BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES DECEMBER 2011 ISSUE by Australian Indian Times

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Uranium sales to India gains support

â&#x20AC;˘ Prime Minister Gillard met with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh recently at the East Asia Summit. Full report page 2.

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Uranium sales to India gains support Continued from page 1 LABOR’S national conference has made a landmark policy change and voted to overturn a long-standing ban on uranium sales to India. Delegates endorsed Prime Minister Julia Gillard's view that Australia should export uranium to India. Moving a motion to change the party's policy platform on the issue, Ms Gillard urged delegates “We should take a decision that is in our nation’s interest.” “A decision about strengthening our strategic partnership with India” she said. "We are at the right time in the history of the world to seize a new era of opportunity in this, the Asian century, a century in which Australia can be prosperous and strong" she said. Federal Member for Oxley, Bernie Ripoll said “This is great news for Australian Indian relations and a great step forward in building the relationship between Australia and India.” “As a member of government with a large Indian community, I am proud of this decision by the Gillard Government as it reinforces our confidence and deep relationship with the Government and people of India.” Mr Ripoll said. “I know this will be welcome news for the Australian Indian community and give them cause for pride in their home country, as well as the sensible approach to the good

Inside • Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................3-17 • Business News................................18 • Who, What, Where, When...20 & 22 • Health & Well Being................25-27 • Real Estate................................30-31 • Astrology........................................32 • Classifieds/Business Directory......33 • What’s On.....................................34 • Bollywood & Entertainment...36-37 • Sport..........................................38-39

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Indian Times A Division of Qld Multicultural Times Published Monthly OWNERS / PUBLISHERS: Umesh & Usha Chandra ADVERTISING: Trudi Tarres EDITOR: Trudi Tarres PA to CEO: Charmaine Crisol-Cagungun JOURNALIST/ CORRESPONDENTS: Ram Jattan (UK) Thakur Ranjit Singh (NZ) Thilliar Varnakulasingham (NZ) Shalendra Prasad (Fiji) Dhaval Vyas (India)

Calamvale Market Place Shop 5A, 2605 Beaudesert Rd Cnr Nottingham Rd CALAMVALE Qld 4116

• Federal Member for Oxley, Bernie Ripoll with GOPIO Qld President Umesh Chandra.

standing of India in the international community.” Uranium is a growing export industry in Australia. Australia is the world’s third largest supplier of uranium. The industry contributes over $750 million to the Australian economy, creating over 4,200 jobs, mostly in remote areas of Australia where there are few other employment opportunities. India is expected to increase its use of nuclear power from 3% of electricity now to 40% by 2050. Mr Bernie Ripoll said “This increase in power production through nuclear energy will also be welcomed by all those who understand the need for India to move away from a fossil fuel based energy production system and do its part in decreasing carbon emissions.” Australia will treat India consistently with NPT countries to which we export uranium or allow for the export of uranium, such as Japan, the United States and China. Australia applies a robust safeguards and transparency framework to our uranium export policies. For any nation Australia exports uranium to, assurances are put in place relating to: the separation of civilian and military nuclear activities (including assurances our uranium will only be used for peaceful purposes); the application of international nuclear standards; non-diversion of Australian material to countries of concern; and, transparent reporting on the use of Australian nuclear material. Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)’s Queensland chapter President, Umesh Chandra welcomed this decision and said that it is a win-win situation for both the countries. India has a good and safe track record. He said “this will further strengthen the bilateral relationship of the two countries”, the stumbling block has been removed. Umesh Chandra and Bernie Ripoll have together attended conferences concerning issues of people of Indian origin in Chennai, India and Kuala Lumpur, in Malaysia.

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Letters to the Editor

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Brisbane Indian Times welcomes letters to the editor. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 300 words. All letters, must have a full name, residential address and a phone number. Hard copy letters must have legible signature. Only your name and suburb are published. Initials and pen names are not accepted. All correspondence to the editor is assumed to be for publication unless marked otherwise. The editor reserves the right to abridge, alter (edit) or withhold any correspondence without explanation. Opinions expressed must be genuinely held by the letter writer. Please send your thoughts and opinions to: The Editor, Brisbane Indian Times, Suite 5, Grange Place, 15 Grange Road, Grange Qld 4051 or email: prod@indiantimes.com.au

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Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Fast-tracked Sponsorship Program for Subclass 457 Visa Program IMMIGRATION Minister Chris Bowen announced a new accreditation scheme for the 457 visa system which began on 7 November 2012. From this date employers will be able to apply for fast-tracked accreditation for their Sponsorhsip applications under the Subclass 457 visa program. Sponsorships will now be valid for 6 years, should the company meet "Accredited Sponsor" requirements. At present sponsorship is only valid for 3. All the following criteria must be met to gain "Accredited Sponsor" status: • be a government agency, a publicly listed company, or a private company, with a minimum of $4 million turnover per year over the last three years; • have been an active Subclass 457 visa sponsor for the past three years (with a break of no more than six months, which was not due to any sanction); • have no adverse information known of it based on DIAC and DEEWR monitoring, including formal warnings and sanctions; • have had at least 30 primary Subclass 457 visa applications granted in the previous 12 months; • have lodged a high level of Decision Ready applications over the previous two years; • have a non-approval rate of less than three percent during the previous three years; and • have Australian workers comprising at least 75 percent of its workforce in Australia, and have made a commitment to maintain this level.

Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA) Changes For the upcoming budget cycle in 2012 the Federal Government has announced changes to the Living

Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA) currently available to Subclass 457 visa holders. The changes could spell the end of 457 visa holders claiming LAFHA in the vast majority of cases. From 1 July 2012, LAFHA will only be claimed by people who maintain a home for their own use in Australia that they are living away from for work. For example, if your company sends you to Perth for work, you could only claim LAFHA if you have a home in, say, Sydney. In contrast, under the current LAFHA system, many 457 holders claim LAFHA on the basis that they usually reside overseas and are working in Australia on a temporary basis. In addition, individuals claiming LAFHA will need to demonstrate their actual expenditure on accommodation and food beyond a statutory amount. Currently, there is far wider scope to claim "reasonable" costs. Many 457 holders delay applying for permanent visas, for example Employer Nomination Scheme visas, because of the tax benefits which currently apply. Generally, LAFHA cannot be claimed once a temporary visa holder applies for permanent residence.

GSM Priority 5 Processing Update DIAC has announced that it expects to commence allocating some General Skilled Migration (GSM) Priority Group 5 applications this program year (2011-12).This group comprises approximately 27 347 onshore applications, and 15 284 offshore applications. About 1000 priority cases are given to case officers each week. As of 18 November 2011 there were approximately 751 onshore applications and 5544 offshore applications in Priority Group 4 awaiting allocation. DIAC has given the following

advice on how processing of Group 5 will occur: Processing of Priority Group 5 applications lodged in Australia will begin with the remaining applications in the visa subclasses in effect prior to September 2007, the oldest of which was lodged on 28 July 2005. There are approximately 756 cases in this group. Processing of Priority Group 5 applications lodged outside Australia will begin with applications in visa subclasses 495 and 496, which were lodged prior to 1 September 2007, the oldest of which was lodged on 10 July 2006. Unlike other GSM visa applications lodged from outside Australia, prior to 1 September 2007, these applications were not affected by the Minister's Cap and Cease arrangements. There are approximately 594 cases in this group. The number of Priority Group 5 applications processed this program year will ultimately depend on the number of higher priority applications received, and other factors including any change in the size of the Migration Program or variation of the Processing Direction. Many Priority Group 5 applicants still face a considerable wait until their application is allocated to a case officer for processing and may want to consider other options available.

Student Visa English Language Requirements As per previous editions we advised of upcoming changes to the English language requirements for student visas. From 5 November 2011, the department will accept test results from the following specified English language tests for Student visa purposes taken in any country: • Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-Based test (TOEFL iBT) Continued page 6

Another successful year for many students! CRICOS: 02035F

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Shree Laxminarayan Mandir News 1173 Mt Cotton Road Burbank - www.laxminarayan.com.au

• Pt Ji - Parvachan.

MAY I take this opportunity to wish all the readers of Brisbane Indian Times - Merry X-mas and a very happy and fruitful year 2012. Just a reminder to all the members, devotees and well - wishers of Shree Laxminarayan Mandir that its web page is at www.laxminarayan.com.au and contains an update on various matters, including major programs, photo clips, rules, contact details, opening / closing hours – etc. Seeing is believing. The Temple will be open at the nominated times during the forthcoming festive season – details as per web page noted above. Last month witnessed another major event “The Lord Saligram & Mata Tulasi Vivah” which our Temple has been celebrating for the past 5 years. Authorised by President – Surendra Pratap 30 November 2011 • Devotees at wedding.

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Continued from page 4

Student Visa English Language Requirements Continued • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test (also known as Certificate in Advanced English). The department will continue to accept test results from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test and the Occupational English Test (OET) taken in any country. The TOEFL Paper-Based Test (TOEFL PBT) is accepted in the following countries where IELTS is not available: Belarus, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Kyrgyzstan, Mali, Moldova, Solomon Islands, Suriname, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Uganda and Uzbekistan. Below are the test score equivalencies:

DIAC has announced that, from 1 December 2011, all new

6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

Partner, Child and Family migration applications lodged by clients who live in Pakistan or Afghanistan (except for applications made by Afghan nationals) will be processed at the Australian High Commission in Islamabad, Pakistan. The change applies to the following permanent visa Subclasses: Child (Permanent) (Subclass 101) visa; Adoption (Permanent) (Subclass 102) visa; Aged Dependent Relative (Subclass 114) visa; Remaining Relative (Subclass 115) visa; Carer (Subclass 116) visa; Orphan Relative (Subclass 117) visa; Prospective Marriage (Subclass 300) visa; Partner (Temporary and Permanent) (Subclass 309 and 100) visas; and Dependent Child (Subclass 445) visa. Applications lodged with Bangkok office before 1 December 2011 Applications lodged before 1 December 2011 with the Bangkok office will continue to be finalised there. New Visa Pricing Arrangements The Department of Immigration and Citizenship is introducing new visa pricing arrangements. Some changes, including a reduction in the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for new students, take effect from January 2012. Other changes will be progressively introduced over the next 18 months, subject to normal legislative processes. A review of Australia’s current visa pricing system found scope to target anomalies and inconsistencies, close the gap between visa access charges and the estimated costs of administering visas, and improve the integrity of the visa

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system. The move to a per person visa application charge structure is in line with comparable countries. The userpays approach realises the value of visa access while safeguarding Australia’s international competitiveness. It provides greater fairness and flexibility to respond to changing circumstances. For most visa applications the current systems allows one payment for an applicant and their family unit members. Changes from 1 January 2012? The VAC for student visas will decrease by five per cent from 1 January 2012. The VAC for a small number of visa classes will be increased between five to fifteen per cent. Changes from 1 July 2012 A CPI increase will apply to the majority of visa application fees; and a surcharge will be introduced for optional services such as visa labels. Changes from 1 July 2013 A fee for dependants of primary visa applicants. This will not apply to Refugee and Humanitarian visas; Citizenship applicants; Postgraduate research students; Australian sponsoring businesses; or Most Visitor visas. Proposed Future changes (Implementation date unspecified) An additional charge will be levied for making a paperbased application where there is an eVisa option. 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).

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New focus on languages under Australian Curriculum

• Visit to Bundamba State School Queensland with Shane Neumann MP.

ALL Australian students will be entitled to learn a language other than English under the new Australian Curriculum, with curriculum for Chinese Mandarin and Italian the first to be developed, School Education Minister Peter Garrett said. The Shape of the Australian Curriculum: Languages, released 21 November, outlines how languages other than English will be taught in schools as the new curriculum is introduced. The shape paper is written on the assumption that all Australian students will learn a language in primary and secondary school. Mr Garrett said curriculum content will first be developed for Italian and Chinese Mandarin. The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) will begin work with states and territories to develop curricula for Arabic, Auslan, classical languages, French,

German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Modern Greek, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. “Learning a second language provides us with a window into other cultures and ways of thinking, and is also of huge benefit to our overall education results, helping students in comprehension, critical analysis and other vital skills,” Mr Garrett said. “As Australia embraces the ‘Asian Century’ it’s vital that future generations are able to engage with our regional neighbours. Providing Australian students with greater opportunity to learn regional languages is therefore important from an economic and diplomatic perspective.” The curriculum will provide, where appropriate, different learning pathways for students: second language learners, for students studying a second language in addition to their native language; background language

Brisbane lawyer helps suffering Indian migrants BARELY six months ago, Dipak Patel commenced his legal career in Australia as a relatively unknown solicitor. Now leading the Indian Department at Littles Lawyers, one of Queensland’s fastest growing law firms, Mr Dipak is quickly becoming one of Brisbane’s most prominent Indian lawyers. Mr Dipak works in the area of civil litigation and has developed a passion for helping members of his community access compensation. “Most Indian people living in Australia have no idea of their rights - I want to educate the community and help people who have suffered, and Littles Lawyers are all about that” he said. Despite his fast-paced success, Mr Dipak is hum-

ble about his work, “I’m grateful to work for a firm which is able to stand up for my fellow Indians. I get to help people from all over Queensland who have suffered and have no-one else to turn to… it’s very rewarding”. Prior to migrating to Australia in 2008, Mr Dipak practised in India as a sole practitioner, which he says gave him the experience and confidence which has allowed him to help stand up for his fellow Indians against the big insurance companies. Due to the work that Mr Dipak and other solicitors have achieved over the past year for their non-

learners, for students who have a background or family heritage in the language studied; and first language learners, for students who are native speakers of the language studied. “The shape paper also outlines our commitment to teaching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in our schools, and a framework for this will be developed by ACARA,” Mr Garrett said. “This is part of a renewed national focus on the learning of languages other than

• Dipak Patel.

english speaking clients, Littles Lawyers was recently awarded highly commended at the 2011 Queensland Multicultural Awards. To obtain legal advice, Dipak can be contacted at dpatel@littles.co

English. With the rollout of the NBN and access to the world’s first truly online curriculum, the technology is there for us to expand language teaching to every school, and to every student no matter where they live.” Once the curricula for Mandarin and Italian are written they will be used to guide the writing of other languages. The shape paper for languages is available at: www.acara.edu.au/curriculum/curriculum.html

www.msit.tafe.qld.gov.au/international www .ms msit.taffe fee.qld. d gov.au/int au/international

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Guru Nanak Sikh Temple (Gurudwara), Inala A JOURNEY Sukchain Singh that began about Toor; S Jasbir a year and a half Singh Randhwa ago with the pur(Langar ManageAmarjit S Nagi chase of property ment) Sunnybank at 16 Rosemary After much delibSt, Inala and eration among the commencement of the weekly members, it was decided that the congregation, the INDOZ Sikh Gurudwara should be named as community has quietly reached “Guru Nanak Sikh Temple past many significant milestones. (Gurudwara), Inala” to comThe congregation has a settled in memorate the spirit of our first well in the new premises and, Guru, the fountain head of Sikh slowly but surely, moving for- philosophy, Guru Nanak Devj ji. ward. A sign board to this effect will be • Above: Congregation at Guru Nanak Sikh Temple (Gurudwara) Inala Recently, an independent installed soon at the entrance of • Inset Right: Gurdip Singh Malhotra Marriage Celebrant at Brisbane Sikh Temple (Gurudwara) Management Committee was the premises. also held weekly with student Anyone who wishes to use this daunting and formed to run the daily affairs of It has also been decided that the numbers now steadily rising. free service may contact the Sikh full of chalthe Gurudwara. Sikh Religious Flag (Nishan Those desirous of leaning the Temple on (07) 3714 9509. lenges. A year The following were appointed as Sahib) should be installed at the Punjabi may contact Nikky Gill Also, to assist with the Sunday and a half later, with the blessing members of the Management premises. Permission is being or Kashmir Kaur Soomal. Langar sponsorship, it has been of the Almighty, the Sunday conCommittee: S Sucha Singh sought from Brisbane City Another commendable public ser- decided that for those who wish, gregation is now growing with the Randhwa (President and Stage Council to install the Nishan vice initiative that has recently the Temple Committee will organ- each passing day. A large turnout Secretary); S Harjinder Singh Sahib in a suitable location at the commenced is - S. Gurdip Singh ise the preparation of the Langar was seen at the Diwali and Bandhi Bassi (Vice President and Langar premises. Malhotra has been nominated as & purchase of raw materials…etc. Chodh Diwas celebrations with Management Committee); S Many of you are already aware the Marriage Celebrant to facili- for a fee. Langar sponsors may queues spilling out to the entrance Amarjit Singh Nagi (Secretary that a Library and Senior Citizen’s tate the legal registration of mar- contact the Temple if they wish of the premises. and Media and Communication); Room is currently functioning at riage ceremonies held at the the Temple Committee to organise S.Jarnail Singh Bassi (Treasurery the INDOZ Community Centre; Temple. S Gurdip Singh Malhotra it on their behalf. With all humbleness, the INDOZ and accounts); S Michael Begeda all community members are wel- is a registered marriage celebrant At the time of the first formal Sikh community takes great pride (Lagar Management Committee); come to use these facilities. and provides his services free of congregation that was held at the and satisfaction that, with the Gurdip Singh Malhotra (Library); Punjabi (Gurmukhi) language and charge for all marriage cere- premises on the day of Vaisakhi of grace of the Almighty, our efforts S Tarsem Singh Sihota; S kirtan / tabla learning classes are monies held at the temple. 2010, the road ahead looked very have begun to come to fruition.

Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Vasna Sanstha (SMVS) Brisbane Satsang Mandal Courtesy Dipakkumar Pathak WITH the grace of Lord Shree Swaminarayan, Jivanpran Abjibapashree, His Divine Holiness Dev-nandandasji Swami (Bapji) (Founder and Inspirer of Shree Swa-minarayan Mandir Vasna) and Param Pujya Satyasankalp-dasji Swamishree, Brisbane Satsang Mandal every year celebrates Diwali and New year with Annakoot Utsav. Annakoot is combined word of ‘Anna’ meaning food and ‘Koot’ means mountain, so combination is - Mountain of Food. This food is being served to Lord Shree Swaminarayan and praying to beloved “Ghanshyam” (nick name of Lord Shree Swaminarayan) for prosperity and happiness for the upcoming New Year. This year the Annakoot was held on 22nd of October 2011. On this divine occasion we served 275 different vegetarian dishes to Ghanshyam Maha-raj. These dishes were prepared at only one place and according to strictly food preparing manner of Swaminarayan Sampraday

(Kriya Suddhi). Around 400 people had enjoyed this unforgettable event. This grand occasion truly reflects one of the Indian sprits - “Vasudev Kutumbkam” (world is one family). During this event we organized Devine Blessings of Param Pujya Satyasankalp-dasji Swamishree followed by Aarti and Mahaprasad (Divine Dinner). The venue was Salisbury State School 19, Cripps Street, Salisbury, Brisbane. Wish you a very prosperous New Year.

Muslim Charitable Foundation ed funds from within the Muslim community, for flood relief. They then purTHE Muslim Charitable chased essential items, Foundation has had a busy packed hampers and delivyear during 2011. It has been ered them to flood victims in a year of traumatic events Ipswich and surrounding with all the natural disasters, areas, as far afield as both at home and around the Fernvale. MCF also provided world. All Queenslanders respondgyprock to repair one huned to the floods and we dred homes. Goods were showed the world how delivered to the recovery Aussies band together in centres. Other money paid by times of crisis. It was fortuMCF was for rent to enable nate that so many flood affected people to reloQueenslanders were on holicate and for furniture and days. They could react to the white goods to furnish their instinct to help those around homes. them when the floods recedFunds were collected for ed. Muslim Volunteers were natural disasters in other amongst the people who countries such as Pakistan, made up the Mud Army as • Jaden Dennis and Janeth Deen. Indonesia, and Somalia. We well as forming a group of sent our own people to their own. MCF committee members were Pakistan to ensure that as many people could amongst the group of Muslim volunteers, be helped as soon as possible with food, wanting to help Queenslanders rise above shelter and clothing. Containers of medical the floods. equipment were sent to Somalia as well as The Muslim Charitable Foundation collect- funds to organisations with had agents on the ground in these countries, for them to supply food to the needy. During the year MCF assisted many severely ill people to have operations that were urgently needed. One such case was that of a Gold Coast girl who was sent to Germany for a special type of spinal operation. Six sewing machines were donated by MCF to refugees who were helped through the St Andrews Church, West End. These machines were for women to start up their own sewing business from their own homes to make bags to be used at conferences and other events. They paid the medical expenses for several other people. MCF supplied specialised equipment for many disabled persons. They were the first to donate to the trust set up to purchase an eye gaze device for a quadriplegic. On 23rd November, Janeth Deen visited the Holland Park Special School which also houses the Xavier Special School. She presented a cheque from MCF to supplement funds raised by the parents and citizens of the school for a walker to be used by disabled children at the school. This school is urgently in need of specialised equipment to be used by the many children who attend the school. They range from young babies to teenagers. MCF is a young charitable trust which was established in November 2009. It will continue to work to provide care for the less privileged members of Queensland in the years ahead. The committee and trustees of the Muslim Charitable Foundation extends heartfelt greetings for Christmas and the festive seasons to all the readers of the Indian Times and those involved in producing such a sought after paper. Courtesy Janeth Deen

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Jerry Tamanisau gone but not forgotten By Krishneel Maharaj and Raj Padarath THE untimely passing away of Jerry Tamanisau touched the hearts of the Fiji soccer loving community of Brisbane recently. No one could believe the recent pictures of Jerry, or could comprehend his fight with cancer. It is difficult to imagine that the man in the pictures was Jerry; it is difficult to believe the stories about him being weak and unable to talk because that is not the Jerry his friends knew. It is not the Jerry that we all will remember. The Brisbane soccer community knew Jerry as a friend, an athlete and as a footballer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; he played on the same pitch as many of us â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we remember him as the full of life, always smiling man who was a friend to everyone. Jerry was humble, and always there to for others. Everyone in the team looked up to Jerry; in the team huddles, he was always the one called upon to say the prayer (Masu) before and after each game. Jerry always prayed for the protection of his teammates against injury before each match and thanked the Lord after the game whether it was a win, draw or loss. However, his passing away from a fatal disease so early in his life has left us all pondering that nothing in life should be taken for granted. Jerry believed deeply in his God and lived his life as best he could following the path that God had meant for him. His trust and belief in God was unwavering at all times. Jerry lived in Brisbane for the last few years working closely with the church group and always keen to help in fundraising activities. Jerryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first debut as footballer in the Queensland Fiji Football Association (QFFA) arena was when he played for

Vatukoula and later in 2008 when he joined Ba. He was instrumental in Baâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first QIDC win in 2008 (pictured with the QIDC trophy) and contributed to the success of the Ba team when Ba won the QFACT and QBOG in 2009 and 2010. Jerry leaves behind his loving wife, Amanda, and an unborn child. Our prayers are with his family and with every one whose life will be that much poorer without him, but whose life has been enriched by having him in it. We knew Jerry as a friend, a brother; what words can be said to bring comfort to someone who has lost a brother and a friend. We knew him briefly, but we will remember him always. Rest in Peace Jerry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you will always be remembered by those who knew him as his humility and kindness touched the lives of many. The Ba Sports and Social Club would like to thank the QFFA and everyone who donated cash to support Jerry in his fight against this deadly disease.

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc Awards function By Jitendra Deo - President ARYA Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc had their 2011 awards on November 27 at Progress Hall Upper Mt Gravatt. The event was well attended with by the Samaj members and well wishers of the organisation. The function started with a Havan Yajna. While welcoming the guests the President of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc Mr Jitendra Deo briefed about the function and its importance. The president thanked community and members who have supported the organisation and urged them to continue so in future. The awards function is an annual function and awards are given to children who participate in the activities of the Sabha throughout the year as well as to persons and the business organisations who support the Sabha. Such a function gave encouragement and motivation to the children and people associated with the organisation. The President also emphasised the importance of working with the wider community and educating people from all works of life about the Indian culture, tradition and our values. He also stressed that we have invited and involve the wider community in celebrating our festivities and other cultural events and also attended the celebrations of other communities. The participation certificates were awarded to the following: Prathna Prasad, Aman Chand, Keshav Chand, Kunal Chand, Ravneel Deo, Soneel Deo, Alvin Deo, Ashley Singh, Alisha Singh, Jaya Kumar, Salona Chand, Meghna Chand, Mr Lalta

â&#x20AC;˘ Mr Singh presenting Award to Mr Chand for his contribution.

Prasad, Mr Aaron Singh, Dr Vijay Prahalad, Suyash Vasist, Shreya Chand, Sraavya Divi Brisbane Nritya Bharati School of Kathak, Bollyfunk Dance, Bollywood Australia, Mrs Veera Chand and Group. The appreciation certificates were awarded to the following: Brisbane Indian Times, Radio Brisvaani, JD Electrical & Communications Pty Ltd, Mr Jitendra Kumar (Auditor), Mr Parma Nand, Rajesh Gopal Solicitors, Spice Rite, Hindi and Music, Home tech Builders, Nine X Finance services, Raja n Rani, Shiva Business services, Naidus Mobile Services, Ferny Grove Family Medical Practice, Surge Electrical, and Oriental Rugs, After the presentation of the certificates the guests enjoyed refreshments provided by the Sabha members.

Wynnum Womens Club Brisbane current office bearers Wynnum Womens Club held their AGM on 20 November and the current office Bearers are as follows: President - Mrs Parmila Kumar Assistant Secretary - Mrs Sindh Prasad Vice President - Mrs Mohini Chand Treasurer - Mrs Sushil Kapoor Secretary - Mrs Sindh Prasad Assistant Treasurer - Mrs Madhu Bhan

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Eid-ul-Adha celebrated at Islamic College of Brisbane

By Amar Ali Khan VP and A/President, ICQ Inc UNDER the auspice of the Islamic Council of Queensland (ICQ), more than 3000 people from the Islamic Community of Brisbane celebrated Eid-ul-Adha on 7 November 2011 at the Islamic College of Brisbane at Karawatha. Various Islamic societies in Brisbane including the Islamic Society of Holland Park, Kuraby Mosque (Masjid Al-Farooq), the Islamic College of Brisbane and the Islamic Society of Ipswich participated in the celebration and displayed unity on this special occasion of Eid – UlAdha. The acting president of ICQ, Br Amar Ali Khan, gave a welcome speech and thanked the participating Imams including Imam Uzair Akbar, Imam Yusuf Peer, Imam Akram Buksh, Imam Zeeyad Ravat and Imam Riyaaz Seedat as well as the participating Islamic societies and members of the Islamic community. Imam Zeeyad Ravat gave a beautiful and moving speech in Eid English to highlight the importance and sig-

nificance of this sacred occasion; while the Eid Khutba and Salah were delivered by Imam Akram Buksh in his beautiful voice. Br Amar gave special thanks to all brothers and sisters who donated generously towards the costs of the occasion as well as coming together and celebrating this most significant festival in Islam with unity. The participants were requested to make special duas for the safe return of all Hujjajs, those who have passed away, the sick ones and all Muslims around the world suffering from either natural disasters or man-made atrocities including in the horn of Africa, Palestine, Kashmir, Afghanistan and other parts of the world. The occasion was well organised and special thanks from the ICQ to all brothers and sisters for their help and participation. The morning of Eid Ul Adha concluded with a huge smile on every face while greeting and wishing each other Eid Mubarak. Please visit the last issues of CCN if you wish to listen to the Eid-ul-Adha English speech by Imam Zeeyad and Khutba by Imam Akram Buksh.

Chinmaya Mission Australia trivia night CHINMAYA Mission Australia conducted their first Trivia Night on 5th Nov 2011 in the blissful presence of spiritual teacher (acharya) Brahmachari Gopal Chaitanya and Vice President Mr. Sanjeev Kapur. The sold out event was thoroughly enjoyed by participants ranging from 10 to 70 years of age. A significant effort was put by everyone to conform to the black and orange theme. Heaps of prizes, donated by various sponsors, were won by the participants. The sumptuous meal, donated by one of Brisbane’s leading food chains, was one of the highlights of the event. People raved about the event much after and said:”It was a night to remember!” Most participants are already looking forward for next year’s event.

Buddha’s Light awarded State Honour

NOVEMBER 10, 2011: Queensland’s Multicultural Affairs paid tribute to a range of organisations and individuals who through their community efforts contribute to promoting multiculturalism within the State. The Buddha’s Light International Association of Queensland (BLIAQ), based at the Brisbane Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple was recognised as the 2011 Community Organisation of the Year. The BLIAQ with more than 1,500 members, serves the community through organising multicultural and spiritual activities and charitable programs, providing educational programs and helping those experiencing difficulty. The association's response to the floods earlier this year typifies how they help those in need. Within days of the floods affecting northern parts of the State, the association organised a $100,000 donation to the Premier's Disaster Relief Fund. When the floods hit Brisbane a few days later, a further $50,000 was raised and became the inaugural donation to the newly created Lord Mayor's Community Relief Fund. Many of the BLIAQ also took to the streets and joined the gumboot brigade in the massive clean-up efforts. The association is involved in a wide range of events promoting community harmony, from large cele14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

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brations such as Buddha’s Birth Day with more than 170,000 visitors, through to events such as the Chinese New Year Celebration, Tree Planting Day, Clean Up Australia Day, youth camps and providing support to more than 70 charities. The association leads a range of cultural educational initiatives, including coordination of cultural tours of the temple for over 10,000 students from 200 schools and community members annually. Since 1992 the BLIAQ and their members have actively participated towards what makes Australia such a great country … this is the spirit of always “lending a hand”. Each day many of the BLIAQ members perform charitable work and often this extends far beyond the walls of the Chung Tian Temple. The BLIAQ has led and continues to lead by example in providing great support for communities both local and to those less fortunate overseas. The BLIAQ is an organisation that runs on compassion and follows the guiding principles from the Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun of developing talent through education, promoting Buddhism through cultural endeavours, benefiting society through charitable programs and purifying hearts and minds through Buddhist practice. Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 — 15

Fundraising dinner for Afghan war victims THE Islamic community of Brisbane gathered for a fundraising dinner in aid of orphans, Shahban Ali widows, destitute and other war victims in Afghanistan. The event was organized under the banner of Board of Imams at Australian International Islamic College, Durack on 26 November, 2011. The chief organizer of the fundraising dinner was Br Kasim Sayed, originally from Afghanistan, who has been involved with this project from the 1990s but on a smaller scale. In the past few years, with increased attacks on the civilian population the need for such help has become greater. The number of participants had to be increased and this year a record number of brothers and sisters turned up to show their solidarity for such a worthy cause. The programme began with “Maghrib” prayer followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran. The main speaker for the evening was Imam Uzair Akbar, the Imam of Holland Park Mosque. He represented the Board of Imams and gave a very illuminating talk on the Islamic duties towards the suffering and needy Muslims around the world. He said it was gratifying to see Muslims from different ethnic backgrounds turn up to support this project. The Holy Prophet said, “The caretaker of an orphan and I will be like this on

Moorooka ward candidate announced MS Yasmin Khan has been endorsed as the Lord Mayor’s representative for the Brisbane City Council ward of Moorooka. Ms Khan has worked in the community for more than 20 years and her family has been associated with the south side of Brisbane for more than 120 years. Her forefathers were instrumental in building the first Mosque in Queensland, the Holland Park Mosque, which is now more than 100 years old. Ms Khan has been at the helm of the highly successful Qld Eidfest Association which runs Eidfest, the yearly festival that celebrates the end of Ramadhan, since its inception eight years ago. She was a member of the Islamic Women’s Association for seven years, with three years as President. She also started Qld I-Care Association, which won the 2008 Premier’s Award for Excellence in Public Sector Management in the Engaging and Serving Communities section for a joint initiative with the Queensland Police Service. In 2005, Ms Khan was invited by then Prime Minister John Howard to sit on the Prime Minister’s Muslim Reference Group and was seconded to work with the Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs on a year long Muslim engagement project. Yasmin has been a small business owner, running her own printing business in the Brisbane CBD, as well as working in the media industry. She is a spokesperson for the Brisbane Muslim community and can be heard on a number of media outlets. Yasmin is currently working with a medical consortium in a consulting role, responsible for Government engagement and project management. She works closely with the Queensland Police Service with community projects and has for a number of years been involved in recruitment and education of police on multicultural interaction. “I am honoured that the Lord Mayor has asked me to stand for election, and I look forward to working with the people of Moorooka Ward to make Brisbane a new world city. It is heartening to see the Lord Mayor has recognised the need for diversity in his Council team, and I know that the people of Moorooka Ward are great examples of a diverse and dynamic community,” Ms Khan said. “I look forward to meeting with all community groups in the Moorooka Ward and seeing what I and the Brisbane City Council can do to make our local community a great place to live and work.”

the day of Judgement (and he placed his two fingers together)” Imam Uzair Akbar quoted various lines from the Holy Quran where Allah exhorts Muslims to sacrifice their wealth, time and effort for any charitable deeds, particularly for orphans, widows and destitute. The programme ended with a “dua” by Maulana Yusuf Kandi. The dinner that followed was of Afghan cuisine with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Many joined in the queue for a second helping as the food was very delicious and commented on its quality. Br Kasim Saiyad said that all proceeds collected will go towards the upkeep of orphans and other needy cases in Afghanistan. He was thankful to all brothers and sisters who turned up in great numbers to support this project. • Participants at the function and inset Chief organiser Br. Kasim Sayed.

Chinmaya Mission Family Camp 2011 Courtesy Ullhas Kapure THE Brisbane Chinmaya Mission family created a milestone in their short timeline of triumphant events and came together for their first annual Family Camp. More than 22 families attended the weekend family retreat in Joyner. There were activities for each age group: junior and senior Balavihar kids, teenagers and adults and each group had their own share of fun and learning in a friendly family atmosphere. As part of the camp, 8 teams were formed and the friendly competition was evident as the teams were involved in various religious group discussions, mini Olympics, quiz, skits and plays from the life of Krishna. As expected, there was a bit of light hearted banter to gain more points to help the team win. The children also preformed ‘Matru-Pitru’ pooja for the parents under the auspicious guidance of Gopalji. All attendees thoroughly enjoyed the camp atmosphere and were quite sad to leave after a wonderful couple of days. The camp helped rejuvenation of the mind... and brought about the secret to inner peace and eternal happiness!! All in line with the motto of Chinmaya mission – spreading "Maximum happiness to the maximum people for the maximum time". Members are already looking forward to the camp next year with hopefully more families getting a chance of learning our great scriptures along with them.

'Touch' Group of Families - Annual Christmas Dinner Dance Fundraiser

By Sripathy Kathiresan 'Touch' Group of Families WE would like to convey our gratitude to those of you who were able to attend or support the 4th Annual Christmas Dinner Dance Night held on Saturday 19th November 2011. The night was a success and a total sum of $5000 was donated to the Cancer Council, Queensland (pic-

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

tured right). This is a success that should be shared among every member of the community. We hope to continue on this mission with your kind support. We wish you all an advanced Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you ‘Touch’ Group of Families Email: touch.families@gmail.com www.indiantimes.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 17

Saffron Restaurant, Darwin wins 2011 GECKO Award - Climate Action SYDNEY, 10 November 2011: Saffrron Restaurant, Darwin was announced as the winner in the Ecotourism Australia Gecko Awards in the category of Climate Action sponsored by the great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. The award aims to recognise sustainable tourism with a primary focus on reducing carbon footprint, lowering emission levels, providing education to visitors and raising the level of awareness and action in response to climate change. Saffron is an award-winning restaurant in Parap, Darwin, owned by Joanna and (Chef) Selvam Kandasamy (pictured). Saffron is a taste of Top End local produce and lifestyle, an authentic taste of India, and a delicious, hands-on

Pakistan says it should get Australian uranium PAKISTAN'S High Commissioner to Australia says if the Federal Government sells uranium to India it would be discriminatory for it not to sell it to Pakistan as well. The ALP overturned its ban on the sale of uranium to India after a divisive and passionate debate at the party's national conference in Sydney on December 4. Abdul Malik Abdullah said Australia should sell uranium to Pakistan as well, as India has not signed the nuclear NonProliferation Treaty (NPT). "If, after the ALP's decision, the Australian

Government is going to change the policy, all we would like to have is an equitable and non-discriminatory decision," Mr Abdullah told ABC Radio. "If Australia is going to lift the ban on a country which has not signed NPT it is much hope that will also apply to Pakistan the same way." Mr Abdullah said Pakistan has not made any request for uranium for Australia yet, but this may change in the future. "In that case we will hope that we will also be treated at par with other non-NPT signatories," he said. news.com.au

Rio is upbeat about Hathor eco-tourism experience. For more information on Saffrron Restaurant please visit www.saffrron.com

Minister in tears as Italian Cabinet agrees new austerity measures DECEMER 5, 2011: Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cabinet has adopted a package of tax hikes, budget cuts and pension reforms worth 20 billion euros ($27 billion) in a rush to avoid a bankruptcy that threatens to bring down the eurozone. "This is a decree to save Italy," Prime Minister Mario Monti said at a press conference after the Cabinet meeting. "This is a moment in which Italy risks being responsible for helping to drag down the economy of Europe." Italy will "put its deficit and debt under strong control" so Mario Monti says Italy must make sacrifices and he is that the country is "not seen â&#x20AC;˘renouncing his own salary as prime minister in a gesture of as a suspicious flash point by solidarity. Picture: AP Europe", he said. He also warned that Italians had to make packages this year but the European "sacrifices" and said he was renouncing his Commission indicated that the eurozone's own salary as prime minister in a gesture of third largest economy would fail to reach its target of balancing the budget by 2013 solidarity. The three-year package includes a contro- without more belt-tightening. versial pension reform that will increase the Italian unions voiced their opposition, even minimum pension age for women to 62 though a planned overhaul of labour laws to starting next year and fall into line with make it easier for companies to fire workers men by 2018, by which time both will retire has been postponed to a future date. Susanna Camusso, head of Italy's largest at 66. The number of years that men have to pay union, the CGIL, said the measures were aimed at "making money on the backs of contributions to receive their full pensions will also be increased from the current level poor people in our country". "There is no equity" in the proposed packof 40 to 42. Welfare Minister Elsa Fornero, whose pro- age, she said, adding that all the main posals have already been slammed by unions should team up to evaluate their Italy's main trade unions, broke down in response to the measures. The populist Northern League, the only tears as she outlined the changes. The package also increases taxes on hous- major party in parliament opposed to Mr ing and luxury items and raises value-added Monti's government, has said it wants a reftax - which has already been raised by one erendum on pension reforms. "Italy has lost," party leader Umberto percentage point this year - by two percentage points to 23 per cent from the second Bossi told a rally on Sunday 4 December. Economists are worried that the toxic mix quarter of 2012. Final approval of the reforms in parlia- of high borrowing costs, massive debt and low growth could push Italy - the euroment is expected before Christmas. The crucial government meeting had been zone's third largest economy - towards scheduled for later in the dday on insolvency within months. The government has denied persistent November 5, but it was brought forward by Mr Monti in a bid to finalise the budget rumours that it is preparing to accept a reforms before the markets open in a crucial credit line from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), following in the wake of week for the future of the euro. A former top European Union commis- bailouts for fellow eurozone members sioner who came to power just three weeks Greece, Ireland and Portugal. But the IMF and the EU have been keepago after the flamboyant Silvio Berlusconi was ousted by a wave of panic on financial ing Italy under special surveillance through markets, Mr Monti said Italy was at a dra- teams of auditors to ensure it implements long-delayed reforms and a reduction in a matic crossroads. "We're faced with an alternative between debt mountain equivalent to 120 per cent of the current situation, with the required sac- output. rifices, or an insolvent state, and a euro France and Germany say a debt blow-up in destroyed perhaps by Italy's infamy," he Italy could kill off the entire euro area and observers warn Italy is "too big to bail" in said. Italy is under intense pressure from its case of a default. Angelino Alfano, the leader of Mr eurozone neighbours and international investors to introduce draconian measures Berlusconi's People of Freedom party, the to rein in its public debt ahead of a crucial biggest party in parliament, also put the sitEuropean Union summit on Thursday 8 uation in stark terms: "The choice is between a harsh plan today and the risk of and Friday 9 December. news.com.au Rome has already adopted two austerity bankruptcy tomorrow." 18 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

DECEMBER 4, 2011: RIO Tinto chief Tom Albanese is confident the Canadian Government will allow the company to be the main operator of the Hathor Resources uranium mine. The miner recently paid a premium $600 million for the deposit analysts have described as just a toe-hold. Asked whether Rio would have to sell 51 per cent of Hathor, as Canadian law stipulates, Mr Albanese suggested he was optimistic talks with Canadian officials may lead to an exemption. "We will be working with the Canadian Government and I think that over the next several years we will basically be pressing the point that we can operate a uranium operation in Canada as a resident Canadian," Mr Albanese said on ABC TV.

"So it is just a matter of working through with the provincial government of Saskatchewan and also the federal government in Ottawa and finding the right solution," he said. "We would say in the post-2020 period there will be a strong need for uranium for the nuclear sector. "I think what we're going to see increasingly in the next several years is that the Chinese will continue to take a bigger part of the global nuclear picture and they're going to need the uranium." His comments coincided with the Federal Government overturning the ban on uranium sales from Australia to India. Sales from Hathor would have been exempt from any ban because the deposit is not Australian. news.com.au

Australia-United States force posture initiatives

PRIME Minister Gillard and President Obama announced two new force posture initiatives that will significantly enhance defence cooperation between Australia and the United States. Coming on the 60th anniversary of the ANZUS Alliance, these initiatives strengthen an already robust partnership that has been an anchor of stability and peace in the Asia-Pacific region. They reflect our enduring and visible commitment to strengthening regional security and will increase interoperability between Australian and U.S. forces. Starting next year, Australia will welcome the deployment of U.S. Marines to Darwin and Northern Australia, for around six months at a time, where they will conduct exercises and training on a rotational basis with the Australian Defence Force. The initial deployment will consist of a small liaison element and a company of 250 U.S. Marines. The intent in the coming years is to establish a rotational presence of up to a 2,500 person Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF). The U.S. Marines will exercise and train on a rotational basis with the Australian Defence Force in the Northern Territory. The leaders also agreed to closer cooperation between the Royal Australian Air Force and the U.S. Air Force that will result in increased rotations of U.S. aircraft through

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northern Australia. This will enhance bilateral collaboration and offer greater opportunities for combined training and exercises. Select equipment and supplies in support of these initiatives will be prepositioned in these locations to facilitate exercises and training. These joint initiatives, which will take place in Australian facilities, are part of an ongoing review of U.S. force posture in the Asia-Pacific region intended to pursue a more geographically distributed, operationally resilient and politically sustainable military presence in this region. They will further enhance the capabilities of both partners by increasing opportunities for combined training, deepening interoperability, and enabling both countries to work together even more effectively to pursue common interests. Moreover, these initiatives will better position both nations to join with other partners to respond in a timely and effective manner to a range of contingencies in the Asia-Pacific, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Both leaders reaffirmed that the ANZUS Alliance is one based on the strongest of friendships resulting from shared values. They agreed to continuously explore ways to deepen cooperation and to maintain the vitality of the Alliance in the face of an ever-changing global environment. Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Business News Prime Minister met with Indian Prime Minister Singh at East Asia Summit

THE Prime Minister met Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (pictured) at the East Asia Summit. The Prime Minister outlined her decision to seek a change to the ALP platform on uranium sales to India. She underlined her commitment to fully realising the strategic partnership between Australia and India. She said this was strongly in Australia’s national interests. Prime Minister Singh said India welcomed warmly the decision to seek an amendment

to the ALP party platform in relation to uranium. The Prime Minister said he attached great importance to the relationship with Australia. This was based on shared values. He wanted to further strengthen the relationship. The Prime Minister invited Prime Minister Singh to visit Australia. Prime Minister Singh said he hoped to visit in 2012. The two Prime Ministers also talked about the Eurozone crisis and global economic developments.

Free tax support for small businesses Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal DO you run a small business? Do you need some help with meeting your business tax obligations? The Australian Tax Office (ATO)’s Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP) can help. Talk to us if: • you want help understanding what you need to do • you’re having difficulty meeting your payment obligations. Most businesses contact us to get help with finding the easiest and fastest way to: • manage records and paperwork • lodge correct activity statements on time • manage employer obligations such as “PAYG withholding”, “superannuation guarantee” and “fringe benefits tax” • get connected to the “Business Portal” to lodge activity statements online and view statements and transaction history. Free visit at your business A tax officer will meet you, usually at your business to answer your questions and work with you to find an easier and faster way to manage your tax obligations. A visit can take ten minutes or a full day – it all depends on you and your needs. Any information you share with us during a visit is completely confidential. Our focus is to help you manage your tax, not look for evidence to conduct an audit. ! Translators are also available for nonEnglish speaking business owners. You can see how a visit works by viewing a short online video at www.ato.gov.au /assistancevisit. Site visits are available in all capital cities and most regional areas from Monday to Friday, 8.00am–6.00pm. To arrange a visit: • use our online booking form at www.ato.gov.au/assistancevisit

• phone 13 28 66 during business hours. Free seminars and workshops ATO runs a range of seminars and workshops on tax basics, recording keeping and employer essentials. They are useful if you want an overview or reminder of what you need to know and do or if you’re thinking of starting a business and just want to see what’s involved. Attending a seminar or workshop can help you work out whether you might need a visit from a tax officer. This service is available in all capital cities and some regional areas from Monday to Friday. To register for a seminar, visit www.ato.gov.au/seminars. ! Seminars in languages other than English can be arranged. For more information, phone 1300 661 104, Monday to Friday, 8.00am–6.00pm. Free support over the phone We can answer your tax and superannuation questions over the phone. You can call us on 13 28 66 from Monday to Friday, 8.00am–6.00pm. ! If you do not speak English well and want to talk to a tax officer, phone the Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50 for help with your call. What are small businesses saying about the SBAP? ‘We were very impressed that this service was available. We want to get it right with the ATO and the assistance offered allowed us to do that, as well as build a level of trust with the ATO and the information you provided. We can’t praise this service enough.’ ‘Very happy with this service after initially being reluctant to contact the ‘taxman’.’ ‘Wish I had attended this seminar before I started a small business.’

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Who, What, Where, When

Subhash Chandra celebrated his 70th birthday at his Taigum residence on 19 November. The occasion was graced by his siblings from overseas. Joining him at • Usha Chandra with Rekha Hakim, the the party were family, friends and neighbours. Congratulations to Subhash eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs Subhash • Kavita Chawla (centre in white) youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs Subhash Chandra was the event coordinator for the party. Chandra. Chandra on achieving this milestone.

• Mohan (MoGo), son of Girish and Shikha Gopalkrishnan, celebrated his first birthday on 26 November at Toongabie Community Centre. It was a joint celebration for father and son as Girish celebrated his 30th birthday. Many close family and friends attended the function, which included fairy themed entertainment, bollywood dancers, live singing and speeches. Pictured bottom right: Amongst the guests were Shobha Ingleshwar of OM Get2gether, one of the organisers of the Indian Australian Idol 2011, and Dr Yadu Singh, President of Council of Indian Australians, Inc

• Brisbane Babas Band recently performed at Touch Family Christmas Dinner on 19 November at St Aiden’s Anglican Girls School, Corinda. This prodominantly featured Tamil songs. Lakshmi Ananda Kumar and David Kumar were the lead singers. Satnam Singh did a few Bhangra numbers as requested by guests, they were ably assisted by Saras, Vejay and Palani as guest artists. The second performance was at the wedding reception of Anshuman and Neha Aggarwal on 27 November at Greek Orthodox Community Hall with Ashutosh Saroch and Hafiza Sharmin Sumi as lead singers. This was Sumi’s first performance with the band. The second segment was the popular Bhangra segment with Baldev Singh Nijjar, Satnam Singh and the amazing Dhol player Jaggi. 20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 21

Who, What, Where, When

• The photo’s were taken on the day of "Soora Samhaaram" (Lord Skantha Kills the Demon Soorapadman) on 1 November, 2011. Inset: Lord Skantha moves on the Peacock (his vehicle). Above Left:Display of killing the Demon Soorapadman. Above Right: Soora Samhara Festival procession at the Sri Selva-Vinayakar Kovil.

• (from left to right pictured in front of auditorium) Ps Raj Singh (Senior Pastor), Desley Brassington (Principal of Grand Ave School), Ps Mavis Singh (Pastor) and Bruce Mclean. The photo was taken on the day the keys of the new auditorium of Grand Ave School were handed by Principal Desley Brasington to Ps Raj Singh (Senior Pastor) and Ps Mavis Singh (Pastor) of International Multicultural Christian Fellowship. Elevate church has been going on for 15 years and Ps Raj and Ps Mavis are the new pastors for the last two years. Elevate was meeting in the Multi Purpose area of the Grand Ave School and with the building of the new auditorium have just recently moved into it. The • Parth Raval at his final year engineering project weekly Sunday church service is now also held at the new auditorium. expo. Congratulations Parth on all of your achieveThanks to the principal and management of Grand Ave School. ments, we’re proud of you - Trudi & Charmaine.

• Celebrating FOILS 10th anniversary are (from left) FOILS' newest member Patrice Kuyer, current president Yvonne van de Wiel, inaugural president Anne Ryan, Australia's oldest FOILS member Tom Spowart, 101-years-old, and Ipswich City Council Tourism and Libraries Committee Chairperson Councillor David Pahlke.

• Community Spirit Award 2011 - St Flannans School Zillmere celebrated the Graduation ceremony at St Flannans Parish community hall. During the Graduation the school Principle Mr. John Parkinson awarded the best student of the year 2011, Justin Karumathy with a Community Spirit Award (Pictured above). The Parish Priest Fr. John Klinko blessed all the Graduates and their families. St. Flannans is a unique School community with over 40 different nationalities.

• Lekh Ram Sukh, Civil Marriage Celebrant at left side, Officiating the wedding of Elvin Dayal & Shaleen Shivingini Lal on 4th Dec 2011 at Beenleigh Event Centre, Qld, Australia.

• Chinmaya Mission Australia conducted their first Trivia Night on 5 November. 22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 23

Waitakere Diwali celebrates Children and provides cue for national policies

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• The Rugby World Cup show by the students. • Left: The youngest and tiniest All Blacks in the RWC show, Kishan.

Children singing national anthem on Indian music accompaniment by students.

Thakur Ranjit Singh WAITAKERE Diwali at Trusts Stadium in Waitakere on 25 September 2011 had the similar “masala’” (spices) it used to have in the past. Such spices, not only emanated from the fine mouth-watering food stalls, but also from the programmes that were staged. However the biggest taste was from the performance by children, and display of family involvement. This matter is of utmost importance to New Zealand as we reel into the recession, the gap between have and have not is increasing and families are breaking apart due to financial strains and our obsession with material wealth. Just weeks ago, the British division of Unicef released a report on child wellbeing that put some of the blame for the London street riots down to disenfranchised or alienated children of middle class families. The report added that the obsession with consumer goods was one of the underlying causes of the riots and widespread looting that gripped the UK recently, as teenagers targeted shops for designer clothes and goods. Some media commentators in New Zealand have cautioned such a situation for here where our tax and transfer policies fail to recognise the time that is better spent in unpaid work, in activity outside the labour market. These among others would include time with our kids, with our elderly and with our wider community, in creative and active pursuits. Such alienation of community services that has gripped the UK was

increasingly seen as a threat to New Zealand’s social cohesion as well. The answer to this dilemma facing NZ communities was provided during Waitakere Diwali celebrations. An organisation like Waitakere Hindi and Cultural School came up with the answer. The students of this voluntary organisation, supported by their parents and grandparents excelled in Diwali celebration. It is hoped the movers and shakers present in the celebrations, like Prime Minister John Key, his Social Development Minister Paula Bennet, Opposition leader Phil Goff and Labour’s finance spokesperson David Cunliffe among others, took a note of the achievement of such unsung heroes in our community who provided New Zealand the solution to the issues raised by British Unicef. Initiated as an arm of Waitakere Indian Association, the Hindi School now has become a semi-autonomous icon of learning and volunteerism supported by the whole community. With the support of the community, Hindi School now has over hundred students learning tabla, harmonium, vocal, cultural studies and Hindi Language. Students include children as well as adults of all races and nationalities. The hallmark of this learning environment is that with community support, all services are free of charge. What has been noticed has been the formation of comradeship and

learning environment in a fun atmosphere where students look forward to go to every Sunday, and wake up their parents to remind them about this important Sunday chore not to be missed. Parents have pleasantly noticed marked changes in the confidence and learning ability of students in this family environment. It is student of this school who took the centre stage during Waitakere Diwali. Firstly in the morning, religious hymns and kirtans were sung by them, accompanied by tabla players from the school. They changed to complete different roles from devotional singers to national ambassadors of Rugby World Cup (RWC) when they presented a fusion of songs, dances, movements and visuals that depicted the colours of RWC. A highlight of the RWC item was the magic created by the youngest and tiniest All Blacks, little Kishan who, when he stepped on the stage, was perceived as a wondering kid, until he grabbed the ball and went for a try. This was a very well choreographed show by a professional and talented but humble internationally known choreographer Sonar Chand. The scene then changed to the epic era when Lord Ram incarnated to show the world the way of life and path of Hinduism. The costumes, the dialogue, the music, the Ramayan Chaupaais and the visuals were mesmerising and indeed depicted the theme of Diwali that is really and truly, and perhaps, maintained in Waitakere only. Before

the commencement of the formal programme, dignitaries, invited guests and general public saw the face of multiculturalism and integration where New Zealand National anthem was sang by the students of Hindi School on the accompaniment of harmonium, Tabla, and Hindi music. Both Maori as well as English versions were sung. The most noticeable factor in all this was the support and cheers of parents and grandparents who proud of their new generation. Hanging on to the ageing fingers of grandma and grandpa, they were heralded out to footstalls, to be rewarded with sweets, Samosa, ice-cream, ice blocks and Dosa. Such family values should be emulated by other communities with social problems. They can take a leaf out of Waitakere. This is especially valuable gift and advice to the “Westy” Social Development Minister who can encourage other communities to follow the suit of Waitakere Indian Association and its icon, the Hindi and Cultural School which can be a launching pad to address delinquency in their younger people. The theme of Diwali, of delivering from darkness to light was well illustrated by the children of Waitakere who stole the show. Now, Minister Paula Bennet can proudly say: West is the best. E-mail: thakurji@xtra.co.nz [Thakur Ranjit Singh is a community worker and a media commentator based in Waitakere]

Luxury pampering - the Diamant way By Rama Gaind IT’S very easy to feel on top of the world – at the Diamant Hotel in Sydney, especially when it comes to soaking up the urban vibe – in the luxury penthouse. Overlooking the city’s skyline and Sydney Harbour Bridge, the 12th floor penthouse combines contemporary luxury living with rock star glamour, located moments from Sydney’s most vibrant quarter. Designed by renowned architects Burley Katon Halliday, the state-of-the-art entertainment systems, floor-to-ceiling windows, sun-drenched living spaces and private access with high-tech security creates an oasis in the sky for the sophisticated world traveller. The Diamant is located in the heart of Kings Cross, Potts Point and Darlinghurst triangle, offering Sydney's biggest and eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, cafés and nightclubs. The three bedrooms are designed with practicality in mind: the lounge room, in the middle is flanked on the one side by two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bathrooms, a massive kitchen (almost of commercial proportions) and the main bedroom which has its own separate wing with a spacious en-suite bathroom with spa bath, powder room and a smaller balcony. Comfort is of the essence here. The lounge room and dining area are open plan with room for a 10-seater dining table. The adjoining balcony with sweeping views is a magnificent vantage point to watch the sunrise and sunset. The kitchen is a chef's delight: with huge preparation table, cooking hotplates, dishwasher and hot water. Views from the kitchen take in Rushcutters Bay and Double Bay. If you don’t want to cook, the penthouse comes with a butler service, on request, and is available for short- or longterm accommodation, product launches, photo shoots, private dinners and memorable occasions. The main bedroom was amazing: walk-in bathroom, ‘his’ and ‘hers’ hand basins, separate shower and toilet and a spa 24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

bath. The firm mattress and pillows on the king size bed made for a good night's rest. That long line of built-in cupboards - wow - I want them in my home! Abundant adventures My adventurous streak was stroked beyond expectations during my short stay in Potts Point. One of the trendiest suburbs in Sydney, just 3km east of the CBD, this stylish suburb is wedged between ritzy Elizabeth Bay, iconic Woolloomooloo and nightclub mecca Kings Cross. Said to have one of the highest population densities in Australia, Potts Point is a snakes and ladders patchwork of historic mansions converted to quaint guesthouses, intimate waterholes, eateries and fashion outlets. Minutes walk to Oxford Street, Darling Hour, Circular Quay, CBD, Chinatown, cinemas, shops, St Vincent’s Hospital, galleries and Kings Cross Station. The streets are tree-lined, pavements are wide and you get a hint of Euro-style urban elegance. Stroll down Macleay Street, and Potts Point’s lavish history jumps to life. Named after banker Joseph Potts, elaborate Georgian manors were built on large blocks of land, later to be pulled down in the 1930s to make way for a distinctive new architectural style – art deco. Make your way down to Orwell Street for a look at the gorgeous art deco building in The Metro which originally showed the groundbreaking musical, Hair, in the 1960s. Walk to Challis Street for a cluster of great dining out options and continue into Victoria Street’s Embarkation Park that offers views and a chance to commune with nature in the heart of the city. Whatever you do, a visit to this sophisticated little suburb is sure to be a highlight of your Sydney stay. Pampered beyond belief, it was unfortunate that I stayed at the Diamant on my own. Come with your family and make it your base for the 2012 Sydney Festival – a three-week celebration of music, dance, opera, theatre and art – between January 7-29, 2012. www.indiantimes.com.au

• The spacious lounge and dining rooms in the penthouse at the Diamant Hotel, in Potts Point, and a balcony with expansive views.

Mary Poppins, the musical If you are looking for something entertaining then see Mary Poppins – The Supercalifragilistic Musical at the Capitol Theatre, in Sydney. A splendid adaptation of the beloved books by Australia’s own P.L.Travers and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, the spectacular production includes all of the best- loved songs from the film including Chim Chim Cher-Ee, A Spoonful of Sugar, Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Feed the Birds and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and new classics like Practically Perfect and Anything Can Happen. Mary Poppins features an impeccable Australian cast including Matt Lee best-known for his judging role on the hugely successful So You Think You Can Dance, Australia’s leading lady of musical theatre Marina Prior, Philip Quast, Debra Byrne, Judi Connelli, Sally-Anne Upton, David Henry and Christopher Rickerby and after an extensive Australia-wide search for the practically perfect nanny, Verity Hunt-Ballard in the title role. It’s a magical world with commendable performances. The musical will play at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC, in Brisbane in January 2012 before going to Perth in March. Rama Gaind was a guest of Diamant Hotel, Potts Point. Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing Bathroom beauty treatment Nimisha - 0412 350 013 Hetvi Hair &â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Beauty

SPLASH! Splash! Relax and have fun in the bath. Bathroom treatments are also a very important beauty schedule as well as a chance to cleanse your body. Bath or shower time is a perfect opportunity to pamper and polish your skin, and indulge in some beauty treat. Try some of these effective body treat on a regular basis. * Body lotions and oils Seal moisture into your skin with a lotion or oil, making it soft and smooth. Especially concentrate on dry areas, such as feet, elbows and knees. Oily and normal skins benefit from lotions, while cream and oil give moisture to dry skin. * Exfoliating Scrubs Help combat the rough patches and blackheads that can appear on your skin by using a scrub. Use once or twice a week in the bath or shower, rinsing away the excess with clear warm water. *Pumice stone These stones, made from very porous volcanic rock, work best if you lather up with soap before rubbing at dead skin areas of skin in a circular motion. Don't rub too fiercely or else you'll make rashes on the skin. A little but consistently is the best. *Loofahs and back brushes Back brushes or long loofahs are useful as defoliators, and their length makes them great for scrubbing difficult to reach areas like the back. Loofahs are actually the pod of an Egyptian plant and need a bit of care if they're to last. Rinse and drain them thor-

oughly after use to stop them going black and mouldy. Avoid rinsing them in vinegar and lemon juice as this can be too harsh for these once living things. Back brushes are easier to care for, you simply rinse them in cool water after use and leave them to dry. BATH TIME TREAT Soaking in a warm bath has to be one of the most popular ways to relax. You can literally feel your cares disappear as you sink into the soothing water. However, you can also use bath time for a variety of other benefits and beauty boosters. Learning to relax Turn bath time into an aromatherapy treat by adding relaxing essential oils such as chamomile and lavender to the water. Just add a few drops once you have run the bath, then lie back, inhale the vapor and relax. Salts and bubble baths that contain sea minerals also helps purify your skin and relax your body, too. Bathe by candlelight and listen to relaxing music to make it even more of a treat. Put on slice of cucumber as eye pads and relax for 15 minutes. BE A NATURAL BEAUTY You don't have to splash out on expensive bath additives - try making your own: * Soothe irritated skin by adding a cup of cider vinegar to the running water. *A cup of powdered milk will soothe rough skin. *Add a cupful of oatmeal or bran to cleanse, whiten and soothe your skin. Sleek skin Smooth your body with body oil before getting into the bath. After soaking for 10 minutes, rub your skin with a soft washcloth you will be amazed at how much dead skin you remove. Boosting benefits If you pat yourself dry after a bath, it will help you to unwind, whereas briskly rub-

bing your skin with a towel will help to invigorate you. SHOWER TIME TREATS Showers are a wonderful opportunity to cleanse your body quickly, cheaply and to wake yourself up. Here are some other benefits: Circulation booster Switch on the cold water before finishing your shower to help boost your circulation. Strangely, it will also make you feel warmer once you get out of the shower. It also work well if you concentrate the blasts of cold water on cellulite-prone areas, as this stimulates the sluggish circulation in these spots. Turn a daily shower into a real power shower. Keep smiling.

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year To All

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 - 25

Health Beauty Wellbeing The beneficial and adverse effects of solar energy By Thilliar Varnakulasingham THE sun is composed of about 70 per cent hydrogen and 30 per cent helium, with other elements making up less than one per cent. Solar energy is produced by nuclear fusion reactions that turn hydrogen into helium at its centre. It is estimated that the sun is about 4.7 billion years old, with a predicted lifetime of l0 billion years. The temperature at the surface is about 5,530 degrees centigrade. In ancient times people worshipped and revered the sun as a god because they knew that there would not be any life on earth without solar energy, while today the sun is feared in many countries because it can cause skin cancer, moles, wrinkles, freckles, pigmentation and other blemishes. Our body produces vitamin D in the presence of sunlight which helps our bones absorb calcium and phosphorous. Vitamin D helps in the mineralization of bones and

teeth. Lack of vitamin D may cause rickets in children, while adults may suffer from other bone deformities. In general, older people in rest homes, women who cover their entire body and face for modesty and migrants with darker skin who cover their body with pullovers often have a deficiency of vitamin D. Although a simple blood test will reveal whether a person is deficient in vitamin D, it is unwise to take vitamin D supplements without medical advice because they are toxic if taken unnecessari-

The Australian Government promotes anti-smoking to Pacific Islander community through cultural events THE Australian Government is continuing efforts to engage with Australian smokers from different cultural backgrounds and to promote the benefits of quitting through participation at a range of cultural events. Information will be available at the events about how smokers can gain further assistance to quit. The Department has already attended and sponsored some major cultural festivals: • Chinese New Year Events (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane) and Moon Festival in NSW • Korean Events such as the Campsie Food Festival NSW • Spanish Events like Melbourne Latin Festival VIC, La Mirada Film Festival VIC, Spanish Film Festival National, Chilean Latin Festival VIC • Arabic Events like Arab Film Festival National, Chand Raat Eid Festival NSW, Haldon Street Festival NSW • Pacific Isles Events like Hosanna Sports Festival NSW, Pacific Unity QLD, South

Pacific Rugby Cup VIC, Fiji Day NSW • Townsville Multicultural Festival QLD The benefits of quitting will continue to be promoted at more community cultural events in the coming months. The campaign activity contributes to the Australian Government’s commitment to reduce the daily smoking rates among Australian adults to 10 per cent by 2018. It will also support the implementation of other tobacco control policies including plain packaging, increases in tobacco excise and the ongoing availability of subsidised nicotine patches. Health information has been produced in 29 languages. Pacific Islander communities can now access all information on the benefits of quitting smoking. For free resources visit: www.quitnow.gov.au

To quit smoking, people should consult their doctor or pharmacist, or call the Quitline on 13 7848.

The triumph of a human being Courtesy Vinaya Natarajan HAVE you ever heard someone say, "You won't believe what just happened to me"? We hear this and think, "Somebody's going to tell me something that happened to them, but why are they saying, "You won't believe what just happened to me?" The key word is believe because if you had been there, you would know and not have to believe. Now, belief is okay, but you give it much more credence than it deserves. Knowing deserves the credence you give to belief. Knowing is certain. It's clear. There are no ambiguities, no hypotheses. This is what happened. But when you don't know, is belief sufficient? I can just imagine a long time ago, a person standing on a ridge, looking at the stars, wondering: "Who am I? Why am I here? What is this all about?" I call these the questions. Even though since then there have been a myriad of religions, textbooks, stories, ideas, philoso-

phies, wars, contemplation, inventions, exploration of outer space, these questions still exist. They are asked one way or the other by every human being. Maybe they're asked in times of trouble or in times of plenty - but they are asked. Until these have been answered for you personally in a clear, concise way, you will not understand the need you have for peace, the need you have to be happy. And once you understand that the desire for peace is innate - not learned - you will pursue it. Ultimately, you came into this world and you're going to leave this world. And you have a belief system. You do. And whether you have courage to hear it or not I have the courage to tell you that you are here to experience heaven. You have always believed that heaven is something you're going to get to after you die, if you are good. You learned this. The desire for peace, to be happy, to be in joy - nobody had to teach you. You have had this since you were a little baby.

ly. Since it is not possible to say exactly how much exposure to the sun is required as it depends upon the color of an individual's skin, the time of the day and the season, it is generally recommended that l5 to 20 minutes of exposure to the face, arms and legs most days before the sun is hot should be sufficient to maintain healthy vitamin D levels. It is very unfortunate that a continent-sized hole has formed in the ozone layer over Antarctica as a result of damage caused by chlorofluorocarbons and ozone depleters, including methyl chloroform, carbon tetrachloride and methyl chloride. The sun emits ultraviolet radiation. It is a kind of light that is not visible. There are three kinds of ultraviolet light. Each has a different frequency. The first, UVA has a long wavelength. It is least damaging to us.

It causes some damage in the long term, but it tends to give us a nice tan first. UVB and UVC have shorter wavelengths. They tend to burn us rather than give a tan. Fortunately for us, UVC, the most damaging of the two types, is completely filtered out by the planet's ozone layer. This is why it is so important to preserve the ozone layer, as even small doses of UVC are damaging to humans. It is very important that when you go out for a walk during the day-time, you should use sunscreen that protects against Ultraviolet B as well as Ultraviolet C which are responsible for causing the most dangerous cancers. Polarized glasses give protection against ultraviolet radiation in sunlight and they may be used for eye protection in preference to cheap eyeglasses sold in some shops. Polarized glasses can be worn on any hot day, irrespective of the season. You may apply sunscreen evenly to all exposed areas of skin, especially to nose, lips and ears and wait for l5 to 20 minutes before you go out in the sun. A note of warning is sounded that any sunscreen applied to the body should not be relied on for more than two to three hours at the most.

Gods plan A JOHN 3v16 says "For care of him through it all God so loved the and he became the prime world that He gave minister of Egypt. What His only begotten was meant for harm, God Son, that whoever Pastor Joseph Dass turned it into good. The believes in Him Lord took all the tragedy (Jesus) should not in Joseph's life and turned perish but have everlasting life". God into a fantastic miracle that not only blessed included Joseph and Mary in this great res- Joseph but ended up saving the lives of his cue plan but when Joseph found that Mary family and countless others in Egypt and was already carrying baby Jesus, even through out the known world. before they came together, he was worried , God has not changed. Let me assure you overwhelmed, fearful, confused even felt this Christmas, God knows exactly where betrayed, trapped and let down. He even you are and he knows how to get you where planned to divorce her. Then we read in you need to be. Even when you feel overMatthew 1v20-21 “But while he thought whelmed and things don't go the way you about these things, behold an angel of the planned, His hand is on you. Do not be Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, afraid, trust that God is working for you on "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to your behalf and that He will lead you into a take to you Mary your wife, for that which life of blessing and fulfilment that He has is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. prepared for you. Scripture tells us that if And she shall bring forth a Son, and you God is for us then who can be against us. shall call His name JESUS, for He will So don't let circumstances, disappointments save His people from their sins". and confusion keep you, but let hope, trust What looked so contrary in the natural, and joy move you! was all God’s doing. In the Old Testament we read that Jacob’s Let us pray "Loving heavenly Father, we son Joseph, through his brother’s hatred thank you for Jesus, and thank you for towards him, was put in a pit then sold as a filling our lives with your joy and peace slave. After ending up in Egypt, he was always. We ask this in Jesus name, Amen". again lied about and put in a prison. Many Have a blessed Christmas and a happy new bad things happened to him yet God took year. You have been given this body - the ultimate experiencing machine. That's all it does all day long" "Wow. Beautiful. Hot, cold, soft." If you were to make a list of the sounds, the smells, the tastes, the touches that it can appreciate - that list would be huge. You have this most incredible thing called life. All of a sudden, you can move. You can understand. You can dance. You can smile. You can cry. You can think. You can feel. All this has come together, and while you are alive, you can know. And when you know, peace comes, the truest joy comes. Your life has to evolve around knowing- not just believing. Clarity. Your life has to evolve around this desire from your heart, from within you, to want to know. What does your life want? People make all kinds of effort, "I have to do this, and I have to do this." Then tragedy strikes, and they lose everything. Then they say, "I just want to be happy." Maybe that's how it is supposed to be. The building block of your achievements needs to begin with the achievement of peace, of joy. Build on it a tower as high as you want, and it'll never

fall down because it is built on solid ground. It is tied to the most stable thing in your life. You have taken care of the essentials in your existence. And then, having gratitude is natural. It's not a belief, "I believe I'm happy." Truth isn't some mysterious thing sitting on top of the mountain. Truth dances in you. Clarity is not something you dig out of a goldmine. Clarity and understanding are not buried somewhere; they are inside of you. They need to be evoked. They need to be invited into your life. They need to be called upon; they need to be nurtured, they need to be truly invited and welcomed. All the answers you want are inside of you. All the wealth you want is inside of you. All the wisdom of the ages is inside of you. Understand, accept - discover those things that are inside of you. When you experience that joy in your life, it is something special. And when you experience peace, it is the triumph of a human being. You have won every war. You have succeeded. The moment you feel peace, you have fulfilled your destiny. Prem Rawat

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Smoked Out in Queensland FRIDAY 18 November, 2011: Today is another great step forward for a smoke-free Queensland, with the Parliament passing the amendments to the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 and the commencement of complete bans on the display of cigarette products in retail outlets. The Heart Foundation welcomes these further reforms which will particularly protect children from smoking promotion and display. Heart Foundation CEO, Cameron Prout says, “The tobacco and retail industries have continued to target children in their tobacco packaging, promotions and dis-

plays. Children will now be protected from gimmicky products designed to lure them into the habit, particularly fruit and confectionery cigarettes will finally be banned.” The key amendments to the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998, passed last night in Parliament are: Extend the ban on the sale of foods and toys that resemble cigarettes to all objects that resemble cigarettes Ban the sale of fruit flavoured and confectionary flavoured cigarettes Provision that tobacco products seized from a minor are forfeited to the State Amend ‘no-smoking’ sign requirements for

licensed premises Clarify how buffers between smoking and non-smoking areas in licensed premises should be used to reduce smoke drift to non-smoking areas. The Heart Foundation is disappointed that recommendations made to prohibit entertainment (such as big screens and stages) from within 5 metres or within sight of people in a designated outdoor smoking area (DOSA) in pubs, clubs and casinos, were not taken up by the Government. Heart Foundation CEO, Cameron Prout says, “The Heart Foundation will continue to push for further reform in this area and the total removal of designated outdoor smoking areas in the future. Rather than being a discreet place where people could

go and have a cigarette, then return to their friends, DOSAs have become party zones for young people whether they smoke or not.” The Heart Foundation also urged the Parliament to ban menthol flavoured cigarettes because it enhances the uptake of nicotine and carcinogens. The Health Minister advised that Government supports this recommendation and will work towards a national approach to implementation. The Heart Foundation congratulates the Parliament on passing these progressive laws and commends the new Parliamentary Committee public hearing processes which provide the opportunity to comment on these important matters of public interest.

Occupy Wall Street and the way forward PEOPLE have been talking about ‘climate change’ for a while now, from the recordbreaking droughts in Texas, to the alarming intensity of typhoons and hurricanes all across the globe, to the overwhelming precipitation the world over. However, another type of climate change seems to be taking place. It became more pronounced in early 2011 with the uprisings in the Middle East and North Africa, but has gained momentum and strength in the last couple of months elsewhere. I speak of course, about the “Occupy” movements and “World Revolution Day” spanning the globe. It seems to be driven by an overall sense of discontent, due in large part to the economic crises every nation has experienced. There is talk about the chasm between Wall Street and Main Street, how 1% of our population controls 99% of the wealth, and so on. I know when I see the people around me, there does seem to be a general sense of malaise and unhappiness. This got me wondering–if the protesters on Occupy Wall Street and all over got what they asked for, would that be it? Would everyone go home and live happily ever after? Unfortunately, the answer is no. As the saying goes, ‘if it’s not one thing, it’s another’. People in general are unhappy. While our leaders and the heads of corporations are responsible for the creation and administration of the law and overall health of society, they cannot control our own individual happiness. We can lobby for economic reforms, protest insurance and price gouging, immigration issues, and so on. But the fact of the matter is, people are looking

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externally for solutions that ultimately, lie within. We cannot hold others responsible for destiny that we ourselves must go through, even if they are leaders of the free world. Nor can we hold them responsible for the day-to-day happenings in our lives. What then, is the solution? Only by uplifting ourselves spiritually (as opposed to financially, physically or psychologically – together or individually), can we gain the contentment and happiness that other means fall short of helping us obtain. Also, over the last few decades, we have seen that no matter who leads us, our situation hasn’t improved. This is because Righteousness is at an all time low. Righteousness is required for good leadership and develops by doing spiritual practice. It benefits both us as individuals and society as a whole. As we uplift ourselves spiritually by undertaking spiritual practice, we also understand who are best suited to lead us. As a sideeffect of society’s overall spiritual illhealth, we are poorly equipped to select leaders who aren’t finally self-serving or who don’t have an agenda to fulfil. Only with spiritual maturity will we know who true leaders are and that, regardless of how we may as individuals prosper or flounder, they are working in the best interests of society. So while we may make time and allocate energy to Occupy our local municipalities, maybe we could also set aside some time to let Spirituality occupy a space in our lives. Just a thought. Blog courtesy – Maya Jairam

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES,December, 2011 — 27

From bankruptcy to “The Messiah”

Gita Jayanti Submitted by Sundar Gopal Das SRI Gita Jayanti was on December 7th. On this day, about 5100 years ago, Sri Krishna spoke Srimad Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna in the battlefield of Kuruksetra. Arjuna and his brothers, the Pandavas, had their kingdom unjustly taken by their cousins, the Kauravas. They were unable to get a peaceful resolution due to the obstinacy of Durodhyana, the chief of the Kauravas. The Pandavas and the Kauravas then gathered their armies and were preparing to fight at the holy land of Kuruksetra. Sri Krishna, taking a vow not to fight in this war, became Arjuna’s chariot driver. Arjuna, seeing all his superiors, relatives and friends ready to take part in the war and in the opposition army, became bewildered and took shelter of Sri Krishna. The discussion between Sri Krishna and Arjuna is known as the Bhagavad Gita. The history of the Pandavas and the Kauravas is described in the great epic, Sri Mahabharata, compiled by Sri Krishna Dvaipayana Veda Vyasa. Srimad Bhagavad Gita consists of 18 chapters; chapters 25 to 42 of the Bhisma parva of Sri Mahabharata. The Gita is the essence of Vedic knowledge and forms the foundation for the other scriptures such as Srimad Bhagavatam and Ramayana. Externally it may seem that Bhagavad Gita is inciting Arjuna to fight. However, the purpose of the Gita, using Arjuna as a medium, is to deliver mankind from repeated cycle of birth and death. It speaks about the nature of the soul, the material nature, and the Supreme Lord. The Gita teaches how one can attain the supreme abode and the Supreme Lord and attain eternal peace and happiness. The basis of the Gita is the performance of the yoga process. Yoga means to link or unite with the Supreme Lord. There are many stages in the yoga process and the three most prominent stages have been described in the Gita. The first is karma yoga, the process of linking with the Supreme Lord through the performance of activities or work. Knowing that the Lord is benefactor of all activities, and the well wishing friend of all living entities, the practitioner performs all activities for the Lord’s satisfaction. Activities performed in this way do not become a cause of bondage. This is the basic principle of karma-yoga. By performing karma yoga, the heart becomes purified. The practitioner begins to realise the nature of the soul and the teachings of the scriptures. He cultivates knowledge of the Supreme Lord, the material nature, the relationship between the Supreme Lord, the living entities and material nature and acts according to that relationship. This is the stage of jnana yoga, uniting with the

Peter Lane Rai

Lord through transcendental knowledge. Then gradually one reaches the stage of bhakti yoga. Bhakti refers to devotional service and bhakti yoga refers to linking with the Supreme Lord through loving devotional service. The nature of pure devotional service is that it does not have any other desires except to bring happiness to the Supreme Lord, it is causeless and uninterrupted. By engaging in pure devotional service, one becomes free from the cycle of birth and death, enters the kingdom of the Lord and engages in loving service directly with the Supreme Lord. Just like Arjuna was in a battlefield and bewildered and unsure of his responsibilities, we are also in middle of ‘battlefield’ of material existence and trying a find a balance between our various duties and responsibilities and our search for peace and happiness. The Gita is just as relevant to us as it was 5000 years ago. Mahatma Gandhi said “When doubts haunt me, when disappointments stare me in the face, and I see not one ray of hope on the horizon, I turn to Bhagavad-Gita and find a verse to comfort me; and I immediately begin to smile in the midst of overwhelming sorrow. Those who meditate on the Gita will derive fresh joy and new meanings from it every day.” The Bhagavad Gita can be read at any time and under any condition. Even reading a verse or a part of a verse daily gives great benefit. From the Brisbane Bhakti Yoga Centre, we wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas and may the new year bring happiness and joy to all. Any comments or questions, please contact us at bhaktibrisbane2010@gmail.com.

UNDOUBTEDLY this Christmas you will hear on the radio or see on television or online the “Hallelujah chorus” which is part of “The Messiah” written by the German composer, George Friderick Handel. It is considered the most popular choral work in Western classical music tradition. The Messiah means “The Redeemer.” Handel, originally an opera composer, began to write works in English suitable for concert hall choirs, to help him earn an income after becoming bankrupt. In 1741 he wrote the unforgettable, 259 pages of “The Messiah” in 24 days which was first performed in Dublin in 1742. The power of The Messiah is seen in how the music creates the unfolding drama of the story of the life, death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. One local Brisbane conductor, Neil Mason from the Bach Society, has since 1987, lead the amateur choir of 65 people and a 17 piece orchestra for 21 performances of “The Messiah.” There was much hard work by both choir and orchestra but great satisfaction and fulfilment in performing “The Messiah”. Neil said, “It is as if the choir themselves become the crowd watching these events. So the performance becomes a real spiritual experience for both the choir and those listening.” At the end of his original manuscript, Handel wrote “SDG” - Soli Deo Gloria meaning " to God alone the glory" encouraging the belief that Handel wrote the music under divine inspiration in which, as he wrote the Hallelujah chorus” he saw all heaven before him." Whether this is true or not, it does not matter. Just listen to "The Messiah" this Christmas and be inspired!

A complete guide to Hindu rituals and routines... Continued from October issue 3. Why do we do Namaste? Indians greet each other with namaste. The two palms are placed together in front of the chest and the head bows whilst saying the word namaste. This greeting is for all - people younger than us, of our own age, those older than friends, even strangers and us. There are five forms of formal traditional greeting enjoined in the shaastras of which namaskaram is one. This is understood as prostration but it actually refers to paying homage as we do today when we greet each other with a namaste. Namaste could be just a casual or formal greeting, a cultural convention or an act of worship. However there is much more to it than meets the eye. In Sanskrit namah + te = namaste. It means I bow to you - my greetings, salutations or prostration to you. Namaha can also be literally interpreted as "na ma" (not mine). It has a spiritual significance of negating or reducing one’s ego in the presence of another. The real meeting between people is the meeting of their minds. When we greet another, we do so with namaste, which means, "may our minds meet," indicated by the folded palms placed before the chest. The bowing down of the head is a gracious form of extending friendship in love and humility The spiritual meaning is even deeper. The life force, the divinity, the Self or the Lord in me is the same in all. Recognizing this oneness with the meeting of the palms, we salute with head bowed the Divinity in the person we meet. That is why sometimes, we close our eyes as we do namaste

From Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad, India to a revered person or the Lord – as if to look within. The gesture is often accompanied by words like "Ram Ram,” "Jai Shri Krishna", "Namo Narayana", "Jai Siya Ram", "Om Shanti" etc - indicating the recognition of this divinity. When we know this significance, our greeting does not remain just a superficial gesture or word but paves the way for a deeper communion with another in an atmosphere of love and respect. 4. Why do we prostrate before parents and elders? Indians prostrate before their parents, elders, teachers and noble souls by touching their feet. The elder in turn blesses us by placing his or her hand on or over our heads. Prostration is done daily, when we meet elders and particularly on important occasions like the beginning of a new task, birthdays, festivals etc. In certain traditional circles, prostration is accompanied by abhivaadana, which serves to introduce oneself, announce one’s family and social stature. Man stands on his feet. Touching the feet in prostration is a sign of respect for the age, maturity, nobility and divinity that our elders personify. It symbolizes our recognition of their selfless love for us and the sacrifices they have done for our welfare. It is a way of humbly acknowledging the greatness of another. This tradition reflects the strong family ties, which has been one of India’s enduring strengths. The good wishes (Sankalpa) and

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blessings (aashirvaada) of elders are highly valued in India. We prostrate to seek them. Good thoughts create positive vibrations. Good wishes springing from a heart full of love, divinity and nobility have a tremendous strength. When we prostrate with humility and respect, we invoke the good wishes and blessings of elders, which flow in the form of positive energy to envelop us. This is why the posture assumed whether it is in the standing or prone position, enables the entire body to receive the energy thus received. The different forms of showing respect are : * Pratuthana: Rising to welcome a person. * Namaskaara: Paying homage in the form of namaste * Upasangrahan: Touching the feet of elders or teachers. * Shaashtaanga: Prostrating fully with the feet, knees, stomach, chest, forehead and arms touching the ground in front of the elder. * Pratyabivaadana: Returning a greeting. Rules are prescribed in our scriptures as to who should prostrate to whom. Wealth, family name, age, moral strength and spiritual knowledge in ascending order of importance qualified men to receive respect. This is why a king though the ruler of the land, would prostrate before a spiritual master. Epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata have many stories highlighting this aspect. 5. Why do we wear marks (tilak, pottu and the like) on the forehead? The tilak or pottu invokes a feeling of sanctity in the wearer and others. It is recognized as a religious mark. Its form and colour vary according to one’s caste, reliwww.indiantimes.com.au

gious sect or the form of the Lord worshipped. In earlier times, the four castes (based on varna or colour) Brahmana, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Sudra - applied marks differently. The brahmin applied a white chandan mark signifying purity, as his profession was of a priestly or academic nature. The kshatriya applied a red kumkum mark signifying valour as he belonged to warrior races. The vaishya wore a yellow kesar or turmeric mark signifying prosperity as he was a businessman or trader devoted to creation of wealth. The sudra applied a black bhasma, kasturi or charcoal mark signifying service as he supported the work of the other three divisions. Also Vishnu worshippers apply a chandan tilak of the shape of "U,” Shiva worshippers a tripundra of bhasma, Devi worshippers a red dot of kumkum and so on). The tilak cover the spot between the eyebrows, which is the seat of memory and thinking. It is known as the Aajna Chakra in the language of Yoga. The tilak is applied with the prayer - "May I remember the Lord. May this pious feeling pervade all my activities. May I be righteous in my deeds.” Even when we temporarily forget this prayerful attitude the mark on another reminds us of our resolve. The tilak is thus a blessing of the Lord and a protection against wrong tendencies and forces. The entire body emanates energy in the form of electromagnetic waves - the forehead and the subtle spot between the eyebrows especially so. That is why worry generates heat and causes a headache. The tilak and pottu cools the forehead, protects us and prevents energy loss. Sometimes

the entire forehead is covered with chandan or bhasma. Using plastic reusable "stick bindis" is not very beneficial, even though it serves the purpose of decoration. 6. Why do we not touch papers, books and people with the feet? To Indians, knowledge is sacred and divine. So it must be given respect at all times. Nowadays we separate subjects as sacred and secular. But in ancient India every subject - academic or spiritual was considered divine and taught by the guru in the gurukula. The custom of not stepping on educational tools is a frequent reminder of the high position accorded to knowledge in Indian culture. From an early age, this wisdom fosters in us a deep reverence for books and education. This is also the reason why we worship books, vehicles and instruments once a year on Saraswathi Pooja or Ayudha Pooja day, dedicated to the Goddess of Learning. In fact, each day before starting our studies, we pray: Saraswati namasthubhyam Varade kaama roopini Vidyaarambham karishyaami Sidhirbhavatu me sadaa O Goddess Saraswati, the giver of Boons and fulfiller of wishes, I prostrate to You before starting my studies. May you always fulfill me? 7. To touch another with the feet is considered an act of misdemeanor. Why is this so? Human body is regarded as the most beautiful, living breathing temple of the Lord! Therefore touching another with the feet is akin to disrespecting the divinity within him or her. This calls for an immediate apology, which is offered with reverence and humility. Continued next issue... Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Hazrat Umer - (Radi Yallahu Anhu) By Imam Muhammad Aslam Algester Mosque All praise is due to Allah(SWT) and peace and blessings to our beloved prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu’ alaihi wa Sallam) and be peace upon his family and his companions. This article highlights some great aspects of Hazrat Umar (radi yallahu anhu). Life Before Islam Umar (R.A.) belonged to "'Adi" family of Quraish tribe. In the 8th generation, his lineage joins with the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Abu Hafs was his patronymic name and "al-Faruq" his title given by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He was born in 583 A.C., about forty years before the great Hijrah. l. In his youth he was a famous wrestler and orator, and a spirited person. He was one among the few people in Mecca who knew reading and writing before Islam. His main occupation was business. Umar's acceptance of Islam It was the sixth year of Holy Prophet's mission when Quraish leaders called a meeting and asked a volunteer for the assassination of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) Umar offered himself for this job and everybody in the meeting exclaimed that he was the right person for it. While he was on his way with a sword in his hand he met Sa'd bin Abi Waqqas who enquired of him about his destination. Umar told him that he was going to murder the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). After some discussion Sa'd said, "You had better take care of your own family first. Your sister and brother-in-law both have accepted Islam". Hearing this Umar changed his direction and went straight to his sister's house. When Hadrat Umar knocked at the door, they were studying the Holy Qur'an from Hadrat Khabbab (R.A.). His sister Fatimah was frightened on hearing Umar’s voice and tried to hide the portion of the Holy Qur'an she was reciting. When Umar entered the house he enquired about their Islam and on finding that they had accepted Islam, he first fell upon his brother-in-law and beat him severely. When his sister intervened he smote her so violently on her face that it bled profusely. On this his sister burst out: "Do whatever you like, we are determined to die as Muslims". When Umar saw his sister bleeding, he cooled down and felt ashamed. He loved Fatimah very much but could not tolerate her conversion to Islam. However, deeply moved, Umar asked her to show the pages on which the Holy Qur'an was written. But she was, after all, Umar’s sister and told him straight, "You can not touch it unless you take a bath and make yourself clean" He washed his body and then read the leaves. That was the beginning of Surah Ta Ha (Chapter 20 of the Holy Qur'an). When he came to the verse: "Lo! I even I, am Allah, there is no god except Me. So serve Me and establish Salat for My remembrance". (20:14) Umar exclaimed, "Surely this is the Word of Allah. Take me to Muhammad (Sallallahu ’alaihi wa Sallam)". On hearing this Hadrat Khabbab (R.A.), who had hidden himself in the house, came out from inside and said, "0 "Umar! Glad tidings for you. It seems that the prayer of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa Sallam) which he said last night has been answered in your favour. He had prayer to Allah: "O Allah, strengthen Islam with either Umar b. Khattab or Umar b. Hisham whomsoever Thou pleaseth". Umar then went to the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu ’alaihi wa Sallam). On seeing him, the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) asked him, "Umar! what brings you here”? He said, "I am here to accept Islam". Umar (R.A.) gets the title of "Al-Faruq" The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) gave him the title of "al-Faruq" i.e., the one who makes a distinction between the "Right" (Haqq) and the "Wrong" (Batil). Umar's services to Islam before his Khilafat (Caliphate) Hadrat Umar (R.A.) had great love for Allah and the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). he gave half of his wealth in the path of Allah. He was next to Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) to sacrifice his belongings for the cause of Allah. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) also had a deep love for him. Once Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

he remarked, "were a prophet to come after me, he would have been Umar". In another Hadith mentioned in Bukhari, Hadrat Abu Hurairah (R.A.) narrated that the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) said, "In Bani Isra'il (Israelites) there were people who were not prophets but talked to Allah. Were anyone in my Ummah (people) like those persons, he would be Umar". The death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) was a great shock to him, and he could not believe it until Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) reminded him of a clear verse of the Holy Qur'an on the subject. He then went to the Council Hall along with Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) where the people of Medina had assembled to select the First Caliph. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) was the first person to pledge loyalty (Bai'at) at the hand of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), and then helped him throughout the duration of his rule. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) as the Second Caliph of Islam As described in connection with the life of Hadrat Abu-Bakr, during his illness he consulted the "Shura" about the next "Khalifah" and then gave his decision in favour of Hadrat Umar (R.A.) who took the charge of Caliphate after the death of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) on 22nd of Jamadiuth-Thani 13 A.H. (23rd Aug. 634 A.C.).Umar (R.A.) followed fully the ways of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and the policy of his predecessor with his characteristic zeal and vigour. It was his strict adherence to the "Sunnah" of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) . His caliphate marked the "Golden Age" of Islam. The Severe Famine & Plague In the year 17-18 A.H., Hijaz (Northern Arabia) and Syria were faced by a severe famine and drought. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) took steps to get food supplies from Egypt, part of which had been conquered by Hadrat'Amr bin al-'As (R.A.). He sent three big ships of grains to Medina which were unloaded in the presence of Hadrat Umar (R.A.). He himself distributed the grains among the needy. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) did not take any delicacy (butter etc.) during the famine period. When he was requested to take care of his health he said, "If I don't taste suffering, how can I know the sufferings of others?" When the famine became intolerable he prayed to Allah in a big gathering of Muslims. It has been narrated that the prayers had not even finished when rains started to pour down. Martyrdom of Hadrat Umar (R.A.) The glorious rule of Hadrat Umar (R.A.) came to an end with his death on Wednesday the 27th of Dhil Hijjah, the year 23 A.H. (643 A.C.) when he was 61 years old. There was a Persian slave of Hadrat Mughirah bin Shu'bah, named Abu Lu' Lu' Firoze. One day he complained about the burden his master had imposed upon him. The complaint was not genuine, hence Hadrat Umar (R.A.) ignored it. Next day, early in the morning when Hadrat Umar (R.A.) went to Masjid to perform Fajr Salat, the slave who was hiding in a corner, attacked him with a Dagger. The injuries were so serious that the Caliph died the next morning. Before his death the Muslims asked him about his successor, he appointed a panel of six persons, Hadrat 'Uthma Zubair, Talha, Sa'd bin Waqqas and 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Auf (R.A.) to select a "Khalifah" from amongst them within three days after him. He requested Hadrat Aisha (R.A.) for permission for his burial by the side of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Though she had reserved that place for herself but on Umar's request she gave it to him where he was buried. Review of Hadrat Umar's service to Islam The period of Hadrat Umar's caliphate undoubtedly is the "Golden Age" of Islam in every respect. He was a man of extraordinary genius who not only moulded the destiny of the nation but made history of his own. He followed the footsteps of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) to the fullest extent. He was not only a conqueror but also an exemplary administrator who originated an efficient system of administration, and thus he was the real founder of political system of Islam ). He enforced Divine Law (Shari'ah) as the code of a

newly formed International Islamic State; he safeguarded the internal safety by introducing the police force: he gave stipends to the poor; he constructed cantonments and forts for the safety of peoples.; he founded new cities for the growth of culture and civilisation; he improved agriculture and economics of the State; he founded the educational system in the State. Character He was a very pious Muslim. His success lay in two things-fear of Allah and his love for the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He never used even oil from the Bait-ul-Mal (Public Treasury) to burn a lamp at night for his personal needs. Whenever he finished the official work he put off the lamp. He used to patrol in the city at night to find out the needs and requirements, and conditions of the people. He did not hesitate to take his wife to work as a midwife for a poor woman. The salary he got from the Bait-ul-Mal was so low that it was hardly enough for him and his family's needs. When some of the eminent Muslims requested him to increase the amount he, said, "The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) has left a standard by his personal example. I must follow him". Hadrat Umar was the most just ruler in the Islamic History. All the citizens, including the Caliph himself, were equal before law. Once he appeared before a court at Medina to clarify his position against a complaint. The Qadi (Judge) wanted to stand in his honour, but he did not allow him to do so, so that there would be no distinction between him and an ordinary person before Law. This is the spirit of political system. In short he was the best example of an ideal character, and was the greatest "Khalifah" of Islam after Abu Bakr (R.A.). He selflessly devoted his whole energy to serve the Ummah.. Peoples will always be indebted to him for his great achievements. As a matter of fact a separate book is required to describe his character and his services to the state. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) as a great scholar Before the advent of Islam there was no tradition in Arabia of reading or writing. There were only seventeen people among Quraish who could read or write at the time when the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) started to receive Divine revelations. Hadrat Umar was one of those seventeen persons. His writing and lectures are still found in some old books. He was also interested in poetry and sometimes he composed verses. Umar (R.A.) was one of the most fluent Quraish. Arabic knowing persons can appreciate the fluency of his writings and addresses. Many of his sayings became aphorisms of literature. He was a great Jurist and Theologian . Because of the fear of making any mistake he did not quote many Ahadith (Sayings of the Holy Prophet) even though he was fully conversant with them. He never allowed a person (companion) to quote any Hadith which was not well known without producing any attestator in support of it. If somebody quoted a Hadith before him which he had never heard, he at once asked him to bring a witness failing which he would be punished. He was expert in deriving laws from the Holy Qur'an and the Hadith. Hazrat Umar (R.A.) was very strict in ensuring that no Muslims forced any nonMuslim to accept Islam. Through his advice, letters and addresses he made it clear to all the Muslims that they had to adhere to the ways of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) which was the only method to preach Islam. Muslims and non-Muslims were treated alike. His attitude towards the non-Muslims was very tolerant. He allowed the Jews and the Christians, living in the Peninsula, to stay there if they so wished and nobody would interfere in their religious affairs. To those who desired to migrate he ensured safe journey up to the borders. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) also gave compensation for their properties and other facilities. Islamic Republic based upon "Shura" As stated before all matters were decided after consultations with the "Shura", the Advisory Council during his time. There were three main types of "Shura". The first "Shura" consisted of very prominent and popular Companions like: Hadrat Uthman, Ali, 'Abdur Rahman bin Auf, Mu'adh bin Jabal, Ubayy bin Ka'b, Zaid bin Thabit, Talha and Zubair (R.A.). They were permanent members of the "Shura". All the important matters were decided in consulta-

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tion with these persons. This "Shura" could be named as the Higher Advisory Council. The second "Shura" was the General Advisory Council which consisted of many companions from amongst the Ansar and Muhajirin (R.A.). . All matters of general interest were discussed with this "Shura". In this "Shura" were also included the chiefs of various clans and tribes. The third type of "Shura" ranked in between the Higher and the General Advisory Councils. It consisted of some selected Companions among the Muhajirin and Ansar. Matters of special interest were put before the "Shura" Whenever a "Shura" was called everyone of its members was fully allowed to give his opinion without any fear or hesitation. On various occasions Hadrat Umar said, "I am but an ordinary person like you. I can only request you to co-operate in the work with which I have been entrusted by you". The way to call the General "Shura" Since the Special "Shura" comprised only few members there was no special way to call it. The way to call the General Council of Advisors was that a man used to call the following words loudly: "As-Salatu Jami'ah," in the Prophet's Mosque from at high place. Hearing this call the people would know that a meeting of the "Shura" has been called and assembled in the mosque. Hadrat Umar first of all offered two raka'at Nafl (optional) Salat and then put the matter before the "Shura" Every person was allowed to give his opinion. Decisions were usually taken on the basis of unanimity or sometimes by majority. Freedom of Opinion Freedom of opinion was not only allowed at the time of meeting of the "Shura" but on all occasions. As a matter of fact Hadrat Umar’s period was an exemplary period as far as this principle of the democratic way of government is concerned. There is no other example in history when people gave their opinion so freely, and criticised the ruler (i.e., the Government) so openly. The Caliph had himself introduced this principle, novel in those days, through his addresses. A part of one of his addresses is quoted as under "0 people! I am but a trustee of your property and wealth, like a person who is trustee of the property and wealth of an orphan child. Had I been rich I would not have taken any allowance for my services. In case I needed I would have accepted only to the extent of the need. Friends! you have certain rights over me and you are fully allowed to claim your rights anytime. One of such rights is: Don't allow me to misappropriate the Indemnity Tax and the Booty. You have the right to check that the poor, the needy and disabled person amongst you should get allowances for their livelihood. You have the right to make sure that the borders of the State are safe and that you are not in danger." Introduction of Islamic Calendar For the first time in the history of Islam, Islamic calendar was introduced in the present form by Hadrat Umar (R.A.). The date of start of this calendar was fixed as the date of the "Hijrah" (Migration) of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Thus the calendar is also known as the Hijrah Calendar. Umar's (R.A.) Period was the GOLDEN AGE of ISLAMIC History Thus we see that Hadrat Umar’s period was the Golden Age of the Islamic history when Islam was practised in its true form. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) Initiated 41 good practices during his period, which were based upon the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam). These are known as "Awliat-i-Umar (the Initiations Of Umar). The details can be seen in the books of Islamic History like Tabari, Ibn-i-Athir, and Tarikh-i-Khulafa etc. ). The words of the Holy Prophet are very true "IF THERE WERE TO BE A PROPHET AFTER ME HE WOULD HAVE BEEN UMAR IBN AL-KHATTAB." (Tirmidhi) AND "AMONG THE NATIONS BEFORE YOUR TIME THERE HAVE BEEN INSPIRED PEOPLE (WHO WERE NOT PROPHETS), AND IF THERE IS ONE AMONG MY PEOPLE HE IS UMAR". (Bukhari and Muslim) May Allah (Ta'la) give us the Hidayat to follow the footsteps of our beloved prophet and his khulafaa (successors), Ameen.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES,December, 2011 — 29

Real Estate News Practical tips to pay off your mortgage THERE are several ways to reduce the overall cost of your mortgage. You should speak to a financial planner about way to pays off your loan quicker. Make your mortgage repayments more comfortable or repay your loan quicker than originally planned by: • Paying as much as you can early in the loan. By making lump sum payments (from grants or personal savings) and keeping your regular repayments as high as possible early in the loan, you reduce the principal quickly, meaning you pay interest on a smaller amount later in the loan. • Shortening the term of your loan in any way you can. You´ll pay interest over fewer years and pay less over the term of your loan. • Making payments more often. As interest is usually calculated daily on the balance of your loan, making more frequent repayments reduces compound interest on the loan. • Keeping your repayments the same when interest rates go down. • Cutting down on one small luxury item a week. A couple of dollars a week can potentially save you thousands dur-

ing the life of your loan. Try using a mortgage calculator to see how much difference a small increase in your repayments can make over the full term of your loan. • Trying to pay off the mortgage before you build up your savings. You will almost always be better off paying your savings into your mortgage rather than earning interest on a separate savings account, if the property you are paying off is your primary residence (i.e. not an investment property). • Using any financial windfalls or spare money from a tax refund to repay your mortgage. Be sure to consider any penalties for extra repayments and if you have a redraw facility on your loan. • Considering getting a reducing mortgage. With most mortgages you pay mainly interest in the early years and later you start paying off the principal. In contrast, with a reducing mortgage, the principal is included in your monthly repayments from the very beginning. This means repayments start high, but as time goes on, your remaining principal and your interest payments get smaller. fairtrading.qld.gov.au

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Real Estate News Capped rents would be disastrous for affordability reversed in less than two years. The graph pictured shows that, despite rents increasing over the longer term, renting is still a more affordable option that buying a home. The proportion of income required to meet rent payments is currently 24.8 per cent while the proportion of income required to meet loan repayments is 34.6 per cent. Rental affordability has been relatively stable, at around 25.0 per cent of family income, for the past three years with some slightly improvement in affordability in recent times. "The proposal is not sustainable and when it is reversed, rents will soar. This is an extremely important issue and one that should not be taken lightly," continued Ms Bennett.

REAL Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) President Ms Pamela Bennett has called on the Labor Party to reject the proposal to be considered at the national conference to cap rents in Australia, saying that the implementation of the proposal would be disastrous for rental affordability and the property market. The proposal is that Labor will, "Monitor the rent costs in the private rental market and examine mechanisms to maintain affordability such as the introduction of rent capping legislation." "To cap rents in the private rental market would be counterproductive to the objectives of improving affordability. It would reduce the supply of rental housing which would be detrimental to rental affordability," said Ms Bennett. If the proposal was implemented, the impact could be similar to the outcome of the Hawke Government's decision in 1985 to deny investors tax deductibility of interest payments. The market response led to an undersupply of rental property and escalating rents, before the decision was

"Rather than capping rents in the private rental market, we need to be focussing on increasing supply in both the public and private rental market," concluded Ms Bennett. RIEA

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Ipswich libraries offer school holiday fun AN action-packed program will help to keep the holiday boredom at bay at Ipswich's libraries this summer. Ipswich City Council Tourism and Libraries Committee Chairperson Councillor David Pahlke said bookings were now open for the Ipswich Library and Information Service's upcoming December and January school holiday program. “Council is always keen to find activities for young people to enjoy during their school break and we encourage children of all ages to take part in the exciting program we are offering across our three library branches at Ipswich, Redbank Plains and Redbank Plaza,” Cr Pahlke said. “There is something for everyone including art, craft and confectionery workshops, Movie Mania sessions, worm farms and stamp collecting. “All the sessions are free, except the movies which attract a small fee of less than $2 each. Movies on offer are popular releases such as Rio, Gulliver’s Travels and The Search for Santa Paws. “It’s an affordable way to entertain the family and escape the summer heat in a relaxing library environment. “The program is very popular so bookings are essential.” School holiday activities at the Ipswich libraries include: Festive decoration workshops Details: Learn to make simple and beautiful decorations. Cost: Free Age: 6-12 years old Date: Tuesday, December 13 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Redbank Plaza Library, 1 Collingwood Drive, Redbank Date: Wednesday, December 14 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Date: Wednesday, December 14 Time: 1.30pm-2.30pm Venue: Redbank Plains Library, Moreton

Avenue, Redbank Plains Confectionery creations workshop Details: Learn to make edible gifts and yummy festive food (please notify staff of any allergies at time of booking). Cost: Free Age: 10-18 years old Date: Thursday, December 15 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Redbank Plaza Library, 1 Collingwood Drive, Redbank Date: Thursday, December 15 Time: 1.30pm-2.30pm Venue: Redbank Plains Library, Moreton Avenue, Redbank Plains Date: Tuesday, December 20 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Movie Mania: The Search for Santa Paws Details: Magic dogs and an elf team up with two children to rescue Santa who has lost his memory. Rated G, 89 minutes. Date: Thursday, December 15 Time: 10am-11.30am Venue: Barry Jones Auditorium, Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Cost: $1.40 per ticket (payable at time of booking) Online chat with Morris Gleitzman Details: Join in an online chat with one of Australia’s favourite children’s authors, Morris Gleitzman, author of Toad Rage, Once, Misery Guts and the Wicked series. Morris will be chatting to people from across Australia thanks to the State Library of Queensland and the Summer Reading Program. Date: Monday, December 19 Time: 10am-11am Venue: Barry Jones Auditorium, Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Stamp workshop Details: Budding philatelists (stamp collectors) are invited to take part in a fun and educational workshop about stamp making and collecting. Bring your own stamp collection if you have one!

Astrology Aries “The Ram” “The Go-Getter” March 21 - April 20 You can be a bit of a hothead so focus on your end-game and refuse to rise to the bait, particularly on or near the 1st and 29th. If a plan does not work out the alternative could prove even better. On New Year’s Eve, you’ll be stepping into a whole new era. Taurus “The Bull” “The Builder” April 21 - May 22 A financial glitch can be fixed and a strained relationship healed. On the 25th, Jupiter gets back on track, resolving problems and boosting your ego. A journey and a celebration look to be in order, and, one way or another, your world view is getting bigger and brighter. Gemini “The Twins” “The Magician” May 23 - June 21 An eclipse in your sign (10th) brings a situation full circle or sends you a wild card in the form of a totally unexpected development. Maybe it is time to change a habit of a lifetime. It could also be time to recognize who is worthy of your love, and who is not. Cancer “The Crab” “The Caterer” June 22 - July 22 With Pluto at the helm it seems you are embarking on a major de-cluttering exercise. Making room for house-guests notwithstanding, you need room to grow in personal and professional terms. This transformational theme is strongest at the beginning and end of the month. Leo “The Lion” “The Boss” July 23 August 22 Sparkle is back on the menu, and not just on the

Christmas tree. There could be many reasons why you’re bringing out the bubbly but a new arrival, whether of the family kind or something a little more entrepreneurial, could be number one. Don’t look back: your future is in good hands.

come with knobs on. You are ready for change so don’t be surprised at the sudden turn of events on or near the 10th. Cut back the spending but blow the budget on gifts of the heart.

Virgo “The Virgin” “The Accountant” August 23 - Sept 22 You have more drive than the energizer bunny so use it wisely. Market your talents and set a determined course to achieving your objectives. You can impress the powers that be and put in a star performance. Even a minor set-back will serve your best interests.

Capricorn “The Goat” “The Mayor” Dec 23 - January 30 After this eventful year, can anything faze you? You have an opportunity to find out on or near the 22nd. Christmas has a very different look but however much the people or the places change, true love never does. And, thanks to Venus, this you may also discover by New Year.

Libra “The Scales”“The Councellor” September 23 - October 22 All journeys take you to a different place – both in the sense of travel and experience – but when you go under Pluto and a lunar eclipse, they can totally transform your outlook. Something to consider throughout the course of this eye-opening, opportunityladen month.

Aquarius “The Water Bearer” “The Innovator” Jan 21 - Feb 19 Communications require patience. Either your messages have missed the mark or someone else has lost the plot. By the 14th, however, life is straightening out, and, with Venus in your sign, romance could be the reason this is one of the best Christmases ever.

Scorpio “The Hydra” “The Psycho Analyst” Oct 23 Nov 21 Often an expensive month this December sets a new ceiling. There could be some unexpected drains on your resources – financial and otherwise – but there will be compensations, most probably in the form of loving moments and surprise romantic gestures. Sagittarius “The Archer” “The Teacher” Nov 22 - Dec 22 December is always a month of endings and beginnings but this year they

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

Pisces “The Fish” “The Social Worker” Feb 20 - March 20 People are either falling all over themselves to praise you to the skies or criticising your every move. Maybe both. Take it all in your stride and avoid a showdown, especially on or near the 10th. Things will look very different by the second week of January. 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.

Cost: Free Age: 6-12 years old Date: Tuesday, January 10 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South St, Ipswich Worm farm workshop Details: Join Dr Happy’s Worm Farm Workshop and get your very own worm farm to take home. Cost: Free Age: 6-12 years old Date: Thursday, January 12 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Redbank Plaza Library, 1 Collingwood Drive, Redbank Date: Thursday, January 12 Time: 2pm-3pm Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South St, Ipswich City Council Date: Friday, January 13 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Redbank Plains Library, Moreton Avenue, Redbank Plains Date: Friday, January 13 Time: 2pm-3pm Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Art workshops Details: Are you into InuYasha, Hayao Miyazaki, CLAMP, wizards, witches, dragons or knights? Come along to one of our art workshops for tips, tricks and handy hints to get your art to really shine. Cost: Free Age: 10-18 years old Manga workshop Date: Tuesday, January 17 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Redbank Plaza Library, 1 Collingwood Drive, Redbank

Watercolours workshop Date: Wednesday, January 18 Time: 10.30am-11.30am Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Fantasy art workshop Date: Thursday, January 19 Time: 2pm-3pm Venue: Redbank Plains Library, Moreton Avenue, Redbank Plains Movie Mania: Rio Details: When Blu, a domesticated macaw from small-town Minnesota, meets the fiercely independent Jewel, he takes off on an adventure to Rio de Janeiro with this bird of his dreams. Featuring the voices of Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway, and Jane Lynch. Rated G, 96 minutes. Date: Thursday, January 12 Time: 10am-11.30am Venue: Barry Jones Auditorium, Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Cost: $1.40 per ticket (payable at time of booking) Movie Mania: Gulliver’s Travels Details: Travel writer Lemuel Gulliver takes an assignment in Bermuda, but ends up on the island of Liliput where he towers over its tiny citizens. Starring Jack Black, Jason Segel and Emily Blunt. Rated PG, 85 minutes. Date: Thursday, January 19 Time: 10am-11.30am Venue: Ipswich Library, 40 South Street, Ipswich Cost: $1.40 per ticket (payable at time of booking) For more details about all the activities on offer or to make a booking, phone the Ipswich Library on 3810 6756 or visit the website at www.library.ipswich.qld.gov.au

Motorists urged to take care these school holidays POLICE Minister Neil Roberts and Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson announced on December 5 the start of the Christmas Holiday Road Safety campaign, while also unveiling four new high performance yellow coloured ‘Fatal 4’ vehicles. The Christmas campaign will commence on Wednesday December 7 and continue until Friday January 27, 2012 to incorporate the back to school week. Police Minister Neil Roberts said sadly, 247 lives had already been lost on Queensland roads this year. “With the end of the year only four weeks away, we plan to do everything possible to stop the suffering and stop this number from rising over the coming holiday period. “During last year’s Queensland Christmas holiday road safety campaign period, 32 people were killed and more than 800 people were admitted to hospital as a result of traffic crashes. “These four new high performance vehicles will join the Queensland Police Service fleet today and will be deployed across the state over the Christmas holiday period. “The yellow coloured ‘Fatal 4’ vehicles are highly visible and designed to stand out on the roads as a reminder for all Queenslanders that driver and passenger safety should be always be a priority.” Mr Roberts said currently the 2011 road toll was 18 higher than the same time last year. “I urge all drivers to take extra care and responsibility for safe driving practices so that families and our emergency services workers do not have to experience the trauma of serious injuries and death these holidays.” “Follow the simple rules of - Don’t drink and drive; don’t speed; don’t drive tired; always wear a seatbelt; and drive to the road conditions and you will greatly reduce your chances of being involved in a crash.”

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Police Commissioner Atkinson acknowledged the Christmas season was traditionally a busy time on the state's roads, with many families taking the opportunity to travel. “We want everyone to arrive at their destination and return home, safely. The best way to stay safe is to drive to the conditions, not take unnecessary risks and obey the road rules.” “Road safety is a shared responsibility. While police will employ all available enforcement tools to deter the risks taken by some drivers, the message is clear: all road users must take responsibility when they use the road network” "Don’t risk your life or the lives of others. Comply with the road rules, support them yourself, encourage others to drive and act safely on our roads but also be patient and tolerant“ Commissioner Atkinson said. Chief Superintendent Bob Gee from State Traffic Support Branch said last year’s reduced road toll shows what can be achieved and how each driver can make a difference. “Police will be out in force over the entire school holiday period employing a suite of road safety strategies throughout all regions in Queensland.” “That includes utilising covert and marked mobile speed cameras, random breath testing operations, the drug testing unit, marked and unmarked police patrols, organised traffic operations, deployment of fixed speed cameras and utilising the automatic number plate recognition system.” “The new yellow highly visible cars will also be deployed by State Traffic Task Force throughout the state and might be seen by the community anywhere, anytime. “These cars will serve as a reminder to the community that careless or reckless drivers will be detected by police, anywhere, anytime. Drive safe this holiday season; don’t let your trip finish in a dead end.” Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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WHATÊS ON! AUM - Arya Pratinidhai Sabha of Qld Inc. Vedic Yajna (Havan) No Yajna has been planned for December in Halls. Visit out website for latest News and photo gallery. www.aryasamajqueensland.com 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. ----------------------------------------------------------------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 Bhakti Yoga Centre 28 King Edward Avenue, Darra. Most Saturdays (5.30pm - 8.30pm) and festivals. For enquiries please contact: Prakash Raniga on 3715 7570 or email: bhaktibrisbane@gmail.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: 6:00pm-7:00pm: Kids Bible Study, 7:00pm-09:00pm: Intercessory Prayer Sunday Schedules: 10:00am-01:00pm: Worship in Truth & Spirit, Bible Study, Prayer, etc. Email: prakashjacob@yahoo.com Ph: 07-31625207, 0413347562 ----------------------------------------------------------------Brisbane Multinational Church 53 Telegraph Road, Bald Hills Special times of prayer for the sick (Diabetics, Cancer Sufferers, Asthmatics etc) every Sunday during the Church Service. 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 ----------------------------------------------------------------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 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 Raymond Saran 3290 0653, Secretary Surendra Prasad OAM 3849 5435 or Treasurer Shui Shankar 3841 3058 ----------------------------------------------------------------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 3878 4094 ----------------------------------------------------------------Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland - Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir 1173 Mount Cotton Rd, Burbank. First Sunday South African group from 2pm-4pm. Every second Friday Bhajans by Youth 7.00pm to 8.00pm. Every Sunday pravechan by Pundit Harsh Tripati. Dinner is provided after the service & all are welcome. 4.00pm to 6.00pm. For further information contact: Suren 0447 762 520; Rajesh 0422 344 046; Anil 0431 026 714. ----------------------------------------------------------------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 879 414 ----------------------------------------------------------------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

34 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

Chinmaya Mission Australia DEC 11 / JAN 12

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. ----------------------------------------------------------------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 Nallamilli Prakash; Treasurer – Dr Prasada Rao Nagulapalli; Secretary – Mrs Rama Kanchibotla; Executive Committee Members – Dr Meher Prasad Chintamuneedi; and Mr Manoj Kumar Vemula. For a list of upcoming events and membership information, please contact: Secretary, Mrs Rama Kanchibotla (Ph.3378 1062, email: rama_kanchibotla@yahoo.com.au) or President, Dr Nallamilli Prakash (Ph. 3356 6456, email nal_prakash@yahoo.com.au) ----------------------------------------------------------------Sai Saileshwara Mandiram 1614 Sandgate Road, Virginia. Every Thursday 7.30pm - Aarthi, meditation. Enquiries contact: Sailesh or Marina on 3266 3192. www.saisamaj.org Email: saisaileshwara@optusnet.com.au ----------------------------------------------------------------Sant Mat Regular Meeting (Sant Baljit Singh) Kelvin Grove. Sundays 3.30pm. Contact Dr Sandeep Gupta on 07 3123 9440 or sandeep@santmat.net.au ----------------------------------------------------------------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>

Chinmaya Mission Australia conducts family programs every Sunday morning from 10am-11.45am at Holland Park State High School. Balavihar 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 for details.

Lotus Ashram

have the following acrtivities. * Weekly Yoga and Meditation workshops * Regular Yoga and Meditation workshops *Monthly Shiv Saadhana * Children’s classes * Music classes * Meditation Bliss at Saadhana Shivir (over 4 days and nights) * April 2012 spiritual retreat (over 3 days and nights) * Lectures and Pravachans - Ashram will host a variety of lectures and pravachans in the coming months. More details will appear later. If you would like more information on the above, please ring Jayesh Dayal on 0412 278 808 or call Rajan Kirion 0422 671 990 or send an email to ambashramm@gmail.com. Vistit website for details (note website may be unavailable at times due to maintenance reasons) www.lotusashram.org

World By Night

TAKE a trip around the world in Brisbane’s

own backyard. Brisbane Multicultural Arts Centre (BEMAC) are pleased to bring you their annual showcase event with music from across the globe. Experience both traditional and contemporary world music, dance to the beat of the African drum or join in on Bollywood dancing under the stars. Sample delicious food from across the globe and do your last minute Christmas shopping with gifts with a world flavour. DATE: Friday, 23 Dec 2011- 5.30pm to 9.30pm VENUE: King George Square, 100 Adelaide Street, BRISBANE W: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Bollywood & Entertainment Kareena will announce Bollywood great Dev Anand dies at 88 marriage date post AGENT VINOD release SINCE the time Saif Ali Khan's darling sister, Soha Ali revealed about the much in love couple Saif and Kareena's marriage plans next year, there have been huge speculations that the Btown's much talked about couple will tie the knot by FebruaryMarch. However when confirmed about the big news, Kareena said as of now the duo are concentrating on their upcoming release AGENT VINOD, which will hit the screens in 2012 and will announce the wedding date only after the release of the film. 'Well, both Saif and I are eagerly waiting for AGENT VINOD release. Once it releases we will surely announce the date,' says Kareena in a matter of fact tone. Meanwhile Kareena is busy with her yet another film EK MAIN AUR EKK TU starring Imran Khan alongside and produced by Karan Johar. 'I am tying the knot with Kareena till February when the upcoming film EK MAIN

AUR EKK TU is set to release. She would be busy with the pre and post release promotions for the entire month of February. Her dates are booked with me...And in March we will be celebrating the film. (winks),' Karan adds jokingly. Source: GS

MUMBAI: Movie actor and director Dev Anand, known for his joie de vivre as Bollywoods “evergreen hero”, has died aged 88, an aide said, bringing the end to an era of Indian cinema. Anand, whose last film, Chargesheet, was released in September, was in London with his son, Suneil, when he died on Saturday, 3 December from a heart attack, aide Mohan Churiwala said. “He was never sick. Even when I spoke to him last evening, he sounded fine – hale and hearty.” Anand is also survived by his wife, Kalpana Karthik. Born in Lahore, Anand travelled to Mumbai to work as a clerk in a government office in 1944 and got his first break two years later in the film Hum Ek Hain . He turned director soon afterwards and went on to deliver a string of hits. CID, Guide, Hare Rama Hare Krishna and Jewel Thief are movies considered part of Bollywoods essential viewing catalogue, and Anand's unique acting style is widely celebrated. He is said to have been inspired by Hollywood’s Gregory Peck, but his own casual style and the signature nod of his head while delivering lines were often imitated by fans. Anand refused to retire from Bollywood, often telling interviewers he would work till his last breath. He was working on a new film at the time of his death. President, PM, leaders express grief NEW DELHI: President Pratibha Patil condoled the death of leg-

endary actor and Dadasaheb Phalke award winner Dev Anand, saying he was an actor of distinction who entertained a generation of film lovers as the evergreen romantic hero. She said that in his death, the film industry had lost a creative talent and a man who personified the spirit of graceful ageing with dignity. Vice-President Hamid Ansari expressed deep grief at the actor's death, remembering the intense passion for films and dedication to acting, direction and production of films. "His absence from the world of cinema is a terrible loss,'' he said. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, in his message said the country had honoured the legend with Padma Bhushan and several other awards, reflecting the impact and place he made for himself in the hearts of the film going public. "Dev Anand leaves behind an extremely rich repertoire of acclaimed films and his fans will forever remember the roles he essayed in film classics like Guide, Hum Dono and Prem Pujari," Singh said.

"In the passing away of the legendary actor, the Indian film industry has lost one of its most endearing heroes," he added. The PM said Dev saab was a great artist who "entertained generations for over five decades as the enduring romantic of Indian cinema". Congress chief Sonia Gandhi also expressed grief. "He will be remembered for a long time for his unique personality and performance," she said in a condolence message. I&B minister Ambika Soni said, "Dev Anand symbolized the creative genius of Indian cinema. With his multifaceted skills, he emerged as an iconic figure and the evergreen star was accepted across generations.' Paying tribute to the actor-filmmaker, BJP veteran L K Advani said the Bollywood icon had stood for democracy when emergency was imposed in the country. "I knew his family well. When democracy was suspended, Dev saab and his brothers supported democracy," he said. BJP chief Nitin Gadkari said, "He was one of the most versatile film personalities of Bollywood," adding he has always been a great fan of Dev Anand and his death was a personal loss to him. Senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad said Dev Anand was a true icon who inspired several generations. "I deeply mourn the demise of legendary actor Dev Anand. He was a true icon who inspired generations and generations of Indians and remained young and exuberant till his last breath. He died completely at peace with himself," Prasad said. Source: IT & TI

Bollywood is not a big bad world: Vidya Balan CONTRARY of what people perceive of Bollywood, Vidya Balan says she doesn't feel the industry is a “big bad world”. “I had heard film industry is a big bad world, but I lead my world my way and on my own terms. I was very clear from the beginning and had made it a point that others also know that I was only and only interested in work and nothing more than that,” said Vidya in the capital Saturday 3 December, attending the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit. “I became an actor to live life of many actors. I have dabbled in all the mediums. I have done ad-films, I have done television and I have done films, because that is what I wanted to do - be an actor. I grew up as a film fan. I had a burning desire to show my skills to the world,” she added.

The 32-year-old also feels that newcomers need to keep their foot down and be clear with their own thinking process. “I don't think it's a bad world. Now that I have been here, I can say this with my experience. One does get to hear about other peoples' experience, stories of exploitation, casting couch. But trust me, all is in your own hands. It all depends on how you present yourself and approach,” she said. Filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar, who too was one of the speakers at the conference, shared the same sentiments. “I completely agree with Vidya, every industry has an underbelly. It is important for you to make your own choice and stand for it,” said Farhan.

Top of form - after Kareena now Anjali to work with Aamir-Imran TO strike gold twice happens rarely in a lifetime and Anjali Lavania is the new girl on the block who has managed to do so! She has shot for a Titan watch commercial opposite Aamir Khan as well as Levis jeans commercial opposite Imran Khan. This only being a reminder of the fact that she is the only model/actress after Kareena Kapoor to have worked with the mamu-bhanja duo. But Anjali is definitely making her presence felt by doing something like this just at the beginning of her career. "She has sheer determination and great competitive spirit to keep her ground strong out here in this industry," says a close friend. Anjali is a former Kingfisher Calendar Girl who discovered modeling as her forte at a very early age. She was spotted by the ace photographer Atul Kasbekar. Anjali who has modeled in New York, Los Angeles and Lakme Fashion week, will soon be making her debut in a Telugu film PANJAA opposite Pawan Kalyan. Source: GS

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 - 35

Bollywood & Entertainment

Porfirio bags golden peacock for Best film at IFFI THE Columbian film ly excited to be there. He said 'Porfirio' directed by that creative content needs to be Alejandro Landes and proshared across the nation and outduced by Franciso Aljure has side. Festival Director, Shankar bagged the coveted Golden Mohan said that the International Peacock Award for the Best Film Festival of India is an Film at the 42nd International endeavour to bring in the best of Film Festival of India 2011, cinematic talents from across the while the Silver Peacock world and gives an opportunity Award for the Best Director to filmmakers to showcase their went to Asghar Farhadi for his creative talents. He thanked the film 'Nader and Simin-A jury members, delegates and Seperation'. The Indian film officials for making the festival a 'Adaminte Makan Abu' won success. the Special Jury Award. The eleven day cinematic Director of the film Salim extravaganza which began on Ahamed received the award November 23rd with the screenwhich consists of a Silver ing of the Portuguese film 'The Peacock, Certificate and a Consul of Bordeaux' witnessed Cash Prize of Rs. 15 Lakhs, in the screening of a variety of the presence of the Union diverse films from India and Minister of State for from across the world. Special Information and Broadcasting attractions of the 42nd Choudhury Mohan Jatua, the • Film star Surya presenting Best Film Award for film Porfirio International Film Festival of Chief Minister of Goa, to director Alejandro Landes and Producer Francisco Aljure at India included 'Retrospectives' of Digambar Kamat and the closing ceremony of 42nd International Film Festival of India eminent filmmakers like Luc famous actor Suriya best in Panaji, Goa. Besson and Phillip Noyce; known for his roles in films 'Homages' to cinematic luminarpassed away during the festival. like 'Kaakha Kaakha', 'Vaaranam ies like Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Speaking on the occasion, the Union Aayiram' who was the Chief Guest of Leacock, Sidney Lumet and others; the closing function held on Saturday. Minister of State for Information and 'Festivals Kaleidoscope'; 'Country The Best Actor award of Rs. 10 lakh Broadcasting, Choudhury Mohan Focus on USA'; 'Russian Classics'; went to the Israeli actor Sasson Gabay Jatua said that the International Film 'Spotlight on Poland', Documentaries for his role in the film 'Restoration' Festival of India gives a rare opportu- along with first time packages like '3D whereas the Best Actress Award was nity of viewing the best of internation- Cinema-The Third Dimension', won by Nadezhda Markina for her al films. Expressing his happiness at 'Sketches on Screens', 'Soccer in role in 'Elena'. The above films were the success of the festival, he hoped Cinema' and others. chosen by a five member Competition that the trend keeps on continuing in During the course of the festival Jury comprising Adoor the future. Chief Minister of Goa, besides film shows, a host of film Digambar Kamat said that as everyGopalakrishnan, Laurence Kardish, related events like Master Class, Open Lee Yong Kwan, Tahmineh Milani and thing comes to an end, the 42nd Forums, Film Bazaar by NFDC, 3D International Film Festival of India Dan Wolman. The festival concluded Visual Experience Summit and the today with the screening of the also has culminated into a glorious Short Film Centre were also held to end. He spoke about the great satisfacEnglish film 'The Lady' directed by facilitate interaction and business acclaimed French Director Luc tion that the delegates experienced meets in this sector. Master Classes Besson, which starred Michelle Yeoh during the festival and said that the taken by Hugh Welchman on and David Thewlis in lead roles. At festival has moved from strength to 'Realising Animation', Resul Pookutty the closing ceremony, a one minute strength. Suriya, the chief guest at the on 'Weaving the Magic of Sound in silence was observed to pay tribute to closing ceremony said that it is his Cinema' and Phillip Noyce on 'From the departed soul of Brazilian first appearance at the International Concept to Film, the Phil Noyce Way', Director, Oscar Maron Filho, who Film Festival of India and he was real- were great hits. Source: TI

Hrithik Roshan is the sexiest Asian man BOLLYWOOD star Hrithik Roshan has emerged as the sexiest Asian the World of the year 2011according to a survey conducted by the Eastern Eye Weekly, Hrithik, 37, beat off tough competition from high profile stars to top the 50strong list. The popular Alist actor won by the biggest ever margin in the history of the men's list to topple last year's winner Ranbir Kapoor, who finished sixth. Hrithik, who was third last year, got votes from all over the world from fans of different ages and cultures via social networking sites like Twitter. Described by many as a Greek God, Hrithik went back to winning ways in 2011 playing the lead role in mega-hit movie 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' and also had his wax statue added to the Madame Tussauds museum in London. "He also shot for the hotly anticipated 'Agneepath' remake, featured as a judge on hit TV show 'Just Dance' and signed up for hotly anticipated superhero movie sequel 'Krrish 2'," the weekly said. Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor was the surprise runner up, with Shah Rukh Khan in the third and Salman Khan in the fourth position. "Hrithik is a worthy winner and a leading man with global appeal. This year there was a massive gap between Hrithik and the

rest of the competitors. He is the perfect ambassador for India and someone who could take on anyone in Hollywood in terms of looks, talent and likability," said Asjad Nazir, Eastern Eye showbiz editor. Indian batsman Virat Kohli at 18, was the highest new entry in the 2011 list. Other big named new entries included Abhishek Bachchan at 17, Prateik Babbar at 20, Ajay Devgn at 29 and Farhan Akhtar at 34. The highest placed Pakistani was once again Ali Zafar at 5, the highest placed British star was Jay Sean (9) and the highest placed sportsman was World Boxing champion Amir Khan (10). Other notable names in the list are John Abraham (7), Akshay Kumar (9), Arjun Rampal (11), actor Imran Khan (12), Saif Ali Khan (13), Atif Aslam (16), Riz Ahmed (21), Siddhartha Mallya (31), Mahendra Dhoni (33), Aamir Khan (35), Zaheer Khan (39) and hip hop star Shizzio (46). Source: TI

King Khan charms Kochi KOCHI: The winter rains had washed the roads clean as the Badshah of Bollywood, Shahrukh Khan rode into the city of Kochi. King Khan was in town to inaugurate Emmanuval Silk's latest showroom; touted as the biggest sari textile showroom in the world. The five-storied five lakh sq feet extravaganza had captured the imagination of the city and the attention of the regional and national media for its huge car park which can house 1,000 cars at a time, on-site services of fashion consultants to help you choose your brocade, nurse-and-doctor on call facilities, 5,000 sq feet children's play area and 4,500 sq feet food court. Going by the ever-growing size and scale of the showrooms, Kochi could very well become the sari capital of the world, laughed B Sruthi, a visitor to the grand opening ceremony. The Emmanuval group is going from local to global in one stroke: offering over 100 national and international brands and Chinese, Arabic and French speaking staff to cater to the demands of the international clientele. It might have been diminutive in reach and branch network earlier, but T.O. Byju, Managing Director of Emmanuval Silks said that the group had thrown a huge surprise over its rivals by the grandeur and scale of the latest venture. And this is the first time that Shahrukh Khan is in town to inaugurate a showroom. While the promoters were circumspect about the cost of the mega opening event or the fee charged by the Bollywood actor, they said that the ad budget for the oneday extravaganza alone had topped Rs 5 crore. And the new showroom was already stocked with textiles worth Rs 150 crore on day one. “We plan to do a turnover of Rs 300 crore from the new outlet in the first year,” Byju said. That is more than the combined turnover of their two existing showrooms – which together has a turnover of approximately Rs 200 crore. By 2015, the company expects the 36 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

turnover to spurt up to Rs 1000 crore. The group which had commenced from the single storey tenement in the suburbs of Thrissur has come a long way. While reiterating the company's resolve not to diversify into related sectors at the moment, Byju pointed out that Emmanuval Silks would soon extend its footprint to Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. Not to mention the ambitious plans for the Gulf region: Qatar and Dubai. But the plans for the Gulf sector were still at the drawing board stage. Treat for the crowd The sultry Sunday afternoon came alive in Kochi as the Bollywood superstar, Shahrukh Khan danced impromptu to a hip-swinging number before thousands of his ebullient fans. The actor was dressed in smart casuals: wide open necked shirt and tight dark trousers with his unruly hair tied in a pony tail at the nape of his neck. www.indiantimes.com.au

Openly admitting to his poor singing abilities, the actor belted out one of his favourite songs – Tujhe dekha tho yeh jana sanam … As the ebullient crowd roared for more Shahrukh Khan came out with some of his pet dialogues from the film Don 2. Signing off from the stage, he remembered the crowds who were waiting patiently outside the distant barricades but who could still see him on stage and waved to them as well. The crowd roared in appreciation. While Shahrukh Khan said that he loved Kochi and the people of the city, there was no doubt who loved him more. Reflecting the love of the people of Kochi for the Bollywood superhero, some segments of the huge crowds began to dissipate when Shahrukh Khan left the stage, not waiting for the entertainment extravaganza to begin. Source: bhl Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Bollywood & Entertainment Simran Kaur, Sunny Gill in real love?

First single of ‘Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya’ released on iTunes

WHAT happens when two young and single (and good-looking) people shoot a romantic film together: instant attraction, that's what! When Simran Kaur Mundi, ex Miss India and model Sunny Gill started doing workshops for their debut film Jo Hum Chahein, they barely knew each other. However, within a week of first meeting each other, they couldn't keep their hands off each other. At first, the unit thought it was just two young actors extensively rehearsing for their parts. Then the two started living their

THE first song of Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza starrer “Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya” has been released on the iTunes service. It can be easily downloaded. Tips Music has released the track “Piya O Re Piya”, crooned by Atif Aslam and Shreya Ghoshal, much before the release of the album. The romantic-comedy will see the real-life couple – Riteish and Genelia – romancing on the big screen after a gap of eight years. They came together for the first time in their debut film “Tujhe Meri Kasam” in 2003. “I have seen the rush shoots of the film and they are amazing. Riteish and Genelia are looking great together. I am sure audiences will love them and we are going to get great response, fingers crossed. God bless us all,” said producer Kumar Taurani of Tips Industries. Sachin-Jigar of “Shor in The City” fame have composed the music. Directed by debutant Mandeep Kumar, it is slated to release next year. BW

parts on screen and off it. JHC is a romantic comingof-age story about Rohan Bhatia (Gill) and Neha Kapoor (Mundi), two strong individuals, whose lives change forever once they meet and fall in love. When BT cornered Simran Mundi, she played the same old "good friends" card, however Sunny was more forthright and stated: "I'm somebody who knows what I want, and I never lose the opportunity to wine and dine beautiful and intelligent women." Jo Hum Chahein releases December 16. TOI

‘Pappu Can’t Dance Saala’ Neha Dhupia’s best performance – Vinay Pathak ACTORS Vinay Pathak and Neha Dhupia are coming together for the fourth time in “Pappu Can’t Dance Saala” and Pathak says the film marks the best performance of his co-star and former beauty queen and that she will hold the audience with her acting skills. “This is one of Neha’s best perfor-

mances from all the films she has done. She has done fabulous job. You will just sit up and notice and watch what she has done in the film. She is wonderful,” Vinay said in an interview. Vinay says his character in “not Pappu, it is Vidyadhar Acharya, who is a native of Varanasi.” “He belongs to

Brahmin family and he is a very learned man. And that is what his problem is. He feels he is the most educated and learned man and, therefore, wants everybody to work on his terms.” The light-hearted comedy is slated for Dec 16 release and revolves around a man who comes to Mumbai from Varanasi, and

finds it difficult to adjust to a place away from his city that’s rich with cultural heritage. The film also features Rajat Kapoor and Naseruddin Shah. Neha, 31, plays an ambitious girl in the film and said: “The character is very ambitious and brash. She knows what she wants in life. Her thoughts are clear and she

knows exactly how to deal with situations. She is very hard and strict and at the same time very gentle, very kind and emotional. There are a lot of sides to her, which are sensitive at the same time very brash.” Vinay and Neha have worked together in “Mithya”, “Raat Gayi Baat Gayi” and “Dasvidaniya”. BW

Asia Pacific Screen Awards 2011 winners MIDDLE Eastern and Central Asian cinema claimed the lion's share of prizes at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA). Iranian feature A Separation was named as the best film. Once Upon A Time in Anatolia, written and directed by Turkey's Nuri Bilge Ceylan, claimed three prizes; for achievement in directing; Gökhan Tiryaki for cinematography; and producer Zeynep Özbatur Atakan who was awarded the Jury Grand Prize. "They are very different kinds of films, but both of them are the same in their excellence in every aspect of their filmmaking: from screenplay, to directing, toperformances, to their technical craftsmanship such as cinematography and editing, everything," said Nansun Shi head of the APSA jury. Other jurors included co-director of the Toronto International Film Festival, Cameron Bailey; chairman of the Australian Film Institute Alan Finney; Chinese producer Ming Zhenjiang; Japanese actress and director Kaori Momoi; and Israeli filmmaker Samuel Maoz. The winners and nominees are automatically inducted into the APSA Academy and become eligible for funding under the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund, a bursary scheme that is only open to Academy members. APSA announced funding of $25,000 for each of four film projects: * Shawkat Amin Korki (Iraq/Kurdistan, nominated for a directing prize in 2007 with Crossing The Dust) for new project Memories on Stone. * Peyman Moadi, (Iran, nominated for an acting prize in 2011's_ A Separation) for his project _Those Days. * Maryam Ebrahimi (Iran-Sweden, winner of the 2011 best documentary award with I Was Worth 50 Sheep) with documentary project Burqas Behind Bars. * Pryas Gupta (India, jury prize winner in 2008 with The Prisoner) for project The Cricket Tree. The APSA Children's Film Fund also awarded A$20,000 each to: Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

* Garin Nugroho (Indonesia, nominated for best film in 2007 with Opera Jawa) for The Seen and The Unseen. * Songtaijia (China/Tibet, nominated in 2011 for best cinematography with Old Dog) for The Stone with Nine Eyes. The awards were presented and the bursaries announced on 24 November at a ceremony on the Gold Coast, Australia. Other notable awards went to South Korea's Leafie, as best animated film, and to China's Zhang Yimou, for achievement in film. Asia Pacific Screen Awards 2011 winners Best film A Separation (Jodaeiye Nader az Simin) Dir: Asghar Farhadi (Iran) Achievement in Directing Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (Bir Zamanlar Anadolu'da) Dir: Nuri Bilge Ceylan (Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina) Achievement in cinematography Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (Bir Zamanlar Anadolu'da) Dir: Nuri Bilge Ceylan (Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina) Jury grand prize Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (Bir Zamanlar Anadolu'da) Dir: Nuri Bilge Ceylan (Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina) High commendation Actresses Nahed El Sebai, Bushra and Nelly Karim for Cairo 678 Dir: Mohamed Diab (Egypt) UNESCO Award for outstanding contribution to the promotion and preservation of cultural diversity through film Ivan Sen director of Toomelah (Australia) Best performance by an actress Nadezhda Markina (Russia) in Elena. High commendation Andrei Zviagintsev, director of Elena (Russia) Best performance by an actor Wang Baoqiang (China) in Mr Tree Best screenplay Denis Osokin for Silent Souls (Ovsyanki) (Russia) High commendation for screenplay Yoon Sung-hyun for Bleak Night (South Korea)

Best documentary Producer Maryam Ebrahimi for I Was Worth 50 Sheep (Jag Var Värd 50Lamm) Dir: Nima Sarvestani. (Sweden, Japan, US). High commendation for documentary Pink Saris (UK, India) Dir: Kim Longinotto. Best children's feature film Buta Dir: Ilgar Najaf (Azerbaijan) High commendation for best children's feature Wind And Fog (Bad o Meh) Dir: Mohammad Ali Talebi • High commendation for documentary - Pink Saris (UK, India) Dir: Kim Longinotto. (Iran) Best animated feature film telling and documentary quality which Leafie Dir: Oh Seongyun (South Korea) FIAPF award for outstanding achieve- evokes the uncertainty and desperation in a little-known story of a modern-day boat ment in film people.” Zhang Yimou (China) Sheron Dayoc, said: “I feel encouraged, APSA NETPAC jury prize Ways Of The Sea (Halaw) Dir: Sheron considering it’s my first feature film, to be cited as an Asian, by fellow Asians. In spite Dayoc (The Philippines). of our region’s colourful diversity, we also Boat People story wins Asian Cinema share common aspirations, problems and issues, and a unifying language with cineprize The Asia Pacific Screen Awards today ma as its accessible voice. “This award inspires me to do more films announced that the Winner of the annual APSA NETPAC Development Prize is which distinctly capture not only the Filipino filmmaker Sheron R. Dayoc for his Filipino spirit, but, in essence, represent the Asian value of resilience as well. Thanks film Halaw (Ways of the Sea). Designed to nurture outstanding talent in for this very important recognition of the the region, a prize of US$5,000 is offered film, which is also a recognition of my by APSA in collaboration with the Network country's vibrant independent cinema for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NET- industry.” Based on research and interviews, Halaw PAC). All films in competition for APSA follows the journey of a kaleidoscope of are eligible. Sheron wrote, produced and directed characters hoping for a better life in Sabah, Halaw (Ways of the Sea), a dramatic Malaysia, despite the dangers of illegal account of human trafficking through the immigration and the uncertainty of a true seas from the southern Philippines to job in Malaysia. The film also represents a microcosm of the multi-cultural groupings Malaysia. The 2011 APSA NETPAC Jury comprised of Mindanao whose diversity is bound by a APSA Nominations Council NETPAC common goal, an opportunity to earn a livmembers, Philip Cheah (Chair), Jeannette ing, as they take that illegal small boat ride Paulson Hereniko and Peggy Chiao. The from their homeland to that foreign Jury chose Halaw: “For its seamless story- "Promised Land."

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 - 37

Sports News Mithun replaces injured Praveen in Australia-bound Test squad AHMEDABAD: Young right-arm fast bowler Abhimanyu Mithun on Monday 5 December replaced injured Praveen Kumar in India's Test squad for the upcoming four-match away series against Australia. Mithun, who has played four Tests for India, the last in Barbados in May, has been added to the 17-man squad after Praveen was ruled out of the Test series in Australia with a fractured rib. Mithun joins Umesh Yadav, Varun Aaron and Ishant Sharma in India's pace department for the Australia tour, with pacer spearhead Zaheer Khan selected provisionally, as he has to prove his fitness before the squad's departure. The BCCI's All-India Senior Selection Committee which met on Monday also replaced pacer Yadav with Irfan Pathan for the last two ODIs against the West Indies to be played in Indore and Chennai on

December 8 and 11 respectively. Umesh's exclusion has been the only change in the current ODI team as the selectors have retained the rest of the squad for the remaining two matches against the Caribbean side, according to a statement issued by BCCI secretary Sanjay Jagdale. The BCCI statement also said that Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, Ishant Sharma, Pragyan Ojha, Yadav and reserve wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha, who are not part of the current ODI team against West Indies, will leave for Australia early on Thursday 8 December to acclimatise to the conditions. The seven players will be accompanied by Evan Speechly ( physiotherapist), Ramji Srinivasan (trainer), Amit Shah (massage therapist) and Raghavendra DVGI (attendant). TOI

Bangladesh set to launch domestic T20 competition ITTAGONG: The Bangladesh Cricket Board has accepted an offer of approximately $51 million from Indian firm Game On Sports Management for six editions of a Twenty20 competition, the BCB said on Monday 5 December. The Indian Premier League-style Twenty20 tournament, named the Bangladesh Premier League, will be launched in February with six franchises. The BCB picked Game On from three Indians firms who had submitted a financial offer to run the competition last

month. The offer from Game On is $10 million more than the next best offer from Solutionz Unlimited, BCB spokesman Jalal Yunus said. "Initially Game On will deposit the proportionate amount of guaranteed money for two seasons to our account," he said after an emergency BCB meeting. Twenty20 cricket is becoming increasingly popular in Bangladesh since neighbouring India launched the IPL four years ago. Reuters

Whatmore is frontrunner for Pakistan coach's job: PCB official KARACHI: A Pakistan Cricket Board official has confirmed that Australian Dav Whatmore, who currently in India's National Cricket Academy, is the frontrunner to take over as head coach of the national team. "Yes, we have held talks with Whatmore along with other potential candidates for the coaching positions advertised by us in the Pakistan team," the senior official, who declined to be named, said. The PCB has said that it is looking to appoint a head coach and specialist batting, bowling and fielding coaches for the national team. The board, since September, has been in the process of inviting applications from interested candidates and has shortlisted some of them for the prime positions in the team. The hunt for the new coaches began after former Test captain Waqar Younis stepped down after the Zimbabwe tour in September due to personal and health reasons. When he resigned, Waqar had 14 months left in his contract with the PCB. The official said initial talks had been held with Whatmore to assess his point of view and the committee appointed by the board and headed by Intikhab Alam was still in the process of preparing a list of final candidates for the board to approve. Whatmore, a former Australian Test player, gained recognition as the coach of the Sri Lankan team that won the 1996 World Cup. He later coached Bangladesh with no notable success and is presently working in India in the National Cricket Academy.

Inspired Nadal ends quiet year on a high SEVILLE: Rafael Nadal ended a relatively barren year on a thrilling high when he battled back from a set down to beat Argentina's Juan Martin Del Potro and secure Spain's fifth Davis Cup triumph on Sunday 4 December. After demolishing Juan Monaco in the singles on Friday 2 December, the 10-times Grand Slam champion, overshadowed by world number one Novak Djokovic in 2011, had a tougher time on his beloved clay against an inspired Del Potro but rallied to snuff out the South American nation's bid for a first title in their fourth final. The lanky Del Potro, nicknamed the tower of Tandil after his birthplace, had fully recovered from his five-set defeat by David Ferrer in Friday's singles and delighted the raucous away fans with a fearsome display of hitting to take the first set. However, he ran out of steam at the crucial moment and lost the fourth-set tiebreak 7-0 in a 1-6 6-4 6-1 7-6 defeat that sparked wild celebrations among the home support at the purpose-built indoor court at Seville's Olympic Stadium. Nadal's victory, his 16th in 16 Davis Cup singles matches on his favoured surface, gave Spain an unassailable 3-1 lead in the best-of-five tie as the favourites secured their third title in four years. It was their second Davis Cup final victory over Argentina following their success in Mar del Plata in 2008 and they also claimed the enormous trophy,

known in Spanish as the 'salad bowl', by beating Czech Republic in Barcelona in 2009. "This is a very good way of finishing after a long year," Nadal, who won just three singles titles in 2011, his fewest number in seven years, told a news conference, before announcing that he was not planning to play Davis Cup in 2012. "Next year, since it's an Olympic year, my participation in the Davis Cup is impossible," said the 25-year-old, who has repeatedly called for the crowded tennis calendar to be. "For the time being, let's enjoy today. It's not the most appropriate time to talk about the future but of course next year I will not play the Davis Cup." NERVOUS START Argentina were 2-0 down after Friday's (2 December) singles before David Nalbandian and Eduardo Schwank thrashed Feliciano Lopez and Fernando Verdasco in Saturday's doubles to keep the tie alive. Given the enormity of the task

38 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011

he faced -- Nadal has only lost one best-of-five match on clay in his career -- it was no surprise when Del Potro made a nervous and error-strewn start to the match. He twice double-faulted in the opening game, the second time on break point, to gift Nadal the lead but broke back immediately when the Spaniard missed an attempted drop shot and held serve for a 2-1 lead. A section of rowdy light blue and white-clad Argentina fans held up play several times on Nadal's next service game and Del Potro and captain Tito Vazquez had to make the first of several appeals for calm. Nadal was also showing signs of nerves and his opponent took full advantage, thumping winners with his fearsome forehand and breaking the Mallorcan's serve twice more for a 5-1 lead before taking the set with a backhand pass. It was the first time Nadal had dropped a set in 10 Davis Cup singles matches since September 2008. www.indiantimes.com.au

HUGE ROAR Nadal's family and team mates were looking edgy at the side of the court but world number two rediscovered his form in the second set and a huge roar echoed around the giant arena when he converted a smash and broke to level the match. The Spanish fans leapt to their feet again when Nadal broke for a 5-1 lead in the third set with a brilliant whipped forehand pass on the run that curved just inside the line and he served out to love to move ahead for the first time. Del Potro looked beaten when Nadal claimed an early break in the fourth set but the 2009 U.S. Open champion battled on to force the tiebreak. That marked the end of his brave challenge, though, and he failed to win another point. Nadal sealed victory with a trademark forehand winner down the line before embracing his opponent at the net as his team mates danced on the nearby court and Spanish King Juan Carlos celebrated in the stands. "The very little energy I had, I had to put it in the court with the help of the crowd, with the help of my team," Del Potro told a news conference. "I felt that once again I was very close to winning," the 23year-old added. According to Davis Cup rules, if the tie is decided after the fourth rubber and that match lasts at least four sets, the final singles is not contested.

Whatmore was among the three candidates shortlisted in 2008 by the PCB for the position of head coach when Nasim Ashraf was chairman but later the board preferred to appoint former Australian pacer Geoff Lawson after reports emerged that some players were not comfortable with having Whatmore. The source said the board would be taking into confidence captain Misbah-ul-Haq and other senior players before making a final appointment of the coaches. Besides Whatmore, the source said former South African player Jonty Rhodes, Australian Julian Fountain and Englishman D Dunlop were also in the run. "The PCB is facing a catch-22 situation with the team doing well and on a winning momentum under Misbah and interim coach Mohsin Khan. It has yet to decide when to bring in the new coaching staff," another source said. PTI

Venus and Serena target London Olympics MILAN: The Williams sisters will aim to defend their Olympic doubles title in London next summer. Serena Williams said on Friday, 2 December that she and sister Venus are eager to go for their third Olympic gold together, after triumphing in Sydney and Beijing. "We're the defending champion and we want to defend our title and I don't see why we wouldn't," Serena said, ahead of the sisters' exhibition match in Milan on Saturday against Italian duo Francesca Schiavone and Flavia Pennetta. "This is a good preview to the Olympics, we both want to play. So this is a great, great time for us, so exciting." The sisters were unable to defend their title in Athens 2004 after Serena injured her knee. Venus also won the singles gold medal in Sydney. However, the five-time Wimbledon champion's ranking has fallen to No. 104 because of injuries, while Serena is ranked 12th. Venus has played just once since pulling out of the U.S. Open three months ago because of an immune system disease. She beat Serena 6-4, 7-6 (5) in an exhibition match in Colombia last week. Venus has changed her diet to include more vegetables after being diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome, which can cause fatigue and joint pain. "I'm eating different things and that's helping." Venus said. "I need to try and be stronger for next year. This is a good start for me. It'll show me where I'm at physically. "The goal is to come back in Australia. I'm taking each day at a time. When I feel good I feel really happy. Today I feel really good so it's a great day." Serena has also had her share of injury problems and missed almost a year before returning shortly before Wimbledon. She fell to No. 175 but has managed to push herself back up the rankings. "I told myself I wanted to end the year in the Top 20," Serena said. "But I didn't think I would. So I'm really happy now." Serena has also played just once since losing to Samantha Stosur in the U.S. Open final in September. "I was tired after the Open and didn't want to go to Asia," she said, before bursting into laughter and correcting herself. "Well no, I was injured." AP Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Sports News

Flanders emphatically start title defense AS the Australian team prepares to launch their summer campaign, the men of the Ned Flanders Matt Young XI were busy defending the One and Two Day titles that they won in last season’s Churches Cricket Association competition. In keeping with the changing face of Australian cricket, the Churches Cricket Competition has added a T20 competition to its list this season. The men in the baggy maroon caps have started very well, taking out the inaugural CCAQ T20 trophy. This trophy is to be known as the Roy Gassiep Shield, in memory of a fine young man and Flanders cricketer whose life was tragically truncated earlier this year. The star of this tournament was Dr Tom Dover who rattled out 60 brutal runs in a big hurry in the opening game. The season then kicked into One Day mode and after a washed out round and a bye, the Flanders took on their opponents from the last three seasons’ grand finals, the Ashgrove Lemmings. The bowlers were rearing to be let loose and dismissed Lemmings for just 103, before all rounder Steve Derksen splayed balls all over the park for a cyclonic 58 not out, to see the Flanders home in just the 12th over. So far in the Two Day competition, the Flanders have picked up two out right vic-

tories. In the first round they fought back from a first innings loss to take the outright points. The star of this match was undoubtedly their young Indian fast bowling spearhead, Jayram Vasudevan who claimed career best figures of 7 for 46 against Ashgrove Lemmings. His lethal left arm swing bowling was at its penetrating best. Benny Field chimed in with vital runs in both innings to set up a difficult victory target for the Lemmings, who pulled up well short. In Round Two, the Flanders came up against St Bart’s who are new to A grade. Inspired by the batting exploits of Leo Yin (90) and Brendon Dillon (54) the Neddies totaled 254, before Steve Derksen and Benny Field ran through the St Bart’s boys for 87 and 54 in their two innings. Benny was celebrating his 100th appearance for the club and thoroughly deserved to claim six wickets for the match, including his 200th scalp for the club. Young fast bowler ‘JP’ Pearce gave admirable support, procuring vitals wickets at key moments. Debutant Mick Redhead also covered himself in glory with two superb catches. One ripping, diving effort at cover will be an early candidate for catch of the season. So with one trophy already safely in the vault, the Flanders quest for another Two

Roar 'beaten by better team'

• The Ned Flanders XI celebrate Benny Field's 100th game for the club.

Day title continues into the New Year. Hopefully the Australian team can also gain some momentum and start this season with some form against New Zealand. The huge

challenge for Clarke’s men will come a bit later though, as M.S. Dhoni’s Indian squad comes Down Under for what should be a thrilling series.

Rory McIlroy wins Hong Kong Open

ALL good things special for us," HONG KONG: World number two Rory must come to and Lavicka said of his McIlroy sealed the $2.75 million UBS end and Brisbane men, who reclaimed Hong Kong Open Sunday 4 December by holing a birdie chip from a bunker on the Roar coach Ange third spot. Postecoglou believes "I think it was our last, keeping alive his slim hopes of denynot even Lionel best team perfor- ing Luke Donald an historic Order of Merit Messi could have mance of the season. double. saved the A-League "I would like to see A final-round 65 clinched a two-stroke vicclub's 36-game the team keep that tory for the Northern Irishman and the winunbeaten run from performance, that ner's cheque of $458,330 means the US extinction on level going in Open champion still has a chance of overtaking current Race to Dubai leader Donald Sunday 4 December. upcoming games." Sydney FC's 2-0 The Roar remain with victory at the season-ending Dubai win over the Roar at atop the competition World Championship. McIlroy has collected 3,066,605 euros Kogarah Jubilee • Sydney FC end Brisbane Roar's unbeaten streak (AAP table but now sit Image/Tracey Nearmy) Oval officially drew only three points ($4,110,477) for the season to world numthe curtain on ahead of the improv- ber one-ranked Donald's 3,856,394 euros. hours sleep and a 5km run" and he returned Brisbane's amazing run, a record in top- ing Central Coast Mariners, who claimed The event in Dubai is worth just over shortly after finishing his round to declare to his followers "Winner winner chicken level Australian sport. their fifth win in six games with a 4-0 930,000 euros to the winner. Englishman Donald, who has already won dinner". Postecoglou could have pointed to the fact demolition of Adelaide on Saturday 3 McIlroy had certainly been looking fragile the US PGA Tour money list, skipped the his star playmaker Thomas Broich missed December. the match with a heel injury, or suggested That performance prompted Newcastle Jets Hong Kong event as did Germany's Martin over the first three days of this event his team could have felt a sense of anti-cli- coach Gary van Egmond to declare Central Kaymer, who had been placed second in the which is co-sanctioned by both the max after clinching the record with a 4-0 Coast the hottest team of the competition Race to Dubai until McIlroy's heroics on European and Asian Tours - but his stamina was never in doubt today and a birdie on Sunday. win over Perth the previous weekend. ahead of next weekend's F3 derby. The 22-year-old McIlroy had started the the par-five second set him off in just the But the coach was not in the mood for "What they did to Adelaide, I thought they final round three-strokes behind overnight right mood. excuses, saying his men had been simply were extremely good," van Egmond said. outplayed by the enthusiastic Sky Blues. The Jets claimed their first win in four leader Alvaro Quiros of Spain but five France's Gregory Havret finished in second "They're the beautiful excuses we can all games as they came from behind to beat a birdies over the course, three coming while place on 10-under-par after a storming fivepull out but football is not that simple," star-studded Melbourne Victory 3-1 in front the pressure was building in the run-in to under 65 while Sweden's Peter Hanson was the clubhouse, ensured victory for a player placed third on nine-under after closing Postecoglou said. of more than 17,000 fans on Saturday. "Sometimes you just meet a better oppoThe Victory and their star recruit Harry who had finished runner-up here in both with an even-par 70. Quiros, who had led or shared the lead in nent. Kewell put in a decent performance but the 2008 and 2009. After finding the sand next to the 18th the event for all three days coming into "It doesn't matter if we had Thomas out result will likely put some heat back on green with his approach shot, McIlory Sunday, faded with a three-over 74 to finish there or Lionel Messi out there, it doesn't under-fire coach Mehmet Durakovic. matter. "This game's all about winning and we blasted up, out and into the hole to thunder- on seven under and joint-seventh. Juvic Pagunsan's six-under for the tournaous applause while pumping his fists in cel"We tried hard enough, the effort was need to win games," Durakovic said. ment was enough for 10th place and sealed there, we tried to play our football in diffiMelbourne Heart and Perth Glory returned ebration. He had earlier announced via Twitter that him the Asian Tour Order of Merit, the first cult conditions but it just wasn't to be." to winning ways with home wins over he had brushed off the ailment that had time a player from the Philippines has won Postecoglou insisted his players had not Wellington and Gold Coast respectively. FTP relaxed after their record-breaking feats, AAP been bothering him all week thanks to "11.5 the title. nor did he buy into suggestions the record had proved a distraction. "We never saw it as a distraction or any added pressure, it was just something that was happening because we were doing LAHORE: International hockey ers. touch with the interior ministry Pakistan sports after terrorists well," he said. will return to Pakistan after a PHF secretary Asif Bajwa said and security officials to provide attacked the Sri Lankan cricket "Sometimes when you get on a run like considerable time when the the Chinese will reach Karachi foolproof security for the visit- team in Lahore in March, 2009 ours I think people expect you to win all the troubled country hosts a four- on December 19 and play two ing team," PHF secretary Asif killing six policemen and a van time. match Test series against back-to-back matches in the Bajwa said. driver. Bajwa said Pakistan "But that's not how sport works. That's our China. city on December 21 and 22 Political and security analysts was keen on sending a positive second loss in I think 42 games, that's a fair The Pakistan Hockey before they move to Faisalabad also see the series as a big Test message to the international run we've had and we've just got to keep Federation will host the for the third Test on December for the PHF and government. sporting fraternity. going." Chinese men's hockey team 24 and the fourth Test in Due to the uncertain security "That is why we are taking this Championship-winning Sydney coach from December 19 to 25 for a Lahore the next day. situation in Pakistan in the last tour by the Chinese hockey Vitezslav Lavicka rated the win among his four-match Test series with the "Obviously we know just how four to five years, foreign team very seriously. It could be proudest moments at the club but urged his Chinese making it clear that important this tour is going to teams in many sports have a stepping stone for us to invite players to build on the result. the PHF should avoid too be for Pakistan hockey and declined to play in the country. other teams as well next year," "I am proud to be a part of this team, part much travelling for their play- sports and we are constantly in The situation came to this for he said. PTI of this club, because tonight was something

Pakistan to host China for hockey series

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, December, 2011 — 39

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