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From the Publisher the World games – olymPiCs 2024
PARIS, the historic romance capital City of France prepares for the opening of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games this month on July 28, 2024. This will be the sixth-ever Olympics hosted by France.
Historically, Greece and the city of Athens are since antiquity credited as the birthplace of Olympism. Now in modern times, the Olympic Games are severally hosted by other countries as the World games.
The global focus on France as the host of the Olympic Games 2024 will no doubt also be expression of gratitude as France has played a prominent role through one for her legend to ensure the World games lives on.
Reviving the modern Olympics is credited to Frenchman Baron Pierre de Coubertin, a trained Lawyer and Teacher who while with fellow teacher Thomas Arnold at Rugby School, England advocated physical education in the school curriculum.
Baron Pierre de Coubertin in June 1894 convened a meeting with the prime agenda to re-establish the Olympic Games. A very reputable Greek businessman living in Paris at that time, Mr. Demetrios Vikelas was invited to represent Greece. That meeting resolved to re-establish the Olympic Games and to organise them in Athens in 1896. Vikelas was designated to preside over the organisation committee and become the first President and Chairman of the International Olympics Committee. The first modern day Olympics games was held in Greece in 1896. In Baron Pierre de Coubertin honour the International Olympic Committee dedicates The Pierre de Coubertin medal is a special decoration awarded to "pays tribute to institutions with a pedagogical and educational role and to people who, through their research and the creation of intellectual works in the spirit of Pierre de Coubertin”
AUSTRALIA’S FIRST oLyMPIAn.
Lo and behold the then Australia colony sent a lone athlete to Athenes, Greece to compete in the first modern day Olympics. Victoria’s Edwin Flack, nickname “Teddy”, a 22-year-old multi-sport athlete, who worked as an accountant in London.
Teddy, competed in athletics and tennis and earned the distinction of being Australia’s first Olympian and first Australia’s first Olympic medallist.
Teddy won gold medals in the men’s 800m and the 1500m track. One of the most notable athletes at the Athens 1896 Summer Games, Teddy’s achievements endeared him to Greek fans and earned him the moniker of ‘Lion of Athens’ after leading the rigorous marathon only to collapse.
In comparison, Australia’s contingent to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was 486, so the numbers of Australia contingent to the Paris Olympic 2024 is envisaged to well over 500.
“oLyMPICS AMATEURISM”,
The rules of the early modern games from the first games held in Athens in 1896 emphatically states participants must never compete for any monetary reward nor incentive.
This resulted in Jim Thorpe, one of America’s most famous athletes being stripped of his decathlon and pentathlon gold medals, won in 1912 in Stockholm.
But the adherence and policing of these amateurism policies was not devoid of controversy. In the book, “The Rise and Fall of Olympic Amateurism”, by Matthew Llewellyn and John Gleaves, they describe the Olympic committee’s hypocrisy towards such rulings and policies. www.economist.com.
LET’S TALk TURkEy
Today the World Athletics (formerly International Association of Athletics Federations) International Olympic
committee leads the way in monetary rewards for Athletics.
Prize money at the Olympic Games is in the spotlight after a move by World Athletics CEO Sebastian Coe, to reward their track and field athletes from Paris 2024 onwards. This move would break with 128 years of Olimpic Tradition. Champions will come away with $50,000 USD (£39,360) if they reach the top of the podium. The decision blindsided the International Olympic Committee, which has never awarded money for participating or winning a medal, as it believes that to compete at a Games is reward enough.
Countries, of course reward Olympic achievements under numerous categories of monetary rewards.
Probably first off, the starting block is Singapore rewards its gold medalists nearly 20 times more than the U.S. A recent NBC News investigation found that Singapore paid out $737,000 to individual gold medalists at the most recent Olympic games.
Italy, which won 17 gold medals at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, provided its gold medalists with a $201,000 bonus, paying out a total of $2.7 million by the end of the event, according to Forbes.
U.S. Olympians were paid $37,500 for securing a gold medal in Beijing, where the country won 25 gold medals and recorded a total payout of $1.5 million.
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee provides the money for the gold medal prize, doling out $22,500 for silver and $15,000 for bronze, the Associated Press reported.
THE WEALTHy oLyMPIAnS
A few well-deserved athletes have built wealth and small empires for themselves and their respective families. ‘The Scotman” assisted us identify only 10 modern-day mega wealthy athletics. Mind you, all are Olympians and not all won gold or even a medal at all.
1. Anna Kasprzak, the Danish dressage rider represented her country at the Summer Olympics in 2012 and 2016, fortune estimated at around $1 billion, so far, the world's richest Olympian.
2. Michael Phelps made the most cash directly from his sport. The most successful Olympian of all time having won a total of 28 medals. His 23 gold medals are a record, amassed a fortune in the region of $100 million.
ConTD. on PG 8
implications of recent migration Changes on Visitor Visa holders, 485 Visa holders, and Market Confidence in Australian Immigration
InTRoDUCTIon
Australia has long been a destination of choice for international students and skilled professionals. The recent changes to the Australian immigration policy, specifically concerning visitor visa holders and 485 visa holders, have significant implications. As a leading immigration lawyer at Migration Guru, a firm with over 90 years of collective Australian immigration experience, I will delve into these changes and their potential impacts on visa holders and market confidence in the Australian immigration system.
RECEnT MIGRATIon CHAnGES
1. Visitor Visa Holders:
- Individuals in Australia on a visitor visa can no longer apply for a student visa onshore.
2. 485 Visa Holders:
- Holders of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) are now prohibited from applying for a further student visa while onshore.
Impacts on Visitor Visa Holders
For those on visitor visas, the new policy significantly alters their plans for pursuing education in Australia. Previously, many prospective students entered Australia on a visitor visa, explored educational opportunities, and transitioned to a student visa without leaving the country. This pathway provided convenience and reduced the logistical burden of applying from abroad.
IMPLICATIonS:
• Increased Costs and Inconvenience:
Prospective students will now incur additional costs and face the inconvenience of having to leave Australia to apply for a student visa from their home country.
• Decision-Making Hesitancy:
Potential students might hesitate to visit Australia on a visitor visa, knowing they cannot seamlessly transition to a student visa onshore. This could lead to a reduction in the number of visitor visas issued to potential students.
IMPACTS on 485 VISA HoLDERS
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows international graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. The recent restriction prevents these graduates from applying for a further student visa while still in Australia.
IMPLICATIonS:
• Career and Education Planning
Disruptions:
Many 485 visa holders planned to continue their education to improve their skills and employability in Australia. With the new restriction, they must now return to their home country to apply for a student visa, disrupting their educational and career plans.
• Financial Burden:
The need to leave Australia and apply for a student visa from abroad adds a significant financial burden, including travel costs and the expenses associated with reapplying for a visa.
• Potential Decline in Skilled Workforce:
The change could deter international graduates from pursuing further education in Australia, leading to a potential decline in the skilled workforce that contributes to various sectors of the Australian economy.
IMPACT on MARkET ConFIDEnCE In AUSTRALIAn IMMIGRATIon
These changes have broader implications for the overall perception and confidence in the Australian immigration system.
ACS Professional Year
• Accredited by Australian Computer Society
• Learn in Corporate Training Rooms
• Great Student Amenities
• High Quality Digital Learning Resources
• Professional High Quality Experienced Trainers
• Industry Standard Internship Placement
• Monthly Intake
• Easy payment plan
• CBD Location – Close to Central Station
• May be eligible for migration points towards permanent residence in Australia
Program structure
- 45 weeks duration
- Orientation
- Communication & Performance in Australian Workplace
- Entry & Advancement in Australian Workplace
- Professional Australian IT internship for 12 weeks
- ACS Professional Environment
- Graduation
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ACS Professional Year Program, you must have:
- Completed an undergraduate or postgraduate award in Australia in ICT
- Hold or applied for a 485 visa (either stream)
- IELTS Score of 6 overall and no band less than 5
Pacific Engagement visa Country Ballot Status
THE Pacific Engagement visa (PEV) for Pacific Island and Timor-Leste nationals will commence on 3 June 2024. Countries participating in the first PEV ballot include:
• Federated States of Micronesia
• Fiji
• Nauru
• Palau
• Papua New Guinea
• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade publish PEV allocations for each participating country on their web page Pacific engagement visa.
The PEV Country Ballot Status table below provides
details of each ballot. This includes the open and close period for submitting a registration and the status of each ballot.
THE BALLoT STATUS MAy SHoW AS FoLLoWS:
PEnDInG – The Ballot is pending commencement or opening.
ACTIVE – The Ballot is open and you are able to submit your registration.
CLoSED – The Ballot period for participants to submit registrations is closed. No further registrations can be submitted and the selection process is pending for this ballot.
EXPIRED – Selections have been finalised for this Ballot. No further selections will be made from this ballot.
Is a Ministry of
WE Indo-Fijians have every rights as native Fijians and all other races to live without fear and afforded equal opppotunities in beloved Fiji.
Fiji's Indo-Fijian deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Professor Biman Prasad has defended Rabuka’s PAP-NFP-SODELPA coalition Government against "mischief and rumours" the Native Fijian dominated Government pandemically discriminates against Indo-Fijians in the country.
Majority Indo-Fijians are descendants of Girmityas, the then British Empire imported as semi-slaves soon after slavery was globally condemned and ultimately abolished in early 1800.
While the British Colonial rulers of the early 1800 were adamant in protecting native Fijians to remain in their villages , our Girmityas ancestors sacrificed sweat and tears in long hours seven days a week to build the foundation of Fiji economic existence. A thriving economy now the envy of many 3rd world countries and those of our region.
Revisiting the pre-coup Fiji population census where since Second World War the native Fijian population was 329,000 (46 per cent of the total) and the Indo-Fijian population was 348,000 (48 per cent), a clear dominance of the Indo-Fijian numbers.
The Indo-Fijian population downward spiral in numbers had fallen to just 38 per cent of the total whereas the Fijian population had grown . Even since 1987, 2000 and 2006 coups have seen ongoing indo-Fijians emigration of skilled trades and professional personnel, to Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States.
In His Excellency, the Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere address to Parliament in early
PEV Country Ballot Status table
Country
Papua New Guinea 03/06/2024 02/08/2024
Solomon Islands 03/06/2024 02/08/2024
Timor-Leste 03/06/2024 02/08/2024 ACTIVE
Source: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
Indo-Fijian Affairs well over due?
2023 revealed that Fiji's population comprises of 62 percent of Native Fijians, about 34 percent of Fijian of Indian descent and slightly over three percent of other races.
Admittedly, the challenges in Fiji’s race relations, in particular between native Fijians and the Indo-Fijians can be seen as the “white elephant in the room” of Fiji’s socio-political existence
Native Fijian and IndoFijian are two totally distinct ethnic people groupings. Heterogeneous as unrelated in language, culture, traditions, culinary preferences, business and commercial motivation and acumen, spiritual and religious identity and political leanings.
It seems each time the Indo-Fijian economic and political prosperity are evidently expressed; sadly creates ripples of envious vibes from certain extreme nationalist native Fijians personal and groups who then explodes in seditious Tsunami, now sadly, four coup d'état committed against the people of Fiji within the last four decades of Fiji’s history.
It is claimed by the present Fiji Government that following the December 2022 elections, political leaders took the lead in genuine efforts to heal past wounds of racial animosity.
Under the watch of this Indo-Fijian Deputy Prime Minister and as Minister for Finance his government has increased the budget for the Native Fijian portfolio, the iTaukei Ministryresponsible for indigenous affairs.
Yet, the Professor assures the world , "Let me just say this, this this mischief and rumour that this government is discriminating against certain ethnic groups, particularly Indo-Fijians, is being spread by our detractors," he said. He further added when
THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, July, 2024
his government increase social welfare, $200 for every student, subsidy to agriculture. He proudly attests the $8 million to top up the price to $91.38 for the sugarcane farmers where he claimed 90 percent of the farmers are Indo-Fijians.
You’ll be the judge if these are political rhetoric the indo-Fijian Deputy Prime Minister has been ordered to tow the line of the Native Fijian dominated Government.
Say, for Sugar $8 million sweetener, the Fiji Sugar Corporations (FSC) records 10’872 cane farmers were recorded in 2022-2023 period.
Fiji’s population as at 2022 stands at 929,766, which 34% are indo-Fijian at 316,120. The Deputy Prime Minister, a respected economist and academic wants us to believe that the 10,872 indo-Fijian cane farmers, which is only 3.4% of the indo-Fijian population is a fair representation of Indo-Fijians receiving fair distribution of Financial assistance from his Government.?
Of course, the other Government freebies the learned Indo-Fijian Deputy Prime Minister skite about are available to all Fijians.
Even with a designated Minister of Native Fijian affairs over the decades, still sadly, 75% of our Native Fijian cousins, residents of Fiji are below the poverty line.
In a previous interview with the Fiji Press, the present Attorney General and Great Council of Chiefs Review Team member showed his concern that a lot of Native Fijian are confused that though Natives own 92 percent of the land in Fiji, yet they comprise 75 percent below the poverty line as highlighted in the Fiji Bureau of Statistics Household Income and Expenditure Survey.
Like our forebears
Girmityas, we have worked hard, really hard under unbelievably testing circumstance, and yet thank God, we prevailed! Indo-Fijian tenant farmers rely on leased agricultural land. Shockingly for many indoFijian families since 1999 many of these leases have not been renewed, or are on the point of expiring, resulting in the leaseholders being sadly displaced.
As a result, Indo-Fijians are among the largest category of landless people in Fiji.It is evident in our Indo-Fijian community that this uncertainty has been a source of anxiety and hardship as they often have no other means of subsistence.
Since getting off the Girmityas Boats, the IndoFijians remain marginalized in most spheres in Fiji. The consolation is that through hard work, clever money management and probably commitment to the varied deities they worship regimentally has elevated indo-Fijians to substantial economic power.
Ins’nt it alarming that the tentacles of the more prominent native Fijian nationalist movement seems to have resurfaced and energized since the recent release from Prison of a Lawyer and former member of Parliament. He was incarcerated in an unrelated matter involving allegations of falsifying Parliamentary allowances.
One of the offshore native Fijian Nationalist group advocated pressure groups outside of government advocating important issues like the review/removal of the Racist 2013 Constitution, Repeal of Anti Taukei Laws, Reform Of Fijian Administration, Review of itaukei laws etc
These native Fijians advocacy groups push for the recognised of provision of the abrogated 1997 Constitution favouring
Native Fijian welfare.
The groups suggestions the review the 2013 Constitution by restoring within it all measures of itaukei group rights & interest that were there previously in the 1997 Constitution.
The other option advocated is to send the 2013 Constitution back through the same door it came ie by Decree. Which of course will require the Government agreeing with Fiji Military and Police.
Further advocated, that once they agree government abrogate the 2013 Constitution and continue as interim with the task of establishing a commission to come up with a constitution that has our common will and conduct the next election under it.
A rather far-fetched suggestion to for the Coalition Government to use S91(5) and ask the Supreme Court to advise whether the 1997 is still Supreme Law.
With all due respect to our native Fijian cousins may we humbly ask weren’t their interest and rights as rightful indigenous natives of Fiji protected, favoured during the over 20 years of the Alliance /Paramount Native Fijian Chief Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara’s Prime Ministership?
How about the many years of Major General (retired) Sitiveni Rabuka first tenure as Prime Minister, partly under the 1997 constitution?
All that time, we Indo Fijians were just working hard, educating our generations of schoolchildren, building our businesses, faithfully serving in our varied Temples, Mosques and Churches while the rude cloud of being marginalised in the country we call home hung over us.
So the position of us IndoFijians in Fiji remains bleak in so far majority native Fijians are known to refer to us “vulagi”, foreigners. As is evident, Indo-Fijians remain
marginalised despite our relative success in business and trade and academia..
Critically, majority of us remain landless and leases continue to be allowed to expire with little land policy changes afforded our way. Aren’t each of us indoFijians over the generations since our forebears set foot on this land seen us as equal members of same Fijian family? We have the same aspirations and strive in honest living and to leave a legacy for our generations of Fijians.
As late Justice Jay Ram Ready beseeched in the greatest meeting of native Fijians, Great Council of Chief in 1997 echoed the historical words of hope for us Indo-Fijians that, “Fiji is our home. Fiji is our only home. We have no other. We want no other”, Justice Jay Ram Ready.
The Fijian traditional Chiefs are not only native Fijian Chiefs, but they are also our Chiefs too as in motherly grace of the High Chief of Rewa, Ro Teimumu Kepa declared.
In a ceremony in May 2017 presided over by Ro Teimumu Kepa, the Roko Tui Dreketi, or Paramount Chief of Dreketi and head of the Burebasaga Confederacy in which descendants of the survivors were given a new name, "Luvedra na Ratu" meaning children of the High Chief.
What is stopping other the Native Fijians Chief from declaring us Indo-Fijians as their “adopted “children. Why aren’t other Indo-Fijian advocacy groups, political or community not encouraging other Chiefs to follow Ro Teimumu’s Chiefly wisdom and declaration?
May be a reason indoFijians should have a unified advocacy administration platform like a separate Ministerial portfolio or Department of Indo-Fijians?
Source: Facebook, Fiji Village, Minorityrights.org, ABC
Community takes first look at eight mile Plains satellite hosPital
ConTD FRoM PG 01
• The Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital includes a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, kidney dialysis chairs, cancer day therapy chairs, outpatient consultation rooms, as well as medical imaging and diagnostic services — including ultrasound, x-ray, and pathology.
• The First Nations co-name was officially announced –Maroo-goodji-ba.
Hundreds of residents toured the new $65.4 million Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital today at a community open day.
Opening its doors to the public on Monday 27 May 2024, it stands to deliver essential healthcare services to the community.
Health Minister Shannon Fentiman joined the festivities at the open day to showcase the new facility, meeting with local residents as well as the soon-to-be healthcare staff.
The Satellite Hospital’s First Nations co-name was also officially unveiled as Maroo-goodji-ba, symbolising tranquillity and care, while also honouring the cultural significance of ‘place o red soil, a term representing Eight Mile Plains.
The Minor Injury and Illness Clinic will open from 8am to 10pm daily to treat simple fractures, sprains and
strains, fevers and coughs, head injuries without loss of consciousness, and a range of other non-life-threatening conditions. It also includes onsite medical imaging.
The new facility will support nearby emergency departments by diagnosing and treating non-lifethreatening conditions.
Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital also offers a range of appointment-based specialist and outpatient services including a Cancer Day Therapy Unit and Kidney Dialysis Unit.
More than 100 health care workers have been recruited to staff the new Satellite Hospital including doctors, nurses, administration officers, allied health practitioners and operational staff.
The $65.4 million investment, which included road widening works outside the facility to improve access, is part of the Queensland Government’s nation leading $377 million Satellite Hospital program.
Satellite Hospitals in Kallangur, Redlands, Ripley and Tugun are providing quality urgent care in rapidly growing communities across South East Queensland.
QUoTES ATTRIBUTABLE To PREMIER STEVEn MILES:
“Satellite hospitals work. They have already proven
successful, providing quick, effective and cost-free treatment to thousands of Queenslanders.
“This new Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital will support our local emergency departments, including the busy QEII and Logan hospitals.
“But we’re not stopping there. As part of the Queensland Government’s $14 billion Big Build, we’re also investing in major expansions at our southside hospitals to be delivered over the next five years.”
QUoTES ATTRIBUTABLE
To DEPUTy PREMIER CAMERon DICk:
“I’m so pleased to see our community of Logan about to share in the benefits that satellite hospitals are brining across the South-East.
“By reducing the pressure on our major hospitals and on GP clinics, we are
delivering more responsive healthcare, which matters to Queenslanders.
“The tens of thousands of patients seen at our satellite hospitals would never have been treated this way under David Crisafulli, because the LNP has never supported satellite hospitals.
“Satellite hospitals would cease to exist under the LNP, who could not afford to operate them like we do.
QUoTES ATTRIBUTABLE
To MInISTER FoR HEALTH
AnD AMBULAnCE
SERVICES SHAnnon FEnTIMAn:
“I’m so proud to cut the ribbon today at the Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital.
“The Queensland Government is investing in the Australian-first satellite hospitals program to help meet the demand for healthcare in our fastest growing regions.
“More than 25,000 additional residents will call Brisbane’s southern suburbs home in the next decade.
“The Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital will be a gamechanger for this growing community, providing healthcare closer to home for residents.
“I’m also pleased to announce that the state-ofthe-art facility will open to the public from 8am on Monday 27 May.”
QUoTES ATTRIBUTABLE To MEMBER TooHEy PETER RUSSo:
“For the first time, we will be able to offer specialist healthcare services outside a major hospital environment with easy access directly from two motorways and free parking.
“This will make such a significant difference in the lives of many people in our community – particularly
those who would normally need to travel to hospital for kidney dialysis and cancer treatment.
“We committed to more healthcare closer to home, and we are delivering with this new, state-of-the-art healthcare facility.
QUoTES ATTRIBUTABLE To METRo SoUTH HoSPITAL AnD HEALTH SERVICE CHIEF EXECUTIVE, noELLE CRIDLAnD:
“We are thrilled to open the new Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital, Maroo-goodji-ba, as another healthcare option for local residents.
“Metro South Health has a proud tradition of providing accessible, culturally safe and equitable healthcare services for everyone in the communities we serve.
“We have a strong focus and commitment to improving our health service by listening to First Nations voices, employee more First Nations people, and supporting a better integrated and coordinated system for First Nations peoples.
“The facility’s First Nations co-name, Maroo-goodjiba, was selected by local Traditional Owners and is another step forward in our journey to improve health outcomes for all.”
*Maroo-goodji-ba pronunciation: "oo" as in cook; "dj" as in jar; "-ba" as in pa
International Yoga Day – with Fiji Prime Minister
FIJI Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka participated as the Chief Guest in the International Yoga Day event held at Albert Park in Suva, organized by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center. During his remarks, Prime Minister Rabuka addressed the pressing issue of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which have become a significant health crisis in Fiji, causing a high number of premature deaths annually. He advocated for the adoption of yoga as a beneficial practice to combat these health challenges, urging Fijians to consider incorporating yoga into their lifestyles while promoting healthier dietary habits.
Rabuka's endorsement of yoga aligns with its broader benefits recognized worldwide, irrespective of philosophical beliefs, as highlighted by organizations like Yoga Australia. Rooted in Hinduism and Buddhism, yoga seeks to unify body, mind, spirit, and universal consciousness through practices such as postures, breathing, and meditation.
Its origins trace back over 5,000 years to ancient India, as documented in sacred texts like the Rig Veda and Upanishads.
Despite past controversies, including his
involvement in Fiji's political history and its impact on the Indo-Fijian community, Prime Minister Rabuka's participation underscores a broader commitment to inclusivity and cultural
harmony. His journey from military leader to statesman reflects a transformative perspective on governance and community unity, resonating with the spirit of yoga's unifying principles.
As Fiji continues to navigate its societal challenges and historical wounds, Prime Minister Rabuka's participation in International Yoga Day symbolizes a commitment to healing and unity among all Fijians, irrespective of background or creed.
Source: www. hinduamerican.org, Radio Fiji, Yogapedia, Art and Culture
Greater Springfield Indian Association INC (GSIA) Celebrates International Yoga Day!
ToDAy at Springfield Central Libraries, we had a wonderful International Yoga Day event organized by the GSIA Team. It was heartwarming to see our local community come together to practice yoga and embrace wellness.
A special thank you to our amazing yoga instructors, Jyothiba Patil and Hinduja Ji from Springfield Lakes, for guiding us through the session with such grace and expertise.
Thank you to the sponsors who made this event successful:
During the event, President Mukesh Dubey delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the importance of yoga in promoting physical,
A speci A l th A nk you to our A m A zing yog A instructors, Jyothib A pAtil A nd h indu JA Ji from s pringfield lA kes, for guiding us through the session with such gr Ace A nd expertise.
mental, and spiritual wellbeing. He highlighted the significance of such gatherings in strengthening community bonds and encouraged everyone to continue embracing yoga principles in their daily lives.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this day a success! Let’s continue to promote health and peace in our community.
ConTD. FRoM PG 3
IMPLICATIonS:
• Perception of Restrictiveness: The recent changes may contribute to a perception that Australia is becoming more restrictive and less welcoming to international students and skilled migrants. This could deter prospective applicants from considering Australia as a viable option for education and career opportunities.
• Market Competitiveness:
ConCLUSIon
• Institutional Impact: Australian educational institutions, heavily reliant on international students, may experience a decline in enrolments, affecting their revenue and global standing.
The recent changes
Australia competes globally to attract top talent and international students. Stricter immigration policies may make other countries with more flexible immigration pathways more attractive to potential students and skilled migrants.
to Australian migration policies, specifically the restrictions on visitor visa holders and 485 visa holders applying for further student visas onshore, have significant implications. These changes introduce additional financial and logistical challenges for prospective students and graduates. Moreover, they risk diminishing Australia's attractiveness as a destination for international education and skilled migration.
As the landscape of
global migration continues to evolve, it is crucial for policymakers to consider the broader implications of such changes. Ensuring that Australia remains a welcoming and competitive destination for international students and skilled professionals is vital for the nation's economic growth and cultural enrichment.
At Migration Guru, we remain committed to providing expert guidance and support to navigate these complexities and help
our clients achieve their migration goals. For those seeking further information about this development or any other immigration advice, Migration Guru, with over 90 years of collective experience in Australian migration law, encourages you to get in touch. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing comprehensive assistance and guidance in navigating the evolving landscape of Australian immigration. Our team may be contacted by via email on
info at migrationguru.om.au or by calling 07 3036 3800. Readers are encouraged to follow us on Facebook for all the updates to Migration Law - https://www.facebook. com/migrationguru/ Migration Guru Pty Ltd, Level 3, 183 North Quay, Brisbane, QLD. Phone: 07 3036 3800
Disclaimer: - The above article constitutes only generic information on migration issues, and does not constitute specific migration advice to any entity or individual.
s enator Paul Scarr adresses senate on Girmit Remembrance Day in Brisbane
Senator SCARR (Queensland—Deputy Opposition Whip in the Senate)
I rise today to speak about Girmit Remembrance Day. This is an extremely important day which commemorates those Indians who were transported as indentured labour from India to, amongst other places, Fiji. Between 1879 and 1916, 60,000 Indians were transported as indentured labour from India and sent to Fiji, mainly to work in the sugar industry, in the cane fields. Each year, Girmit Remembrance Day recognises what those members of the Indian diaspora went through
as indentured labour. I would like to first congratulate the Fiji Girmit Foundation Australia for putting on a wonderful event to remember those Indians who went to Fiji as indentured labour, many of whose descendants have settled subsequently in Australia.
I would also like to sincerely thank and place on the record my thanks to Mr Jitendra Deo and his family, who supported the event which I attended through their Deo Family Charitable Foundation.
Jitendra is a wonderful Queenslander and makes a wonderful contribution to our community, and this is just one example of his and his family's charitable work through that foundation. His whole family was engaged during the event. It was very, very special to see.
Finally, thirdly, I pay tribute to the descendants of those Indians who were taken as indentured labour and transported to Fiji who have subsequently settled in Australia, many of whom
were given awards on the night for their contribution to Australia. These are the descendants of those original members of the Indian diaspora who were sent to Fiji as indentured labour that have subsequently settled in Australia, in our country, and they've made a wonderful contribution as part of our wonderful Australian Fijian Indian diaspora—contributions in medicine, business and community work. I honour their achievements. I honour
their service.
During the course of the Remembrance Day, I reflected on what their ancestors must think about the contribution they've made to Australia. Try to put yourself in the position of one of the members of those shipments of indentured labour with the resilience, the courage and the resourcefulness they all demonstrated. What must they think now that their descendants are working in our hospitals as doctors or specialists, working in
our science community and working in jobs providing great community service? So I say to each and every one of the recipients of those awards at the remembrance day that I attended: you do great honour to your ancestors, and each and every one of you represents the very best of Australian values. Watch on Federal Parliament You Tube. https:// youtu.be/7U8_8DvW9Yw
Senator Paul Scarr’s speech in the Australia Federal Upper House on Fiji’s Girmityas sacrifice in the event hosted by Mr Jitendra Deo and his family’s Deo Family Charitable Foundation.
JD Media Corp welcomes Internationally recognised Radio Guru, Jitendra Shyam
JD Media Corp is proud to welcome the internationally renowned Radio Guru, Jitendra Shyam, to our team. With over 35 years of exemplary experience in radio announcing and presenting, Jitendra Shyam, affectionately known as Bhai ji, has carved a distinguished career path.
Beginning in Fiji and then enriching the airwaves of New Zealand, Jitendra's journey perfectly sets the stage for his promising venture into the Australian radio scene, reaching out to the global Indian diaspora through JD Media's crossmedia services.
Over these decades, Jitendra has witnessed the evolution of radio
technology from analogue turntables and physical media to today's digital workstations and renowned software like Wizard and Nex Gen automated systems. His expertise spans a range of skills crucial to radio broadcasting, including live and recorded presentations, music programming, on-air interviews, and scriptwriting.
Beyond his technical proficiency, Jitendra brings a deep understanding of migrant life and issues in Western democracies, fostering engagement through community activities such as Diwali, Eid, and Holi celebrations. His commitment extends beyond the studio,
J d m edi A corp is proud to welcome the intern Ation A lly renowned rA dio g uru, Jitendr A s hyA m, to our te A m. w ith over 35 ye A rs of exempl A ry experience in r A dio A nnouncing A nd presenting, Jitendr A s hyA m, A ffection Ately known A s b h A i J i, h A s c A rved A distinguished c A reer pAth.
volunteering at the Shri Ram Mandir in Auckland, New Zealand, and contributing
the World games – olymPiCs 2024
ConTD FRoM PG 02
3. Usain Bolt, Jamaican athlete the greatest sprinter of all time - a title that has earned him in the region of $90 million.
4. Shaun White, former pro skateboarder and snowboarder has made his way to a net worth of around $65 million.
5. Lance Armstrong won one Olympic bronze medal while competing for his country in the men's individual time trial of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Following his admission of using performance enhancing drugs he returned his medal. His career may be forever sullied by the fact he cheated, but he's still managed to earn a fortune of around $50 million.
6. Peter Sagan, a Slovakian cyclist, is one of the all-time greats of his sport. He's not had so much success at the Olympics though, emerging without a medal from both London 2012 and Rio 2016. He has a bank balance of around $50 million to console him.
7. Greg LeMond, American cyclist makes this list thanks to becoming, at the age of just 18, the youngest person ever to make the US Olympic cycling team. Sadly, it was for the 1980 Moscow games which the US boycotted so he never actually competed. He went on to become one of the best road racers, winning three Tour de Frances and the Road Race World Championship twice. He has an estimated net worth of $40 million.
8. Alan Pascoe, British hurdler Alan Pascoe
claimed a bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics in the 4×400m relay. He then went on to great success in events marketing and consulting and is now worth an estimated $30 million.
9. Caitlyn Jenner won an Olympic gold medal in the Decathlon for the USA in the 1976 Montreal games - under her former name of Bruce Jenner, an estimated fortune of $25 million.
10.Tara Lipinski, completing our list of wealthy Olympians, is an American figure skater who won the gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano - the youngest person to do so in history with estimated fortune of $25 million.
Not all Olympic Games leave pleasant memories to the world.
The Olympic Games, like most human events, is not immune to tragedies and even acts of terrorism.
PARIS 1900
Edmond Brassart , (30), France – Fencing – 1900, Paris – Brassard was killed alongside three others in the collapse of the Passerelle des Invalides, a temporary bridge built for the Exposition Universelle of 1900. This occurred two months after he participated in the Olympic Games but also two months before the Games concluded. LonDon 1948
In 1948, during the London Olympics, Eliška Misáková, one of nine members of the Czechoslovak women's team in gymnastics, became ill on arrival in the host city. Diagnosed with polio, she passed away on the last day of the
Olympics, the same day her remaining teammates won the competition.
MELBoURnE 1956
Arrigo Menicocci, Italian rower who competed in eights, was involved as a passenger in a car crash about 90 km northwest of Melbourne during the Olympics on 1 December 1956, four days after the end of the rowing competition.
MUnICH 1972
MUnICH MASSACRE
In 1972, during the Munich Olympics, the Palestinian terrorist organisation Black September killed 11 members of the Israeli team.
The 11 Israeli olympic Team members who were murdered in the 1972 olympic Games in Munich are:
• Mark Slavin, 18, wrestler
• Eliezer Halfin, 24, wrestler
• David Mark Berger, 28, weightlifter
• Ze'ev Friedman, 28, weightlifter
• Yossef Romano, 32, weightlifter
• Andre Spitzer, 27, fencing coach
• Moshe Weinberg, 33, wrestling coach
• Yossef Gutfreund, 40, wrestling referee
• Amitzur Shapira, 40, track and field coach
• Yakov Springer, 51, weightlifting judge
• Kehat Shorr, 53, shooting coach
CALGARy 1988
Between the morning and afternoon runs of the men's giant slalom, Jörg Oberhammer, 47, the Austrian team doctor, was
actively to cultural and religious events. A graduate of a Hindi Linguistic Institute in India, Jitendra is fluent in both Hindi and English, enabling him to connect authentically with diverse audiences. His warm and friendly on-air presence, coupled with his comprehensive knowledge of radio broadcasting, makes him a trusted companion for listeners across the Australasian breakfast time zone and beyond.
JD Media Corp looks forward to Jitendra Shyam's invaluable contributions to the Australian Indian diaspora community, confident in his ability to enrich lives through the power of radio.
Information for our Maori & Pasifika communities
PACIFIC EnGAGEMEnT
VISA (PEV)
The first ballot for the Pacific Engagement visa (PEV) is currently open for registrations and closes on the 1st August 2024. Please see the eligibility criteria on our website below and note that registrations can be made both onshore (in Australia) and offshore (from overseas).
Pacific Engagement (homeaffairs.gov.au)
PACIFIC VISA
InFoRMATIon SESSIonS
It’s been a busy month with multiple community presentations both in person and online, in English and language, regarding the Pacific Engagement visa (PEV), Pacific Protection Visa (PPV) program, Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme and Falepili Union.
We are especially indebited to Pastors Manuia & Ruta Aloalii from Village Connect for hosting our “Pacific Visa Information Night” last Friday, including
skiing on a recreational slope when he collided with another skier (a CTV technician) and was knocked under a snowgrooming machine, which crushed him instantly.
RIo DE JAnEIRo 2016
German Olympic canoe slalom coach and Olympic silver-medallist Stefan Henze, 35, passed away on 15 August 2016 after his taxi was hit in a highspeed head-on collision in Rio three days earlier.
Tokyo 2020
Huang Guohui, 57,
the Status Resolution Shop Front. All events were well attended and I was able to respond to a range of questions on the topics presented. If you have any further questions, please email qld. community.engagement@ homeaffairs.gov.au
PAnDEMIC EVEnT (SUBCLASS 408) DECISIon TREE - AVAILABLE In LAnGUAGE FoR WoRkERS
The Pandemic event (subclass 408) visa is closing. A translated resource is now available for PALM scheme workers holding a Pandemic event visa with guidance on how to check visa conditions and validity, mandatory offshore period requirements and visa pathway options.
See attached fact sheets in English, Bislama, Fijian, Gilbertese, Nauruan, Samoan, Solomon Islands Pijin, Tetum, Tok Pisin, Tongan and Tuvaluan.
Employers and stakeholders are encouraged to share this resource with workers.
of China, the coach of Vietnamese Olympic swimmers, is suspected of suicide whilst being held under COVID-19 quarantine in Hanoi following the return from Tokyo.
LEST WE FoRGET
Brisbane Indian Times and her cross-media partners of the JD Media Corp wishes all athletics, support staff and officials from across the globe a safe and enjoyable Olympics 2024. Let the Olympic Oath, be all ours……
QLD STATUS RESoLUTIon
If you are aware of nationals whose visa has ceased and they are currently not holding a visa or wish to discuss their options, please reach out to qld.status.resolution@ homeaffairs.gov.au
Finally, I will be away in the Kingdom of Tonga from 24 June to 8 July 2024 (inclusive) and will respond to enquiries on my return. We are looking into potential Pacific Engagement visa (PEV) information sessions in regional area in mid to late July 2024.
“We promise to take part in these Olympic Games, respecting and abiding by the rules and in the spirit of fair play, inclusion and equality. Together we stand in solidarity and commit ourselves to sport without doping, without cheating, without any form of discrimination. We do this for the honour of our teams, in respect for the Fundamental Principles of Olympism, and to make the world a better place through sport”
Let’s continue to play fair, in sports and life……
Locally based Globally focussed
SInCE the privilege of owning a cross-media conglomerate placed on our lap earlier this year we immediately fathom the enormous responsibility this business and community media mandate and opportunities that came with it.
From the humble objectives of our family’s
Deo family Foundation to now a mighty shift to the world of cross media space, especially while majoring on a particular ethnic group, our Global Indian diaspora, we are at the same time passionate in our role Media service to all Australia and beyond.
Embarrassing these situations, it is always wise
for both the JD Media Corp and Deo Family Foundation to start at home.
In our case, we are a Logan City Business, with or office and studios located in Underwood.
Logan is our home as we focus beyond this magnificent multiethnic City.
Meeting with Mayor of
Logan and Councillor of Dv5 Cr Paul Jackson, our local reprehensive.
i t wA s A very fruitful A nd enlightening meeting A nd we h Ave been invited to further meetings A nd other meeting where we A s community le A der c A n be resource persons for the council in m Atter of tr A dition A nd culture issues reg A rding our respective ethic groups.
Both meetings were to further establish a cordial working representative. Our various community leaders had the opportunity to personally speak to the Mayor of some of challenge their respective community faces as Citizens of Logan City.
Community Leaders also had the opportunity to congratulate the Cr Jon
Jon
to
present services of the
and
Chairman of Deo
and
said” It was a very fruitful and enlightening meeting and we have been invited to further meetings and other meeting where we as community leader can be resource persons for the Council in matter of tradition and culture issues regarding our respective ethic groups.
Raven is his ascending to the office of Mayor of Logan and further commend on the excellent facilities available throughout each Division of the City.
Mayor
Raven
Cr Pauls Jackson also had the opportunity
share the
Logan City council available to all Citizens and immediate and long-term municipal plans.
Family Foundation
CEO of JD Media, Mr Jitendra Deo
Publisher and Community Advocate meets the Mayor Cr Jon Raven with other community leaders
Managing Editor Shanjeshni Deo Meets Councillor Paul Jackson
Xavier hernandez – Brisbane Indian Times Community catch-up
I begin my July article by acknowledging the Deo family for such a warm welcome to the team and empowering our youth and readers. I cannot thank them enough for this opportunity to help them connect the community with newsworthy reports about what happening locally and nationally. It is a special feeling when readers tell you how they feel and provide you feedback for the betterment of all. So, a very special thank you to all the readers who completed the Brisbane Indian Times June Survey 2024 and for their well wishes.
The June survey showed how important it is to have a paper and news outlet like the Brisbane Indian Times that is writing in multiple language. Most of the
answers came from readers who speak between 2 to 6 languages at home including English. This doesn’t surprise me as the Queensland Treasury Diversity Figures, 2021 March report highlighted, “ In 2011, India was the fourth most common country of birth (30,259 people or 0.7% of the total population), increasing to be the third most common in 2021 (71,819 people or 1.4% of the total population).”
You will see that languages spoken in India have made it to the top 10 list for both charts. Languages spoken in India have all been identified in the top 10. That’s why I encourage you to complete the survey. It helps keep language alive, culture strong, and connects the paper to the reader to ensure you receive fair and
relevant news. A big happy India Day to all celebrating on August 15th. I hope you will be sending photos and stories about how you’re celebrating this important calendar event this year.
In addition, readers said they also wanted to see highlevel community article and all agreed they enjoy our multicultural articles too. We appreciate the feedback, which is why the Brisbane Indian Times July survey is all about what topics you are interested in learning more about. This includes sports, politics, environment, global and local issues multiculturalism, diversity etc.
This month, I really enjoyed attending Africa Day 2024. Meeting such incredible community leader like Beny Bol OAM and was awarded an Queensland Day award by Lewis Lee OAM and Community Advocate Juhee Park from the Southside Migrant Association Inc (SMA) was heartwarming. Preserving culture and
writing meaningful articles is a passion of mine. I would encourage you to also ask your children to complete the survey. It is important to find out what the next generation thinks is important and what they’re interested in seeing in their local newspaper.
I encourage you to make time to complete the July survey by scanning the barcode. Make sure you answer every question and hit the submit button.
As a young person, I know the importance of helping one another that’s why I can report that by the end of June, I had raised $600.00 and ranked 9th on the leader chart of the Kokoda Youth Foundation challenge. I have also been doing sit-ups to raise awareness about male mental health. This has only been possible thanks to the
The South Asian Genes and Health in Australia (SAGHA) study
generosity of the readers and members of the community. It is such a lovely reminder of all the good people in our community. If your children are going beyond and above in the community. Please complete the survey we would like to reach out to them. If have any questions, please contact me by completing the survey and please say hi if you see me out and about in the community.
Buying Investment Property in Brisbane
For
than two decades, we have helped people from all walks of life achieve their financial
goals through property investment. This experience has allowed us to hone our approach, with a clear focus on long-term growth. This, combined with our in-depth knowledge of Brisbane real estate, makes us the perfect partner for your property investment journey.
From first timers to industry experts, we work with a wide range of investors, helping them through the whole process.
HoW WE CAn HELP yoU
As buyers advocates, our purpose is pretty simple – we help investors buy properties. We watch the market, spot places with great investment potential, and share them with you. We work with you to secure a great price.
When you work with us, we will start by getting to know you. To find you the best possible opportunities, we need to have a clear view of the kind of investor you are and what you want to achieve. We also need to understand your goals, both short and long term, and will help you develop your investment strategy.
Once we know what you are really looking for, we can begin the property search. To find you the perfect place, we will consider a range of key indicators, including:
Market performance data gathered from multiple research companies
Local demographics, noting changes and likely future trends
Details of development and infrastructure projects
Our significant expertise in the Brisbane property market
Best of all, we manage all this research for you. All you need to do is wait for us to contact you with a suitable opportunity. We can also act on your behalf during negotiations and help you purchase the property.
BEnEFITS
At Search Party Property, growth is our goal. We believe a successful
investment should support the ongoing development of your portfolio. That is why we will never stop looking for great opportunities for you.
Over the last 20 years, we have seen many investors get stuck on their first property. This has taught us what it takes to keep a portfolio growing and helped us to refine our Property Portfolio Accelerator Model. Now, using this approach, the majority of our clients are able to purchase several properties within 5 years. And it does not matter if property is not your passion. It is ours and our tried and tested method makes investing simple and stressfree. So, you can just focus on the things you love, knowing that your financial future is secure.
HoW WE ARE DIFFEREnT
While there is no shortage of property investment advice out there, most of it is just that – advice. Usually, it provides no real insight and limited practical support.
However, here at Search Party Property, we believe in taking the guesswork out of property investment. We are action oriented and focused on helping you build real wealth. We also have a deep understanding of the movements of the Brisbane market and know how to capitalise on them.
Throughout their careers, Luke (our Founder) and Julian (our Director) have seen many different strategies in action. They have been able to take the best parts of some approaches and learn from the mistakes of others. They have also developed a clear understanding of what makes a great opportunity while developing their own extensive portfolios.
This knowledge and experience underpins every part of our buyers advocate service. It guides every decision we make and can help you grow the property portfolio you have always dreamed of.
The Brookwater 5 min Neighbourhood
- 12 Schools supported by the University of Southern Queensland and TAFE Queensland Springfield campuses. - 22 Childcare Centres
- Mater Private Hospital Springfield & Health City Mater Public Hospital opening 2026
- Orion Springfield Central including Event Cinemas
- Robelle Domain Parklands with swimming lagoon
Brookwater is a distinct blend of living, golf and leisure, with design at the centre of everything we do. From inception, Brookwater has collaborated with leading design organisations to shape a living environment where home design, stunning landscape architecture and amenities come together to create spaces where people feel at home and part of a master design for luxurious living.
Premium homesites offering excellent amenities and lifestyle options are still available. Live your best life at Brookwater.
The Australian property market remains resilient amid economic challenges, with the continued growth in dwelling values across most regions. Over the last year, Perth has led the gains with a 23.6% annual increase, while Melbourne and regional Victoria saw slight declines. The rental market also grew, with a national annual rise of 8.2%, despite slowing monthly growth. Supply and demand imbalances persist, with new listings up but total advertised supply still below average,
maintaining upward pressure on property values. Despite high interest rates and inflation, the market's resilience is expected to continue, driven by limited
Pastor Suresh Dass Joseph josephdass@optusnet.com.au
DEAR Reader, we are so happy to bring to you the word of God. Today I want to talk about your heart. Not the organ inside of you that pumps the blood to keep you alive, but the real you, the inner person. Often, when we make a mistake, we beat ourselves when we do things we should avoid. We remember the last time when we told ourselves not to give into our emotions of anger and compromise with our friends, yet we blew it again. Then it's easy to feel guilty and condemned, wrong on the inside, thinking, "I can't believe that I am still struggling in this area."
The Bible says that God is our faith's author and finisher. That means God will not only give you a dream for your life, but He has the power to bring it to pass. If God can start something, He has a completion date for it. In the scriptures, we read, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29v11). When
the turneD heart
Pic. Source: https://flowrecoveryretreat.com/
God made that excellent plan for your life, He considered your mistakes, poor choices, and setbacks.
Then it is easy to think that you have to have a perfect performance, that you have to get rid of all your weaknesses, overcome all the areas you struggle in, then you will feel good about yourself, then you will have God's favour.
But the scripture says God searches the earth to show himself strong in people whose hearts are fully committed towards Him. This speaks of a heart that is turned towards God. A turned heart will always lean towards God.
1 Sam 16 v 1-7
In the scriptures (1 Samuel 16), we read that when God wanted to appoint the next king in Israel, He sent the Prophet
Samuel with a cow to the house of Jesse to make a sacrifice. Samuel took a jar of oil to anoint the new king. When the eldest son, Eliab, stood before him, Samuel said, "Surely the Lord's anointed is before Him." But the LORD told Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
In other scriptures, God, speaking of David, says, "He gave testimony and said, 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will."
HERE ARE 3 THInGS WE CAn LEARn FRoM DAVID
1. You can have a turned heart, or you can have a
straight heart. In Jesus' day, there was a group of people called the Pharisees. They kept all the religious rules, prayed at the right time, gave the required amount, and went to great lengths to perform the religious ceremonies precisely like they were supposed to. The problem was their heart wasn't right. They were selfrighteous, proud, critical, and quick to judge others. Jesus said to them, "You're like a bunch of whitewashed tombs. You look good on the outside, but on the inside, there's a big problem". They had straight hearts and did not turn to God in humility.
2. People are quick to point at the outside appearance, but God looks at the heart. When Jesus picked His disciples, He didn't choose people who
f or i know the pl A ns i h Ave for you," decl A res the lord, "pl A ns to prosper you A nd not to h A rm you, pl A ns to give you hope A nd A future." (Jeremi A h 29v11). w hen g od m A de th At excellent pl A n for your life, h e considered your mistA kes, poor choices, A nd setb Acks.
had it all together. He chose tax collectors, fishermen, and others. They were known as dishonest people, used foul language, and lived a rough lifestyle. He chose Thomas, a doubter. It looked like he'd made a mistake. These weren't the most qualified, disciplined, upstanding people. These were people with flaws and weaknesses, people who came out of dysfunction, and people who were not raised in a religious background. But when Jesus called out to them, "Follow Me," they just followed Him. Speaking of David, God said, "I have found David, … a man after My own heart.." David's heart was not straight but turned towards God.
3. God's power did not
Jesus said “I am The Way…”
Pic. Source: www.crosswalk.com
Jesus said “arise and shine…”
Key Verse: Jesus answered, “I am The Way and The Truth and The Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6 NLT.
DEAR Reader, We are excited to bring you the good news to our world. Our theme is sim-ple and clear. It is to make God real and personal. So that with this Real Person, you can learn to know His nature and personally relate to Him.
God is not an object or an image or imagination of the human mind. God is a living and loving person. We find this amazing revelation in the pages of the Holy Bible.
Keep reading with an open heart and humble spirit. You will encounter your Creator today. You don’t need a thousand years for your Salvation (Mukti). You can receive your greatest miracle ‘Mukti’ today. This is the confidence you can have in Yeshua the
Satguru.
If we believe life is a journey, we need to know the right ways to navigate safely. Not all roads lead to Rome as people said in the past. Suppose, when you need to go to meet your Father who is living in Cairns; and you live in Canberra, what way is you are going to choose to drive?
When you know you only have 3 days to reach your father, and there are no flights or trains to Cairns, you will begin to look for the right way. You will not waste a single moment of your 3 days to plan your path.
Friends, life is a very short journey, therefore don’t try all different ways to find the perfect way.
But, listen to a God-crafted compass in your heart. This compass will point you to the true Heavenly Father, your Creator and your God. We as humans have one life and one opportunity to seek and find The True way to God. God has made His way abundantly clear. His way, truth and life are perfectly and completely demonstrated by Jesus Christ - He is The Satguru. Listen to a clear and
gentle call of Jesus inside your heart today. He said, “I am the Way.” He did not say I know a way or I am like one of the ways. He gives complete assurance and confidence to a last soul. His purpose is to lead all humanity to Truth and Life. Therefore, ask your-self this question; What is the Truth? How can you know for sure? Whom should I believe? Truth is not a philosophy
reach the religious ones but to David. Samuel told the sons of Jesse, "Sanctify yourselves and come with me to the sacrifice." Then he got them specially prepared for the ceremony. Now, they looked very religious. But David was out in the field keeping the sheep. After the sacrifice, Samuel was to the oil on one of Jesse's sons and appointed him as the next king. But God did not pick any of them. When Samuel discovered that David, the youngest son, was missing, he called for him. When he stood before Samuel, David did not look like a religious person. He looked rough and untidy. Yet God told Samuel to pour the oil on David and anoint him as the next king of Israel. God promoted David because his heart was turned towards God. It is the same for you. You don't have to perform perfectly, eliminate all your weaknesses, and overcome all your struggles to feel good about yourself. The important thing is your heart is turned to God. Our hearts are turned towards God when we are quick to repent, live to love God, and love others as we love ourselves. Keep a lid on negative chatter, slandering people, judging and criticising others while walking in fellowship with God and His people. David received his promotion because his heart was turned towards God. In the same way, God's promotion, favour, and grace are always available for you as your heart is turned toward Him! God bless you.
or an idea of human imagination or traditional practices. Let me tell you the Best Definition of Truth.
Truth is a Person. That Person is completely defined and perfectly expressed through the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Today, take time to ask yourself a simple and humble question; “I am truly travelling on the right way?”. And find your answer in the words of John
14:6, Jesus said, I am the way.
Is there a perfect way? How can one be that way?
The answer that is, Jesus Christ is the Perfect Way and right way to live a life filled with peace, love and joy. Hear the gentle voice of Jesus in your heart today; He assures by saying, “For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.” (Isaiah 41:13 NLT) Therefore, we invite you to pray this with a sincere heart;
“Dear Father God, today I thank you for your word that has touched my heart. I repent for all my wrongs. I confess with my mouth ‘Jesus is Lord’ and I believe in my heart that Jesus died for my sins, God raised Jesus from the dead for my Mukti (Salvation). Now help me to know Jesus more and more so that I can grow in the knowledge of your grace and mercy. Teach me your ways so that I can be the person who will learn to honour you and learn to love each other. Amen.
Guru Purnima or Vyasa Purnima – The festival of gratitude to Guru
THE content of this article is taken from the satsang (spiritual discourse) of H.H. Sant Shri Asharamji Bapu. Swami Vivekananda addressed the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in September 1893. A hundred years after him, Pujya Bapuji addressed the same Parliament in September 1993 and the whole parliament reverberated with the chanting of Hari Om. Both of these worldrenowned spiritual leaders addressed the audience for a much longer period than the given time and the audience were absorbed in listening to them.
To save the youth who are being ruined due to the lustful festivals like valentine’s day, in 2007 Pujya Bapu ji-initiated celebrations of Matri-Pitri Pujan Diwas (Parents’ worship day) on 14th February. Pujya Bapu ji felt that, due to the blind imitation of Western culture there has been a steep rise in the incidences of alcoholism, suicide, and other immoral activities, especially among the youth during the last week of December. To rescue the youth from this debauchery and denigration, Pujya Bapu ji came up with the idea of worshipping a sacred Tulsi plant (holy basil). So, with a view to awaken the cultural pride of India and to save the countrymen from mental slavery, in 2014, he initiated celebration of Tulsi Pujan on 25th December. Pujya Bapu ji has always emphasized the necessity to follow rich Indian culture and always said that it is only the Indian culture and Sanatana dharma which can give the world true happiness & peace.
Dear readers, in this article Pujya Bapu ji talks about the importance Guru Purnima. This year Guru Purnima will be celebrated on 21st July 2024. Guru Purnima, also known as Vyasa Purnima, is a significant and auspicious Hindu festival celebrated on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June-July). It is a day dedicated to gurus, teachers, and mentors, where disciples express their gratitude and respect towards their spiritual and academic guides. The word
"Guru" in Sanskrit means "dispeller of darkness," signifying the role of a teacher in enlightening one's path. On Guru Purnima, devotees worship and honour their gurus by offering special prayers, performing rituals, and seeking blessings for spiritual growth and knowledge. This festival holds immense cultural and spiritual importance in Indian tradition, as it symbolizes the gurudisciple relationship and the transmission of wisdom from one generation to another.
People across India and various parts of the world celebrate Guru Purnima with reverence, devotion, and a sense of gratitude towards those who have imparted knowledge and guidance in their lives. In Indian history, there are numerous legendary examples of the gurushishya (teacher-disciple) relationship that have had a profound impact on society and culture. Here are a few notable examples:
Lord Krishna and Arjuna: In the epic Mahabharata, Lord Krishna served as the charioteer and spiritual guide to Arjuna, imparting the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Their relationship symbolizes the importance of guidance and mentorship in times of moral dilemmas and challenges.
Gautama Buddha and Ananda: Ananda was a devoted disciple of Gautama Buddha and served as his attendant for over 25 years. Ananda not only supported Buddha in his teachings but also played a crucial role in preserving his teachings after his passing, contributing to the formation of early Buddhist scriptures.
Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa: Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world, was deeply influenced by his guru, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Ramakrishna's teachings and spiritual practices shaped Vivekananda's outlook and mission to
spread Vedanta philosophy globally. Talking about the religious merits of Guru Purnima, Pujya Bapu ji says that everyone should contemplate and reflect on the significance of Guru Purnima festival.
Sat Guru is called Vyasa. Vyasa means one who organizes and channels our scattered energy, vrittis, desires and capability. Just as the scattered sunrays are converged by a convex lens to produce heat energy, the great men who have the ability to make arrangements for channeling our scattered energy to produce the desired effect on a particular point are called ‘ Vyasa'.
Guru Purnima marks the incarnation day of Bhagavan Veda Vyasa ji. Veda Vyasa ji wrote the world's foremost and best text on philosophy entitled 'Brahma Sutra'. He started to write it on the full moon day in the month of Ashadh. This day also marks the conclusion of the writing of the great epic, Mahabharata. 'Vyasa Purnima' is celebrated in memory of the great man who performed unforgettable service to mankind in its deliverance. His memory is so pleasant, enlightening, and gracious that even Lord Krishna and Lord Rama heard and instructed respectfully, his books, scriptures and commentaries and considered them authentic. Celebrating Vyasa Purnima gives religious merit equivalent to celebrating all the Purnimas in a year. It also bestows sublime understanding! Brother! Even if you make material progress to any extent, or even get a golden city like Lanka, but if you do not get repose in the Self by eradicating desires, what is the use? Adi Shankaracharya said, "What purpose does it serve?" How miserable was the state of Ravana? Hiranyakashyapu
practiced such a terrible penance and so intelligent was he that he made Hiranyapur. His name was Hiranyakashyapu. 'Hiranya' means 'gold'. He constructed a city of gold. Finally, he got involved in it so deeply that he could not attain the bliss of inner Self, the omnipresent Narayana. Lord Vishnu blessed him with a son named Prahlada. In the end, Hiranyakashyapu, tired of worldly riches, was defeated and Prahlada emerged victorious. History is replete with such examples. King Nriga was born as a chameleon in his next life. He was a very renowned king. King Aja became a python in his next life. Sant Kabir ji said: "What should we do and accumulate for this short life? Everyone is departing this life leaving his body, house, wealth and kingdom.
When you must have to leave your body, house, wealth, and kingdom, do something which will ensure that you get eternal happiness.
HIGHEST
MAnIFESTATIonS oF GoD
Worship of Guru means worship of God (supreme). As long as mankind's love for true knowledge persists, Gurus will be worshipped.
As long as man does not complete his journey to attain That which enables all learning possible, man should remain an aspirant of knowledge. Even after Selfrealization, Ramakrishna Paramahansa said, “So long as I live, I am a student, and I shall keep learning."
We have attained a lot of bread winning education. But the objective of Vyasa Purnima is to learn how to trample on the head of death by filling the heart with knowledge of the Beloved. And the great men who made the realization of Vyasa Deva as their own realization are
very extraordinary. They learn from fools and have the capability to teach the learned. Although they are scared of mosquitoes, they can fight lions. Though they keep nothing with them they can give everything to the person who begs from them. They may subsist on alms if required, but they have the power to make a helpless pauper a king.
Swami Vivekananda said, “Higher and nobler than all ordinary ones are another set of teachers; the Avataras of Ishvara in the world. They can transmit spirituality with a touch, even with a mere wish. The lowest and the most degraded characters become, in one second, saints at their command. They are the Teachers of all teachers, the highest manifestations of God through man. We cannot see God except through them. We cannot help worshipping them; and indeed, they are the only ones whom we are bound to worship."
GURU PUMIMA EMBoDIES RESPECT FoR knoWLEDGE
Vyasa Pumima, Guru Pumima is the full moon day to respect knowledge. Here knowledge does not mean worldly knowledge of iron, wood, bricks and lime but the knowledge of the Supreme Truth that governs the entire creation.
In the Mahabharata, the relationship of friendship between Lord Krishna and Arjuna is also given the name of Guru-disciple (teacherstudent). In Mahabharata, many incidents of the friendship of both are recorded. Both Arjuna and Shri Krishna had genuine feelings for each other. The relationship begins with the birth of Lord Indra’s son Arjuna at the beginning of the Mahabharata. During Govardhan Leela, Lord Krishna accepts Indra’s prayer and promises that he will always help Arjuna by becoming a friend. Shri
Krishna always kept this promise. The relationship of friendship between Lord Krishna and Arjuna is also given the name of Gurudisciple (teacher-student). The bond between them becomes even stronger when Arjuna marries Lord Krishna’s sister Subhadra. Lord Krishna was not only Arjuna’s friend, but he had guided Arjuna all the time. So, in conclusion, in Hinduism, Guru Purnima is a festival that is extremely significant. You can express your gratitude to your teachers on the day of Guru Purnima. We can see that Guru Shishya Parampara continues to be followed in Indian traditional dancing and music classes. This reinforces the need for Guru Purnima observance. Guru Purnima is a day of gratitude. On this auspicious day, we can be thankful for the knowledge and wisdom shared by our revered Gurus. However, we cannot provide anything in return that equals what our Gurus have given us. Sharing the light of knowledge with others is the only way for us to improve what we have acquired or learned from our Gurus. It is always about passing on wisdom to others and keeping it alive. For Guru Purnima, we are not celebrating an individual teacher or Guru. Here, we are trying to pay our respects to all the spiritual and academic Gurus who have helped us grow. To listen Vedic/ knowledge stories or to listen 24X7 live divine Satsang, please search “Mangalmay live” on google, visit http://www. ashram.org/live or search “THE SBM STUDIO” on you tube. By the Divine Inspiration of Bapu ji, the weekly sessions of Bal Sanskar and yoga are held in Brisbane, Melbourne and in Sydney. The kids are taught yogic mudras, yogic techniques, yogasnas and pranayamas. These yogic techniques along with jap and meditation help kids in attaining virtues like righteousness and selfrestraint. To know more about His Divine Holiness Bapu ji, please watch this video: https://bit. ly/2uZvJuN .
For more info about Bal Sanskar and yoga sessions, to get a free copy of monthly spiritual magazine RishiPrasad in your mailbox in Australia or to get free online subscription of Rishi -Prasad, please contact by email at bskamd@gmail.com or by WhatsApp/phone to Shri Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti Australia & New Zealand at +61 426 834 434 & +61 405 277 802. Please read more about our Vedic culture in the next issue of “The Brisbane Indian Times.”
Ipswich Ramayan Mandali 35 year journey
IPSWICH Ramayan Mandali is a result of Pt Suresh Ji’s parents and family tradition (purwaj) in retaining of our Indian culture, religion, and language. The mandali’s foundation was laid in 1987 in East Ipswich hence the name Ipswich Ramayan Mandali. The mandali with Ramayan recitals and hindi language classes started as a family venture. With the increase of Fiji Indian migrants in the 90’s the mandali participants grew in number. Annual Ram Naumi , Krishna Janamastami and Deepawali celebrations were celebrated at house to house. Later, Hindi classes were organised in Gailes/ Goodna area and for a number of years the annual Ram Naumi and Krishna Janamastami programmes were held at Salik Ram’s place.
Over the years, the mandali has provided encouragement, training and other development opportunities to its members especially the younger ones. Our youth and adults have represented us well
the V team
in various activities. Apart from its regular cultural and religious activities, we have always rose to the occasion to assist people in need be it for medical, death or any other unforeseen calamities. Our mandali is also a major donor to the Queensland Sanatan Hall project. We believe in sewa and are united in our endeavours to keep promoting our Sanatan values through our mandali activities. To commemorate our 35-year journey, the mandali recently had a new uniform unveiled.
A serendipitous combination of geographical circumstance, global mission and vision and ambitious administrative standards have led to the formation of a vibrant young team of volunteers driving the work of Life Global Australia.
Three young professionals are at the core of LifeGA. Kieran McGowan and Rachel Thompson are founding members of the Board of Directors, and Rebecca Reeve is Director of Digital Media on the Advisory Board. While all live in the home country of LifeGA, Australia, their backgrounds and paths to service for the charity are quite different, and none fits the profile of the typical volunteer.
In Australia, most volunteers are at least in their 60s, with those in their 70s and 50s close seconds. Understandably, those not working, or working few hours, are more likely to be volunteering. So older, retired Australians typically dominate the ranks of volunteers. How, then, do three busily-employed professionals in their 20s and 30s come to dominate the 100% volunteer administration of fledgling charity, LifeGA?
At first glance, Kieran’s seems the most direct connection. His grandparents were originally from Gujarat in India and gave lifelong support to charitable organisations there.
“My grandfather has been involved with charities in India, including our
partner charity, Project Life, since long before we started Life Global Australia. As a child, I had the good fortune of getting to see one of the schools built by those charities, and the joy it had brought to students, teachers, and local families.”
Rebecca Reeve also came to LifeGA with some connection to India. Before moving to Australia from England, she travelled in India and felt an instant connection with the country.
“I wanted to make a positive impact and saw joining LifeGA in July 2023 as my opportunity to be involved in something bigger. I loved learning of the impact LifeGA was making.”
For both Kieran and Rebecca, the chance to make a difference in the world was most alluring. It is also what attracted Rachel.
“What initially drew me to Life Global Australia was the profound impact it has on the lives of the less
privileged,” Rachel said.
Rachel probably has the longest experience in volunteering, though all three had volunteered long before they joined LifeGA. While still at school in Singapore, Rachel participated in after-school programs for children with disabilities and was involved in many school camps.
“Notably, I had the opportunity to contribute to house-building projects in Cambodia and took part in the Schools-to-Schools program in Nepal, where we fundraised and delivered shoes to several villages.”
Kieran was in community service clubs while at school in Australia, and volunteered for Meals on Wheels. Rebecca started volunteering while attending university in the UK, working for the charity, House of Bread, in Staffordshire.
“HOB began as a university film project, but their passion rubbed off on me quickly, and I soon found myself joining for their weekly meetup, helping to prepare food bags and essentials, cooking meals and meeting and connecting with vulnerable people
across Stafford.”
What clearly differentiates Kieran, Rebecca and Rachel from the typical volunteer is that they have not adopted LifeGA as a way to fill in hours of free time. Each is a busy professional working long days to shape a career in their chosen sector.
Kieran has a background in software engineering which has proven useful when it comes to website-related or payments-related tasks, and has meant LifeGA has not had to pay for external contractors. This has been crucial in supporting LifeGA’s commitment that 100% of donations (excluding bank fees) will go to partner charities, which are themselves required to have less than 5% administration costs. Rebecca’s field is marketing and media, and she has improved LifeGA’s connection with its audience by increasing engagement and optimising the LifeGA digital space. Rachel has studied both Psychology and Sustainability and works in the sustainability sector. She has focused on building the Life Global Australia team. Her strength lies in identifying the right individuals, recognising the potential value of their work, inspiring them to join the cause, and bringing them all together.
“None of us could have done this without the supportive team that we've built,” Kieran said.
Rachel believes the team is not just a group of individuals working together. “It is a collective
force driven by a shared commitment to the mission and values of Life Global Australia.” LifeGA’s mission and vision provide the strong bond within the charity’s team.
“Our primary mission is to bring about real change in the lives of those who lack the opportunities readily available to us in Australia,” Rachel said. “Opportunities we might unintentionally take for granted.”
“I think it's important to do what is possible to make the world a fairer place for all”, Rebecca said. “It's very easy to get absorbed in your day-to-day life, and forget about the world outside of your own.”
All three comment on the sense of purpose they have found through volunteering for LifeGA.
“I have learnt that what can be considered a small amount of money in Australia can make a huge impact overseas,” Rebecca said. “We can change lives and increase opportunities for so many.”
Rachel agrees. “Through LifeGA, we have already helped 75 women to achieve economic security, 100 units of blood to be given to needy recipients, and ensured 500 Thalassemia screening tests. Now we are on our way to building a school, raising funds classroom by classroom.”
As Kieran said, “When offered the opportunity to create more of the same kind of change, who could say no?”
www.lifeglobal.org.au
Multicultural Carnival Brings Festive Cheer to Mt Gravatt Showgrounds
MT Gravatt, Saturday 25th May — The South East Qld Islamic Association's Multicultural Carnival, Eid Mela Carnival 2024 at the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds was a vibrant and joyous event, overcoming early challenges posed by the morning rain. Despite the wet start, organizers remained determined and improvised under the circumstances, ensuring the festivities went ahead with only a slight delay.
The program, initially scheduled to commence at 10:00 AM, began at 11:30 AM with VIP guests showing commendable patience. The event started with a heartfelt Welcome to Country by Uncle Josef Kirk, beautifully complemented by a didgeridoo performance by his grandson following a Quran
Tilawat by Imam Abdul Kadir Safaqui of Ormeau.
The Chief Guest, Senator Paul Scarr, officially opened the carnival, followed by a convivial brunch over tea and coffee with other dignitaries. Among the dignitaries included the Mayor of Logan Cr. John Raven, Cr Stephen Huang of Macgregor Ward, Hussain Baba, Sanjeshni Deo, Shahban Ali, Nasib Mohammed, Jani King representative, Mac Trans representative Robert among many others. Hussain Baba led a lively food competition for the food stalls, which was warmly received and featured numerous prizes.
As the day progressed, the weather improved, the sun came out, and the crowd began to grow. By 3:00 PM, the showgrounds were
packed with families and children, creating a truly festive atmosphere.
The carnival featured a variety of kids' programs and competitions, which delighted children of all ages. Generous sponsors provided many free giveaway prizes and gifts, adding to the excitement.
The Hamblyn Harris Hall was bustling with activity, as ladies and girls displayed and sold clothing, jewelry, perfumes, and other artifacts. An Islamic fashion catwalk parade, held exclusively for the ladies, was a highlight, greatly enjoyed by all and boosting merchandise sales.
As evening approached, the food stalls were at peak trade, serving the large crowd that had gathered. People indulged in international street food
cuisine with the smell of freshly cooked food filling the air while they all waited for the fireworks to start. Parking spaces were filled, and cars lined the nearby streets. Stage programs continued well into the night, building anticipation for the finale fireworks.
The event culminated in a spectacular fireworks display which was
sponsored by Mac Trans Heavy Haulage,at 8:00 PM, marking a memorable end to a day filled with multicultural celebration and community spirit.
The SEQIA extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, guests, volunteers, and sponsors for their support and contributions, which made the Multicultural Carnival
a tremendous success.
Special mention is made to our major sponsors, Mac Trans Heavy Haulage, Harcourt Elite Group, RWI Spray Painting, Jani King, The Greens, MATW Project and Brisbane Indian Times. We are greatly indebted to Jitendra and Sanjeshni Deo for continuing to give us the publicity through their media outlets and for being long time supporters and well wishes of Eid Mela Carnival multicultural initiative in getting the multi -ethnic communities together. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for an even bigger and more vibrant celebration. For more information, please contact: Raj Raaz (Robert) SEQIA General Secretary/Event Coordinator Eid Mela Carnival 0402651045
Ganga Aarti Brisbane Style: A Harmonious Celebration on the Banks of Maiwar River
on a sunny Sunday afternoon, Maiwar River (Brisbane River) came alive with the vibrant colours of devotion during a heartwarming Ganga aarti ceremony. Approximately 400 people gathered, their spirits lifted by the perfect weather, the stunning riverside setting at Newstead Park, and the uplifting music. The gathering was to mark Ganga Dassea.
One of the organisers Marina Chand from ShivaShakti Maa Charitable Foundation, the charitable arm of the Sai Saileshwara Mandiram, said that the event was “A dream come true – a beautiful fusion of cultures paying homage to both Mother Maiwar and Mother Ganga on such an auspicious day”. She also said that having such a large crowd participate in the event was really heartening which encouraged unity and harmony among all the groups in attendance. “Ganga brings us all together – regardless of which community we are from. Everyone loves to participate in Ganga aarti and it’s a great family event too”. Turrbal Songwoman Baringa Barambah Meeanjinu graced the gathering, invoking her ancestral heritage with
powerful songs and stories including a Turrbal creation song that celebrates the Maiwar River. Attendees were moved by her performance and learned of the Turrbal people’s resilience—once thousands strong, but
t he c hief g uest, s en Ator pAul s c A rr, offici A lly opened the c A rnivA l, followed by A convivi A l brunch over te A A nd coffee with other dignitA ries. Among the dignitA ries included the mAyor of log A n c r. John rAven, c r s tephen h uA ng of mAcgregor wA rd, h uss A in bA b A, sA n J eshni d eo, s h A hb A n Ali, nA sib m oh A mmed, J A ni k ing representAtive, mAc t r A ns representAtive r obert A mong m A ny others. o ne of the org A nisers mA rin A c h A nd from s hivA - s h A kti mAA c h A ritA ble f oundAtion, the ch A ritA ble A rm of the sA i sA ileshwA r A mA ndir A m, s A id th At the event wA s “A dre A m come true – A be Autiful fusion of cultures pAying hom Age to both m other mA iwA r A nd m other gA ng A on such A n Auspicious dAy”.
reduced to only 50 survivors during colonisation. Through Songwoman Baringa, the energy of the ancestors blessed the proceedings. Guruji Sai Saileshwara led the kirtan and prayers, infusing the atmosphere with invocations, mantras and song. As the aarti program concluded, Soul Sounds, the talented musicians, had many dancing in celebration. The highlight of the evening was the collective Ganga aarti. Songwoman Baringa and Marina Chand jointly performed the main aarti, while everyone present had the opportunity to also offer aarti to the beloved Brisbane River. After all, Brisbane is rightfully known as the River City.
In the photo above, we have Senator Paul Scarr, Mayor of Logan, Cr. John Raven, Event Coordinator of Eid Mela Carnival, Raj Raaz (Robert), Mac Trans Rep Robert, Cr.Stephen Huang of Macregor Ward, Nasib Mohammed ( General Secretary of Rooty Hill Mosque and Shahban Ali, Patron of SEQIA)
SEQIA members, Nazrul Ali, Nazia Ali, Aiyub Mohammed working in the South East Qld Community Centre Food Stall
a time for action
THE 28th of July is World Hepatitis Day. Chronic Hepatitis is a liver condition and can lead to liver damage and liver cancer. Worldwide it is a health problem with over 300 million people living with chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C, the two most common chronic hepatitis in the world Here in Australia, that number is nearly 300,000 people. Now it is the time to consider:
1. Getting tested. Ask your GP to check for hepatitis B and hepatitis C – a simple specific blood test.
2. Get protected – get vaccinated. If you do not have hepatitis B you can get vaccinated. Ask your GP to check your immunity first. People who had an acute hepatitis B infection in the past and cleared the virus develop immunity for life and they do not need vaccination.
3. Get regular check-ups. If you have chronic hepatitis B you will need to get your liver checked every six months –usually through blood tests and a liver ultrasound. It is also recommended to check
for liver damage every 12 months– you can ask your GP for a Fibroscan. At ECCQ, we provide free Fibroscans for migrants including people who do not have a Medicare Card.
4. Get treated. Not all people living with chronic hepatitis B need treatment, but some people do – your doctor or nurse practitioner will let you know when you need it. Therefore, regular
check-ups are very important. If you have chronic hepatitis C – you can get treated and cured within 3 months– treatment is easy with minimal side effects. However, people who have successfully been cured of hepatitis C can be reinfected, therefore it is very important to avoid blood contact.
5. Get on with living.
Chronic Hepatitis B or hepatitis C cannot stop you from being able to work or study or get married and
have children. You can live a normal life like anyone else. Social contact such as sharing food will not transmit hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Always avoid other people’s blood.
6. Get informed. Misinformation and lack of knowledge are the roots for stigma. It’s time to eliminate stigma and discrimination against people living with hepatitis. For more information go to www.eccq. com.au/bbv
HIV/AIDS
Parenting, if only there was a
WHEn an appliance or car is purchased, it comes with a user manual, but when we become parents there is no instructions included! Fumbling in the dark, sleep deprived, away from community and family young parents try to figure out how to look after their newborn. As a new mother I often wished someone would write me a manual many a time. There have been many moments of doubt and selfcriticism. In the end we all do what we can. Being on the path of yoga and training to be a yoga teacher gave me many gifts, in fact it has a manual! Now if only I had found this earlier in my parenting journey.
Yoga is a holistic philosophy that gives us a set of tenets how to navigate life in a connected and meaningful way. Yoga as a practice reminds us there is a depth to life other than just the daily grind. It allows us to find the beauty and wisdom in all that is around us. Yoga as a practice brings harmony between the mind and body. It acknowledges and treats the whole person; we ARE more than our bodies.
To complete my 300-hour yoga teacher training a thesis was required. By this stage my children were young adults, but it dawned on me as I delved deep in study of the one of main texts for yoga - Patanjali Yoga Sutrasthat there is something very special here for parents also. Patanjali Yoga Sutras is the collection of verses about the theory and practice of yoga. While the sutras are guide to a person on path of selfinquiry and self-realization; it does also hold wisdom for the house holder.
Contrary to what we see in popular culture yoga
is more than just bending the bodies in to fantastic postures. There are eight limbs of yoga, it is prescribed that they are to be learned sequentially, mastering one before progressing to the next. They are:
1. yama – are principles that guide us how to live wholistically, it teaches us how to treat others and the world around us.
2. niyamas – are standards fof self-discipline.
3. Asana – practice of yoga postures, allows the one to connect with their body, bring their outwardly focused mind back into the body.
4. Pranayama – breath control, through which we are able to invigorate our bodies and support destressing our nervous system.
5. Pratyahara –withdrawal of senses. It teaches to align focus inwardly for peacefulness.
yog A is A holistic philosophy th At gives us A set of tenets how to n Avig Ate life in A connected A nd me A ningful wAy. yog A A s A pr Actice reminds us there is A depth to life other th A n J ust the dA ily grind. i t A llows us to find the be Auty A nd wisdom in A ll th At is A round us.
m y thesis focused on the yA m A’s A nd n iyA m A s, the first two limbs. s peci A lly there A re five yA m A s A nd five n iyA m A s. As you c A n A lre A dy see yog A philosophy c A n be Q uite system Atic. s ystems, A nd routines A re essenti A l for pA renting. t hey reduce the ch Aos of A busy life pulling pA rents in multiple directions.
manual!
6. Dharana – is concentration, it is a single pointed focus of the mind that supports meditation.
7. Dhyana – deep effortless contemplation on our reality, meditation.
My thesis focused on the Yama’s and Niyamas, the first two limbs. Specially there are five Yamas and five Niyamas. As you can already see yoga philosophy can be quite systematic. Systems, and routines are essential for parenting. They reduce the chaos of a busy life pulling parents in multiple directions.
As summarized by the Sri Sri Yoga School of Yoga: Yama are five social ethics. They include ahimsa - kindness, satya – truthfulness, asteya – nonstealing, brahmacharya – moderation and aparigraha – generosity. Niyamas are five personal practices or disciplines. They include saucha – purity, santosha – contentment, tapas – austerity, swadhyaya – self study and iswarapranidhana – surrender.
Over the next issues of the Brisbane Indian Times, I will share what I wrote in my thesis and together
we will explore practical strategies and tips of how we can take an ancient text on yoga philosophy and apply it today to parenting. It is a testament to our ancient knowledge keepers that they cognized knowledge that is timeless and relevant to today.
Disclaimer – I am not an expert in the Patanjali Yoga Sutras, I am a STUDENT. As a student what I have learned and understood I wish to share in the forth coming articles. These are my contemplations and learnings, if they resonate
use it and do tell me about it! If your curiously has been sparked there are many books on the limbs of yoga and many schools of yoga, you can study with. I wholeheartedly encourage it! You don’t have to become a yoga teacher to do these teacher trainings, to me they are life trainings. Written by Reema naresh, yoga Teacher and Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultant. Reema, works at the University of Queensland at a research centre professionally. She is a keen holistic health enthusiast.
Hepatitis,
and Sexual Health Program Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ)
The Journey of a Hobbyist
BIRTH oF A PASSIon
As an ex-deputy manager of Bank of Maharashtra, who served for almost 30 years, my humble journey as a numismatist began 4 decades ago while cleaning the loft of my house. I found seven foreign coins collected by my younger brother in his school days and thus the trigger was on. I began asking all foreign travellers in my acquaintances for leftover coins. A cousin working for Indian Airlines gifted me a Rs.2 note of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) starting my journey as a notaphilist. In 2003, an article of my collection from Indian Express, displayed on the notice board of my branch led a young boy to give me his stamp book (despite me telling him that I am not a stamp collector) making me now a philatelist too.
TRAnSITIonInG FRoM
A CoLLECToR To An EXHIBIToR
I entered a new phase of my life when a customer at our bank who was also the trustee of a school in Mumbai requested me to display my collection there. Later on an executive in a co-operative bank asked me to do the same in his branch as a source of deposit mobilisation of clients. The idea received an overwhelming response,
leading to 32 such exhibitions for the same bank.
On Dec 4th 20017, I conducted my 100th exhibition at DPS school, Surat. 3 days later I had my first international exhibition at Muscat, Oman which was hosted by Maharashtra Mandal and covered by Muscat times. This was followed by 6 such events in various Indian community schools in Kuwait sponsored by Kuwait National Exchange and a 3 day event hosted at Indian social club Abu dhabi, UAE funded by UAE Exchange, covered by The Gulf News.
Post covid, in Nov 2022, I was invited to do a display of my collection by the Mauritius Marathi Mandali Federation, Mauritius, Africa. It was graced by His Excellency Prithviraj Singh Roopun, the President of Mauritius.
Till date, I have conducted 148 such events across 40 cities in 4 states of India and 4 other countries. In my programme I exhibit one coin, one note and one postage stamp (all original) of all the 193 countries under the United Nations arranged alphabetically creating a Triveni Sangam of its kind. It is titled "Glimpses of the World" with the tagline "Lets travel the world without a passport". The aim is to
i entered A new ph A se of my life when A customer At our b A nk who wA s A lso the trustee of A school in m umb A i re Q uested me to displ Ay my collection there. lAter on A n executive in A co-oper Ative b A nk A sked me to do the s A me in his br A nch A s A source of deposit mobilis Ation of clients.
spread awareness about our globe and inculcate such constructive hobbies among the youth.
Finally, my heartfelt thanks to the Brisbane Indian Times for giving an opportunity to this Indian to pen down his passion in their prestigious newspaper. Hope it's an inspiration to one and all. If given a chance I would love to do such educational events in Australia for the Indian community and others.
Sanjay N Joshi -- M.A, M.Com, JAIIB
Kavita ji
THE term Vedvyas literally means ‘arranger of the Veds’. The Vedvyas divides the single primordial Ved into four Veds known as Rig, Yaju, Sam and Athrva. The division takes place in each Dwapar period, the third era of a Manvantar, the age of Manu according to the Hindu cosmology. The Vishnu Puran lists twenty-nine Vedvyases. The twenty-eight have already organised the Veds in the past. The latest Vedvyas was Krishna Dvaipayan, who is normally identified as Vyas.
In addition to arranging the Veds, Krishna Dvaipayan composed the ancient Sanskrit epic, the Mahabharat. He has appeared in the epic’s narrative intermittently in human and legendary roles.
Origin – Vyas was born to Satyavati from her union with sage Parashar. Parashar was a grandson of sage Vashishth. Satyavati was an adopted daughter of a fisherman. According to the legend, King Vasu had a wife named Girika. Once she was full of desire for her husband to conceive a baby and told him about her impending seasonal time. The same day his ancestors urged Vasu to offer some deer for their Shraddh. Unable to disobey his ancestors, Vasu thinking of his wife set off to the forest for deer hunting. On the way, his seed gushed forth. He caught it on a leaf and asked a hawk to deliver it to his wife who was waiting for conception.
The hawk took the leaf packet and flew to deliver it to the queen. On the way, another hawk saw it and attacked the carrier hawk. During their battle the seed fell into the River Yamuna in two pieces, which was immediately swallowed by a fish. After about nine months, a fisherman caught that fish in his net and drew from her belly two babies, a boy and a girl.
The fisherman presented the two babies to the king. The king took the boy, who later became king of the Matsya (which translates into ‘fish’) kingdom. He returned the girl to the fisherman to be his own daughter. The girl was named Satyavati. Being born of a fish, she emitted the odour of fish and hence was also called Matsyagandha.
When Satyavati matured, she used to ferry a boat across the river Yamuna. Once sage Parashar came and sat in her boat to cross the river. He observed her while being ferried and divined her future role in history. He felt duty-bound to help her become appealing and wished to produce a son from her. He introduced himself and told her about his desire.
She expressed concerns about the lack of privacy and the consequences of their action. The sage
Vedvyas Krishna Dvaipayan
created a mist to maintain privacy for their union. She was impressed by his power and succumbed to his wish. The sage blessed her that she would remain an intact virgin and her fishy smell would be replaced by fragrance, which could be sensed from a long distance. She became known as Gandhavati or fragrant one, and also Yojanagandha, fragrant at miles.
Satyavati gave birth to a boy on an island in the river on the same day of her union with the sage. The child was named Dvaipayan, ‘island born’ because of his place of birth. Being of dark complexion, he was called Krishna, ‘the dark’. Later, he compiled the Veds, and hence became known as Vedvyas or simply Vyas, the compiler. Eventually, he was identified as Krishna Dvaipayan Vyas.
Soon after his birth, the baby grew into a youth. He was devoted to asceticism from his birth and decided to leave his mother to do penance. Before departing, he told her to think of him at times of need and he would appear to her.
Later, king Shantanu of Hastinapur became fascinated with Satyavati and proposed to her for marriage. Satyavati agreed to marry him on the condition that sons born from their union would become future kings of Hastinapur. They married and she bore him two sons, Chitrangad and Vichitravirya. After Shantanu’s demise, Chitrangad was installed as king but he soon died in a battle with a Gandharva. Vichitravirya was then installed as king to rule under the supervision of his stepbrother Bhishma. He married Ambika and Ambalika, both daughters of the king of Kashi. The new king died of consumption before producing an heir to the throne.
Father of Kuru kings - Satyavati implored Bhishma to father children from Ambika and Ambalika through the system of Niyog, a practice that permitted widows or wives who had no child by their spouse to procreate a child with another man, preferably a close relative to continue the family. When Bhishma declined, she summoned her own ascetic son Vyas for help. Vyas immediately appeared before her and the task was explained to him. Vyas was willing to perform the act but said that prior to insemination, the two queens should wait patiently for a year and observe austerity. Satyavati urged haste, indicating to him that without a king, the kingdom would fail. Vyas consented to her plea but warned that the young women should be able to tolerate his appearance, which was awful and smelly.
In due course Satyavati arranged for his union with
her daughters-in-law. Vyas was sent to Ambika who closed her eyes on looking at him. After their union, Vyas returned to Satyavati and informed her that the child would be born blind, as its mother withheld from looking at him. The blind child Dhritrastra was born from their union.
Then Satyavati sent him to Ambalika, the second daughter-in-law. On seeing Vyas, she turned pale with distress. After his union with her, Vyas returned to his mother and told her that the son born of her would be pale. Ambalika gave birth to Pandu, the pale one.
Satyavati was dissatisfied with the outcome. She implored Vyas to do her bid once more. He agreed to her request. Ambika was asked to present to Vyas, but instead she sent her maidservant, who happily welcomed the sage. From their union Vidur, a wise man, was born.
Thus Vyas was the biological father of Kuru kings Dhritrastra and Pandu and their minister Vidur. Kauravs and Pandavs, the offspring of Dhritrastra and Pandu respectively were Vyas’s grandchildren.
Boon to Gandhari – Once exhausted with hunger and tiredness, Vyas approached Gandhari. She took care of him and in return he granted her a boon. She chose for herself a hundred sons. In due course, she conceived by Dhritrastra and the embryo remained inside her womb for two years. In the mean time Kunti, her co-sister-in-law had given birth to a son named Yudhisthir.
Desperate from the delay in delivery, she forcibly caused her embryo to fall from her womb. It emerged as an iron ball of a dense mass of flesh. Assuming it to be waste, she prepared to throw it away. Vyas heard
their concerns by relaying to them Draupadi’s previous life story.
The Pandavs went to exile after their defeat in the gambling session. At the start of their exile, Duryodhan with his associates planned to destroy them in the forest. When they started on their chariot, Vyas sensed the disturbance with his divine insight and appeared before them. He stopped them and went to Dhritrastra. He rebuked the king for allowing his son to plan such a heinous act.
The Pandavs were living in the Dvaitvan and were concerned about their lack of resources to fight against Kauravs. Vyas arrived there and suggested them to cast off their fear. He divulged special knowledge to them that would allow Arjun to overcome their enemies by acquiring celestial weapons.
else. He agreed but gave them the responsibility to spread the teachings of the Veds into the world. When Vyas resolved to compose the Mahabharat, he sought direction from Brahma to find a person who could transcribe his dictation. On Brahma’s suggestion he approached Ganesh, who agreed to write, on a condition that dictation should be uninterrupted. Vyas indicated his own condition that the writer should understand the stories before composing the transcript. Both agreed and the narrative was completed successfully. The Bhagavad Gita is also a part of the Mahabharat. Vyas was present when his disciple Vaishampayan recited this story to king Janamejay, during the snake sacrifice.
of her plan and hurried to her. He reminded her of his boon, which would never be untrue.
He asked for a hundred pots filled with ghee, which were arranged. He sprinkled sanctified water on the ball of the flesh, which separated into a hundred embryos. He placed the embryos in the pots and arranged for their safety. He advised Gandhari to open the pots after two years and left for the Himalayas to perform penance. Subsequently, Duryodhan and other Kauravs emerged from the pots.
Hostility between Kaurav and Pandav - The animosity between Kunti’s sons and Gandhari’s sons became evident from their childhood. Vyas sympathised with the Pandavs, whose father Pandu had passed away.
The Kauravs, especially Duryodhan with connivance of their father king Dhritrastra treated the Pandavs unfairly.
The Pandavs secretly survived an attempt at assassination arranged by Duryodhan at the House of lacquer. Later, Pandavs were wandering after escaping from the house of lacquer. Vyas met them en route and suggested them to go to the town of Ekchakra and live there anonymously. He met them again when they were on their way to Panchal where King Drupad had organised the Svayamvar for his daughter Draupadi. Vyas disclosed to them that in a previous life, a princess had been granted a boon by Lord Shiva to be married to five husbands. Vyas met them again when Arjun had won Draupadi in the Svayamvar and all five Pandavs were ready to wed her. Drupad and his son were dismayed by their plan. Vyas allayed
On another occasion, after witnessing the Pandavs’ suffering in the forest, Vyas presented a discourse on the importance of maintaining equanimity through good and bad fortune.
Before the war between Kaurav and Pandav started in Kurukshetra, Vyas visited Dhritrastra and offered to grant him sight, so he could observe the war. Dhritrastra did not wish to watch the destruction of his kinsmen but indicated a preference to hear about it. He requested Vyas to grant this ability to Sanjay, Dhritrastra’s charioteer. Vyas granted a boon of ‘divine eye’ to Sanjay, enabling him to see everything from the past and present and also to know the thoughts of people engaged in the battlefield.
Dhritrastra was able to know everything what happened in the battlefield through Sanjay. Vyas also informed Dhritrastra that he would spread the glory of Kauravs and Pandavs, and thus committed to writing the Mahabharat.
During the war, when the Pandavs were inconsolable after Ghatotkach’s death, Vyas appeared before Yudhisthir and counselled him not to act from anger and grief, and told him that in five days the earth would be his. He reprimanded Ashwatthama for discharging Brahmastra without knowing how to retract it. In subsequent sections, Vyas consoled Yudhisthir when he was deflated following the deaths of many warriors in the battle, and revived him with inspirational tales.
Scriptures - Vyas arranged the single primordial Ved into four Veds named Rigved, Yajurved, Samved and Atharvaved. He taught these Veds to his disciples Paila, Vaishampayan, Jaimini and Sumantu respectively. After their learning was completed, the disciples asked Vyas not to teach these Veds to anyone
As time passed, Vyas felt uneasy by remembering the events of the Mahabharat and composed the Bhagavat Puran, which focuses on love and devotion to Lord Krishna. He taught it to his son Shukdev who recited the text to king Parikshit, who was cursed to die from snakebite.
Vyas is also believed to be the author of other Purans, Brahma-sutras and ancient Hindu texts, whose authorships are indistinct. Scholars have opined that Vyas may not be a single person but a lineage of writers who did not wish to claim credit for their spiritual literary works.
Vyas is considered one of the Chiranjivis, ‘long lives’ who lives and performs penance in the Himalayas. Adi Shankaracharya has mentioned Vyas in the Sankar Digvijay. Vyas as an old Brahmin asked him for an explanation of the first Sutra of Brahma-Sutras, on which Shankaracharya had written a commentary. Their conversation developed into a debate between them that lasted for eight days. Shankaracharya, realizing that the Brahmin was the ancient guru Vyas, paid obeisance to him and sang a hymn in his praise.
Vyas inspected and approved Shankaracharya's commentary on the Brahma-Sutras. Shankaracharya, who was supposed to die at the end of his 16th year, expresses his desire to leave his body in Vyas’s presence. Vyas dissuaded him from an early death and blessed him so that he may live for another sixteen years, to complete his work.
It is a customary practice to name the seat of a religious preacher the ‘Vyas seat’. The full moon day in the month of Ashadh (June – July) is believed to be the Vyas’s birthday. The same day he completed arranging the Veds. This day is celebrated as Guru Purnima or Vyas Purnima in his honor.
—Awadhesh Sharma, www.hinduguru.com.au
GOPIO Gold Coast Celebrate International Yoga Day
WHAT an incredible International Yoga Day morning! Thank you to everyone who joined us and made it truly special.
A HEARTFELT THAnkS
To oUR AMAzInG
InSTRUCToRS:
Radhika Sood from the Art of Living Organisation, who guided us through a sequence of transformative Asanas.
John Smith from The
Heartfulness Institute, who led us in an experience of meditation which is the main basis of rejuvenation and cleansing techniques. This event was all about coming together to celebrate International Yoga Day by revitalizing our spirits and rejuvenating our bodies. Your participation and energy made it unforgettable. Here's to more moments of connection and wellness!
GOPIO Gold Coast Charity Gala
Get ready for the Event of the Year! Limited Tickets. BOOK Now. Join us for the GOPIO GC Charity Gala, supporting
Life Global Australia and GC Homeless Youth. Experience an electrifying evening of glitz and glamour, with sensational
live performances, culinary delights, and unforgettable moments!
Please note the new date: Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, at
6 PM at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast Secure your tickets now:
https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1218174 Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a spectacular night while making a difference in our community!
sri ram katha – Gayatri Mandir, Boondall
By Dharmesh Prasad Hari Anant, Hari Katha Ananta, kahi sunahi bahu vidi sab
santa
Jai Sri Ram
GAyATRI Mandir was blessed to host Pujinye Pundit Aneel Ved Sharma from Fiji for a public discourse on Ram Katha from 22 June to 26 June.
Management of Hindu society of QLD is thankful and extends its deepest appreciation to Pt Aneel Sharma to accept the invitation and also grateful to Prem Chand – Past President who organised Ram Katha jointly with Hindu Society of Qld, invitation was extended to all Trustees, Past Presidents, Secretaries and Treasurers. Each and every one were awarded with plaques and certificate for their hard work and contribution to Hindu Society of Qld and the wider community in Brisbane
It is heartening to see the following local and State MPs accept the invitation and engage with the local Indian diaspora.
The following local dignitaries were invited as
Chief Guests each evening so that they could understand better our culture, chance to meet and greet and recognise our contribution to the Australian Society.
Hon Stirling Hinchcliffe, MP Sandgate
Hon. John-Paul Langbroek – Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships.
Cr Sandy Landers –Bracken Ridge Ward Punditji’ s elucidation on Ramcharitmanas was enthralling and captivating, he explained in detail the difference between the Valmiki Ramayan and Goswami Tulsidas Ramcharitmanas and the central theme of the scripture.
Ramcharitmanas is not just re-telling the epic poem of Shri Ram, but a more profound and beautiful teaching of how to live life with purpose. Ramcharitmanas literally means “lake of the deed of Ram”. Some have argued that
this is the total sum of Indian culture portrayed in the epic poem - Ramcharitmanas has various sources including Upanishads and Puranas.
Valmiki Ramayan is epic poem of Shri Ram; Lord Ram is known as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Ram, the perfect avatar of the Supreme Protector Vishnu, has always been popular among the Hindu deities. Ram is the symbol of courtesy and virtue, a man of values and morals.
Ramachandra is Maryada Purushottam, which means the perfect man. Lord Ram is considered to have taken birth on earth to destroy the evil forces of the age. Lord Ram, is “the embodiment of truth, of morality, the ideal son, the ideal husband, and above all, the ideal king”.
Shri Ram was a paragon of virtues. Ram was not only kind and affectionate but generous and considerate of feelings for all around him. Lord Ram had a marvellous physique and captivating manners. Shri Ram had a
magnanimous personality. He was extremely noble, generous, chivalrous and fearless. He was very simple and absolutely free from flamboyance. Lord Ram is considered as a son unequalled in the world, and resembled Dasaratha in each and every aspect of good qualities. He never spoke a lie throughout his life. He always offered respect to the scholars and the elders, people loved him and he adored the people. His body was transcendental and outstanding. He was eloquent, attractive and adjustable to circumstances. He knew the heart of each and every human being on the earth (being omniscient). He had all the conceivable qualities of a king’s son and was dear to the people as their own hearts. Lord Ram was endowed with incredible transcendental qualities. The earth personified adored him, who was possessor of such virtues, who was indomitable, who was brave, and who was the
Upcoming EvEnts
somwar shiva pooja every monday: 6.30pm to 8.30pm Ramayan Recital every tuesday: 7.00pm to 8.30pm
unequalled Lord of all. To put succinctly, Sri Ram’s life was a life of holy compliance, of stainless purity, of matchless simplicity, praiseworthy contentment, commendable self-sacrifice and remarkable renunciation.
We must not see Ramayana as a story or poem of Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita, Hanumanji Maharaj but understand that these events are happening to us in our daily lives, as we become astray in life, we suffer the duality of life, we are unable to transcend pain and pleasure hence dukkha –suffering.
Pujinye Punditji’ s central message to devotees was, Lord Ram is the epitome of kindness, compassion, and love. Lord Ram’s wisdom and patience made it possible for him to follow his inner good without worrying about the loss of luxuries and kingship. Pujinye Punditji also explained the valuable life lessons which occurred thousands of years ago yet so relevant today. It is
not your position but your service that matters the most, truth always prevails, plant seeds of faith and unity can overcome any difficulty in life. Be deeply committed to your duty (dharma), choose the path of righteousness, remain humble no matter how powerful you become, treat everyone equally and forgiveness is greater than revenge.
Hindu Society of Queensland has completed CRM/ database project. Many devotees have moved residences and may have new contact details as such we are updating membership details like mobile phone numbers, email address etc. This would assist us to communicate better and update members on latest developments at the mandir. Please contact Secretary Mrs Nirmala Shandil on 0466 436 964 or Vice President/PRO Mrs Neelima Chand on 0405 409 156 or alternatively email us at gayatrimandirqld@gmail. com. Many Thanks for your support.
Sundarkand and Trayodashi is held every month at the mandir, for details and sponsorship please kindly visit our website and Facebook page. Regular updates will be sent to all devotees via Facebook and SMS. stay connected with Hindu society of Queensland Website www.hindusocietyqld.org.au Facebook: Hindu Society of Qld and email us on gayatrimandirqld@gmail.com, Phone: (07) 38653164 Address: 178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall QLD
Seetha Raghava
Radha Madhava
Raghava Madhava
Margam by senior students of Lalithakalalaya with live orchestra
Nattuvangam : Guru Smt Padmalakshmi Sriram
Vocals by Smt. Priyadharshini Swaminathan
Mirudangam : Shri.Harish Ravindran
On the strings : Violin : Shri. Aswin Narayanan
Veena Smt Vishni Ravindran
Shrimad Devi Bhagwat Katha Gyan Yagya in Brisbane
SHRIMAD Devi Bhagwat
Katha Gyan Yagya in Brisbane, Australia With the divine grace of His Holiness, we are thrilled to announce the Shrimad Devi Bhagwat Katha in Brisbane, Australia, led by renowned Katha Vyas, Sadhvi Aditi Bharti ji, the esteemed daughter disciple of His Holiness Ashutosh Maharaj ji. This marks a historic moment as it is the first time such a grand event is being held in Australia. From 14th September to 20th September 2024, at Holland Park State High School, Bapaume Road, Holland Park West, we will be honored to host saints from India for this auspicious occasion. A
team of 13 saints is coming to conduct this epic Katha. To book a pooja or explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at 0468 889 410, 0431 383 002 or email djjsbrisbane@gmail.com.
Stay tuned for further updates. We extend heartfelt gratitude to all the Sponsors and Supporters.
SPIRITUALITy is not a utopian ideal but a practical philosophy which can be practised and realized in dayto-day life, however mundane it be. Spirituality stands for evolution and elevation, and not for superstition in action or pessimism. All fissiparous tendencies and group or clan philosophies which tend to create the shackles of narrowmindedness are in no way connected with spirituality and should be discouraged. That which leads to broadness of unison alone should be accepted. Spiritual philosophy does not recognize any distinctions and differentiations unnaturally made between one human being and another, and stands for universal fraternity.
In the present environment many fissiparous tendencies are working to divide humanity into mutually-belligerent groups. Spirituality must inculcate sense in human psychology, and develop a natural affinity amongst this species of the creation. The approach of spirituality should be psychological and rational, and should offer a touching appeal to the deepest psychic sentiments of human beings. Human beings should appreciate by a rational analysis their relationship with the Cosmic Entity and recognize the most benevolent kindness of the most beloved Entity. Spirituality should lead human beings to the one Cosmic truth from which they have derived their selves,(1) and which is the ultimate destiny. That ultimate and absolute ideal is the Cosmic ideal – an ideal beyond the scope of time, place and person. It is the Absolute, without and beyond relativity. It stands with its own lustre for all times and for every factor of the Cosmos, may it be a human being or a lessevolved animal. The Cosmic ideal alone can be the unifying force which shall strengthen humanity to smash the bondages and abolish all narrow domestic walls of fissiparous tendencies.
All the sentimentprovoking ideas should be firmly opposed. This does not mean an attack on those sentiments, traditions and habits which are innate in human beings and which do not hamper their Cosmic development. For example, the movement for uniformity in dress
The Cosmic Brotherhood
By Shrii Shrii Anandamurti
for all people will be but a ridiculous and irrational approach. Different selections of dress are the result of climatic factors and corporal necessities. Moreover, dissimilarity in dress is not detrimental to world fraternity.
There will also be many zonal or regional differences as regards other traditions and customs. These should be appreciated and encouraged for the indigenous development of society. But under no circumstances should there be a compromise in principle or yielding to tendencies detrimental to the inculcation of Cosmic sentiment.
The inspiration of Cosmic sentiment will depend upon certain objective physical problems which must be solved on a collective humanitarian basis. In the relative objective sphere the following few fundamental problems must be attempted at [tackled] and solved. These are:
1. Common philosophy of life
2. Same constitutional structure
3. Common penal code
4. Availability (production, supply, purchasing capacity) of the minimum essentialities of life
CoMMon
PHILoSoPHy oF LIFE
A common philosophy of life demands a clear conception in the human mind that the development of the human personality means an evolution in all the three spheres –physical, metaphysical or mental, and spiritual. Some objective materialist thinkers have held the opinion that spirituality is a utopian philosophy, bereft of practicalities pertaining to actual problems of life. Other thinkers conceived it as a wise and intelligent device to befool the toiling mass. But the logical analysis given above must have clarified to thoughtful readers that spirituality is the summum bonum of life in all its aspects. Those who think dharma to be an individual’s concern conceive it in a very narrow sense. Dharma leads to Cosmic unity, inculcating in the individual mind Cosmic idealism. Religion, in the sense of dharma, is the unifying force in humanity. Moreover, spirituality provides a human being and humanity at large with that subtle and tremendous power
with which no other power can be compared. Therefore, with spirituality as the base, a rational philosophy should be evolved to deal with the physical, psychological and socio-philosophical problems of the day. The complete rational theory dealing with all three phases – spiritual, mental and physical –of human development shall be a philosophy common to humanity in general. This will be evolutionary and everprogressing. Of course, small details may vary according to the relative environment of the age.
Nationalism is fast getting out of date. Not only has national sentiment given humanity rude shocks in the world wars of the present century, but the social and cultural blending of the present age also shows the domination of cosmopolitanism in world affairs. Vested interests, however, continue to cause certain fissiparous tendencies. There are some who fear loss of their economic or political domination and are directly responsible for these detrimental or retrograde reactions.
SAME ConSTITUTIonAL STRUCTURE
Despite these obstacles, a social blending of humanity is in progress and needs a common constitutional structure to be evolved to cement the solidarity of the world.(2) A world government is also very essential for exercising full control in certain spheres; for example, there should be only one world militia. The world government should form certain autonomous units, not necessarily national (based on problems of education, food supply, flood control, public sentiment), which should look after mundane and supramundane problems. The boundaries of these units may be readjusted to suit any change in the environment – for instance, development in the techniques of communication. Development in the means of communication brings the different remote parts of the world nearer, and the world, therefore, grows smaller. With this well-developed swifter means of communication, units with bigger areas can work smoothly and efficiently.(3)
CoMMon PEnAL CoDE
A common penal code must be evolved. Legislation must be progressive and capable of gradual adjustment with the prevalent conditions. Any theory which does not hold a parallelism with the ever-changing conditions of time, place and person, is sure to decay and be lost in oblivion. Hence, there must be a never-ending effort for amendment with a view to rectification. Crimes are acts forbidden by the law of the government concerned, and virtue and vice (punya and papa) are the outcome of traditional customs. The sentiments of the lawmakers are very much influenced by the prevalent traditions and customs regarding the concept of virtue and vice of the locality or of the people concerned. The sense of crime, therefore, has a parallelism with the concept of virtue and vice. The idea of virtue and vice is different in different countries. The aspirants of world fraternity should try to lessen the difference and reduce the gap amongst cardinal, moral and human laws. All those actions which help in the growth of the spiritual, mental and physical aspects of human beings in general should come under the category of virtuous deeds, and those actions which go against humanity in its spiritual, mental and physical development must come under “vice”. This conception of virtue and vice applies commonly to humanity in general.
MInIMUM
ESSEnTIALITIES oF
LIFE
The availability of the minimum essentialities of life plays a vital part not only in achieving world brotherhood, but also in the development of human personality. This should be tackled on a world footing, and should be based on certain fundamental presumptions. Every human being has certain minimum requirements which he or she must be guaranteed. Guaranteed availability of foodstuff, clothing, medical assistance and housing accommodation should be arranged so that human beings may be able to utilize their surplus energy (energy up till now engaged in procuring the essentialities of life) in subtler pursuits. Side by side, there should be sufficient scope for providing other amenities of
the progressive age. To fulfil the above responsibilities, enough purchasing capacity should be created. If the supply of requirements be guaranteed without any conditions of personal skill and labour, the individual may develop the psychology of idleness. The minimum requirements of every person are the same, but diversity is also the nature of creation. Special amenities should, therefore, be provided so that the diversity in skill and intelligence is fully utilized, and talent is encouraged to contribute its best towards human development. It will, therefore, be necessary to make provision for special emoluments which can cater for special amenities of life according to the age and time. But at the same time, there should be a constant effort to reduce the gap between the amount of special emoluments and the bare minimum requirements of the average individual. The guaranteed supply of minimum requirements must be liberalized by increasing the provision of special amenities pertaining to the age and also, simultaneously, by bringing about a decrease in the provision of special emoluments given to the few. This neverending effort of proper economic adjustment must ceaselessly continue at all times with a view to assisting the spiritual, mental and physical evolution of human beings, and to let humanity develop a Cosmic sentiment for a Cosmic ideal and world fraternity.(4)
In this socioeconomic set-up people are at full liberty in the spiritual and mental spheres. This is possible because the spiritual and psychic entities for which people can aspire are themselves unlimited, and the extent of possession in this sphere does not hamper the progress of others in their quests. But the supply in the physical sphere is limited, and hence any effort for disproportionate or unrestricted acquisition of physical objects has every possibility of creating a vast majority of have-not’s, and thus hampering the spiritual, mental and physical growth of the larger majority. So, while dealing with the problem of individual liberty, it must be kept in view that individual liberty
in the physical sphere must not be allowed to cross a limit whereat it is instrumental in hampering the development of the complete personality of human beings; and, at the same time, must not be so drastically curtailed that the spiritual, mental and physical growths of human beings are hampered.
Thus, the social philosophy of Ananda Marga advocates the development of the integrated personality of the individual, and also the establishment of world fraternity, inculcating in human psychology a Cosmic sentiment. The Marga advocates progressive utilization of mundane and supramundane factors of the Cosmos. The society needs a stir for life, vigour and progress, and for this Ananda Marga advocates the Progressive Utilization Theory (Prout), meaning thereby progressive utilization of all factors. Those who support this principle may be termed “Proutists”.
THE PRInCIPLES oF PRoUT DEPEnD UPon THE FoLLoWInG FUnDAMEnTAL
FACToRS:
1. No individual should be allowed to accumulate any physical wealth without the clear permission or approval of the collective body.
2. There should be maximum utilization and rational distribution of all mundane, supramundane and spiritual potentialities of the universe.
3. There should be maximum utilization of physical, metaphysical and spiritual potentialities of unit and collective bodies of human society.
4. There should be a proper adjustment amongst these physical, metaphysical, mundane, supramundane and spiritual utilizations.
5. The method of utilization should vary in accordance with changes in time, space and person, and the utilization should be of progressive nature.
Hence, ours is a Progressive Utilization Theory (Prout).
5 June 1959, Jamalpur Shrii Shrii A'nandamu'rti founded many spiritual and social service organisations, including Ananda Marga. Acarya Krsnapremananda Avadhuta is a representative living in Brisbane. He can be contacted on the following number: 0422823341
Kalki
2898 AD: Director Nag Ashwin says they have shot about 25-30 days for sequel: “There’s extensive design work and action sequences to finalize”
kALkI 2898 AD is a sci-fi dystopian film. Humanity has been confined to a single city, living under the oppressive rule of Supreme Yaskin, a self-proclaimed god.
Kalki 2898 AD, the sci-fi spectacle starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan, has taken the box office by storm. Now, director Nag Ashwin himself has shed light on the highly anticipated sequel in a recent interview. Ashwin revealed that the idea for a two-part Kalki wasn't a last-minute decision.
“Early in production,” Ashwin told Pinkvilla, “the story's scope expanded organically. We already have the script of what it was initially envisioned as – a single film.”
While reports suggested a significant portion of the sequel was already filmed, Ashwin clarified, “It's not 60% complete. We've shot about 25-30 days, but there's a vast amount of work remaining.” He elaborated on the pre-production needs, stating, “There's extensive design work and action sequences to finalize. It's a long process to get
everything ready before the actors even return to set.”
Creating a believable and visually stunning scifi world is no small feat. Ashwin acknowledges the complexities involved, highlighting the need for meticulous planning and design. The whole thing starts
kamal haasan starrer indian 2 gets U/A certificate with runtime of 3 hours 4 seconds; CBFC asks 5 minor changes including altering the phrase “Dirty Indian”
again,” he said.
For those unfamiliar with the first installment, Kalki 2898 AD is a sci-fi dystopian film set in the year 2898. Humanity has been confined to a single city, living under the oppressive rule of Supreme Yaskin, a self-proclaimed god. As hope dwindles, a prophecy emerges – the birth of Kalki, the 10th avatar of Lord Vishnu, destined to restore balance. The film masterfully blends elements of Hindu mythology from the Mahabharata with a futuristic setting.
Beyond Prabhas, the film boasts a powerhouse ensemble cast. Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan take on central roles, while Disha Patani, Saswata Chatterjee, Brahmanandam, Rajendra Prasad, Shobhana, and Anna Ben are in pivotal roles.
Ajay Devgn confirms release date of Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha on August 2
THE Neeraj Pandey directorial also stars Tabu, Jimmy Sheirgill, Saiee Manjrekar, and Shantanu Maheshwari in key roles.
Just a day ago, Bollywood Hungama in an exclusive newsbreak revealed that the Ajay Devgn, Tabu starrer romantic drama Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha was slated to release on August 2. Now confirming the same, the Singham actor has confirmed the new release date of the Neeraj Pandey directorial on social media. For the unversed, the film was initially slated for a release in July.
Taking to the social media
platform X, aka Twitter, Ajay Devgn shared the poster of the film along with a note talking about the release date of the film, wherein he wrote, “The wait ends on 2nd August! Just a day ago ago, a source had revealed these details of Bollywood Hungama, “Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha will now be released on August 2. The makers were contemplating to release the film in the second week of July but then, they settled for August 2.” As per these sources, the film was pushed ahead as Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan, is super-
strong and the makers of the former, hence, would have struggled to get sufficient shows. An exhibitor commented, “August 2 is
a good date. Deadpool & Wolverine releases on July 26. Two big films releasing on that day again would not have been ideal.”
Rajinikanth and Lokesh Kanagaraj kick off the shooting for Coolie, see new poster: “Superstar-Loki Sambhavam begins”
THALAIVA Rajinikanth is back on set and this time he's collaborating with the highlyacclaimed director Lokesh Kanagaraj for a film titled Coolie. This exciting project marks the official start of filming today, June 5. Fans are particularly thrilled about the pairing with Lokesh Kanagaraj, known for his stylish action films like Vikram, Leo and Kaithi. Adding to the excitement is the news of Rajinikanth reuniting with veteran actor Sathyaraj after a staggering 38 years. Their last on-screen collaboration was in the 1986 film Mr Bharath.
be composing the film's soundtrack marking his third collaboration with
Cinematographer Girish Gangadharan, known for his stunning visuals in films like Jagame Thandhiram and Bangalore Days, will be capturing the action and emotions of Coolie. The editing will be handled by Philomin Raj. The film's dialogues are penned by Lokesh Kanagaraj himself, partnering with Chandhru Anbazhagan. Anbazhagan has also written the additional screenplay.
Produced by Kalanithi Maran under the Sun Pictures banner, Coolie is slated for a multilingual release in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada.
ADDITIonALLy, a scene featuring a “Bribe market” label will require modification. With a runtime of three hours and four seconds, Indian 2 falls squarely within Shankar's sty.
Kamal Haasan’s longawaited sequel to the Tamil cinema classic, Indian, is finally set to hit theatres on July 12, 2024. Titled Indian 2, the film has been granted a U/A certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a few minor modifications.
Indian 2 marks the return of vigilante hero Senapathy, played by the legendary Kamal Haasan. The 1996 original film remains an iconic entry in Tamil cinema,
and the sequel has generated immense anticipation among fans. Directed by Shankar, known for his grand cinematic visions, Indian 2 promises to be a thrilling follow-up. However, the board has recommended some adjustments. These primarily involve muting curse words and replacing potentially controversial terms. For instance, the phrase “Dirty Indian” will be altered. Additionally, a scene featuring a “Bribe market” label will require modification. With a runtime of three hours and four seconds, Indian 2 falls squarely within Shankar's signature style.
Kamal Haasan leads a formidable cast in Indian 2. Joining him are Siddharth, SJ Suryah, Rakul Preet Singh, Nedumudi Venu, Vivekh, Bobby Simha, and Priya Bhavani Shankar. Produced by Lyca Productions and Red Giant Movies, Indian 2 will be released not only in Tamil but also Hindi and Telugu, catering to a wider pan-Indian audience. Pen Studios will handle the Hindi distribution, ensuring a nationwide reach on July 19, 2024.
Sara Ali Khan reviews Kill; asks Lakshya to take a bow as she calls the film ‘Outstanding’
MARkInG the debut of television actor Lakshya (Lakshya Lalwani) as the leading man, Kill, which also stars Tanya Maniktala and Raghav Juyal in key roles, released in cinemas earlier this week. While several comments are pouring in from all quarters with this one-ofa-kind gore action drama, Sara Ali Khan has shared her review on the film and going by her post, it seems that the actress thoroughly enjoyed the movie.
Taking to her Instagram story, Sara posted a poster of Kill and along with that, she also penned a note admiring the work of not just the makers but also the actors. The actress described the film as, “Absolutely must watch!!!! She went on to add, “Lakshya take a bow!!! Just brilliant!!! Raghav Juyal you've smashed it and how! Nikhil Bhat congratulations sir!! What a vision (clap
emoji) with such exemplary execution (video camera emoji) Karan Johar, Guneet Monga Thank you for bringing such a new compelling and riveting film for us to enjoy!! Congratulations to the whole cast and crew”. In the post, she also tagged leading lady Tanya Maniktala, along with the rest of the producers of the film. Kill revolves around army commando Amrit who decides to board a New Delhi-bound train to derail the marriage of his girlfriend Tulika who is engaged against her will. But their journey soon turns into a bloody nightmare when gangster-thieves led by the ruthless Fani invade the train and threaten the passengers including injuring and killing some which leads to Amrit going on a rampage in a bid to protect his loved ones. While the film was screened in film festivals last year, it released in cinemas this Friday, on July 5.
Behind the camera, Coolie boasts a talented crew that complements the star power on screen. Anirudh Ravichander will
Rajinikanth after Jailer and upcoming film Vettaiyan.
Man in the Middle with the Whistle India beat South Africa by 7 runs: ICC T20 World
kID from Kavanagau, Nadroga, Fiji, a proud descendant of Girmityas and qualified Level 1 Rugby Union referee.
Nadi Barrister and Solicitor Elvin Dass is probably the first IndoFijian in the region to be a Level 1 Rugby Union referee.
Players and Coaches, in rugby world better be very very careful should they make the silly decision to question his on-field rulings. Not only is he the chief justice on the field as the “Man in the Middle with the Whistle’, but goes without saying Elvin studies the Law! That’s his fulltime Kaam!
Elvin is a resident Associate of the well-known Nadi Law firm Chetty Law & Associates.
He is proud to add that “Both my parents, Davendra Dass & Prem Kumari are proud descendants of the Girmityas.
Majority of the Fiji rugby players are native Fijians and Alvin has never been intimidated by some burly rugby players towering over him during a game he officiates in. In fact, these players afford him the
respect he deserves as a referee and native of Fiji’s rugby mecca, Nadroga!.
Alvin reminisced that “I grew up watching rugby and always admired the game. I was interested in being a referee in the rugby arena. I learnt most of the rules just by watching and later on reading the law book that governs international refereeing. I went further to complete the level 1 officiating programme and obtained my license to officiate.”
the 2024 oceania masters athletics Championships
10TH, featuring athletes from 28 countries competing in various disciplines. Athletes across different age groups showcased their talents, including former Olympians and seasoned competitors in both male and female categories. Participants ranged from 16 to 95 years old, representing nations such as Australia, New Zealand, Fiji Islands, Western Samoa, Cook Islands, and many others. Originating in Fiji in 1982, this biennial event has since been hosted in various Oceania locations, including Canberra, Apia, Noumea, and Auckland among others.
This year's championship marked another significant milestone, encompassing age groups from U16 to Open grades, providing a platform for athletes across Oceania to excel.
Noteworthy among the competitors was Fiji Islands' Prime Minister, Mr. Sitiveni Rabuka, who participated in several Masters category events and secured a Bronze medal in Shot Put.
Australia emerged as the
Alvin joined the Nadroga Rugby Referees Union and trained by very experienced referees like
1. Joe Bosoka (former Nadroga Referees President)
2. Kele Naruma (current president of Nadroga Referees)
gA ng A p r A s A d of Austr A li A demonstr Ated exception A l perform A nce by competing in 12 events within his Age c Ategory, cl A iming 10 medA ls — 5 g old, 3 s ilver, A nd 2 b ronze.
overall champions, followed by New Zealand, with Fiji Islands placing third in the Medals Tally. Ganga Prasad of Australia demonstrated exceptional performance by competing in 12 events within his age category, claiming 10 medals — 5 Gold, 3 Silver, and 2 Bronze.
The Oceania Athletics Organization Committee, headquartered in Fiji, hailed the 2024 championships as one of the best ever, underscoring the participation of all Oceania nations.
Best wishes were extended to all athletes preparing for the next championship.
3. Aisake Drekeni( Elite Panel Referee)
4. Sam Tuidraki and Illisoni Ratumaikoro
5. Johnson LEE (Fiji Rugby Referees Director) and Fiji Rugby Referees Association.
Alvin said that “My dream is to one day officiate at the National Level and the International level. I remember the words of Mr Joe Bosoka When I officiated for the very first time at a sevens tournament in Nadroga and Mr Bosoka announced, "this is Nadroga this is Rugby".
No doubt, Alvin Dass is grateful to his nephew Ahaan Dass and parents for their motivation to make a distinguished career choice and sport life arbitrating in the rugby fields.
We in Australia may soon see Alvin officiating in one of our many seven tournaments or 15 a side game.
Alvin Dass, a true son of Nadroga, can be contacted in these contact details.
Elvin Dass (Mr)
Associate Chetty Law & Associates Level 2, Unit 6, Paper Power Complex, navo, nadi, Fiji Ph: 9991205/7991205/8019236
Cup 2024 Final
Indian players celebrate with the winners trophy [Ricardo Mazalan/AP]
Source: www.aljazeera.com
Lest we forget the Youngest Indian to compete at the Olympics - arati saha
Source: Getty Images
AT the tender age of just 11 years and 10 months old Indian swimmer Arati Saha was qualified and participated in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
Only a few days after her 19th birth Arati Saha became the first Asia woman to swim cross English Channel.
Born on 24 September, 1940 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Arati Saha was just 11 years, 10 months and 305 days old.
It is a record which still stands and looks unlikely to be broken in the foreseeable future.
Sadly, her mother past away when she was barely 2 years old. She was raised by the loving family of an uncle and he grandmother.
Saha was introduced to swimming at the age of four and won her first competition when she was five years old.
It kickstarted her swimming career and under the mentorship of Sachin Nag, an Asian Games champion and Olympian, Arati Saha soon emerged as one of the best young swimmers in India.
Arati Saha mainly swam short-distance freestyle and
breaststroke events and won several competitions in her native state of West Bengal.
When Arati Saha jumped in the pool on July 26, 1952 for the women’s 200m breaststroke heats, it made her the youngest Indian Olympian.
Arati Saha swam in the third heat of the women’s 200m, along with eventual bronze-medallist Elenor Gordon of Great Britain. Gordon was seven years senior to Arati.
While Arati Saha may be the youngest Indian to compete at the Summer
Ar Ati sA h A swA m in the third he At of the women’s 200m, A long with eventuA l bronzemedA llist e lenor g ordon of g re At b ritA in. g ordon wA s seven ye A rs senior to Ar Ati.
Games, she is better known as the first Asian woman to cross the English Channel.
Inspired by Bangladeshi swimmer Brojen Das, who was the first Asian man to swim across the English Channel in 1958, Arati Saha began training for the gruelling course. She was supported in her endeavour by Mihir Sen, the first Indian man to swim the English Channel.
Five days after turning 19, on September 29, 1959, Arati Saha made swam crossing the English Channel. After swimming for 16 hours and 20 minutes, Arati Saha covered 42 miles and reached Sandgate, England, to successfully swim across the English Channel and etch her name in the record books.
Sadly, like her mother dying young at only 54 years old on 23 August, 1994 due to health complications.
Source: Olympic.com, hercircle.in.
India celebrate with the trophy [Chandan Khanna/AFP]
Queensland Fiji Football Association Inc held its strategic planing workshop on Sunday 16th June
A well crafted agenda of items focussed on a 'Bolder, Bigger and a More Relevant' QFFA was participated by 100% of the affiliated clubs, and well wishes.
Led by Master of Ceremonies Nick Maharaj, and with Treasurer Lawrence Chand facilitating the workshop dynamics, QFFA steadfastly moves towards a new horizon.
Opening Keynote address by Past President Aveen Singh certainly established the 'tone' of the workshop, reflecting on the past but focussing on the future as QFFA after more than 20 years since inception should now be ready to ' be bold'. He expressed that growth is only attainable from collective strengths of the affiliated members and stakeholders, aligning to similar goals and values. He reflected on his legacy of a strong and practical player rules which governs the basic product of QFFA, enjoying the beautiful game, Soccer and reliving our Fiji heritage. However, relevance is now becoming the fundamental issue to address.
An era of legacy, and a journey of challenges and opportunities and success was shared by 2 legends
of the game, Esala Masi and Stewart Bola, and an emotional presentation that had everyone inspired.
Krishneel Maharaj shared the mental and psychological aspects of Sports, warmly received by all attendees, an area of sports that needs more focus and attention. The attention of the
workshop shifted towards strategic alliance and branding, with Arvin Datt challenging a corporate strategy and culture, with 'Bula Lounge' as feature of the tournaments.
Shivanjay ended the session with Branding strategies for QFFA, website and social media as integral platforms. A robust, well
designed digital QFFA will create efficiency for internal operations.
THE FoLLoWInG WERE SoME oF THE FoCUSSED AREAS:
• Formation of Ref's committee under leadership of Praveen Lal
• Relaunch of Women's Football under astute
leadership of Anjali Naiker,
• Player Strategic welfare pillar under guidance of Esala Masi, Jim Smith and Krishneel Maharaj
• A select committee for Player Rules and Eligibility Guidelines headed by Nick Maharaj, Ali Munif, Madhukar Naicker and Ray Ali.
• Financial, Governance,
t he Attention of the workshop shifted towA rds str Ategic A lli A nce A nd br A nding, with Arvin dAtt ch A llenging A corpor Ate str Ategy A nd culture, with 'b ul A lounge' A s fe Ature of the tourn A ments.
corporate alliance and Strategic visioning led by Lawrence Chand and Arvin Datt.
• Junior development and ' Finding the next Lucas/ Kewell/ Krishna under guidance Raj Oshen
• Digital transformation of QFFA to be spearheaded by Shivanjay QFFA welcomes you to add value to the QFFA express and be part of the journey as we achieve our vision to 'connect communities'.
Please direct your suggestions and ideas to Secretary Ray Ali on secretary@qffa.com.au
July 2024 monthly PreDiCtions
The impact of Jupiter along with the Venus will open the doors to get the high position you have always wanted to get. If you are in business, solid planning will help you to achieve everything you want at gain. Mercury indicates some new engagements in your career this time around. You now have a platform to pursue your long term goals and to achieve your dreams. Your performance will improve and the impact of Jupiter may also bring promotion. If your finances are not balanced and spending is more than savings, then this can be the ideal time to implement some corrective measures. You will now feel more financially secure and stable than ever. However, do not disclose every detail of your finance to people around you. The cosmic energy will bring all harmony in your love life, and you will be extra magnetic as the month begins. However, watch for little issues that could become larger conflicts around the middle of this month. The impact of Venus indicates that the messages from your subconscious will help you figure out problems around this month end. The impact of planets will boost your health but as the month advances, your health can be a concern for you during the latter part of this month. Don’t ignore this as it is important to find out the root cause though nothing serious is foreseen. You are likely to get results according to your expectations. It will be the time to keep selfconfidence and motivation intact as Mercury indicates that there will be some situations wherein you may face some tough conditions.
In the beginning of this month, your seniors will reorganize your work and, you may be assigned some additional powers as well. If you are doing business, with the help of Mercury, presentations and promotions of your business will be held with remarkable success. But romance may need to take a backseat as you may focus on other areas of your life. It will be a progressive period for your studies. Saturn will bring your focus on improving your habits and switching to a healthier lifestyle. Jupiter will favour you and some new horizons will open for your professional growth as the month advances. The period around the mid of this month will be a perfect time for negotiating new business deals. Also, the impact of planets will give an upward push to your finances. Under the influence of Mars, your feelings will be very strong and likely to bring some refreshing experiences in your love life. South Node may bring some fluctuations in your health around the mid of this month. The impact of Mercury will be favorable for additional training and advanced learning which will help your career growth during the latter half of this month. Some accidental events may disturb your financial position though. Do and follow what you feel is true and right in your heart as you will be blessed by Venus during the latter half of month. Obstacles and delay in your studies will bother you though. Mars will help you to maintain enthusiasm by engaging yourself regularly in some physical activities or exercise.
You will be keen to accelerate your pace of performance as the month begins. However, if you are doing business, you should not undertake too many risks. The North Node will drive you towards taking new risks and trying out new ideas. Such overambitious attempts may backfire though. The planetary favour will increase level of goodwill for you as the month advances. But, Saturn may make you a bit pessimistic. Park your spare funds in a safe avenue. Minor cracks can weaken any bond, so ensure that you maintain a smooth flow of communication, and strive to sooth some differences with your mate during the first half of month. You can expect better opportunities for progress in your studies. However, some necessary modification would be essential for you. Some minor problems in health are possible around the mid of this month, perhaps mostly due to hectic work schedules. During the latter half, the influence of Jupiter may shower you with support and positivity. If you are doing business, you can now start implementing long held plans for development. The impact of South Node will frustrate you in matters related to relationship. Rather than getting frustrated, take time to reevaluate and re-examine your past actions. Identify shortcomings, and resolve to address them positively. Mercury may bring in a change in your overall attitude as you will become very positive about your abilities and talents regarding studies. The latter part of month may force you to focus on improving your habits and switching to a healthier lifestyle. past, such problems may arise again.
The combined impact of Venus and Mercury may strengthen your position though there may be some stiff challenges in your way in the beginning of this month. If you are doing business, you may be able to strike a big ticket deal. Your love life is likely to be very rewarding. You may remain highly focused which is likely to make a positive impact in educational circles. You can expect to have better fitness level as well. As the month advances, Venus is likely to open new avenues to find higher elevation in your career. However, middle part of month will be a period to watch carefully. You are likely to manage your financial efficiently but, some commitment pressure may keep bothering you. Under the influence of Mars, you might experience some discontent. Remember, not to lose your cool as patience is the ultimate road to success. During the latter halt, there will be some stiff challenges and resistance in your career due to the impact of Saturn. You need to execute due caution while extending credit or making any important financial deals. Mars indicates that this can be a good period to try out new mediums to stimulate your love life. Mercury marks the start of an important period in your studies when it is crucial for you to step up your efforts and prove your talents. Venus is likely to empower your career prospects around the month end. You are likely to make some good financial deals around the end of this month. Under the influence of Mars, avoid taking impulsive actions as these will only cause some damage to your relation. So, go with the flow and let your reactions be natural. There may be some distraction in your studies.
In the beginning of this month, you will be in the position to achieve what you wanted to achieve in your career. Although South Node will not give you easy passage. Gradually, this month will bring some good opportunities to earn extra money. Stars will push you to accept some hard facts about love and relationship matters. If you have been studying or preparing for competitive exams, this is the time to forge ahead with positivity and determination. As the month advances, Mercury indicates that you will l be running around like chickens. If you are in business, any project you touch will turn to gold. The period around the mid of this month can be the perfect time to implement new ideas as you will have blessing of Jupiter this time around. Your mental powers will be at peak indicates Mercury during the latter half of this month. This phase will help you build your bank balance faster as you will earn more. During this phase, you will profitably buy real estate or land or any commercial property. If you are single and looking for love, Venus will bring some good opportunities as you will radiate energy like never before this time around. However, South Node will bring some complex situations to surface in your love life around the month end. You will have good luck as far as your health and you will be feeling the irrepressible energy. Saturn around the month end could change the way you see your life, personally or professionally. Saturn will also demand you to accustom yourself to regular physical activity. All good things will be added when you put in the hard work in your studies. Just continue to do your best and the rest will follow on its own.
The beginning of this month is likely to help you to consolidate your position amid some stiff challenges. There can be some delays and difficulties due to influence of Saturn. This may bring good times and this could be a financially rewarding period for you. You will have plenty of support from the Venus so expressing your love and emotions will become easier now. There may be challenges in your way to achieve desired success in your education though. As the month advances, there will be some excellent opportunities for growth and some teething problems created by the illusive North Node. There will be phases during the first half of this month when you may require tactful handling of the financial matters. Saturn will demand you to gradually reduce to a minimum or completely give up habit of alcohol and smoking. From around the mid of this month, you may try to break the shackles as you will have ample support of Mars. There can be several visible opportunities to grab if you are doing business. Though the pace of financial progress may be slow but it is likely to help build for the future. The latter half of this month will be very important and highly sensitive for your love life. The impact of South Node can change the equations of your relationship. As the month approaches end, Mercury may provide you with some good chances to resolve some pending money matters which were incomplete for some time now. While Mercury will help you take some radical decisions around the month end, it will be very much necessary for you to consider all the ground realities.
Jupiter is likely to favour you at your career front as the month begins. If you are doing business, new relations can be made which will enable you to grow and to expand your horizons. You will feel relaxed and comfortable with your financial status but the impact of South Node may make you feel a little low as far as your love life is concerned. However, you will enjoy the success in your studies and it will be great for your overall development. Energy levels are likely to drop but you are likely to regain vitality due to the support of Mars. As the month advances, things are not so favourable at career front as the impact of North Node can be detrimental. Mercury may help you to understand the equation of your relationship. You need to avoid feelings of possessiveness and doubts. The latter half of month could be a very favourable time for your career and the combined impact of Mercury and Jupiter will bring noticeable improvements in your routine life. At the Venus would lead you towards more of enjoying all the possible material comforts and luxuries. In your studies, you will enjoy competition and will perform better. Mercury will however require to remain alert as there are chances that your financial judgment may prove wrong. You must also avoid to lend or to borrow money. Though you get many opportunities to enjoy your love life, your mood swings may affect the relationship to an extent. This phase can be mentally as well as physical tiring for you. Around the month end, the impact of shadow planets may bring some challenges in your way at your work place.
In the beginning of this month, you may face some problems due to the impact of North Node hence, you must try your best to maintain cordial relations with your co-workers and your business associates. Also, you tend to spend on amusement and pleasure, sometimes beyond your limits, indicates Venus. There will be both romance and sensuality in your relationship. Mars and North Node are going to bring in a lot of obstacles and disturbance in your studies. If you have been suffering from any ailments off late, you will realize coming back to normal health conditions. Uncertainty on career front may manifest during the first half of month as a result of South Node. There will be gradual improvement though. Expect things to start rolling in your favour, from mid-month. If you are doing business, you will get a good chance to cinch a major deal during the latter half of this month. Saturn may force you to review and revise your monetary strategies. Your love life will be extremely blissful and Venus will make you romantic. You are likely to make progress in education. Your energy levels will be good but the fluctuations in your mood might affect your physical health to an extent. The impact of Venus and Mercury will be favourable for you and professional prospects will be cheerful and highly beneficial around the moth end. You will reach greater heights in your career. The period will be auspicious for pursuing higher studies and to expand your horizon. However, this phase may also make prone to some injury. Hence you must not take any physical risk.
In the beginning of this month, things will start getting better at your working place. You will get a lot of opportunities for the expansion and good gains in business. If you looking for a new relationship, Venus will bless you to find your match. If you are desirous of pursuing higher education abroad, you could find your wish fulfilled. As the month advances, due to blessing of Jupiter you will be hired into a new position. Though you will have stable financial status, the impact of Saturn may probably teach you why it is important to have an emergency fund. Due to the impact of North Node some negative thoughts or wayward approach may interfere in your studies. Something new and positive is headed your way around the mid-month at your career front. If you are in your business, under the influence of Mars, don’t rush too fast for things to get completed. Venus will bless you with wonderful time in your love life. South Node may hamper your progress in studies hence you may be required to concentrate more. Due to blessings of Jupiter, the stuck projects are likely to move ahead during the latter part of this month. Also, you will get full support of luck and business will be flourished. Saturn will demand you to focus more on your real needs and fix the priorities rather than making any impulsive big purchases. You can be rest assured that there will not be any serious health disorders. Around the end of this month, you will have to make some very important decisions and these decisions are likely to take you to the next level in career. Your love life will have full support of Venus.
This can be a favourable beginning of the month for your career advancement. You can make use of this fortunate time to crack some long pending deals and you will be amazed with the results. You may have good inflow of money thanks to Venus. But at times you will feel withdrawn or keeping a staid outlook in matters related to your relationship. Issues of past may bother you. You will have ample support of Jupiter in matters related to your studies. But your negligence or laziness can lead you to unnecessary problems. As the month advances, under the influence of Mars, you must avoid taking short-cuts. IF you are doing business, you must prepare a good plan. Some previous investments may bring fruitful results. However, Mars may make you somewhat hyper, so tread carefully in your relationship. During the latter half of this month, Jupiter will bring higher elevation, recognition, and honors. A promotion wouldn’t be a surprise either. If you are doing business, growth opportunities will be pursuing you. You will have good income flow during this phase. But there may be some confusions or uncertainty in your relationship and you may not feel very happy about your personal environment. Mercury will bring some good opportunities to learn new things and also getting chance for overseas travel or study tour. There will be ample support of Mercury and Venus as the month approaches its end. It may boost your financial prospects steadily. Abrupt emotional decisions may cause problems in your personal life.
As the month begins, there would be an increase of competition and stiff resistance at your work place. The difficult picture will not last long and you would see some positive rays gradually due to the support of Jupiter. The impact of South Node indicates that some old financial issues may surface and likely to demand your attention. Due to the lack of support from Venus, you may not be able to spend required quality time with your beloved. If you are desirous of admission in higher studies, you are likely to get success. Favorable impact of Mars and Mercury may also grant the chances to explore new avenues that you have been waiting from a very long period around the mid of this month. It will be a favourable time for your investments hence be ready to take a new leap. You may feel gradual relief as your beloved may start getting attracted to you. But disturbance caused by the South Node can make your task more challenging in your studies. You need to keep applying patiently. The impact of North Node may cause some stiff problems but the favouable planetary impact would eventually lead you towards a major betterment in your career during the latter half. If you are in business, there will be enhancement in business growth. Your interest in studies might wane as lethargy and indulgence in entertainment will be apparent indicates the North Node. The period around the month end can be very important as Jupiter indicates that the commitments that you make during this phase is likely to have significant impact on your love life.
As the month begins there may be some disruptive forces in influence at your work place. If you are in business, Mercury may help you to aim big to build the business. Investments made in the past will present good returns, but it is always a good idea to make an informed decision. Venus will set in fresh developments in your love life. Jupiter suggests auspicious phase for pursuing higher education. Mars indicates that you may suffer from headache and weakness that may disturb your health. Around the mid of this month, Mars could make you impatient and assertive. This kind of an attitude will not take your far in maintaining a healthy professional relationship. If you are in business, clarity of thought will be missing so it would be better for you to postpone new projects. It will make you ambitious and there are chances of taking rash decisions for financial gain. The impact of Venus may bring amusements and joy in your life but this is probably going to be a period filled with emotional challenges for you, suggests North Node. South Node may bring some pressure on your financial status despite a good income during the latter half. Do not make any kind of debt, nor should you borrow. Venus may bring opportunity for romance and fresh relationship but South Node will have potential to disturb the equations dramatically. Around the month end, Jupiter looks comfortable for your career progress. It can be a good time to recover due payments and raise your income.
tAurus ( 21st April to 21st mAy )
l eo ( 23rd July to 22nd August )
sAgittA rius ( 23rd n ovember to 21st d ecember )
cA ncer ( 22nd June to 22nd July ) s corpio ( 23rd o ctober
Olympic Games: Indian Channel
Language: English
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(All replies to these letters will be directed to the author only via respective email addresses. We may read these letters and our reply on a special Radio program on our Australian Indian Radio)
DEAR EDIToR,
Your Newspaper has changed a lot since your group took over. We look forward to a more frequent edition if you consider a bimonthly paper.
Thank you, Brisbane Indian Times! Best wishes
DEAR BRISBAnE InDIAn TIMES, I am a Student from India and really miss my Indian Radio with live presenters. By my girlfriend and I enjoy you’re your English Newspaper and look forward to your new breakfast host on Hindi Radio. Possible to visit your studios?
DEAR EDIToRIAL TEAM, Reading your News Paper makes me proud to be Indian even here in Australia. I am 3rd generation Australia Indian, and I know by listening to your Radio Station will help my Hindi a lot as we hardly speak our language at home.
*DEAR PUBLISHER, Can your News Paper put more stories about us Indians of Africa, especially from South Africa?
Even though my family relocated here to Australia 6 years ago, we still love South
Africa as most of our families still live there and run business.
*DEAR EDIToR,
Where can I get a copy of the Brisbane Indian Times in future prints?
My family run a business here in the South Side of Brisbane and would like to offer them to our customers as is a free New Paper.
*DEAR EDIToRIAL TEAM,
I am aware your paper is part of a community publication, but can your staff put a Business and investment section, please?
Do you think stock market reports from country with large Indian population and most of us living here in Australia and NZ?
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E M p LO y MENT
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Former Courier-Mail sub-editor and former Fiji Times Editor passes on
JD Media Corp and families pay tribute to a proud and distinguished descendant of Gyrmitiyas, Vijendra Kumar, a renowned Brisbane community leader who passes away on……….. It is best have people who have served with Vijendra Kuma to assist us readers reminisce on the life of this great man.
Dr Shailendra Singh, a former journalist at The Fiji Times from 1989 to 1996, and now Associate Professor, School of Pacific Arts, Communication and Education (SPACE) , reviewed Kumar's "Diary" in the Fiji Times, 5 February 2017
“At the narrative's heart are the vivid accounts of Kumar's remarkable life story while growing up in Nadi. What emerges is a fascinating portrait of the simplicities as well as the complexities of a life lived in Fiji — a depiction many Fijians would readily identify with.
Kumar started in journalism humbly enough: as a self-taught, underpaid, and sometimes unpaid proofreader cum reporter/ editor of the National Federation Party (NFP) mouthpiece, the weekly Pacific Review.
Duties included errands to collect editorial copy from party leader, the late AD Patel's home. In the book, the prominent Nadi lawyer
comes across as somewhat snooty — a pukka sahib in Kumar's words — and rather tardy with deadlines, often giving Kumar the runaround.
When he plucked the courage to ask for his pay, Kumar was shown the empty office till. On a lucky week, he received $25. This saw Kumar take up high school teaching, a job he stuck with for 12 years, before returning to his true calling as a reporter, but this time at The Fiji Times, in 1969.
Within six years, Kumar had become the first local editor at the iconic national daily, up until then largely an expatriate stronghold. His resignation in 1991 and subsequent migration to Australia was a consequence
of Fiji's first coup in 1987. Kumar dwells on the coup at length, which is hardly surprising, since the coup's impact was not just stunning, but also enduring. The trauma was felt deeply, both at the national and personal levels” In ‘the book “Stolen Worlds - Fijiindian Fragments” edited by Kavita Nandan, the late Vijendra Kumar penned these line…” “I find some comfort in the simple philosophy that the purpose of life is to remember……Knowledge gained over eons ultimately may help us unlock the door to this great mystery. My remembrance contribute but a tiny drop to a limitless ocean of knowledge. Om shanti, Om shanti, Om shanti!
