christian Fellowship Elevate Church (AOG Church) Vision - Each One Reach One Worship & Word every Sunday at 9.30am to 11.30am followed by free sausage sizzle - everyone welcome.

Home prayer meeting every Wednesday at 7.00pm to 8pm. Fasting and prayer Thursday from 7.00pm to 8.00pm for special needs. Youth group - every Friday 6.30pm to 8.30pm at 3, Montserrat Pl, Forest Lake Kids church - special kids church every Sunday Music and food - once a month at the Forest lake stage 5pm onwards.Womens group - every thursday 11.00am pls contact Ps. Mavis on 0418745179 Revelation 3:20 (NIV)Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

Church Address - Elevate Church, Grand Avenue Primary School, Forest Lake 4078, Corner of Grand Avenue and Centennial Way, Contact Pastor Raj Singh with any questions about church on: Mobile 0407177117 or Email rajmavisforjesus@yahoo.com.au www.elevatechurch.org.au Islamic Society of Queensland hosts Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. 2nd Saturday of the month at Rochedale Mosque 2664 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains. Dinner provided to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact Imam Ali on 0407 156 527, Asif Ali Khan on 0411 516 007 or Shamim Khan on 0403 541 012.

Kannada Sangha Qld Inc Promoting Kannada culture, Kannada activities and community based events and functions For more information contact: President Dr Balaji Hiremagalur 0421 583 273 Secretary Navin Kumar 0413 164 401, email: kannadasanghaqld@gmail.com - www.chandana-brisbane.org.

52 Parkway Crescent Murrumba Downs Qld 4503.

Lotus Ashram - Free yoga lessons every Friday at Sunnybank Primary School, Glendower Street, from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. Donations are welcome.

For details, email ambashram@gmail.com Lourde Matha Malayalee Community Every month Malayalam Mass (Qrbana) in Brisbane. An opportunity to meet with other malyalees for Mass, prayer and spiritual renewal. For more information about up coming events.

Contact Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy 4697 3177 youth coordinator.

Siju Mathew 0432 192 558.

Malayalee Association of Qld – For a detailed list of upcoming events, contact the President C K Oonnikrishnan Nair on 0416 927 100 or email ckuknair_maq@hotmail.com, Dr Cyril Fernandez - Vice President on 0404 433 044 or email cgfernz@hotmail.com.

E: maq@brisbanemalayalee.org or visit www.brisbanemalayalee.org.

Public Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. Last Saturday of the month at Logan Mosque - 260 3rd Avenue, Kingston. Dinner provided free to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact the chairman Mr Nawab Khan on 3209 4627 Queensland Telugu Association President – Dr Prakash Nallamilli; Treasurer – Mr Manoj Vemula; Secretary – Mr Sai Gollapudi; Executive Committee Members – Mr Srikanth Chalasani, Mr Sudershan Kanthakadi. For a list of upcoming events and membership information, please contact: Secretary, Mr Sai Gollapudi on 0409 907 934 or email saigollapudi@yahoo.com Sant Mat (Sant Baljit Singh) Sant Mat is a practical path based on meditation on the inner Light and Sound, ethical values, service to others and love for all creation. Its goal is to enable the soul to return and merge into its source; the purpose of human life described by mystics of all traditions. Focus and sincerity are essential, as is the help of the living spiritual Master. Sant Baljit Singh, the living spiritual Master, teaches the meditation on the inner Light and Sound to anyone who is searching for a deeper meaning in life. We have representatives ready to talk to you. No charge at any stage. For further information contact 1800 462 193 or visit www.santmat.net.au Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir 86 Scotts Lane, North Maclean, Qld 4280. Our Dharam Guru Param Pujya Pundit Tripathi Ji resides at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir. Daily opening Hours: 7-11am / 5-8pm. Every Sunday: 4 to 6pm. Bhajans / Kirtan, prawachan, Prasadam and Maha Prasadam. For more information contact 0481 238 360 Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) and Hindu Education Centre 4915 – 4923 Mt Lindsay H’way South Maclean.

Temple Opening Hours: 7:30am – 11:00am and 5:00pm – 8:30pm. Pooja times – Weekdays 9:00am and 7:30pm. Weekends 9:00am and

6:00pm. Contact President Vimal “Vic” Ratnam 0411 594 394, Temple Priest 07 5547 7302 St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church Brisbane Malayalam Holy Qurbono, Sunday School and other spiritual activities. Holy Qurbono celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jigi Varghese at 2pm on the third Saturday of every month at St Mary’s & Joseph’s Coptic Orthodox Church, 2 Hamish Street Calamvale Qld 4116. For more information about upcoming events and activities please contact: Dr. Joy Pynadath 0431 631 397, Joy Mathew 0403 114 470, Roby John 0401 900 494 TOUCH Group of families Program includes Bollywood dance, Sri Lankan dance, Saomoa cultural dance, fashion show, musical program.

Anyone who would like to join can contact touch.families@gmail.com or call Sripathy & family 0432 768 607, Vijekumar & family 3823 4628, Saravanan & family 3823 5037, Shanker & family 3711 3912, Sri Jayendrakumr 3272 5781 What’s on is your Council guide to what is happening in Brisbane. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au> Women of Light Our purpose … is to equip women for Life, by providing opportunities for personal growth, believing that every women is valued as a role model to her family, her work, her church and her community.The purpose of our Women of Light is to meet the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of women within our community. To develop and strengthen intimate friendships with other women, and to provide opportunities to serve and reach our community and provide encouragement to women.

We do whatever we can to reach out to women in our community. We prepare and take meals to those who are dealing with illness or loss.

Vision – Each one reach one We meet Every alternate Thursday at 11.00am at 3, Montserrat Place, Forest Lake and Buckby st, Nundah. Contact – Mavis, 0418 745 179, 07 3879 9735

WHAT’S ON!

Vaishnav Sangh of Queensland welcomes PPG 108 Shri Dwarkeshlalji Mahoday to Brisbane from 16th to 22nd April Annual event from 19th - 21st April: Friday 19 April - Vanchanmrut (Pravachan) at Yeronga State High School, 159 Villa Street, Yeronga from 5.30pm onwards (includes Aarti and Mahaprasad).

Saturday 20 April - Chundadi Manorath followed by Vanchanmrut (Pravachan) at Yeronga State High School (address above) from 5.30pm onwards (Includes Aarti and Mahaprasad). For further information, sponsorship, Padhraamni (home visits), Brahmsa-bandh / Manorath and volunteering please contact any of the event organisers - Shashank Desai 0404 704 771 / Nilesh Parmar 0411 836 575 / Tapan Shah 0431 631 071 - email tvsoqld@hotmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/tvsoq Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan.Inc (Australia) - Kab Sumiroge Ram on Ram Navami - 20 - 21 April – at Luxmi Narayan Mandir, 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld. 20 April from 4.30pm7.30pm / 21 April from 4pm to 6pm. For further information please contact 0430 877 001, 0431 383 002.

Brahma Kumaris, Gold Coast - Learn how to Meditate - Mon 22 April 10.30am-11.30am or 6.30pm-7.30pm. In these sessions we will introduce you to a meditation technique, which can assist you to gain better concentration, to become more calm and peaceful. Regular practice of meditation can improve your health by spreading vibrations of tranquility through your physical system. Learning to meditate takes time, and patience and gentle but firm encouragement from yourself - the benefits are worth it.

There is no charge for these programs contributions are welcome. For bookings and more information contact 07 5575 2126 or email goldcoast@au.bkwsu.org Queensland Fiji Football Association presents VETO's QCUP 2013 Wednesday 24- Sunday 28 April - at Acacia Ridge Sports ground, 174 Mortimer Road, Acacia Ridge. Penalty shootouts and juggling competition. See the Veteran Teams in action, Live radio & DJ, Bar & Restaurant, Family fun day on

www.indiantimes.com.au

APRIL 13 / MAY 13

Sunday. For more information visit facebook: QueenslandFijiFa or www.qffa.com.au The Indonesian Muslim Centre of Qld (IMCQ) - Fundraising Dinner - 27 April - at Islamic College of Brisbane, Karawatha. The event is to raise funds for their Mosque project. For more information please contact Mr Aris Winarno 0477 321 733 or Mr Hasyim Widhiarto 0414 343 405 Varnam Cultural Society (Qld) Inc. Chithirai Kalai Vizha - 27 April – 6pm at Logan West Community Centre, 2 Wineglass Drive, Hillcrest. Tickets: Adult $15, Family - $30 (2 Adults, 2 kids), Child $5. For tickets and further information please contact - Rajarajan 0431 433 889 / Ayyapann 0418 909 825 / Prabhu 0401 302 761 or email varnamqld@gmail.com Nexus Church presents Incredible India - 28 April – We invite you as we celebrate the beauty of the Indian culture with dancing, songs and a taste of India.

Incredible India will be held at Nexus Church, 151 Flockton Street, Everton Park at 8am, 10am and 6pm with Guest speaker Joel Chelliah. For more information call 07 3353 1377 or visit www.nexuschurch.com.au - FREE admission, all are welcome!

Save the Children Australia – Cycle laos: Mother’s Day Challenge - an exciting new Adventure Volunteering activity - a 13 day trip to Laos, departing on Mother’s Day (12 May). It includes a 5 day cycle through terrain, a 3 day volunteering experience in our Laos Primary Health Care and Education programs (including meeting the renowned Australian Chief Health Advisor Carol Perks) and raising funds to build a new village healthcare clinic as part of the Laos Primary Health Care program. For more information call 1800 76 00 11 or email janita.suter@savethechildren.org.au Visit facebook page www.facebook.com/events/371346326292 590/

Continued page 48

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 47

Bollywood & Entertainment I'd never make sequel just for Akshay Kumar calls for money: Abhishek Chaubey philanthropy to nurture the

By Anjuri Nayar MUMBAI, April 8 (IANS) At a time when sequels are trending in a big way in the film industry, "Dedh Ishqiya" director Abhishek Chaubey says he didn't plan "Ishqiya" part two to cash in on commercial viability of the original.

Released in 2010, black comedy "Ishqiya" was high on content and performances by lead actors Naseeruddin Shah, Arshad Warsi and Vidya Balan, who in the role of a conniving, scheming woman with sexual aggression surprised everyone.

Now, Chaubey is making its sequel "Dedh Ishqiya" with Madhuri Dixit in the female lead.

"I never made this film thinking that I should make a sequel. Even though it makes marketing or commercial sense, I would never make a sequel just because of this," Chaubey told IANS in a group interview.

"I am making the film only because it is a good story, it gives me something as a writer to do and it is entertaining, fun at the same time," added the director who made his successful debut with "Ishqiya".

"Dedh Ishqiya" will see Madhuri on the big screen after six years. Her last film was "Aaja Nachle", a 2007 release that bombed at the box office.

The director said that he never felt that the 45-year-old actress, known for films like "Tezaab", "Dil To Paagal Hai" and

"Devdas", was making her comeback into the film industry after a while.

"She is a supremely talented performer. It was like she never left. She immediately got the tone and the mode of the character and slipped right into it," said Chaubey.

The director said he always had Madhuri, 45, in mind for the sequel.

"The story, which we had thought, she fit according to that story. We were fortunate that she said yes," he said.

"Ishqiya" had bold scenes by actress Vidya and Arshad, but the director refused to reveal much about the content of "Dedh Ishqiya".

"I wouldn't want to say there are hot or cold scenes. Every scene is pertaining to my story. There is something that I want to say and every scene is important," he said.

"Ishqiya" had succeeded in changing Vidya's image, but the director said that this was not the intention and he doesn't have any such plans for Madhuri either.

"I didn't intend to change Vidya's image. If it has changed for the better, that is good. I am too small to change anyone's image through my film. It was their talent.

"Madhuri doesn't need to change her career. Our motive was to make a good film with her. It has been a pure joy to work with her," he added.

Huma Qureshi also features in the movie, which is being shot at the moment.

future pride of India

THE Bollywood superstar and philanthropist Akshay Kumar insists that the diversity in sporting talent amongst India's youth is the key to help propel the country forward. Akshay, who regularly promotes martial arts, can relate to the need to stand out from the rest. He asks that India's corporates and those who are fortunate enough should help support India's poorest youths and encourage them to take part in sports other than Cricket. "Cricket...I want something else to come out of this country. I just want it to happen." Kumar said.

The actor has thoughtfully given some of his profits and time to invest in a few families who are unable to provide the resources for their sports passionate children. Akshay has taken it upon himself to ensure that these talented youngsters reach their goals and fulfil their potential. Kumar added: "If all the corporates support four to five families and give them all the money they need, I think we can come up with gold medals" The superstar passionately said: "Support these families, their children are made of something which can get us gold medals at Olympics.”

It takes belief as well as money to ensure that these underprivileged communities nurture their childrens’ innate talents and Akshay certainly delivers that level of belief: “I support three families whose children are eight to nine years old. I support them completely — their father, mother... everything, so that they can come up in the

sports field. The children are very interested in sports, so they can come up and become great sports persons.” says Akshay.

Akshay Kumar proves yet again that he is not just a leading big screen presence with over 20 years in the Indian film industry and a host of 100 Crore films under his belt, but that he also has a heart of gold.

'Ghanchakkar' was 'loud', but enjoyable for Vidya MUMBAI, April 8 (IANS) Vidya Balan, who has played intense roles in films like "No One Killed Jessica" and "Kahaani," will now be seen in a very loud and colourful avatar in "Ghanchakkar". She says she enjoyed the experience.

"As an actor, the best thing is that I am getting to play different avatars and I am simply enjoying it. It can't get any better because the promos (of 'Ghanchakkar') have got a great response. It was a new experience for me because

she is so loud," the 34year-old said here Saturday at the unveiling of the cover page of Cineblitz magazine featuring her.

"I did not believe that I will be able to say the dialogues with the same loudness, but Rajkumar Gupta got it out of me and I hope it is good," she added.

In "Ghanchakkar", Vidya shares

WHAT’S ON! Islamic Society of Gold Coast - Fifth International Food Festival - Sunday 5 May - at Gold Coast Mosque, Cnr Allied Drive & Olsen Avenue, Arundel from 8am onwards. Come and enjoy exotic cuisine from the Middle East & South East Asia "Get your taste buds dancing". For more information visit www.goldcoastislam.com.au Rotary Club of Archerfield's Annual Fund Raising Dinner and Auction - 24 May - 6.30pm for 7pm start at Gambaro's Seafood Restaurant, 33 Caxton St, Petrie Tce. Smart Casual.

RSVP 13 May 2013 - Ray Deen (Coordinator) 0418 738 432 / 07 3879 9492. To book email rcarcherfield@rotary9630.org or call Mark Ledwidge 07 3277 2687 International Congress for Fiji Inc (ICFI) presents "Girmit Night 2013" 25 May - "Grand Live Indian Musical Evening" featuring Joseph Abhay Nand, Yusuf Ali Khan and other local talents.

IN Aid of Education Funds for Needy Students in Fiji. Venue: McGregor State School, Cnr McCullough St & Mains Rd, McGregor. Dinner at 5-30pm-6.45pm, Stage program 7pm-10pm. For ticket details and further information please call Dr Krishna Prasad on 3264 2211 / Sarat Maharaj 3263 2093 or 0407 111

screen space with Emraan Hashmi. The film hits the theatres

APRIL 13 / MAY 13

709, Kamal Tahal 0422 662 371, Rajend Prakash 0402 436 243 or visit www.icfi.org.au 2013 Right Royal Affair - Saturday 8 June – RBWH Foundation invites you to experience Incredible India at the charity gala of the year to advance life-saving medical research and patient care at Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.

Venue: Plaza Ballroom, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre Time: 7pm - Midnight. For more information or to book please visit www.rightroyalaffair.com.au or call Ari on 07 3646 1302.

Markets....

Every Sunday – Brisbane Community Market – The Brisbane Community Market is an initiative of Acacia Ridge and District Community Centre. This ‘Profit for Purpose’ project is a response to the defunding of programs that were providing education, training and employment pathways for members of the local community. The success of the market will enable the centre to continue to offer valuable programs to the community. The market will be on every Sunday from 7.30am-1pm at Moorooka State School, Beaudesert Road Moorooka. Food, fruit

48 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

June 28.

Vidya is currently also shooting for "Shaadi Ke Side Effects" with Farhan Akhtar and says to work with someone as versatile as Farhan, is very fascinating.

"The shooting is on and I am enjoying it.

This is the first time I am working with an actor-writerdirector-musician. It is a different

and veg, gifts, activities for gifts plus more great stalls. Stalls are still available, please phone 0401 027 402 for more information.

Concerts / Shows.....

Tweed Theatre Company Inc - Secret Bridesmaids Business - 5 - 21 April – Adult comedy by Elizabeth Coleman, Directed by Raelene Richards. Secret Bridesmaids Business takes place in a hotel suite in the hours leading up to Meg Bacon's wedding. Meg's gathered together her Mum and her bridesmaids for one last night of good old-fashioned girlie fun - well that's the plan anyway...... Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre. For more information and to view ticket prices / dates / times please visit www.tweed theatre.com.au or phone 1800 674 414 JAZZ GETS THE BLUES" Free lunchtime Concert with Cate Shaw Quintet - Tuesday 16 April – 12noon to 1pm, Brisbane City Hall (Main Auditorium) King George Square Brisbane www.cate.net.au Al-Mustapha Institute of Brisbane -

Seminars / Courses / Retreats....

Ilm-e-Deen Courses, part-time available. For more information visit www.almustaphainstitute.org

www.indiantimes.com.au

experience, it is very interesting," Vidya said.

"Farhan has a holistic perspective of things and as an actor, that's extremely fascinating for me.

Saket Chaudhary is making 'Shaadi Ke Side Effects' after 'Pyaar Ke Side Effects'," she added.

Directed by Saket Chaudhary, "Shaadi Ke Side Effects" also features Vir Das, Ram Kapoor and Gautami Kapoor. It is slated to release in December.

Brahma Kumaris Australia - FREE Programs - Afternoon retreats - Gold Coast and Brisbane – April: 7 Essential Insights to YOU! Welcome to the gateway to personal freedom. Here you will learn seven wonderful insights to restore your personal power and manage your inner state of affairs. These deep secrets, when understood and applied in life, create authentic and lasting happiness. Try it on yourself before applying to others. Saturday 20th in Gold Coast Brahma Kumaris Australia, 27 Bordeaux Parade, Mermaid Waters 2pm to 5pm at / Sunday 21st in Brisbane - Brahma Kumaris Australia, 347 Milton Road, Auchenflower 2pm to 5pm MAY: The Art of Self-Healing. With gentle, professional guidance this workshop will offer you the time to explore your life experiences in a positive way through creative arts and meditation.

Through this process you will discover your own unique tools of self-healing.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to reawaken your inner-potential in a fun and creative way. Saturday 18th in Gold Coast / Sunday 19th in Brisbane (note: venue / timings as per above) Registering is important, as seating is limited To register online: www.bkwsu.org/au/whatson To contact us directly: Brisbane: T 3368 2391 E brisbane@au.bkwsu.org Gold Coast: T 5575 2126 E goldcoast@au.bkwsu.org These afternoon retreats are offered free of charge.

Contributions are welcome.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Bollywood & Entertainment Indian cinema never had supenatural thrillers: Ekta Kapoor

By Uma Ramasubramanian MUMBAI, April 8 (IANS) Supernatural thrillers with urban legends like Hollywood's "Twilight" saga are still a far cry in Indian filmdom, says Ekta Kapoor, who is introducing a new era of fear with her forthcoming film "Ek Thi Daayan" and says it is fun to do something no one has done before.

When it comes to variety, Ekta, as a producer, has made films on varied subjects - a biopic "The Dirty Picture", real-life based story "Raagini MMS" and underworld drama "Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai".

"We have never done supernatural films, we have only done horror and realistic movies, which are docu-dramas. Nobody has ever done supernatural films. We don't have 'Twilight' in India. We don't have supernatural films here. We never had supernatural thrillers with urban legends," Ekta told IANS in an interview.

But supernatural thriller is not new for Ekta, who has visited the genre for her TV shows.

"I did 'Mano Ya Na Mano' 10 years ago, which Irrfan had anchored. I did a lot of TV with supernatural. I don't know why that genre never got replicated into movies. We had times when we had films on supernatural genre, which were experimental at that time. We don't have them now," she said.

Ekta first made it big on the small screen by producing shows like "Itihaas", "Kyunki...Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" and "Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii". She became the game changer and won the title of TV czarina.

Later she turned to the silver screen and by her own admission, no one took her seriously. But she pursued her dreams with gusto and made a mark by producing successful films.

The 37-year-old does "what I believe in and I believe in my heart".

She even admitted that she gets "easily bored" and added: "I am a Gemini, so I always want to reinvent myself. I am now going to educate myself in America, because I personally feel I need to reinvent myself."

"People call me regressive, some call me progressive, but I don't take these comments seriously. If you like your viewers and get the best product for them, nothing else matters," said the filmmaker who keeps her thinking cap on.

Not only that, Ekta also believes in coming out of her comfort zone to make something new and admits the unknown path is scarier as well as exciting.

"I personally believe it's always fun to do something that no one has done before.

Unknown path is always scarier as you don't have a comfort zone, don't know how exactly the viewers will take your product.

But at the same time, the excitement is huge," she said.

Directed by Kannan Iyer "Ek Thi Daayan" features Emraan Hashmi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Kalki Koechlin, and Huma Qureshi in the lead roles. The film is slated for an April 19 release.

Talking about "Ek Thi Daayan", she said that it is not "a typical film".

"We are dwelling with a new era of fear and it's always fun because we are actually into something where you don't know how audience will take it," she said.

Her other forthcoming projects are "Shootout At Wadala". The stylishly shot crime thriller is based on Mumbai Police's first gunfight where they shot down gangster Manya Surve, played by John Abraham.

Fiji Indian actor steps into Bollywood THIS is the first time that any actor from Fiji Island has hit Bollywood in a major role. Anil Rai Mani a Fiji born star actor made his debut in Bollywood with his dark shade character in the movie A Psychological Journey Nirankush.

The movie is Set to be released mid 2013. He started his career in 2009 with a music video Humare Sapne and established himself as an actor with his audience loving performance which has won hearts of many. After his Locally Produced Hindi feature Film Jodi, a romantic Suspense thriller in which he played the Lead Role, which is believed to have stormed the South Pacific Region.

"Jodi" Acclaimed Movie of the year 2010

by The Fiji Times, largest Print Media in Fiji Island, said Anil Rai Mani.

He first met the director Raju Kafley at Grand Sarovior Hotel in suburban Mumbai in mid- 2011, he was the one who thought of casting him in his movie Nirankush.

The director said, "Anil's passion towards acting and his tantalizing look influenced me to cast him in a parallel role. I was looking for a suitable character for the role since I began casting for the movie. Raju adds, "I was surprised when he first came in front of the camera and gave me an okay shot in his first take exchanging dialogues with senior actor Harsh Chhaya and it went on".

The passionate actor with his sober and confident look made his appealing appear-

ance in the movie which seems to be his foundation to his great career in Bollywood. Director Raju Kafley after successful accomplishment of Nirankush, has started working in his next Project. He informed that Anil Rai Mani will be among the main leads in his next movie.

"I have been accepted well here and l feel part of Bollywood family thanks to director Raju Kafley and not forgetting my parents, friends, families and my followers in the pacific region and the rest.. for their Love and support, without them, I wouldn’t be here with a new beginning, though it’s not easy living in-between Fiji, Sydney and Mumbai. I will work hard and make a space here for myself as well as be an ambassador for my country Fiji Island.

My childhood dream has come true..", said Anil Rai Mani from his Mumbai home.

MIKA Singh Rocks Brisbane

Then there is "Shaadi Ke Side Effects", a comedy starring Vidya Balan and Farhan Akhtar. The film is a sequel to Rahul Boseand Mallika Sherawat-starrer romantic comedy "Pyaar Ke side Effects".

Dya Singh concert at elevates spiritual unity

WORLD renowned Dya Singh presented a mesmerising concert at Queensland Multicultural Centre run by BEMAC. Dya Singh was accompanied by his daughter Jamil as backing vocalist, on Tabla was Brisbane's Dheeraj Shresta and on the second harmonium was Diwakar Morthy. On the opening and closing number William Barton joined in with his didgeridoo .

The musical composition created a harmonious melody , with a message of universal peace. Dya Singh sang various numbers and in all of his singing he praised the lord and encompassed all faiths.

Dheeraj Shresta was just amazing on the Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Tabla, the understanding and musical alignment of the musical notes and beats was purely divine. Concerts like this uplift the community on to a unified platform, the message of peace through music could not have been better expressed.

Dya Singh talked about the pureness and clarity of the notes, his jovial manner of introducing the items won the audience. He is a sort after artist who has performed many a times at Woodford Folk festival, Qpac and recently at Lotus Ashram retreat.

The curtain raiser sitar recital was conducted by Huib Shippers.

BOLLYWOOD Ka Badshah (King of Bollywood) Mika Singh rocked Brisbane on Sunday 7th April at ERPAC South Brisbane.

The new found venue was quite nice and spacious, similar to Sleeman complex but the big plus is the huge stage.

The curtain raiser solo was performed by Brisbane's Himansu Kumar, followed by a Violin recital and a Solo number by one of the female vocalists, the crowd started calling out for Mika Singh and the king made a grand entry.

The musical accompaniment was good and the sound and lighting was fairly good.

Mika Singh connected well with the audience, he explained his genre of music which is more dance and party type numbers that demand high volume and voice presence, he jokingly said that if he was a Gazhal singer he would be sitting down and singing to a much lower volume of music.

www.indiantimes.com.au

His performance was pumped up with high energy as he danced to the tunes while singing.

The security was well coordinated and controlled.

Mika Singh was complimented by two male and two female vocalists. Mika Sigh spoke of his long standing relationship with Yogesh Sharma and said he was happy to be here in Brisbane. He called on stage young children to accompany him in one of his songs, this became very popular, he later invited girls only to come to the front of stage and dance. Typical of today's stage shows the music was partly tracks via groove rhythm boxes and partly live with some very talented musicians.

Mika Singh himself is a good musician who can play both melody and rhythm instruments. The show finished with the Indian National Anthem.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 49

Sports News

FILTA hosts third reunion in Brisbane

More chiefs than Indians at the Brisbane Twilight half marathon

• Pete Lane Rai getting last minute instructions from In Training Race Director Steve Manning.

FILTA (Fiji Indian Lawn Tennis Association) hosted their third reunion in Brisbane. The first one was held in Fiji and second one in New Zealand. The now Island nation of Fiji was once a British colony and it was during those colonial days that FILTA came into being. In the early days Europeans only courts were established were other races were prohibited. Indians were playing in private courts until the Europeans started leaving the local councils took over the courts.

These were the days that show many prominent Fiji Indians raise to higher ranks through academic achievements. The members of FILTA have now • Mr Diwakar Rao presenting his migrated to various countries and they keep in touch keynote speech at FILTA reunion. and unite via their reunions.

The Brisbane reunion organising committee was made up of the following; Rahim Zullah, Ram Karan, Rasheed Ali and Abdul Jalal. The two day program began by a meet and greet function at Sunnybank community and Sports Club. This was a relaxed function were everyone got to meet each other in preparation for the main event. The formal program was held at Michaels' Oriental Restaurant and Function Centre. The event featured a sit down dinner, speeches and entertainment.

Members from around the globe and country were present. Members reflected on the past achievements and discussed future plans.

Peter Lane Rai WHEN did you last run with thousands of runners in torrential rain, and devastating 90 km winds that brought trees down? I did on Sunday February 24 at the Brisbane Twilight Marathon at Queensland University. I was a two hour pacer running every kilometer at 5 mins 50 seconds so that those running with me would finish in exactly two hours.

The route was two loops of the University, the Green Bridge and Brisbane Curso.

As thousands of excited and eager runners waited

the 5pm start, dark threatening clouds indicated the predicted storm was coming.

No one seemed bothered .

There were very few Indians or other Asians running. Maybe they knew something?

Until six o clock all was going well, 11 kilometres had been covered and we were ready to cross the Green Bridge.

Suddenly, torrential rain meant running through streams of water and winds of 90km were bringing down branches and trees.

Then sirens, an ambulance raced by to help a runner struck by a tree giving him

serious head injuries that needed surgery the next day.

It was getting both impossible and dangerous to run when we were told that the race was abandoned. So as we turned back to the finish line tired, cold and wet we were met by devastation as winds had knocked down the race tents containing the runners clothes and the post race food and drinks.

Runners and race organizers were disappointed. In Training Club where spirits were still high there was already talk about the next race, the Brisbane Marathon Festival Sunday August 4th.

See you there?

Ned Flanders Cricket Club make it six straight!!

THE Ned Flanders Cricket Club has created Queensland Churches Cricket history by claiming Matt Young a sixth straight State Shield One Day title. The club achieved this unparalleled feat by destroying St Paul’s in the grand final. Spurred on by veteran players Steve Derksen and Brendan Dillon, the Neddies recorded their most emphatic grand final victory with a comprehensive seven wicket win.

After sending the grand final novices in to bat, the Flanders ran through the hapless St Paul’s batting order for just 52.

Derksen, despite being limited by a back injury, bowled his most courageous spell of the summer to take 4 for 17. His tremendous work was superbly complemented by Brendan Dillon who added the final full stop to his amazing all round season, by claiming 5 for 12. Earlier, new ball king, Jayram Vasudevan had set the St Paul’s innings into a spin with a fine spell of sustained left arm pace and swing bowling, taking 1 for 16 off seven venomous overs. In the field the Flanders excelled themselves with some spectacular catches being held. The remarkable catching form of Ryan Hocking in his first full season was again to the fore, with a sharp grab at first slip off speedster Vasudevan. Team spirit was running hot as the Neddy boys threw themselves into the task and in the field to finish off the season.

In pursuit of the 53 required for another trophy, the Flanders started nervously, with Hocking, Leo Yin and Pete Simmons all falling, before I had the great pleasure of standing at the non-striker’s end as Dillon teed off for one final time this summer. He blasted five fours and a massive straight six in the space of just nine balls to see the win secured.

It was a great privilege to receive the Jim Archibald Shield 50 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

• Churches Cricket doyen Jim Archibald presents the State Shield to the Ned Flanders XI for the sixth straight time. from the doyen of Churches Cricket himself. Old Jim has was the main star with 4 for 25, while Jon Pearce, Brett seen over fifty seasons of Churches cricket as a player and Whalley, Ben Field and Jayram Vasudevan all chipped in then as an umpire and has left his indelible mark on the with vital wickets. The catching of Ryan Hocking was competition in many ways. It was a thrill to have him per- again awesome, as he held on to three absolute rip snorters sonally present the newly christened shield that bears his at first slip. In his debut season, this young man has set an name, to me on behalf of the Churches Cricket Association unbelievable standard at first slip. Frankly, the Australian of Queensland. team could certainly have used his big bucket hands at slip This grand final victory caps off a phenomenal season for in India. After an early tremor, the batting of Derksen (55 the Flanders club. It represents the second consecutive sea- not out) and Yin (50) peeled off the required 117 for victoson where the team has been undefeated. In fact the grand ry, in emphatic and explosive style. final win marks 28 straight games since the club has had its The Ned Flanders Club now goes into winter for a breather proud maroon colours lowered. and some time away from cricket. The long suffering Since my last report, the team has finished off the Two Day Flanders’ families will have their dads, husbands and season with a decisive win against Redlands. After deci- boyfriends back and the hunger for cricketing success will mating the Redlands batting line up for just 106, the resume in October. The men of the Flanders Club all grateFlanders cruised past their score thanks to an electrifying fully acknowledge the immense support that their families knock of 46 by star number three batsman, Leo Yin. Ryan provide each summer and I would like to thank my wife Hocking paved the foundations with a solid 40 not out. The Freya and my two lovely children, Andy and Sophie for win meant that the Flanders wrapped up an undefeated Two putting up with my continued absence every Saturday over Day Premiership for the third straight season. The Redlands the last six months. The support of our many friends in the team had been spoken about very highly as a force to be Indian community is also enormously enjoyed and apprecireckoned with, earlier in the season. Then in the final One ated.

Day pool game, St Bart’s took on the mighty Flanders.

After promising so much earlier in the summer, the St Finally, I must congratulate all of our Indian friends for the Bart’s boys meekly capitulated for just 116, in the face of Indian team’s awesome destruction of their Australian some sustained hostility from the Flanders’ quicks. Derksen opponents in recent weeks. They were truly clinical. www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Sports News Davis Cup: India complete clean sweep BANGALORE, April 7 (IANS) Somdev Devvarman and Yuki Bhambri used their heavy artillery to complete the formalities in the reverse singles and author a 5-0 win for India against Indonesia in the Asia-Oceania Davis Cup Group 1 relegation playoff.

Devvarman, 28, who is ranked 208, blasted David Agung Susanto 6-3, 6-1, while 20-year-old Bhambri followed it up with an even more comfortable 60, 6-1 win over Wisnu Adi Nugroho to allow Shiv Prakash Misra to sign off as team captain in a happy frame of mind.

The two reverse singles, that were only of academic interest after India took an unbeatable 3-0 lead Saturday following the doubles victory, dished out mediocre tennis with the Indonesian players offering very weak resistance.

There was a whiff of contest in the first reverse singles with Susanto staying with Devvarman early on before dropping serve in the sixth. The rallies were long and wellfought, but the Indian's superiority was much in evidence as he found some good angles to come through.

In the second set, an early break in the third put Devvarman up 3-1, but Susanto fought hard and even had two break points in the fifth. However, the Indian came up with two well-directed serves to catch up and went on to hold for 3-1.

Thereafter, Devvarman who took to the court for the reverse singles instead of Sanam Singh who was earlier scheduled to play, broke again in the fifth and seventh to wrap up the tie in quick time while provid-

ing India a 4-0 lead.

"I began to get comfortable after the first few games and it feels good that I got a point for India," said Devvarman who had also won the opening singles to give India a solid start.

Later, Bhambri, ranked 279, had it easy against Nugroho (1774) who was broken thrice in each of the two sets as the Indian put in a solid performance to record his second win in the tie following his success in the second singles.

"I was more relaxed and just wanted to finish off the match," said Bhambri who then asked the crowd to give an ovation to 71year old Misra for "his services to the country".

Misra praised Bhambri for his two singles victories and opined that the Delhi youngster would "go places" if he continues to improve. "I am proud of this team," said the former Davis Cupper as he acknowledged the crowd's ovation.

Ormsby tames nerves to win Panasonic Open India NEW DELHI, April 7 (IANS) Australian Wade Ormsby claimed a nervejangling maiden Asian Tour golf title at the Panasonic Open India to deny Thai veteran Boonchu Ruangkit from a historic victory at the Delhi Golf Club.

Ormsby overcame a disastrous triple bogey on the third hole to shoot a final round one-underpar 71 to win the $300,000 tournament by one stroke from the 56year-old Boonchu, who was bidding to become the oldest winner on the region's premier Tour.

The wire-to-wire win earned Ormsby's the winner's cheque of $54,000 and moved him up to eighth place on the Order of Merit.

Singapore's Lam Chih Bing, who led briefly during the final round, settled for third place after carding a level par 72 while Shiv Kapur's search for a first win on his home course was extended after he bogeyed two of his last three holes to finish three shots behind Ormsby in fourth position.

Ormsby, who held at least a share of the lead from the opening day, birdied the second hole but stumbled badly with a seven at the next hole.

However, the Aussie showed great character by shooting birdies on the fifth, seventh and eighth holes to stay in the title hunt.

He bogeyed the 12th and needed an 18foot birdie conversion on 17 which proved decisive as Boonchu's title challenge faded with a bogey on 16.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

QUEENSLAND FIJI FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED

QUEENSLAND CUP SOCCER TOURNAMENT - APRIL 24 - 28 2013 ACACIA RIDGE SPORTS GROUND - 244 MORTIMER ROAD - ACACIA RIDGE POOL A -VATUKOULA | NADI | LAUTOKA | LABASA POOL B -BA | SUVA | NADROGA MASTERS - POOL A -VATUKOULA | BA | LABASA(20 mins half for pool matches) MASTERS - POOL B -NADROGA | LAUTOKA | NADI (20 mins half for pool matches) TIME MATCH 1 6.30PM 2 7.20PM

WEDNESDAY 24TH APRIL

DAY 1

LABASA MASTERS

BA MASTERS

LAUTOKA MASTERS

NADROGA MASTERS

Ground 1

M Pool A

1

M Pool B

8.15PM

3

LAUTOKA

LABASA

1

Pool A

9.15PM

4

NADI

VATUKOULA

1

Pool A

PLEASE NOTE: NO PLAY ON THURSDAY 25TH APRIL DUE TO ANZAC DAY HOLIDAY FRIDAY 26TH APRIL DAY 2 Ground TIME MATCH 5 VATUKOULA MASTERS vs BA MASTERS 1 6.30PM 6 LAUTOKA MASTERS vs NADI MASTERS 1 7.20PM 7 NADI vs LABASA 1 8.15PM 8 9.15PM LAUTOKA vs VATUKOULA 1

"It means so much. I've played tournaments worldwide but to finally get a win in Asia is fantastic. I felt pretty good on the fourth tee but I just put my head down and tried to get down into it and birdied the fifth," said Ormsby.

Boonchu, who was bidding to become the oldest winner in the Asian Tour history, seemed on course to create history but a costly bogey on the 16th put paid to all hopes.

Despite finishing third, Lam found the much needed self-belief again. The 36-yearold was seeking to end his five-year title drought and losing his Tour card last season was a rude awakening for him.

As the top-three players at the Panasonic Open India, Ormsby, Boonchu and Lam will be extended invitations to the AsiaPacific Panasonic Open, sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour Organisation, in Osaka, Japan in September.

TIME MATCH 9 10.00AM 10 11.00AM 12.00PM 11 12 1.00PM 13 2.00PM 14 3.00PM 15 4.00PM

SATURDAY 27TH APRIL BA LABASA

TIME MATCH 16 9.00AM 10.00AM 17 11.00AM 18 12.00PM 19

SUNDAY 28TH APRIL MASTERS Semi-Final 1 MASTERS Semi-Final 2 Semi-Final 1 Semi-Final 2

1.30PM 2.30PM 3.15PM 3.45PM

NADI MASTERS

NADROGA LABASA MASTERS

NADI SUVA

vs vs VS

vs VS

vs

vs vs vs vs

DAY 3 SUVA VATUKOULA NADROGA MASTERS

BA VATUKOULA MASTERS

Ground 1 1 1

1 1

LAUTOKA NADROGA

1 1

DAY 4 Winner A vs Runner-up B Winner B vs Runner-up A Winner A vs Runner-up B Winner B vs Runner-up A

1 1 1 1

M Pool A M Pool B Pool A Pool A

Pool B Pool A M Pool B Pool B M Pool A Pool A Pool B

JUNIORS U7s & U8s vs JUNIORS U7s & U8s JUNIORS U15s vs JUNIORS U15s Balls skills competition - Juggling competition - SAT/SUN Semi final & final of Penalty Competition - SAT/SUN (2 MEN TEAM @ $10.00 ENTRY)

20 MASTERS GRAND FINAL VS MASTERS GRAND FINAL 1 FINAL 4.00PM 21 FINAL 5.00PM GRAND FINAL vs GRAND FINAL 1 Please note that kick off time for Grand Final may vary due to possible late finish of earlier programes.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013 — 51

52 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, April, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102