Bit oct 13

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 11, Number 1 Saturday, October 12, 2013

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

Temptations Reloaded rocked Sydney!

• Full details page 6

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

From the Publisher

WELCOME to October Issue, I have stopped saying that it has been a busy month for me; it is quite obvious by now that every month is busy for me. During the Auspicious Navratree, may Mata Ji’s blessing be bestowed upon all, I have personally tried to attend as many functions as physically possible.

May the upcoming Diwali be joyous for everyone and we all be enlightened and move from darkness to light and from ignorance to wisdom and may good prevail over evil. Let us not forget the true essence of Diwali amidst the commercial hype.

As usual many Diwali functions have been organised, we would like to wish all of them well, however it would be good if everyone got together and celebrated in a huge collective way.

This month I had the pleasure being at the inauguration of another GOPIO Chapter, congratulations to Rakesh Malhotra and his team. His Excellency, High Commissioner of India in Australia, inaugurated the chapter. The inauguration was held during the Gandhi Jayanti celebration in Glebe Park Canberra.

I was honoured to have been asked to join the Queensland committee of ‘white ribbon’ which is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end men’s violence against women and girls. It is Australia’s only national, male led violence prevention organisation. It is a role that I have accepted with pride and honour and it is a good cause that I would like to further.

Radio 4EB at its AGM presented me with a certificate of appreciation for completing over seven years of continuous program Production and presentation. The Indian programming group is planning for an end of year function.

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity of attending the King of Bollywood Shah Rukh Khans Temptation Reloaded show in

Sydney. The show was, as expected amazing, 11,500 strong audiences were kept waiting for an hour an half later than the advertised time, but once the show began it was sheer magic. It was treat for all Bollywood fans to see so many top class Bollywood artists perform right in front of their eyes. Brisbane Indian Times was proud to have assisted with the promotion of the event, however as many other promoters they too failed to duly recognise our efforts. We don’t mind supporting these events however the event organisers need to the right thing from their side as well, after all it is the promotions that get the bums on the seats, so to say. Many a times we have to queue up at the box office to collect our tickets, interviews etc as promised are never kept.

We also supported Rahat Fateh Alikhan concert in Brisbane, his show was a packed house this time round unlike the last time when he was here, his popularity has grown significantly since the last visit.

Currently I am working on the GOPIO Regional convention and GOPIO International Women’s conference to be held in Sydney. The Regional convention will take place on 9th November at Sapphire function centre in Blacktown. As the convention convenor, I have also called for a GOPIO Regional meeting on the 8th of November to be held at Novotel Parramatta.

The regional meeting will address issues and challenges of Oceania region and summary of the proceeding will be presented to GOPIO International during the GOPIO International convention in January 2014.

I will pen off by thanking all those who sent in the best wishes on our tenth anniversary.

Until next month Happy reading Umesh Chandra

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Inside • Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................5-27 • Business News...................................28 • Who, What, Where, When...32 & 34 • Health & Well Being................38-41 • Astrology.........................................40 • Real Estate................................42-45 • Business Directory.......................46-47 • Classifieds..........................................48 • What’s On.................................48-53 • Bollywood & Entertainment...54-57 • Sport..........................................58-59

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

2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October 2013

Congratulations BIT on your 10th anniversary!

I would like to say that Brisbane Indian Times is a community newspaper which is dedicated to helping the Indian community to settle in Brisbane. Brisbane Indian Times is always helping people in times of need by organising fundraisers, creating events and raising awareness about Indian culture. It is always at the forefront

Indian Times Brisbane

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

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of the latest news and keeps its readers up to date with whats going on locally, nationally, and internationally. So I would like to thank Brisbane India Times for all its done for our community.

Kaumit & Hetal Shah - Spice Valley of Brisbane

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

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

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 3

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations DIAC changes name to Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has changed its name to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) and after the Federal Election Mr Scott Morrison MP would be Minister for Immigration and Border Protection and Senator Michaelia Cash would be Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection.

Western Australian 457 visa holders to pay school

fees from 2015 The families of 457 visa holders in WA will have to pay fees to send their children to a Government school from 2015, with reduced fees for second and subsequent children. Visa holders who are already living here on a 457 visa or who have already lodged a visa application to work in Australia will not have to pay school fees for next year. The 2015 tuition fee of $4,000 per annum ($1,000 per term) would apply to a family’s first child enrolled in the State education system and $2,000 each for second and subsequent children from the same family.

South Australia: New professions added to the State Nominated Occupation List From 2 September 2013, three new occupations have been added to the State Nominated Occupation List (SNOL): Procurement Manager; Registered Nurse (Paediatric); ICT occupations The “Special Conditions Apply” status has been removed for all On-list ICT occupations and there will be a limited number of places available for South Australian State Nomination.

The IELTS requirement for all ICT occupations is 6.5 in each band score. Six occupation groups are close to reaching the national ceiling and DIAC have made a limited number of places available for State and Territory nomination for the rest of the 2013/14 program year. Once South Australia has reached the state quota in an occupation group listed below, Immigration SA will be unable to nominate any more applicants (including SA international graduates) for the remainder of the 2013/14 program year.

The six occupation groups with a limited number of places available for SA state nomination are: • 2331 Chemical and Materials Engineers • 2611 ICT Business and Systems Analysts • 2334

Electronics Engineers • 2633 Telecommunication Engineering Professionals • 2339 Other Engineering Professionals • 2613 Software and Applications Programmers Due to the limited number of places, Immigration SA will prioritise applications who meet all Immigration SA eligibility requirements as follows: 1.

Currently employed in a skilled occupation in SA 2. An international Graduate of South Australia 3. High calibre offshore or onshore applicants (Immigration SA will take into account: DIAC points, qualifications, work experience and English level when assessing an application for these occupation groups). The SA government has advised they will process applicants by merit rather than by date submitted.

ACT Government GSM nominations open again for ICT and Engineering Occupations The ACT Government has announced that it is now able to nominate certain ICT occupations which DIAC had previously removed from their list. Please note the distribution of these places will be issued on a pro rata basis over the 2013/14 program year: * ICT Business and Systems Analysts Status: Limited ANZSCO Major group: 2611 * Telecommunications Engineering Professionals Status: Limited ANZSCO Major group: 2633 * Other Engineering Professional Status: Limited ANZSCO Major group: 2339 * Software and Applications Programmers Status: Limited ANZSCO Major group: 2613 * Electronics Engineers Status: Closed ANZSCO Major group: 2334 * Chemical and Materials Engineers Status: Closed ANZSCO Major group: 2311

Update on Health Check Procedures DIAC are implementing a 100% rollout of eHealth medical system by 2013, which will phase out completion of medical forms for the health process.

In order for visa applicants who wish to undertake their examinations onshore at an eMedical enabled MHS clinic must: 1. Provide a HAP ID (TRN or HRI) to enable their health case to be located within the eMedical system and 2. Complete their medical history questions online by using the eMedical Client service.

This will enable them to consent to using eMedical and download their eMedical referral letter (which contains their HAP ID). Online visa applicants and MHD clients will be automatically directed to this service; however if a paper visa application has been lodged, clients can independently access this service using their HAP ID. It is important to note that when visa applicants attend an eMedical enabled clinic without completing the two steps above, your appointment may be delayed or postponed until they are able to complete these steps as MHS will ONLY process in eMedical.

It is therefore important that clients are encouraged to complete these steps prior to attending the appointment with MHS. For this reason, MHS have commenced communications with clients which advise them that if they do not have their HAP (or alternative) ID at a minimum, they are not able to make an appointment.

This article is intended to provide general information on migration issues and does not constitute migration advice, and no responsibility is accepted by Kiran Goel or AIEES for the accuracy of material appearing in the Brisbane Indian Times. (Ms Kiran Goel MARN: 0639149)

Tel: 3846 7774

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 5

Temptations Reloaded rocked Sydney!

SHAH Rukh Khan along with his fellow Bollywood actresses gave a rocking live performance in Australia as he headlined the internationally popular dance, music and comedy show, Temptation Reloaded, on the night of 7 October in Sydney.

Shah Rukh Khan performed to famous Bollywood tunes at the show, which was a part of Sydney’s contemporary annual arts festival, Parramasala Festival 2013. Bollywood stars’ performance at Temptation Reloaded rounded off the four-day festival which took place from 4 October to 7 October at Allphones Arena Homebush in Sydney’s suburb Parramatta.

The 47-year-old actor led the two-hour concert that also saw performances by A-list Bollywood actresses, including Madhuri Dixit, Rani Mukherjee and Jacqueline Fernandez.

“I am thrilled to be back once again in Sydney for my first Australian performance of Temptation Reloaded. Sydney is a beautiful city and has a special place in my heart,” said Khan, who performed in Sydney for the first time, and in Australia for the second time but after a gap of 11 years.

“Sydney thanx for the madness. U were all so gracious...” he wrote on Twitter after the show.

“The show attracted thousands of audiences of not only Indian origin, but also Bollywood fans from Fiji, Singapore, Indonesia

and Malaysia.

“Shahrukh Khan - or SRK has featured in 75 films and I’m delighted to welcome him to Sydney as he brings Temptation Reloaded to Australia for the first time,” New South Wales Premier Barry O’Farrell said in a statement. “We are pleased to host SRK and the talented cast of Temptation Reloaded in Sydney.”

The show which attracted 11,500 people will always be remembered in the Sydney sliders as one of the biggest shows ever, the staging and choreography was great, which greatly added to the event, the background dancers really put in a lot of effort to Geeta Kapoors choreography.

The audience were initially put off by the long wait to get in the area, many stood in lines for hours.

The Big name of the stars and seeing them right in front of your eyes was the wow factor, as their performance were average, there seemed to a lot of local involvement which is good but not to that extent.

The full on music, the lighting effects made the show, the props and especially all the background dancers made the show.

As there was no breaks many patrons were left looking for food after the event and to their dismay they no food outlets at that time of the night in Olympic Park.

Order O rder a green green b bin in and a nd ssave ave $30! $ 30!

C Clean lean u up p fo forr storm storm sseason eason Order a green waste recycling bin for your home before 31 October and save $30.

Cleaning up is easier with a green waste rec ycling bin, and right now if you order your new bin during Oc tober, we’ll waive the $30 establishment fee. Your new bin will be just $17.94 a quar ter and collec ted for tnightly from your home.

Green waste rec ycling bins are the easy and af fordable way to keep your garden tidy.

Recycling your lawn clippings, prunings and leaves is good for the environment and ensures that your garden waste is reused as compost and mulch, helping to create a more sustainable, green and clean cit y.

To find out more visit w w w.brisbane.qld.gov.au /waste or call Council on ( 07) 3403 8888.

6 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Things you should know: Premier Advantage Package annual package fee is currently $395. Special rate discounts only available on standard variable rate on Rocket Repay Home, Rocket Investment Property and Equity Access Loans applied for from 19 August 2013 and conditionally approved by 29 November 2013. 0.90% p.a. discount applies to new loans where combined home loan borrowings in Premier Advantage Package (inclusive of the new loan and any existing packaged home loans if applicable) total $250,000 or more. 0.70% p.a. discount applies to new loans where combined home loan borrowings in Premier Advantage Package (inclusive of the new loan and any existing packaged home loans if applicable) total between $150,00 and $249,999.

These discounts are inclusive of (and not additional to) the standard Premier Advantage Package discounts. You must either hold or be approved for a Westpac Choice transaction account in order to qualify and continue to receive the benefits of the WBC3383_FPC Premier Advantage Package. Premier Advantage Package Conditions of Use apply and are available at westpac.com.au/homeloans. © 2013 Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 7

Chinmaya Annual Navratri Family Camp 2013

By Anu Suresh A LOVELY spring weekend in the September school holidays at Kindilan (aboriginal word: ‘place of joy’) in Redland Bay proved a perfect time and location for families to be part of an extraordinary experience of the Annual Navratri Family Camp organised by Chinmaya Mission. Theme was ‘Managing the Manager’ for adults and ‘Lord Ayyapan – Austerity & Devotion’ for children.

We gathered on Friday night and formally welcomed our beloved Guru Brahmachari Gopal Chaitanya (Acharya incharge of NSW, QLD, ACT). Soon we were split into five teams after divine names of Lord Ayyapan. Icebreakers set the camp rolling and participants too rolled with laughter as they worked in teams composing songs on their Guru to nursery rhymes tunes.

To bring the spirit of Ayyapan Swamy Pilgrimage, camp initiation was done with presentation of black robes (to signify that all equal in Lords eyes) and japamalas which were worn throughout camp.

Meditation sessions for adults and yoga classes for children were truly inspirational to keep all focussed. Gopalji navigated adults through 40 keys to Eternal Happiness enumerated by Sri Adi Sankaracharya in Sadhana Panchakam. In simplistic terms, Sadhana is a technique of disciplining oneself for self-enrichment.

The serene lake, glowing sun, bouncing wallabies and chirping birds provided a spectacular backdrop for silent reflection on Gopalji’s teachings and sadhanas that we wanted to take to heart and practise.

Children listened in awe as Gopalji taught them about Lord Ayyapan through stories, action bhajans and chanting. They had heaps of fun creating Lord Ayyapan’s temple using craft paper, colouring pictures and doing crosswords. The highly entertaining and thought-provoking role play was a key aspect of camp. All teams enacted scenes depicting influence of bad desires and how to overcome them in daily life. Kudos to all

– talent and team work of exceptional quality was displayed!

Special activities were designed to bring bonding and understanding within families.

A simple game of blindfolding parents and them being guided by children (and vice versa) helped families connect and showed parents and kids that they need to trust, listen and act knowing that each individual only thinks of the welfare of the other.

The highlight of the camp was the exercise wherein families had to race against time to design their own Lord Ganesha using nature as their resource. It brought the spirit of togetherness and true appreciation for one another and showed us again that Lord is everything. Children performed Matru Pitru Puja, a beautiful tradition which provided a great opportunity for them to show their love and respect for their parents.

Happiness filled the air as mums with wet eyes and dads with proud smiles patted and hugged their children.

The whole camp experience was akin to a plane journey where we soared higher towards Truth, guided by Gopalji, our pilot.

The best part was the announcement, ‘All electronic devices, including mobile phones

• Blindfold Game - Trusting kids.

to be switched off for camp duration’.

While our body, mind and intellect were kept constantly engaged, there was plenty of healthy food to appease the tummies.

Sincere thanks to CHYK - Chinmaya Yuva

• Goplaji and kids.

8 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Kendra for organising the event. Less than 11 months till next camp starting 19th Sep 2014 and look forward to come back again to LOVE, LAUGH and LEARN. Mark your diariesJ.

• HDMatru Pitru Pooja guided by Gopalji

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 9

Sara makes Bangla history Asha Hossain Hornsby Girls High School, NSW Australia ON the 30th of September 2013 at the Clancy Auditorium of University of NSW there was a Minister’s Award Ceremony run by the NSW Government’s Department of Education and Training.

At this ceremony there were many awards given for students who excelled at their language and cultural studies at a Community Language School. Sara Hossain (pictured) received a Minister’s award. Only 10 students from all over NSW get this prestigious award.

There are 60 community or heritage languages taught and nearly 8,500 students learning Mandarin or Cantonese, making it the largest language group. Each year the NSW Department of Education asks for every language school to select one junior representative, and one senior representative to receive an award at the awards ceremony of community language schools. The DET then chooses students who are worthy enough to receive an award. This award is a

Merit Award, Commended, Highly Commended or a Minister’s Award. The Minister’s award is the most prestigious

award anyone can get at this ceremony.

Sara Hossain a year 6 student was selected to receive an award at this ceremony from her Community Language School, Bangla Academy Australia, where she learns Bangla.

15 members of the Board of Community Languages Schools work very hard each year to find students who have done excellent in their language school as per reading, writing, talking and extra-curricular activities. The Board found Sara who is brilliant with reading, writing and talking in Bangla, and participates in extra-curricular activities. Therefore she received a Minister’s Award. Apart from Sara, there are three other students from Bangla Academy Australia who received Commended and Highly Commended awards.

This is the first year that a student learning Bangla has gotten a Minister’s award. This is a tremendous achievement for the Bangla Language community in NSW and also for Bangla Academy Australia. To know more about Bangla Academy Australia, go to www.banglaacademy.com. We hope that Sara goes on to achieve much more in life.

Fiji Senior Citizens Association social bus trip to Toowoomba THE Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Qld took their members on bus trip to Toowoomba Flower show on Saturday 28 September. Forty four members and their families went on this trip, the lunch was provided by the courtesy of MultiFaith Multicultural Centre of Toowoomba.

Mr Surendra Prasad said the members where amazed to see different varieties of flowers at the

show and beautiful surrounding of Toowoomba City. The women wing of the Association entertains the members by singing and dancing throughout the journey. The members enjoyed the delicious lunch and hospitality from the staff of Multi-Faith centre and entertainment from the women members of the Association. The next bus trip is plan for December.

10 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Brisbane’s biggest street party returns risbane’s Biggest Street Party is back B and just in time for summer, with this year’s event to be held on Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th November 2013.

Presented by Brisbane City Council in partnership with more than 40 local licensed venues and businesses, Valley Fiesta 2013 will bring the Fortitude Valley Entertainment Precinct alive like never before, with a weekend-long ‘kaleidoscope of colour and sound’ for the music-loving masses.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said the fiestas late November timing was the perfect way to kick start the summer and Christmas party season.

“Valley Fiesta reached new heights last year attracting record audiences in excess of 75,000 people,” Cr Quirk said.

“This year we expect to see record crowds and keep Fiesta close to its roots with a locally based event manager and a more music-focused ethos.

“With a highly anticipated world-class line-up of headline acts, and a huge program of partner events across a number of licensed venues, this year’s Fiesta is set to be our biggest yet.”

Valley Fiesta has been proudly presented since 1997, as part of Council’s vision to make Brisbane a more vibrant, inclusive and accessible city.

Cr Quirk said the event was part of Council’s $3.2 million investment for festivals this year.

“Brisbane’s vast cultural diversity is part of what makes our city so great, so maintaining the number of community festivals both big and small is essential,” he said.

“Valley Fiesta is one of our signature festivals each year and in particular creates a significant economic boost for the Fortitude Valley precinct.”

For full line-up and event details visit www.valleyfiesta.com or facebook.com/valleyfiesta

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 11

Harmony Place – addressing APSQ - Significance of Diwali Multicultural Mental Health Jitendra Deo J.P.(Qual) - President APSQ

• From left: President Fiona Jackson & Annabelle Allimant.

HARMONY Place held its Annual general meeting on 25th September at Gambaro room of Common Place in hope street South Brisbane.

Harmony Place is a non-government community-based multicultural organisation that provides culturally sensitive services to strengthen the mental health and wellbeing of people from diverse cultural and language backgrounds.

They work with all people from diverse cultural and language backgrounds over 12 years of age including migrants and the children of migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, skilled migrants and their spouses.

Their staff are committed professionals with qualifications in social work, psychology and counselling. Most are bilingual and came to Australia as refugees and migrants and have experienced the mental health challenges associated with settlement, identity and acculturation. As they share this experience with the people who use

our services, our staff are in a unique position to offer peer support as well as professional counselling and supported group activities.

They aim to create a resilient multicultural community who enjoy emotional and social wellbeing and accept mental illness as a normal part of life for which help is available.

Their vision is for a mental health sector that understands the cultural diversity of mental health beliefs and provides culturally sensitive services.

They offer early intervention programs that promote emotional and social wellbeing and reduce the risk of mental illness.

They provide individual counselling support for people to recover from a mental illness and family and career counselling.

Hope for self-led recovery from a mental illness Health services for mental health and wellbeing Harmony through social connection

DIWALI, like many festivals, has many myths associated with its origins. There are many stories associated with it but the one which is from the very beginning is that the festival of lights as is commonly known was first started in India by the farmers after they reaped their harvests - it originated as a harvest festival. Every harvest normally spelt prosperity. Farmers performed HAVAN and celebrated with joy and thanked and offered praises to The Almighty God for granting them a good crop.

While Deepawali/Diwali is popularly known as the “festival of lights”, the most significant meaning is - the awareness of the inner light.

Diwali is about the triumph of virtue over vice, of good over evil, of light over darkness and of knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is supposed to be the beginning of a better life, better future and better prospects. It is about unity, tolerance and understanding and our hopes and ambitions for the future. It reminds us that love, concern and respect for others is the way to a brighter day. Regardless of race or faith, people all over the world identify this with the message of Diwali.

Diwali should be a time of reflection how far we have come from the same time last year and where we are heading. It should be about celebration drawing the races together with joy to celebrate health, life and all its goodness. It is about sharing, remembering the poor, the old and the frail through service. It should be about letting the light in and letting go of bitter memories, no more fights, no more quarrels and none of those old wounds. This annual celebration of Diwali is an occasion for everyone to reach out to one another in the spirit of love and goodwill.

Diwali gives everyone a welcome chance to pause and reflect on what we achieved and hope to achieve.

The flames of the Havan Yaj that was performed earlier on today or the clay lamp is a symbolic representation of the victory of light over darkness, of knowledge over ignorance and prosperity over poverty.

Havan Yaj holds a place of great importance in

all Vedic/Hindu religious ceremonies and festivals. While performing the Havan we pray to The Almighty God and sing verses in praise of Him. These verses have meaningful thoughts which describe the attributes and functions of God. The verses from the Vedas urge us to perform good deeds and make our lives nobler.

The benefit from Havan is that it purifies the air and the surrounding atmosphere and people who perform Havan regularly get the opportunity of studying the Vedas and other scriptures and in this way their intellect and the mind become pure then we can do good deeds. Let us reach out to one another in the spirit of love and goodwill that lies at the heart of all great cultures and religions of this world.

In each legend, myth and story of Diwali lies the significance of the victory of good over evil; and it is with each Diwali and the lights that illuminate our homes and hearts, that this simple truth finds new reason and hope. From darkness unto light — the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds, that which brings us closer to divinity.

On behalf of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc (APSQ), I extend my heartiest greetings & best wishes on the occasion of Diwali and start of our New Year. May God shower upon all of us good health, happiness, peace & prosperity, and bless us with the wisdom of the following prayer: Om Asato Maa Sat Gamaya - Lead me from Falsehood to Truth.

Tamaso Maa Jyotir Gamaya - Lead me from darkness or ignorance to light or knowledge.

Mrityor Maa Amritam Gamaya - Lead me from death to immortality.

May this Diwali enlighten your inner soul and bring you close to the ALMIGHTY. Diwali also holds a special significance for Arya Samaj as on this day, Swami Dayanand, the founder of Arya Samaj left his physical body for the heavenly abode. Arya Samaj thus observes Rishi Nirvan Divas on Diwali. Let us pay tribute to Swami ji through commitment in carrying on with his mission and vision of Krinvanto Vishvam Aryam. Making the World Noble.

Wishing you all, once again, a very Happy Diwali and a blissful New Year!

Best wishes for Deepawali 2013 Lord Mayor Graham Quirk

Cr Krista ADAMS

Cr Margaret de WIT

Cr Adrian SCHRINNER

Cr Angela OWEN-TAYLOR

Wishart Ward PH: 3403 7791

Pullenvale Ward PH: 3407 0220

Deputy Mayor Ph: 3407 1400

Parkinson Ward Ph: 3131 7022

Cr Matthew BOURKE

Cr Fiona KING

Cr Peter MATIC

Jamboree Ward Ph: 3407 7000

Marchant Ward Ph: 3407 0707

Toowong Ward Ph: 3403 2520

Cr Vicki HOWARD

Cr Norm WYNDHAM

Cr Steven HUANG

Cr Kim MARX

Central Ward Ph: 3403 0254

McDowall Ward PH: 3403 7690

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White Ribbon Australia launches Queensland Committee WHITE Ribbon Australia has formed a Queensland committee at a meeting held on 4 October. The meeting appointed ChiuHing Chan as the Chairperson, other committee members are Hon John Mickel, Dean Gould, Umesh Chandra, Troy Houghton, Jenny Swadling and Deputy Police commissioner Brett Pointing.

Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie AC briefed the meeting on the national Board; CEO Libby Davis briefed the committee on national programs, events and state responsibility and power.

White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end men’s’ violence against women and girls, promote gender equality, healthy relation-

ships and new vision of masculinity.

White Ribbon Australia, as part of this Global movement, aims to create an Australian society in which all women can live in safety, free from violence and abuse.

It is Australia’s only national, male-led violence prevention organisation. They work to examine the root causes of gender –based violence, challenge behaviours and create a cultural shift that leads us to a future without men’s violence against women.

Through education, awareness-raising, preventative programs partnerships and creative campaigns, they are highlighting the positive role men play in preventing men’s against women and inspiring them to be part of this Social change.

• From left Chiu-Hin Chan, Troy Houghton, Jenny Swadling, Ken Gillespie AC, Dean Gould and Umesh Chandra.

Gujju Lions Garba night ONE more successive Garba Night organised by Gujju Lions on Saturday 28th September.

This year Gujju Lions introduced “Akadami Ratna Award winner” folk singer HEMANT CHAUHAN first time in Brisbane.

It was a FREE Event to support community and Brisbane responded in a fantastic manner.

The huge crowd encouraged Gujju Lions & endorsed their efforts. Gujju Lions is thankful to their Sponsors & Supporters, without their support the event organisation would have impossible. Thank you to all who supported Gujju Lions directly or indirectly in making Garba Night a great success.

• Team work.

14 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 15

Jamaican Jerk Shack in the valley...

By Umesh Chandra IN THIS month’s restaurant review, we bring to you the famous Jamroc in the Valley. Upon arrival at the venue I could not stop singing the good old song “Down the way where the nights are gay and the sunshine most of time on the mountain tops, I took a trip in a sailing ship and when I reached Jamaica I made a stop”.

So down the way in Brunswick Street Fortitude Valley, we made a stop at Jamroc, Jamaican Jerk Chicken. The location is the lively and bustling cafe and theatre prescient, representing a hive of activities. The venue presents nicely as a side walk cafe, with limited seating inside. The bench top style, street facing seating was our obvious choice.

So you must be wondering what is Jamaican Jerk!!, well believe it or not it is the process of spicing and grilling meats, poultry, and even vegetables, although the most popular is jerk chicken. The resulting food yields a spicy-sweet flavour and a tender texture. Jerk is also used as a noun when describing the dry or wet seasoning mix used to jerk a particular food. Jerk shacks thrive on the side of the road in Jamaica as a local fast-food industry.

At Jamoroc we found the chicken to be full favoured, we were told that the chicken goes through a secret marinating process, and the flavour can be tasted right through out and not only on the top.

Traditionally Jamaican food is very hot, here it has been toned down a bit and put in three different categories Mild, Medium, hot and very hot, the very hot is very hot and not comparable to what you might have tasted at other outlets, it is actually quite a challenge to have the very hot.

• Owner Daimian Parkes with the Caribbean Kitchen range.

Their main product is Chicken cooked Jerk Style, served either as burgers, wraps or chicken by itself, you can get the traditional Jamaican sides such as Jamaican rice and Peas, chips with special Jamaican seasoning, Festival which is slightly sweet, crisp cornmeal dumpling, coleslaw and salads.

Now on the serious side they have Mama Jama dishes as their premium product including, curry Chicken, Oxtail in broad beans, Brown stew chicken and the very famous Curry Goat, all which are very popular dishes back in Jamaica. They have a rage of exotic Juices such as Tamarind Juice, Salsa Juice, Lycee Juice

all served in a box, the good old traditional way as they do in Jamaica.

Jamroc offers good vibes, good feeling and great food. For the cooking enthusiast they can create their own Caribbean Kitchen at home with the true flavours of Jamaica with their Pickappeppa and Walkerswood Jerk seasoning, sauces and condiments.

For me it was a great experience to get a taste of real Jamaican cuisine, I have always wanted to go to Jamaica during the festivals, but this was quite an exciting experience. I would highly recommend the restaurant shack to everyone.

CQU Graduation Ceremony at Local Talent Dev Nijjar Brisbane Convention Centre launches CD album Punjab

• From left: Iresha Razik, Rizan Raquib (front), Rizan Razak, Ayesha Rizan, Diana Silva & Mohamed Razik.

FOR years CQU has held its joint graduation ceremony at the Brisbane Convention Centre, the graduation included gradients from both Gold Coast and Brisbane Campuses. The event is always organised a very professional manner. It is an uplifting moment and just being in the company of so many graduating students gives one feeling of satisfaction and appreciation of the hard work.

This year the Vice Chancellor announced with heavy heart that is was the last joint graduation ceremony. CQUniversity (CQU) is to close its Gold Coast campus as a result of the tough international market as well as stiff local competition for a decision to close its Gold Coast campus. New-to-university enrolments at the campus, which is chiefly international, have dropped by around 60% since 2009.

With its lease of the “tired” facilities on the Gold Coast due to expire in 2014, CQU deputy vice-chancellor Alastair Dawson says the university would need to build a campus to be competitive and it has better things to do than spend $15-$20 million building a new campus there.

Both Griffith and Southern Cross universities have new facilities on the Gold Coast, which is chiefly an international student market.

About 320 of the 350 on-campus students were internationals and CQU had had less luck recruiting domestic students on the Gold Coast.

In 2011 there were 473 internationals at CQU Gold Coast, down a little from 493 in 2009, but the university had much larger numbers at its Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane campuses. Dawson says it makes better sense to dedicate resources to the pursuit of more domestic and international growth at those city campuses.

At the ceremony we caught up with Ayesha Rizan, who has completed Bachelor in Accounting with Distinction which consisting of twenty four subjects over a period of three years. She managed to complete the degree in two years. She had been a full time International student of CQ University Gold Coast.

16 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

TALENTED local artist Badldev (Dev) Singh Nijjar has put together a album of original Punjabi folk songs. Dev Nijjar has been associated in the Brisbane Music scene quite some time; he has been a regular “Sabadh” singer at Gurudwaras. Baldev has performed with many musicians in Brisbane.

It was only a matter of time when he was approached by Umesh Chandra of Brisbane Babas Band to join the group, as the group was getting a lot of request for Bhangra.

The first meeting was during a Punjabi sports day where Baldev was the MC, the two got talking and rest is history. The combination and introduction of live Bhangra saw the Band move from strength to strength. Dev has toured extensively with the band to places like Emerald, Woodford, Auckland, Canberra, Sunshine coast etc, and has performed at various venues and function in and around Brisbane.

Baldev Singh Nijjar is a very family ori-

ented man with a strong community connection; he operates his own business Redland Bay Flowers, and has taken up a stall at Rocklea Markets. In between family, business, community work, he manages to devote time to music.

His CD was launched at the very successful Chatra Chor stage play at Holland Park State School. The CD features eight original songs; Change Maade Din, Punjab, Siyane Kehnde, Muqaddar, Kabbadi, Gabru Punjabi, Paisa and Viaah. Paul records and Devinder Sunny have produced the CD. Devinder Sunny is a very talented singer as well. Music has been arranged by Karnail of The Music Factory. The director has been Sukhvinder Heon. Original; lyrics have been penned by Mandeep, Amar Natt, Sabhi Balachauria, Balli Jindowalia and Sukhvinder Heon.

For copies of the professionally produced album please contact Baldev Singh Nijjar on 0414 884 994.

Celebrate Grandparents Day

send your grandparents a special postcard or certificate, treat your grandparents to lunch, or just spend time together doing something you and your grandparents enjoy.

You can order free posters and postcards at the Grandparents Day website www.communities.qld.gov.au/community services/seniors/grandparents-day. On this website you can also find downloadable cards and certificates of recognition for grandparents, template posters and media releases, and ideas and tips for organising events.

The theme of Grandparents Day 2013 is ‘Make your grandparent’s day!’

GRANDPARENTS Day, Sunday 27 October 2013, is a special day to recognise the positive difference grandparents make to our lives and our communities.

Community groups can get involved by organising a Grandparents Day event. Ideas for activities include morning teas, an intergenerational walk for grandparents and grandkids or exhibiting artwork by children showing why they love their grandparents.

Grandchildren and families can also get involved by doing something special to make their grandparent’s day. You could

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Rahat Fateh Alikhan concert in Brisbane

RAHAT Fateh Alikhan staged a very successful concert in Brisbane on Sunday 29th September 2013. The Edmund Rice Performing Arts Centre has become a popular venue for such shows. The staging is brilliant. Parking challenges are that of any inner city venue.

The concert attracted a full house audience, much to the promoters delight. Rahat is now more popular than he was when he first performed in Brisbane, when he had

failed to attract an audience. Rahat pleased the audience with his Bollywood numbers and obviously his Quwalis.

The stage was set as a traditional Quwali mehfil style with Rahat sitting down with a harmonium during the performance. He had a lot of backing Quwali singers. The entire troupe including the sound engineer had come from Pakistan. The concert was applauded by the audience who thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.

More than $10,000 in community development grants to support local groups SEVEN local community organisations will share in over $10,000 in funding from Ipswich City Council’s August round of Community Development Grants.

Arts, Community and Cultural Services Committee Chairperson Councillor Charlie Pisasale said these grants support community groups to undertake activities that contribute to a vibrant Ipswich.

“It’s great that there are so many creative and dynamic groups in Ipswich who are committed to developing programs and running activities that engage and inspire residents,” Cr Charlie Pisasale said.

“Ipswich City Council is proud to support these activities which are so valued in local communities.”

In this round of grants, funding has been allocated to seven local groups.

• Bindarra Daycare will receive $765 towards the purchase of safety padding.

• Choices Family Daycare will receive $1,000 towards the purchase of resources

for a Toy Library.

• Riverview Good News Church will be provided with $1,499 to purchase sporting equipment and games and for training for the Youth Leader.

• The Rotary Club of Booval will be provided with $2,000 towards costs associated with the Rotary Country Fun Festival.

• St Mary’s Hostel will receive $1,000 to purchase a potting bench, raised garden bed and garden tools.

• World Harmony Society Incorporated will be provided with $2,000 towards the cost of their Children’s Day Festival to be held at Robelle Domain in October 2013.

• The Marburg and Districts Residents Association will receive $2,000 towards costs associated with the annual Black Snake Creek Festival.

“These are great investments by council in our community that provide real support for local groups and bring benefit to residents,” Councillor Pisasale said.

High Commission of India - Suva Hindi Divas celebrations HINDI Divas was celebrated in Fiji widely in Universities, Schools, and at the Mission.

Hindi Divas was observed by the Mission on 15 September. The function comprised of a competition consisting of the following: Hindi Poetry recital by children upto15 years of age, Hindi Poetry recital by persons above 15 years of age and Short Essay reading in Hindi (open to all).

Officials of the High Commission, Bank of Baroda, Life Insurance Corporation of India and New India Assurance Company in Fiji and their family members attended the function and participated in the competition. About 90 persons attended the function and 21 participants took part in the competition.

The High Commissioner highlighted the importance of Hindi as the official language, and referring to the messages of Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Secretary, encouraged the officials to use Hindi in office work as far as possible.

The University of Fiji, Lautoka organized a competition for school and University students on 14 September to mark the Hindi Divas. The University of the South Pacific, Suva, observed Hindi Divas by organizing a school competition on 5 September and a

programme on 17 September. Hindi books were presented by the High Commissioner to both the Universities on the occasion.

National Indian Confederation launched AFTER much thought and discussion, on Saturday 16 August 2013, at the offices of the Indian Consulate in Melbourne and with the blessings of the Indian High Commissioner Mr Biren Nanda, the proposal for National representative body (a “Confederation”) for all IndianAustralians was launched.

The meeting was well attended and included representatives of all Victorian Indian Associations (including the FIAV) and representatives from New South Wales and Queensland (FICQ) and all levels of government representatives. Queensland was represented by Dr P Naidu Bodapati, President of Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), and the patron of FICQ Mr. Surendra Prasad OAM was also present.

“The Confederation is an important step for all Australian Indians in Australia, and it will enhance the Indian voice in the all the halls of Governments both in Canberra and in the State Parliaments” Mr Vasan Srinivasan declared.

Support for the Confederation was central in the speech delivered by His Excellency, the High Commissioner Mr Biren Nanda. He cautioned against division, and called upon all involved and those which will be involved to “building an institution for all and not one based to serve individual interests but all Indians in Australia....”

Scott Morrison for his part, added the LNP Opposition’s support for the Confederation and added that “if elected to government on 7/9...the Government (Liberal) will always have his eye on whatever the needs and concerns for Indians throughout Australia...”

It was then decided by those present that an interim Committee be established consisting of (1) Chairperson (Mr Vasan Srinivasan) and a Committee comprised of (1) representative from each State and Territory. Dr. Naidu Bodapati of FICQ and Mr. Stanley D’Cruz, of NSW were nominated and elected to represent Qld and NSW, respectively as part of the Interim committee.

It was further decided that in the next few months a discussion paper will be circulated to all organisations outlining the type of Constitution which will govern the new Confederation and its aims.

Following on the launch of the interim CIAA, on Saturday 18 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

• Mr Vasan & FICQ leaders at the Brisbane launch of the interim Confederation of Indian Australian Associations (CIAA), a National Body.

14th September, Mr Vasan Srinivasan was invited to Brisbane by Dr Naidu Bodapati, President of FICQ to explain about the CIAA. More than 20 Indian leaders representing several member associations of FICQ (Kashmir to Kanyakumari) in the state of Queensland came together along with Honorary Consul of India, Ms Archana Singh and her husband Dr. V. Singh, and Mr. Surendra Prasad, co-patron of FICQ. Dr Naidu welcomed Mr Vasan Srinivasan, the Interim Chair of CIAA, and all Qld leaders present.

Mr Vasan outlined the reasons and process behind establishing the CIAA and thanked FICQ President Dr Naidu www.indiantimes.com.au

and the Patron Mr Surendra Prasad for their support prior and during the inaugural launch in Melbourne.

Mr Vasan outlined the challenges facing the CIAA in different states also stressed the unity required to strengthen the community across the country.

Mr Vasan thanked the FICQ President Dr Naidu and his Associations for taking the first step to acknowledge interim CIAA and the necessity of a National Federation of Indian Associations in Australia. He also thanked the President of FICQ for his achievement of promoting participation the number of youth in FICQ. Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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GOPIO Oceania Chapters to meet in Sydney

GOPIO News.....

Launch of GOPIO Canberra Chapter at the National Capital

GOPIO international is organising its regional meeting on 8th November 2013 that will receive reports from all the chapters of the region; this will be a good opportunity for the chapters to present their detailed activity and achievement reports.

At the Biennial convention, with time restrictions chapters do not get as much time as they would like so this will be a perfect opportunity for them. Chairs and co chairs of various GOPIO Councils will also get an opportunity to speak on the councils.

The second part of the meeting will have a

• From left to Right: Ashok Jain, Rakesh Malhotra, His Highness Mr Biren Nanda, Ramesh Malik, Rakesh Jain and Subhash Dang.

THE statue of Mahatma Gandhi, a gift of the Indian government, stands tall in the Glebe Park in the heart of the city in the Canberra. The office of the High Commission of India holds a ceremony event annually to remember the birthday of Gandhi ji on October 2. The United Nations also recognises the day as the International Day of non-violence globally.

The Gandhi Jayanti celebrations by the High Commission of India in the Canberra, this year particularly was with a difference.

His Highness Mr Biren Nanda, High Commissioner of India, launched the GOPIO Canberra Chapter on a day of both Indian and International significance.

Following the message from Mr Biren Nanda and the observation of two minutes silence, the First secretary Mr Tarun Kumar announced the ceremonial launching event of the GOPIO Canberra Chapter. The historic event on a working day was witnessed by a gathering of just under 100 people including the community leaders, the presidents of local organization and GOPIO office bearer from the interstate.

GOPIO Oceania Coordinator, Mr Umesh

Chandra, responsible for Chapters in the Australia, New Zealand and Fiji was from Brisbane to represent the GOPIO International at this ceremony. He emphasised on the potentials of the global organisation and reiterated on how GOPIO globally has managed the issues and concerns of NRIs and PIOs in their adopted countries.

GOPIO’s origin in 1989 and now as the largest representative of Indian Diaspora in the world, is in no different to ways adopted by Gandhi Ji. It is a movement and an organisation that exists in 19 countries and has approximately 40 chapters worldwide.

The President, Dr Rakesh Malhotra noted that there are 25 million NRIs and PIOs outside India. In Australia, this population was estimated to close to half a million. He acknowledged the need of an extended arm of such cohesive global organisation in the National Capital of Australia. He also reiterated that the GOPIO Canberra Chapter would coexist and synergise with other Indian associations, and collaborate and cooperate with them. However, the Chapter will identify and pursue activities in areas that remain unrepresented and unaddressed.

panel discussion of specific issues of the chapters within the region, this will be done under a moderator and a summation will be prepared to be forwarded to GOPIO International at the Biennial convention in January 2014. The regional meeting will be held at Novotel, Parramatta, NSW, Australia from 2pm till 6 pm. The Regional meeting will be open to all chapters in good standing within the region, any visiting GOPIO International official, Chairs and Co- Chairs of Various GOPIO Councils, life members and especially invited guests.

GOPIO Regional Convention and GOPIO International Woman’s Conference GOPIO International has organised a GOPIO Regional convention and International Women’s conference in Sydney on 9th November 2013, the convention theme is “The Indian Diaspora in Oceania: Growth and opportunities” The convention convenor Umesh Chandra, (GOPIO International coordinator Oceania) is inviting key note speakers and scholars from the region. The topic is very timely appropriate, as Oceania region has a great positional, however there are challenges that need to be overcome.

Australia has strong bilateral trade relations with India. At a state level, in 2011-12 India was Queensland’s fourth largest merchandise export destination, valued at more than $6 Billion. Representing 11.4 percent of total value of Queensland’s merchandise exports. India is going to continue to be a world economic powerhouse. India’s economy has grown by approximately 36percent in the last five years, with growth in 2014 forecast to be almost six percent. India, the world’s largest democracy is currently undergoing a period of transformation - the country is urbanising and the middle class is expanding.

This positive transformation presents Oceania region and particularly Australia with massive opportunities; this will be the focus of the discussions and deliberations

of GOPIO Internationals regional conference. The conference will also explore the opportunities and challenges of the Indian Diaspora in the region. The Indian Diaspora in the region are becoming a major force in the field of commerce, innovative technologies, education, hospitality, Heath care, community work, philanthropy and Politics to name a few. The challenges that the Indian Diaspora face on a day are many self inflicted by our own society, others are a result of the market forces and some discriminatory.

The convention will encompass GOPIO International women’s conference under the chairpersonship of Mrs Suman Kapoor of New Zealand.

The conference will held on 9th November 2013 is in Sydney’s Western suburbs, where a large number of people of Indian Origin reside. The venue is Sapphire function centre situated at Level 1, 107 - 109 Main Street Blacktown. The conference is likely to attract over two hundred people.

The convention is open to public and the online registration is open, to register please follow the following link; www.registernow.com.au/secure/Register.as px?E=10274.

For further information please contact Umesh Chandra ceo@chantex.com.au Ph +61 421 388 465.

Picture Ipswich continues to grow

• Ipswich Showgrounds early 1970s

Ipswich’s unique history is being proudly preserved thanks to the contributions by residents to Picture Ipswich.

Tourism and Libraries Committee Chairperson Councillor David Pahlke said Ipswich’s libraries continue to receive photographs from the community to contribute to the growing records.

“This year we had an influx of photos for the Queens Park 150 year celebrations and we’ve also been focused on adding images of construction from the past for our ‘Constructing Ipswich’ Picture Ipswich project,” Cr Pahlke said.

“At this stage the total number of images in 20 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Picture Ipswich is 9200 and we’re continually adding to that record with postings from the Rosewood Scrub Historical Society Collection and the Whitehead Collection, as well as images taken as part of the Ipswich Heritage Study that documents homes build in Ipswich prior to World War II.” Cr Pahlke said Picture Ipswich had proven to be a valuable resource for residents and plans were underway for future Picture Ipswich projects.

“Our Digital Archivist has recently had talks with community groups including ‘The Springs’ Over 50s Social Group in Silkstone and the Trinity Methodist

Group to help grow interest in sharing photographs on the Picture Ipswich website,” Cr Pahlke said.

“Ipswich’s Libraries are also currently processing the first Viva Cribb Bursary winner’s publication for loading directly into Picture Ipswich.”

Cr Pahlke said Picture Ipswich had not only become a positive and important asset to the city, but also an important resource for school students, historians and the general community.

“This project will ensure that historical information and images from Ipswich’s past and present are well documented and accessible to the community and future generations.”

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Community Activities and AGM of the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association

• Delegates at the recently held AGM discussing strategies to advance the project.

GOLD Coast Hindu Cultural Association (GCHCA) held the first AGM after incorporation in the Helensvale Community Centre on Sunday the 22nd of September.

The membership was appreciative of the rapid progress and achievements of the Association within the first one year.

President Dr Muthukkumarasamy thanked the members, politicians, councilors and the supporters for the success achieved in the first year. The Association has received overwhelming support from the wider community and raised their bank balance to over $450,000. The membership appreciated the transparent way of operating the Association in every aspect, including making the audited financial statements available to anyone through the GCHCA website. With the end of first year the Founder Membership drive has ended and now the Association has started the Life membership drive. Each member resolved to recruit at least 5 Life Members for the Association and to spread the noble objects of the Association and collect funds for the planned development of iconic “Hindu Education and Cultural precinct” project.

As part of action plan for the year 2013 / 2014 the Association has started initiatives to have an active Youth Group to increase awareness and participation of youths in Hindu culture related activities. Mr Vidya Kartik Menon is arranging a get together of Hindu youths in Highland Park involving students from Griffith, Bond and University of Queensland on 20th October 2013. More details on the GCHCA Facebook; and for enrolment to this event contact Kartik on 0431 579 979. Mrs Neela Ramiah was coopted to fill a casual vacancy for Director of Youth and Community Activities, Fund Raising Activities, and Event Management.

Her husband, late Dr Kris Ramiah was one of the few who originally had the dream of developing a Hindu Cultural Centre with place for worship in Gold Coast. The President met a number of Temple Architects (Sabathy) in India and returned upbeat about the interest and support received. The Building Sub-committee is consulting various experts on the overall design of the Education and Cultural Precinct so that the long-term vision can be incorporated. They are working hard and fine tuning the details of the building plans, which needs to be developed by architects and ready for submission by the Town Planner (DA application) to the GCCC for before the end of November.

The first cultural function of GCHCA will be the celebration of Navaratri festival, which is being organized by the sub-committee headed by Prof. Thiru Aravinthan, Director of Cultural affairs. This showcase event to invited guests and registered members of the public (no-cost) will be attended by many public figures including community leaders, prominent artists, local councilors and politicians. The seats are being booked fast and only a few is remaining. A number of organisations and individuals volunteered to sponsor this quality program. The festival will portray different art forms of Hindu heritage and takes place on 12th of October at the Nerang Bicentennial Community Centre.

The GCHCA appeals to the readers to join the GCHCA as Life Members and support / participate in its noble cause and activities.

The details about the membership enrollment can be found in our Web site: www.culture.Goldcoasthindu.org or by calling Mr. Indrajit Siva, Secretary at gchcan@gmail.com or on 0434 600 814.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 21

Pratap Chand’s Footprints: An insight into post-Girmit life in Fiji Pratap Chand’s “A Fijian Memoir - Footprints of a Girmitiya’s Grandson”: Book launch in Auckland, New Zealand on 15 September, 2013.

By Thakur Ranjit Singh WHEN the sound of Indian drums, hudda and Tassa, drifted into the jam-packed Milton Hall in Mangere East in Auckland, one could be mistaken that they were in Fiji. Had it not been for the cool spring air, and overhead noisy jet planes lining up to land at nearby Auckland Airport, it would have been mistaken for an event in Tavua, or Ba, or even Labasa.

Honestly, if one were present in the Auckland book launch A Fijian Memoir Footprints of a Girmitiya’s Grandson, one would honestly feel they were at home, back in Fiji.

The hall was filled with family members, friends, former trade unionists and a contingent of former Fiji teachers. Grand entry was made with the accompaniment of drums and tassa, when the Chief Guest, former Parliamentarian Master Shiu Charan, the author Pratap Chand and Fiji Teachers Association of NZ President Satya Swami made entry into the hall. It was a moving entry, a nostalgic feeling reminding us of those good days in Fiji. When these three gentlemen, with former Deputy Speaker and Labour MP Giyannendra Prasad took the head table, it was such a reassuring sight for the migrant Fijian community to cherish their leaders.

The Chief Guest, Master Shiu Charan, former trade unionist and former NFP parliamentarian, considered it an honour and auspicious occasion to launch a book authored by a close friend, akin to a younger brother... “It is auspicious in that our presence is to commemorate Brother Pratap Chand’s fulfilment of a dream—he has authored a book titled A Fijian Memoir—Footprints of a Girmityas Grandson,” Shiu said. He recommended people to read the book because “…. Pratap has expressed his sentiments with gusto and a sense of fellow feeling…” which will leave the reader no choice but to identify himself somewhere in the web of things, as events and incidents explained are what most rural third generation Indo-Fijians have been through in growing up in Fiji.

The decision to write the book was well explained by a Shakespearean play that Satendra Singh, our literature teacher and the then Principal of DAV College, Ba, explained in 1973. It is the same DAV College that Pratap attended in 1960s with another author and former Ba Town Clerk, Rajendra Prasad, who wrote “Tears in Paradise-Sacrifices and suffering of Indians.”

A literature lesson from Shakespeare’s As You Like It explains that adversity, troubles and difficulties bring out the best in people. That is what Pratap went through, who, while nursing the sickness of his wife, commenced writing, which now

• The distinguished leaders: from left, the author, PRATAP CHAND, the Chief Guest who launched the book, MASTER SHIU CHARAN, over-view of the book by GIYANNEDRA PRASAD, and President of Fiji Teachers in NZ, which hosted the launch, SATYA SWAMI.

has culminated in this expression of what the new generation of Indo-Fijians went through as they grew up in Fiji.

In his presentation, Chand revealed two principal objectives in writing the book.

The first was to document “the growing up process and the struggle of the third generation Indo- Fijians”, their education, struggles, trials, tribulations and life in village, a path that many of us have treaded. The other reason was to encourage and inspire others to write and tell their stories. And from what he says, some friends are already sharpening their pencils, or hunting for their keyboards to tell their tales.

Chand feels that Fiji needs an explosion where people are prepared to write and tell their stories which would inspire the present and future generations. He warns that his stories are in no way to be considered to be historical accounts, as they are written from recollection of memories. “I recount a village growing up process with games and activities which have been taken over by technological and urban forces. I record these as legacies of the past which may provide the current generation a glimpse of life that existed not so long ago,” he said. His revelation about release of poisonous cyanide into Yaladro River by Emperor Gold Mining Company is a snapshot of how multinationals have poisoned the world. He jokingly, in fact factually sniped that perhaps people of Tavua may have high level of cyanide because of the disoriented and almost-dying fish they collected from the river for food. Indeed some of the accounts of what he wrote would be eyeopener for children of third generation

Indo-Fijians, growing up in Auckland, London, Sacramento, Vancouver and Sydney.

In a very inspiring presentation by Giyannendra Prasad, Solicitor, former Labour Parliamentarian, Deputy Speaker of Fiji Parliament and a close friend of Pratap Chand, he urged Fijians to read more. He briefly presented an overview of the book, touched on the growing up process of Pratap, childhood, education, Teachers College, employment, marriage, scholarship, Lecturer at Nasinu Teachers College (NTC) where he met Shiu Charan and exposure to unionism that commenced there. He later touched on contributions of teachers and unions to form Labour Party, Chand’s role as Minister of Education, and how an opportunity to improve Fiji was lost to the events of 2000 (Speight coup). He brought some lighter moments by describing how we used to make “cars” out of Capstan or Champion tobacco tins and pretended we were driving cars. Anecdotes of Holi, Diwali, borrowing from neighbours, subsistence farming and small village incidents, coupled with patches of Fiji Hindi, created humour and laughter.

Giyannedra, on a more serious note, echoed those Shakespearean thoughts on difficult and testing times. “It is at times of crisis and challenge, not at times of comfort and convenience, that test of human character and strength are exposed. It is those times that brought the best in Pratap,” and has resulted in this book.

Indeed, what Giyannedra said is so factual and evident, and his impromptu thoughts (no written or prepared speech) on Pratap

are a reflection of his immense wisdom, knowledge, decorum, demeanour and eloquence. I was fortunate to capture these thoughts on a digital recorder and transcribe it for our readers…”His many sacrifices, utter devotion to his ailing wife...The dignity which he maintained both during illness and eventual loss, is profoundly touching and indeed rare and truly inspiring. It is strongly recommended reading…In reading the book, it will be a great celebration of life of a remarkable and great friend, Pratap Chand, “Giyannedra concluded.

Indeed it was a great presentation by all the speakers, and the occasion blessed Pratap Chand’s achievement with huge presence of so many friends, family and well-wishes from Fiji. It is now upon us to get a bout of that déjà vu or nostalgic feeling by reading the book and going back to the good stressfree old days in Fiji that for many of us, only remains a dream. For others, it is a bundle (gathri) of memories, “Yaadein” which we unwrap from time to time in moments of sadness and despair, to get some comforts from days gone by, when we hum… Koi lauta de mere bite huye din...

(Somebody please, hand me back my gone by days.)

Happy reading, and tell us your tales as well.

E-mail: thakurji@xtra.co.nz [Note from FIJI PUNDIT and Thakur Ranjit Singh: This is NOT a book review, but news of the launch of the book. The book review will be done at a later stage in this paper on Blogsite, FIJI PUNDIT, which tells you what other media ignore. www.fijipundit.blogspot.co.nz]

Cultural Society of India Brisbane Dandiya Raas huge success!

CULTURAL Society of India Brisbane (CSIB) organised Dandiya Raas for 8th time and was a great success. Thanks to all the people who attended and made this event happen. The spirit of creating awareness of Indian culture among multi nationalities around Brisbane as well as in QUT was quite evident.

There was a workshop at the beginning of the event followed

by Raas Garba and some Bollywood music. Everyone followed the rhythm and danced to the beats. We would like to thank QUT for the massive support to our organisation along with student guild.

Also thanks to Salt and Pepper 22 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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for catering, Praneel Sinha aka DJ Desi our official DJ for the night, Shivam decorators and VGlobal for their continuous support towards our events.

On behalf of Cultural Society

of India Brisbane we would invite to like us on Facebook for regular updates and photos.

Regards Kritika Bansal and Manan Shah.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 23

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) Brisbane Chapter Inauguration BRISBANE Chapter of ICAI was officially inaugurated on Thursday 19 September by Mr Subodh Agrawal, President of ICAI and Mr. K.Raghu, Vice-President of ICAI, who were invited to Brisbane for this historic event by Vineet Aggarwal, Chairman of the Chapter and others in the management committee – Surender Sharma (Secretary), Hitesh Mehta (Treasurer), Mahadevan Shankar (Vice-Chairman), Vardhini Ramanathan (Asst. Secretary), Durga Karra (PRO) and Suresh Ramamurthy (the key man behind this event).

Durga Karra from the management committee kicked off the event with a profound verse on importance of teachers in our lives in front of room full of dignitaries from various walks of life and the Indian chartered accountants living in Queensland.

The room was totally packed even during the middle of working hours as the official program started sharp at 12:30pm. Penny Ellenger, Queensland General Manager of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia (ICAA), welcomed all the dignitaries and was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of the attendees.

Besides representation of leaders and senior people from ICAA, ICPA, Brisbane City Council, Trade and Investment Queensland, FICQ, AIBC and GOPIO, the event was also graced by Hon. Consul of India Mrs. Archana Singh and Hon. Mr. Robert Cavallucci MP, Assistant Minister of Multicultural Affairs, who was also repre-

• Assistant Minister for Multicultural affairs Queensland lighting the lamp during the Inauguration.

senting Hon. Mr. Tim Nicholls MP, Treasurer and Minister for Trade. Vineet Aggarwal shared his experience of the bumpy ride during the initial formation of the Chapter and spoke about 4 key objectives of the Chapter: 1. Networking opportunities for members 2. Knowledge sharing and enhancement 3. Assisting newly migrant members 4. Building brand of Indian CAs in Australia “The regular monthly meetings are a con-

venient platform for members to come together, share knowledge and build their network. With a formal recognition from ICAI and their continued support, the Chapter would build stronger relationships with ICAA and ICPA and achieve even greater success”, said Vineet Aggarwal.

It was also highlighted how Chapter is assisting its members to find the opportunities of interest to them. A role of Sydney Chapter and its leader Mr. Yateender Gupta was also highlighted in the formation of the

Brisbane Chapter.Vice-President K. Raghu proudly mentioned that ICAI is the second largest accounting body in the world with more than 220,000 members across the world.

It was moving to learn about the journey of President Subodh Agrawal from humble background to the role of utmost responsibilities. He mixed humour well along with his encouraging words. In addition to the three commonalities between Australia and India – Cricket, Curry and Commonwealth – he stressed upon Chartered Accountants being the fourth one.

The attendees were also addressed by Mr Robert Cavallucci and Mrs Archana Singh, and both spoke about importance of trade and business between India and Australia, specifically Queensland.

“It is particularly pleasing to get blessings from the government representatives of both countries”, said Hitesh Mehta, Treasurer of the newly formed Chapter.

Durga Karra thanked all the dignitaries, guests and the Chapter members. A special thank was given to ICAA and Penny Ellenger for sponsoring the event. The colourful pictures of the various activities and the social event running on the backdrop engaged interest of the attendees long after official program was finished. The attendees continued to network over the delicious food and picturesque venue at the city centre overlooking the Brisbane River.

World sport, political and religious leaders come together for the third annual ‘unity of faiths festival’ MONDAY, 30th September, London: London stood united when a series of events brought individuals from all backgrounds together, as world sport, religious and political leaders joined hands to pledge their support for the launch of The Unity of Faiths Foundation (TUFF), a UK based non-profit, secular organisation that recognises the importance of inter-community dialogue and acceptance as the bedrock of community cohesion and understanding.

A response to the increased dissonance, cultural and religious divide that has estranged communities, nationally and globally, TUFF, acknowledged by President Barack Obama and HRH The Queen, was launched with the mission to UNITE people and communities through the common factor of Faith, irrespective of religious belief, cultural or social backgrounds, and to subsequently create a more stable, tolerant and cooperative future for all.

In attendance were an array of dignitaries and public figures, including: the equivalent of the Sikh Pope who was in Britain for his first public visit, Akal Takth Jathedaar ji, Giani Gurbachan Singh ji Golden Temple Amritsar, India, Mr M N Khrisnamani, President of the Bar Association – Supreme Court of India, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdel Salam Mraish Former Grand Mufti, Palestine, and Master Venerable Ji Xiu, Senior Master Buddhist Monk from China.

A unique ‘Torch of Unity’ procession began on Friday 27th September 2013, featuring 100 young adults from London schools, travelling on open-top Unity buses through Southall. The event reflected TUFF’s 2013 focus on Youth, the core belief being that in order to sow the seeds of respect and mutual understanding for each other early, it is vital to connect with the younger generation - the ‘voices of tomorrow’.

During the lighting of the Torch of Unity, Dr Sheik Ramzy, Chair of the Muslim Council of Britain said: ‘This is a unique and special organisation to bring every culture together all over the world. Let’s be united forever.’

Mr M N Krishna-mani echoed this when he said: ‘Unity and variety is the creation of God.’ The former Grand Mufti of Palestine, Sheikh Abdel Salam Mraish said: ‘Everybody must be true to each other. I am proud to be with such a young group of people who are embracing unity of faiths.”

Following the torch ceremony, audiences were captivated by a series of keynote addresses by several VIPs who had flown to London especially for the launch.

The event commenced with a welcome by TUFF’s Founders Ms. Anna Prior, a former art dealer from Mayfair and Dr. Shamender Talwar, a Social Psychologist from West London.

Dr. Shamender Talwar said: “Unity of Faiths is a journey we all need to be a part of. During the first festival three years ago we were surprised how positive the reaction was from the general public. We had postmen, fireman, lawyers and doctors all turn up and celebrate unity in the community.

Six weeks later the London riots began and Southall, which was one of the areas considered to be hit hardest was not affected. The festival grew from 8,000 to 25,000 which is testament to the fact that communities endorse the principles

24 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

of TUFF.” Anna echoed this with, “We have lost love and care and we need to nurture it with action in the community - this is vital to achieving unity. Let’s do it together, understand and respect each other’s backgrounds in a multi-cultural Britain”.

Mr G.S. Malhi, a successful entrepreneur from Southall, also joined Anna and Dr Talwar on their Unity mission. He said: “From a young age, I have had a passion for oneness. What Anna and Dr Talwar were trying to do resonated with what I felt. Unity to me means togetherness, when we are not left out and not forgotten.”

Commenting on humanity, Akal Takth Jathedaar ji, Giani Gurbachan Singh Ii, said, “We may have advanced in the world in all ways of life but we are still far away from being united as humans. To achieve unity of faiths we need to first have an understanding of each other, and then we must allow each other the freedom to practice our own religions in peace.”

Speaking on the occasion, the Mayor of Ealing Councillor Dhindsa, commented, “Southall is known as a very multicultural town, we have mosques, temples and churches all within 100 meters of each other. The organisers couldn’t have chosen a better location to celebrate unity between different cultures.”

Reverend Derek Barnes said: “The message I want to get across is that we are all talking about one uniting www.indiantimes.com.au

factor, that sense of love. Whatever costumes we wear, underneath we are all the same, we need to break out of the traditions that we have been limited by and say to one another, we all share that unity of love.”

Closing the event, Pareena Swarup, the Honorable Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association in India said: ‘When you were born you were born with faith, you had faith in your mother and father, you had faith in your home, you had faith in your country. You should have faith in every soul because if you are out in the street and something goes terribly wrong, you must have faith in the people around you to help you with your troubles. Believe in each other, believe in every human being no matter what race, what age and what gender.’

Speaking via Skype from New Delhi, India, the event featured a surprise interaction between the young adults and Vikas Swarup, diplomat and author of international bestseller Q & A, adapted into the multi-BAFTA and Academy Award winning film Slumdog Millionaire. Vikas Swarup said: “This is an incredible initiative bringing us all together for the common celebration of our shared humanity”.

Some of the questions posed to Vikas Swarup by the young adults included “Why do religions argue with each other?” He replied with: “Because all of us believe we have a monopoly on what is deemed as the truth. It is only when we accept

that truth is not one but has many forms will we develop harmony and live together. In Jainism there is a term, conditional regulation, which states that one should never make an absolute statement since we have only grasped one path and not the whole.”

When asked “What does faith mean to you”, he replied saying: “Faith is an important part of human existence as we all need to believe in something. Whether this is within us or in others.”

The poignant video promoting the work of TUFF was unveiled to the audience exclusively, featuring the murder of Lee Rigby in Woolwich, recent war crimes, extracts of petitions towards the Delhi gang rape case and the London riots, reinforcing the necessity of TUFF’s vision.

The landmark event concluded the third annual Unity of Faith Festival on Sunday 29th September 2013, with tens of thousands present. The festival provided London's multicultural community from all backgrounds and age groups, an opportunity to connect, break the barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice against a backdrop of free entertainment, food, drinks and social engagement. The festival built up a groundswell of support to the message of UNITY, creating ‘Awareness’ to the concept of having FAITH in each other.

Youth icon and England bowler Monty Panesar joined hands with the unity team, interacting with groups of people who had congregated to see the cricketer.

Commenting on the atmosphere at the Festival, Monty Panesar said: “Thank you for your positive energy and kind words. I hope to inspire the youth of the next generation” The Festival featured an eclectic array of entertainers and performances from young children to adults, from lion dancers to operatic performances, showcasing the diversity that TUFF aims to promote.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Diwali 2013 WHEN we think of Diwali it conjures up visions of an array of lamps, festivity, sweets, gifts, and celebration. Extended over a period of five days, this festival heralds the victory of good over evil. It commemorates the return of Shriram after vanquishing Ravan and Shrikrushna defeating Narkasur. It is also accompanied by the ritualistic worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Divine consort of Shrivishnu.

Amidst the fun and frolic, however the spiritual significance of the festival is declining. Conversely, only when we understand the spiritual significance of each day of the festival, will we be able to celebrate the festival in its true element and obtain greater benefit.

The first day is Dhantrayodashi or Dhanteras (1st Nov’13). On this day, the Principle of Goddess Lakshmi is very active and She is worshipped through the medium of wealth. This also marks the beginning of Diwali. Businessmen worship their treasuries and begin new account books. Dhanvantari Deity who is one of the 24 Incarnations of Lord Vishnu and the Deity bestowing immortality is worshipped on this day. As per spiritual science, to prevent untimely death Deity Yama is offered thirteen oil lamps made of wheat flour which are lit outside the house facing the South direction.

Dhanteras is followed by Narak Chaturdashi (2nd Nov’13). This is marked by an increase in subtle Raja-Tama frequencies in the atmosphere which evokes the negative energies. To neutralise this effect, since ancient times, the practice of having auspicious bath after having oil massage before sunrise is prevalent.

Legends reiterate a story that when the demon Narkasur was being slayed by Shrikrushna, he asked for a boon that, “On this date let one who takes an auspicious bath not suffer in hell”. Shrikrushna granted him that boon.

On the next day, Lakshmi-Kuber Pooja is performed (3rd Nov’13). The Principles of Five Deities are active in the environment which makes it very auspicious – Shrivishnu who bestows happiness, Indra who bestows opulence; Kuber bestows wealth, Gajendra who is the carrier of wealth and Goddess Lakshmi who is the Divine Energy bestowing energy to all these Deities. Goddess Lakshmi is ardently worshipped on this day which brings about happiness, opulence, stability and wealth in the home premises.

A small idol or picture of Goddess Lakshmi is installed on a seat of eight petalled lotus or a swastik drawn with consecrated rice (akshata) and the ritualistic worship is performed. The Purana narrate that on this new moon day, Goddess Lakshmi wanders everywhere in search of an ideal home. Though cleanliness, beauty and excellence attract Her, yet She loves to live in a home inhabited by people who are faithful, dutiful, merciful, righteous and chaste. On this day households are decorated with lit lamps and rangolis (designs made on floor with colours).

On the day of Balipratipada, (4th Nov’13) one pays obeisance to King Bali. King Bali agreed to donate land equivalent to three feet of a small Brahman; unaware that the Brahman was Shrivishnu Himself.

Shrivishnu assumed His expansive form and covered the entire earth with one step and the sky with His other step. Then King Bali offered his head and Shrivishnu blessed Him. Diwali 2013 ends with the sacred festival of Bhaidooj or Bhaubij on 5th Nov’13, when Deity Yama visited his sister Yamuna to have a meal. Hence, on this day brothers’ visit their sisters and offer presents to them while the sisters’ prays for their brother’s well-being.

Today, for most of us celebrating Diwali is incomplete without fireworks. Besides, the detrimental effect it has at the physical level; at the spiritual level the positivity created due to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi dissipates due to the negative and disturbing sound of the crackers. Thus, we should refrain from bursting crackers.

Let this Diwali 2013 be imbued with the true spiritual essence and let us pray that Goddess Lakshmi inhabits our homes and endows wealth, happiness and prosperity.

For more information on Diwali, please Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Melbourne man arrested for attempting to groom child online THE Australian Federal Police (AFP) arrested a 39-year-old Melbourne man on 8 October for using the internet to groom a 12year-old child for sexual purposes.

The man was arrested by AFP members when he went to meet the 12-year-old at a restaurant in south-east Melbourne.

The man is expected to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court and has been charged with: • Using a carriage service to groom a person under 16 years of age – intention of making it easier to procure sexual activity (S.474.27(1)) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 • Using a carriage service to procure a person under 16 years of age (S.474.26(1)) • Using a carriage service to transmit indecent communication to person under 16 (S.474.27A) These offences carry sentences of up to 15 visit us at Forum for Hindu Awakening years imprisonment. (www.hinduawakening.org) Acting National Coordinator Child Protection Operations Brett Wood said the Compiled by: Mrs Shweta Clarke AFP will continue to do whatever it can to Email: shweta.clarke@forumforhinduawakening.org disrupt this abhorrent behaviour.

www.indiantimes.com.au

“Those people who think they can hide behind the anonymity of online platforms and exploit children need to think again,” Acting Superintendent Wood said.

“This investigation highlights the outstanding work that our officers do every day to combat child sexual exploitation and remove predators from the community.”

Acting Superintendent Wood said this is a timely reminder to parents and carers to be vigilant in their supervision of children and young person’s use of the internet.

“In recent times we have seen too many children and young people become victim to those who seek to exploit their naivety and vulnerability, particularly through grooming,” Acting Superintendent Wood said.

“Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility and parents and guardians are encouraged to think about what they can do to create a safe online experience for children and young people and prevent situations such as this.”

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 25

• Dr Kiran Bedi with the Executive Committee of the Council of Indian Australians – standing from left to right: Keyur Desai, Jaspreet Chopra, Dr Balu Vijay, Dr Kiran Bedi, Shail Wadhwa, Praful Desai, Mohit Kumar, and Nitin Shukla.

Council of Indian Australians hosted another grand and successful event and donated $9,400 to Dr Kiran Bedi’s charity ‘India Vision Foundation’ THE Council of Indian Australians Inc. (CIA), organised a charity dinner in honour of Dr Kiran Bedi at the Kashi Indian Restaurant, Annangrove, NSW on Sunday, 29th September 2013. Although this was Dr Bedi’s second trip to Sydney in the last one year, the event was a sell out as well as grand and successful.

During her half day stay in Sydney, Dr Bedi attended two main events and also addressed over 400 women at a ladies only event called “Sakhi ‘G’ Sakhi” via Skype organised by the Marathi Association Sydney Inc..

As part of the first event, Dr Bedi attended an afternoon tea session hosted by Dr Vijay Gupta and his wife, Mrs Sneh Gupta at their beautiful home in Wollongong.

This session was attended by over forty prominent members of Wollongong’s medical and wider community. In a welcome address to the gathering, Dr Vijay Gupta outlined Ms Bedi’s many achievements and stressed the importance of her work in supporting the education program for the children of prisoners and the fundamental social change she is bringing about at the grass root levels in India.

Dr Bedi while addressing the gathering appealed to the audience that only a ‘dollar a day’ saving would help educate a needy child. She further said that India Vision Foundation is undertaking a huge task in the field of education and its primary objective is to provide children with social skills, vocational training and ample opportunities to increase their employability and to enable their smooth transition in becoming mainstream citizens. Dr Bedi requested people to come out of their ‘comfort zones’ and lend a helping hand in this regard. Ms Bedi cited that many of her students were being educated and / or their skills upgraded either in public or private schools thanks to the donations she receives from people within India and the rest of the world.

As part of the second event, a charity dinner in Sydney kicked off with the screening of an award winning documentary film on Dr Kiran Bedi titled YES, MADAM SIR produced by Australian filmmaker Megan Doneman and distributed by Antidote Films. At the conclusion of the film, Dr Kiran Bedi entered into the hall to a standing ovation and roaring welcome.

Mr Subba Rao Varigonda, President of the Council of Indian Australians welcomed Dr Kiran Bedi and the gathering before handing over to Dr Bedi.

Dr Kiran Bedi took the opportunity and started her speech with a quiz from the movie followed by a Q&A session where she inspired, engaged and connected with the audience. She touched on various topics covering women empowerment, corruption in India, Indian politics, update on her charity - India Vision Foundation as well as sharing a few of her life experiences.

Answering to one of the questions from the floor about the secret of her being well ‘empowered’ and independent, Dr Bedi gave lots of credit to her parents who helped and taught her strong values and empowered her to be independent in life.

Further two important aspects that helped 26 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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her included playing competitive sports and taking up a career in Police force. Dr Bedi stressed upon the important role that parents can play in making women independent and empowered.

She expressed her views that women should be allowed to play competitive sports from an early age. Competitive sports helps in life as there are real challenges, and one need to play by the rules as well as digest the taste of winning or losing on the field. In India, not too many schools encourage women to play competitive sports and hence they tend to become more dependent on males in Indian society.

Dr Bedi was asked about her motivation for doing lots of community awareness work and reform programs to which she answered by saying that her motivation is the ongoing love of her parents, living up to their expectations and the most important one is, that she loves the art of giving to the society!

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Kiran Bedi shared her vision, mission and objectives of India Vision Foundation. The Vision of IVF is “To build a community rich in education and moral values free from crime and gender discrimination” and their mission is “To uplift the masses and merge them with the mainstream to build a stronger India”. Dr Bedi explained why it was important to support the children of prisoners as they are exposed to environment where they talk and learn only the language of prisoners (murder, chaku, etc.) at a very young age and hence education was very important and a game changer for their future. Dr Bedi explained the process of child sponsorship and how her office manages all aspects of education and needs of that children.

While answering to one of the questions about her views on insensitivity of Delhi Police in the recent Delhi rape case, Dr Bedi expressed that after this case there is a greater awareness about a genuine need for Police Reforms in India. In fact, there is a lot going on in India and many more reforms are going to come in future and they are in pipeline with the Delhi Supreme Court.

Mohit Kumar, CIA Executive Committee member auctioned six books written by Dr Bedi on various topics covering her reforms, leadership and inspiring articles.

The entire proceeds from the funds generated are being donated to the India Vision Foundation.

Dr Bedi also presented certificates to all those who sponsored the children from her last visit and personally went to each table, while giving an opportunity to engage on a one to one basis.

The Council of Indian Australians assisted in raising $9,400 for Dr Bedi’s charity and also secured six, year long sponsorship for children of India Vision Foundation charity!

Dr Balu Vijay, Secretary CIA, in his vote of thanks, thanked Kashi Indian Restaurant for providing wonderful venue and delicious food and Indus Age for being an exclusive print media partner.

For further information, please contact: Dr Balu Vijay, Secretary – 0425 237 736, baaluvijay@yahoo.com. www.cia.org.au Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Council seeks feedback from Marburg residents on the Black Snake Creek catchment

THE Marburg community has identified both opportunities and challenges across the Black Snake Creek catchment area over recent years, including impacts from flooding and declining water quality.

Environment and Conservation Committee Chairperson Councillor Heather Morrow said council was working towards preserving and enhancing the environmental, economic, social and recreational potential of the area through a Total Water Cycle Management Plan for the Black Snake Creek Catchment.

“An experienced team of environmental, economic and social experts are seeking significant input from the local community,” Cr Morrow said.

“We want the community to become involved with this important initiative.

“Council has appointed the Black Snake Creek Total Water Cycle project team to consider flooding, water quality, salinity and amenity challenges facing the community.

“This will give us a picture of the catchment and the issues which need addressing now and in the

years to come.”

Division 10 Councillor David Pahlke said the project team was currently seeking feedback through a community questionnaire which has recently been mailed to households in Marburg.

“Interested residents can also access the questionnaire in the mail or access it online at http://goo.gl/pniovc or request a copy from the Project Manager on 3810 6666.

Cr Pahlke said council was also seeking photographs and historical information about the catchment from the community.

He said the management plan for the area would lead to the development of an agreed vision and blueprint for the Black Snake Creek catchment (Ipswich area) for the community, investors and council.

“It could take another 12 months to finalise the water plan and up to two years to complete the community social planning side of the process as council wants to get it right.

“This will help us to ensure that this area is well looked after now and into the future.”

Applications open for Ipswich Youth Advisory Council and the Ipswich Indigenous Youth Advisory Council TIME is running out for Ipswich young people to join the 2014 Ipswich Youth Advisory Council and the Ipswich Indigenous Youth Advisory Council.

Applications will close on October 25.

Ipswich City Council Youth and Seniors Committee Chairperson Councillor Sheila Ireland said young people aged between 12 and 17 living in the Ipswich region were encouraged to apply.

“Any young person interested in representing their peers on the Ipswich Youth Advisory Council and the Ipswich Indigenous Youth Advisory Council is welcome to apply for a position for 2014,” Cr Ireland said.

“The Ipswich Youth Advisory Council was founded in 2007 to give Ipswich youth a special forum in which they can express a wide variety of views and ideas about issues affecting them.

“In 2012 the Ipswich Indigenous Youth Advisory Council was established to increase and better engage our Indigenous young people.

“The input of all members is vital in assisting the community and council to understand and support the current needs of young people.”

Cr Ireland said the need for a youth advisory council in Ipswich was identified through a range of Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

youth projects and initiatives.

“Ipswich’s young people were keen to be given the chance to have an input into their local community.

“Council members to date have been full of interesting ideas and suggestions for Ipswich.”

Cr Ireland said council was looking for new members who were dedicated, enthusiastic, and committed to young people and current affairs issues.

“They need to be interested in becoming involved in youth events and activities and able to listen and respect the views of his/her peer group.

“It is also vital that the new members take their membership and the responsibilities of this role seriously.

“They need to be able to act as a voice for other Ipswich young people.

“The members are also required to collect and advocate the views of young people through links with community groups, schools, youth centres, clubs and other youth councils.”

Application forms for the youth councils can be accessed via the Swich website at www.theswich.com

BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES NOVEMBER 13 DEADLINES ADVERTISERS 28 October - 2.30pm EDITORIALIS 28 October - 4pm Email admin@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3356 0102

Inquiries can be directed to Keely Bell on 3810 7952 or email kbell@ipswich.qld.gov.au www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 27

Business News Tax time 2013 is here, get online Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal IT’S time for 12.4 million Australians to start lodging their income tax returns and the ATO is offering improved services to help.

“One of my first priorities is to deliver better, more contemporary services for the community,” said Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan.

“This year we’re offering practical ways to make it easier for people to meet their obligations.

“Doing business on mobile devices and online is nothing new and it’s what the community expects. That’s why we’ve focussed on delivering a mobile app, digital magazine, and an improved website to help people this tax time.”

The new app, ATO Tax 2013, is available free from the Apple Appstore and Google Play. It provides information on lodging your return, answers frequently asked questions and lets you monitor the progress of your return.

Taxtime magazine is also available from app stores and provides an interactive online alternative to paper tax return instructions.

See ato.gov.au/taxtimemagazine The ATO’s website, ato.gov.au has a new look to make it easier for people to find what they’re looking for this tax time, and allows them to log on to online services to manage their tax and super information.

“These products mean all the information

people need to complete their tax return is at their fingertips. Instead of having to wade through a lot of written information, links to practical YouTube videos will help speed things up and ease the burden,” said Mr Jordan.

“When it comes to completing and lodging your return e-tax, our free online service, is the easiest way. Last tax time 2.6 million people used e-tax. Download etax at ato.gov.au/etax “It can automatically fill in some of the information for you and contains easy to use tools and calculators.

“And finally there’s good news for patient Mac users - e-tax is now available. It’s been a long time coming, but Mac users can now take advantage of this free online service.

“We’ll continue to build on these services to deliver more contemporary services in a form the community expects.”

There are a few changes this tax time that you need to be aware of. For the first time, you need to include details of your spouse’s income and provide a bank account for electronic payment of refunds.

You have until 31 October to lodge your own return or register with a tax agent.

For more information on completing tax returns, go to ato.gov.au/Individuals/Lodging-your-taxreturn If you do not speak English well and want to talk to a tax officer, phone the Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50 for help with your call.

Australia to co-fund innovative project to tackle the growing infrastructure needs of APEC economies AUSTRALIA will contribute $3million towards a pilot Public Private Partnership (PPP) Centre in Indonesia to help address the growing infrastructure needs of the APEC region.

The PPP Centre that we will co-fund will make use of the private sector’s expertise to find new ways to facilitate investment and deliver critical infrastructure.

The Centre will help the Indonesian public sector identify and target their infrastructure problem. It will build their expertise in designing and managing Public Private Partnerships to deliver the infrastructure quickly and more affordably.

The pilot Centre will be established in Jakarta and will be supported by an expert panel from APEC member economies, business and development banks.

Australia’s $3 million contribution will be sourced from an existing AusAid Asia Development Bank Trust Fund, which supports infrastructure in Indonesia.

If successful, it could be the first of several PPP centres throughout the region.

Building infrastructure builds economies.

More than $8 trillion worth of infrastructure has been identified within the APEC region that needs to be development by 2020 and Australia can play a role in turning this backlog into economic opportunity.

This will provide opportunities for Australia’s education, engineering, construction and finance sectors to help in developing the APEC region.

The infrastructure needs of the APEC economies are simply too large for stretched government budgets to afford on their own. Finding ways to encourage stable private investment will be critical in delivering future projects so that our cities move faster and are more productive.

I want to be known as an infrastructure Prime Minister by building vital projects that Australia needs, including the roads of the 21st century. By addressing the infrastructure needs of our region we can create more opportunities for Australian trade and investment that can help our economy grow even stronger in the years ahead.

Changes to private health insurance rebate Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal What is the private health insurance rebate?

The private health insurance rebate is a contribution the government makes towards the cost of your private health insurance.

What are the changes?

From 1 July 2012, the private health insurance rebate is income tested. This means that the amount of rebate you are entitled to receive now depends on your income or family income.

Each adult on the private health insurance policy will receive a statement from their insurance provider showing details of their share of the policy at the end of the financial year. You will need your statement to complete your tax return.

How do the changes affect me?

If you are single with an income of $84,000 a year or less, or a couple or family with a combined income of $168,000 a year or less, you are not affected.

If your income is above these amounts, the rebate you receive may be reduced. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will work out your rebate entitlement when you lodge your tax return.

Remember, if you don’t have a suitable level of private hospital cover, you may be

charged the Medicare levy surcharge.

How do I avoid a private health insurance liability?

Most people claim their rebate as a reduction in the amount they pay their private health insurer.

If you claim too much rebate as a premium reduction, there is no penalty, you just have to pay back the excess rebate claimed as a liability in your next tax return.

To avoid paying back excess rebate, contact your private health insurance fund to nominate a different rebate amount.

To determine your rebate entitlement, visit ato.gov.au/privatehealthinsurance and search for ‘private health insurance rebate calculator’.

Where do I go for more information?

If you have any questions about your private health insurance policy, contact your private health insurer.

For more information in English about private health insurance thresholds, eligibility and tips for correct lodgment, visit ato.gov.au/privatehealthinsurance or phone us on 13 28 61.

If you do not speak English well and want to talk to a tax officer, phone the Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50 for help with your call.

Regulators can do more for small business REGULATORS can do more to reduce the compliance and enforcement burdens they impose on small businesses, according to a report released by the Productivity Commission on 9 October.

The Commission argues that regulators should ensure they understand how regulation impacts on small business and keep the compliance capacity of small businesses at the forefront of their minds.

'A regulator's culture and attitude towards business can be as important as the content of the regulation itself. There is still significant scope for improvement in the way regulators engage with small businesses' Commissioner Dr Warren Mundy said.

To secure benefits for small businesses and, importantly, also for the broader community, the report proposes a suite of changes which need to be implemented by Commonwealth, state and territory, and local governments: • Regulators should adopt a multi-channel approach to communicating with small businesses with a focus on the brevity, clarity and accessibility of information.

• Compliance and enforcement strategies should be proportionate to risks posed to communities and facilitate voluntary com-

pliance.

• Regulators should commit publicly to target timeframes for key processes, report on their performance in meeting targets, and consider other measures to improve timeliness.

• Regulators should have access to a sufficient range of enforcement tools and be resourced to do their job effectively, to avoid the shifting of direct and indirect costs onto businesses.

The Commission found that leading practices in regulator engagement with small business were more commonly adopted by regulators that have implemented a risk based approach. A stronger focus on risk was found to limit unnecessary intrusion on lower risk small businesses, free up resources to improve frontline guidance and advice services and enable them to more effectively address higher risks to communities.

The Commission also found that regulators with effective risk based engagement policies and procedures were more likely to be better resourced and to have senior leadership that invests in, and fosters, a business focused culture among their staff.

Choose Brisbane campaign extends its global reach LORD Mayor Graham Quirk will announced that Brisbane cervical cancer pioneer Professor Ian Frazer and Fruit Ninja game developer Phil Larsen are two of the new faces of a campaign to promote Brisbane to the world.

The next phase of the Choose Brisbane campaign that has already been seen by two million people in Asia was launched in Hong Kong by the Lord Mayor during his overseas business mission last week that included the Asia Pacific Cities Summit in Kaohsiung.

Cr Quirk said with the G20 Leaders Summit in November next year and the Asia Pacific Screen Awards at City Hall this December, Brisbane would be increasingly in the global spot-

light.

"Choose Brisbane is all about making the most of that opportunity for economic growth," Cr Quirk said.

"The Choose Brisbane campaign is really getting us noticed in Asia and the next phase takes the message event further and targets key decision makers in business investment, conventions and international education.

"The campaign reinforces our place as Australia's new world city and complements our Brisbane in Asia Strategy putting us on the front foot for the Asian century."

The initial Choose Brisbane campaign featured the image of United States President Barack Obama and other world leaders while this second phase features

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

British Prime Minister David Cameron as well as President Obama, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abel and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

In its first six months the Choose Brisbane campaign was promoted by more than 3,000 outdoor billwww.indiantimes.com.au

board advertisements in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Paris, London and Madrid.

Cr Quirk said the local Choose Brisbane advocates Professor Ian Frazer, now CEO and director of research at the Translational Research Institute, and Phil Larsen from game developer Halfbrick highlight Brisbane's growing reputation in research and innovation.

Phase two also features Jonathan Roberts from CSIRO, the Gallery of Modern Art, Brisbane Airport, the BG Group, Bechtel and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre as well as Hong Kong film producer Nansun Shi and Chinese-born contemporary artist Cai Guo-Qiang.

Cr Quirk said Ms Shi was

International Jury President for the Asia Pacific Screen Awards to be hosted at Brisbane City Hall this year - and Cai Gio-Qiang has a long association with Queensland and GOMA to host his first solo exhibition in Australia from November.

Choose Brisbane is a three year campaign, predominantly in Hong Kong, China and Singapore but also extending into Europe, Japan and the United States over the next 12 months.

Phase two includes a refreshed website (www.choosebrisbane.com) as well as billboards, digital and print media placement in the target markets,” he said.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

celebrate the traditional tastes of india.

finest ingredients. first-class preparations.

NEW TO BRISBANE! CHOOSE FROM OVER 30 SWEETS INCLUDING: JAMUN CUTLET / GULAB JAMUN / KALA JAMUN / GAJER PAK / BOMBAY HALWA / BADANA / JALEBI / BESAN BURFI / MILK CAKE / MILK PERRA / KESAR PERRA / COCONUT BURFI / CHOCOLATE BURFI / MANGO BURFI / KALA KAND / BALU SHAHI / AMRATSARI PINNI / PISTA BURFI / BADAM BURFI / DODHA BURFI / MOTI CHOOR LADOO / PLAIN BURFI / KAJU KATLI / RASMALIA / RASGULA / KASRI CHUM CHUM / CHUM CHUM / CHANA MURGI / KAJU ROLL / KAJU TARBOOJ / SINDH WALNUT HALWA / MIXED MITHAI / AND MORE

wishing you a happy deepawali and a prosperous year ahead

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 29

30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 31

Who, What, Where, When

• Indian Seniors together with Ekta Womens Group on their bus trip to the Toowoomba flower Carnival.

• Emillia from Margate recently met Samuel Johnson who is on a 15,000km unicycle ride around Australia to raise $1 million for breast cancer. For further information or to donate visit www.loveyoursister.org/

• Indian Seniors group enjoying the gardens at the Toowoomba Flower Carnival.

• Shahin Zeek Abraal Fazil eldest son of Mr Mohammed Shahid Fazi & Mrs Wimarat Fazil wed Fazleen Nisha daughter of Mr & Mrs Azim Gani-ul Akhtar at The Greek Orthodox Church Hall on Sunday 22 September.

• Left & Above: On 21st September 2013, Devotees of Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi gathered in Sunnybank Community Hall to celebrate Pournami Pooja. 1008 Matras were recited; prasatham was distributed followed by Maha Theepam and Sangalpam. About two hundred families attended this rare annual evening of sprit. Graham Parret MP was a special invitee. Sakthi Mohan and Ramasunderam thanked the people.

• Globenet Realty girls Jazmin & Bec birthday celebrations.

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Navratri celebration at Gayatri Mandir Boondall, main pracharak was Pundit Sanat Pandey Ji and taking part in Havan was Pundit Raj Kumar Mishra Ji. www.indiantimes.com.au

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 33

Who, What, Where, When

• The newly elected committee and management team of Radio 4EB at their annual general meeting, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk presented the annual awards to various receipients.

• Scenes from the very successful stage show “Chatra Chor” conceived and produced by Rashpal Hayer of Indoz Theatre.

• From right: Danny Opacic, Trudi Tarres, Usha Chandra, Asha Swarup & Umesh Chandra at the Temptation Reloaded Show in Sydney.

• Onman celebration by Brisbane Malayalee Association at Bald Hills State School, the program included delight full and well prepared cultural items followed by the traditional feast. Councillor Fiona King, Norm Wyndham and Luke Howrath were present.

34— THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

• Divya Joythi Jagari Sanathan presented a series of enlightening religious discourses and Bhajans.

The discourses presented by Sadhvi Sushri Bhagti Priya Bharati Ji were exceptional and received with much devotion and affection. The bhajan accompaniment by very talented musicians and singers was so good devotees could not help themselves but to dance. The discourses were held at Gayatri Mandir Boondall, Ipswich Ramayan Mandali in Gailes, Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir in North Mclean and Shree Laxhmi Narayan Mandir in Burbank.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 35

CHEMEXCIL 2013 - A key milestone in Indo-Australia bi-lateral releations

Air India launches services between Australia and India AIR INDIA launched its service between Australia and India with its state-of-the-art Dreamliner aircraft. The first flight on the Sydney – Melbourne - Delhi route took place on August 30, 2013. A grand launch was organised in Sydney to celebrate this historic event on the evening of 30th August 2013 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney.

The airline has commenced non-stop, direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Delhi. It will be the first airline to fly the new Boeing-787 Dreamliner into Australia.

Mr Rohit Nandan, Chairman and Managing Director of Air India arrived in Sydney on board the first flight from Delhi accompanied by senior officials of Air India and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Govt of India.

Earlier speaking on the occasion of launching the flight at Delhi, Mr Nandan said that “The flight is being looked at by both the Australian and the Indian travel market with a lot of enthusiasm and hope as it will not only serve the Indian Diaspora in Australia and other countries like New Zealand and the Fiji islands but also the Indian student community in Australia and holiday travellers between India and Australia”.

The launch function was attended by almost 400 distinguished guests from Air India, Sydney Airport, Destination NSW, NSW Government, High Commission of India, The Indian Consulate, business leaders, community leaders and the media.

Mr. Deepak Brara, Commercial Director, Air India warmly welcomed the guests at the launch dinner and invited the audience

to try out the new B787 Dreamliner when travelling to India next. The Chairman of Sydney Airport, Mr. Max Moore-Wilton, AC welcomed Air India in his speech and looked forward to a strong partnership in future years. Sandra Chipchase, CEO, Destination NSW said “Destination NSW estimates that Air India’s new daily Dreamliner service will add more than 890 extra seats from India each week into Sydney, or more than 46,000 seats per year, which could contribute more than $30 million into the NSW economy per year.”

The High Commissioner of India to Australia, H.E Biren Nanda also welcomed Air India to Australia in his speech and said that he looked forward to strengthening the people to people links and the bilateral relationship between the two countries, with Air India’s direct services.

The new direct service was secured with the support of NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell, Destination NSW, Tourism Australia and Delhi Airport.

The Hon Lisa Singh, Senator for Tasmania represented the Deputy Prime Minister The Hon Anthony Albanese MP. In her speech she said that Air India’s direct flight services are a great step towards progressing the Australia- India bilateral relationship.

Mr. Ravi Bodade, Manager Air India, Australia was very appreciative of the strong attendance at the launch event held in Sydney.

Air India’s new service will be operating daily on a triangular route connecting both Sydney and Melbourne.

TOP chemical corporations from Australia partnered with their Indian counterparts at the Indian Chemicals & Cosmetics Exhibition held over 24th and 25th September at the Hilton, Sydney.

A returning delegation from India, the exhibition saw a tremendous response in participation from both countries. Hosted

by Chemexcil and Inaugurated by Mr. Arun Kumar Goel, Consul General of India, Sydney and Dr. Geoff Lee, Member of Parliament, Parramatta, the event was a key milestone in furthering bilateral relations between India and Australia.

The opening ceremony was introduced by the AIBC NSW, President, Ms. Sheba Nandkeolyar who stressed the growing importance of the Australia-India relationship in the Asian Century.

In his speech, Mr. S. G. Bharadi, the Acting Executive Director of Chemexcil, Mumbai, explained that the exhibition was geared towards strengthening and expanding existing businesses, promoting India’s chemical export products as well as building a positive brand image of products that would bring about other joint ventures and technology transfer between Australia and India.

“Chemexcil’s total export performance in 2012-13 so far was $13,855.4 million compared to $11,270.8 million in a similar period a year prior, registering an increase of 22.9 per cent,” Bharadi said. He also added that despite the global meltdown in different parts of the world, Chemexcil recorded a 20-25% increase in 2012-2013 chemical exports.

Ms. Vaishali Zinzuwadia, Regional Director, said during the ceremony, “Chemexcil has come back bigger and better with over 46 top chemical companies representing a diverse product portfolio; made up of companies that deal with pharmaceuticals, food industry additives, cosmetics, essential oils, paper and plastics, textiles, rubber, paints and inks, agro chemicals, petrochemicals, water treat-

ment, mining and glass chemicals, adhesives, solvents and more.”

Mr. Arun Kumar Goel, Consul General of India and Chief Guest at the ceremony, spoke about how the bilateral trade has grown, India being the 4th largest partner for Australia. He also mentioned that this delegation will further strengthen the bilateral partnership.

Dr. Geoff Lee, Member of Parliament, Parramatta and Guest of Honour, threw light on the NSW-India perspective. He said, “The trade relations between NSW and India are growing and defining the future of the Australia-India relationship.

NSW Premier, Hon Barry O’Farrell’s commitment to this future is driven by his visiting India every year to ensure the advancement of these bilateral relations.”

Mr. Bhupendra Patel, Regional Chairman, Chemexcil was pleased to see the list of confirmed buyers who were planning to visit the exhibition.

The exhibition had a hugely successful response with over 100 chemical corporations and associations in Australia in attendance, including The Royal Australian Chemical Institute, Brenntag, Bronson & Jacobs, Amtrade, Australian Botanical Products, Essential Oil Producers Association of Australia, Hardman Australia, Orica Chemicals, Redox, Univar, Jurox Chem, Nuplex Specialties, Consolidated Chemical Company, among others.

The business success of the event was encapsulated by Mr. Roger W. Read, President NSW, Royal Australian Chemical Institute. He said, “What an excellent platform, a very well-organised meet, got a chance to understand the capabilities of the Indian Chemical Industry.

All the exhibitors were very professional and well-informed.” He also added that he would like to see an even bigger delegation covering a larger number of industries in the future.

Allama Mashriqi: Educationist and Founder of Islamia College (Peshawar, Pakistan) In commemoration of 100 years of Islamia College

By Nasim Yousaf ALLAMA Mashriqi was one of the founding fathers of Islamia College (Peshawar).

His long association with the said college, first as its Vice-Principal and later as Principal, brought about a revolution in education and gave new dimensions to one of the most educationally backward provinces of British India, the North West Frontier Province (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa). Mashriqi’s tenure (19131930) with the Government of British India’s education department, in different capacities, including as Under Secretary of Education (British India), is yet to be brought to light.

One hundred years ago (1913), Islamia College, established at the gate of the famous Khyber Pass, opened its doors to the students of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Peshawar, a Muslim dominated province.

Allama Mashriqi joined the said college when the project was in its infancy and when the doors of this institution had yet to be opened for enrollment by students.

In 1912, Allama Mashriqi completed his education at the world-famous University of Cambridge (U.K). At the said institution, Mashriqi had created history through his unprecedented academic achievements (which were a great honor for Asia).

Mashriqi’s achievements were praised by many daily newspapers in the United Kingdom. For example, The Star, London, 1912 stated: “It was hitherto considered not possible at Cambridge that a man could take honors in four Triposes in a short period of five years but it is credit to India that Inayatullah Khan of the Christ’s College has accomplished the feat.” The Yorkshire

Post, June 13, 1912 wrote: “Inayatullah Khan, of Christ’s, has proved himself the best all-round Indian student ever at Cambridge…He is believed to be the first man of any nationality to obtain honors in four different subjects.”

News of his academic successes was not only publicized in the United Kingdom, but spread all across India.

Mashriqi was showered with job offers (including the Premiership of Alver State in British India) with lucrative salary and benefits. Based on his performance, Sir George Roos-Keppel, the Chief Commissioner (equivalent to Governor) of the North West Frontier Province appointed Mashriqi as the first Vice-Principal of Islamia College. Mashriqi accepted the position to bring about a revolution in the field of education. With his appointment, Mashriqi became part of the planning process and later officially joined the College in April, 1913 and worked rigorously with the other founders (Nawab Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum, Sir George Roos-Keppel, and L. Tipping) to launch the college. Finally, the college opened its doors on October 01, 1913 and began flourishing (at the time, most people throughout

36 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

the region were illiterate).

In 1916, Mashriqi was appointed as the officiating Principal and in 1917 he became the permanent Principal. It is important to note that at the time, providing education, particularly to females in the said region, was considered a sin by orthodox Muslims, but Mashriqi changed their outlook and opened the doors for women! The spread of education (including among females) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa can be seen from official reports. This would not have been possible without Mashriqi and the Islamia College team’s hard work.

In the same year (1917), Mashriqi was again promoted to Under Secretary of Education and sent to Delhi, where he worked at the Secretariat of the Viceroy of India (Lord Chelmsford). In 1919, he became a member of the prestigious Indian Education Service (I.E.S.) and was sent back to Peshawar (where he held various positions in the education department). He remained in Peshawar for a long time, until he resigned from Government service (in 1930) and went on to form the Khaksar Tehrik (also known as Khaksar Movement).

Though Mashriqi was directly associated

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with Islamia College for the first five years (i.e. from 1913-1917), he remained closely connected with the college thereafter and the management continued to seek Mashriqi’s guidance on various issues and development projects.

Islamia College continued to grow in its influence and prominence. For example, the University of Peshawar was founded as an extension of the College in 1950. Today, Islamia College is rated as one of the best in Pakistan. Its magnificent buildings (which are also printed on Pakistani currency notes of different denominations as well as on postage stamps) are considered among the marvelous monuments of Pakistan.

In order to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Islamia College (to be celebrated in November 2013 by the college administration) and to enlighten the public about the contributions made by reformer and revolutionary Allama Mashriqi to build the college and promote education in the province, I have also published a booklet entitled “Allama Mashriqi: A Founder of Islamia College (Peshawar, Pakistan).”

The work is about the contributions of one of the founders of Islamia College to this historic institution in Pakistan.

The author has thus far written 12 books and many articles (including in peerreviewed academic journals: “Harvard Asia Quarterly” and “Pakistaniaat) and presented papers at scholarly conferences in the USA. His most recent book is entitled “Mahatma Gandhi & My Grandfather, Allama Mashriqi” – a groundbreaking narrative of India’s partition. He is working on additional books and articles.

Copyright © Nasim Yousaf 2013 Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Mumbai inspired with religious fervor for Ganesh Chaturthi

By Rama Gaind THE streets of Mumbai were choked with traffic, the pageants moved slowly, but that was not a deterrent for the boisterous revellers who were swept up in the tide of devotion as innumerable statues of Lord Ganesha were paraded through the city to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in September 2013.

Observed with great piety all over India, the Hindu festival marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed son of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati.

Almost 6,000 idols of Lord Ganesh – the God of wisdom, prosperity and the remover of obstacles – are said to have been commissioned for Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai alone, with an estimated 10,000 statues being displayed at various locations in the city.

Everyone was consumed with gay abandon in the capital of Maharashtra, the most populous city in India – and the fourth in the world – with a population of approximately 20.5 million.

Public celebrations are hugely popular as idols of Ganpati are ensconced in homes and temples and worshipped for 10 days amid chanting of shlokas, as local communities (mandalas) vied with each other to put up the best pandal, the biggest statues and visarjan processions became bigger and better.

The festival is also the time for cultural activities including theatre and singing performances and orchestra and community activities.

Ganesh Chaturthi is not only a popular event, but it has become a critical and important economic activity in Mumbai.

Festivities are unparalleled and financial woes do not dampen spirits.

Sharing good fortune I was fortunate this year to be a part of the merriment that featured ‘pooja’, ‘bhajan’ and ‘darshan’ – all of which has left an

• An estimated 6,000 idols of Lord Ganesha are said to have been commissioned for the 2013 Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, in Mumbai, India.

indelible mark.

Ganpati is a popular God. His blessings are invoked at most sacred ceremonies as He is the one who can remove all impediments to success. He is the giver of fortune, helping to avoid natural calamities: this is my fervent wish, as I reflect on what made this sojourn so memorable.

Primarily, it was the spontaneous gesture and the sentiments expressed for my family’s wellbeing by a 12-year-old, a brief meeting with Pravin Panahale, of Kanderpada, in

Dahisar, Mumbai, and his surprise, spontaneous gift: an exquisite, dazzling, multicoloured murti of Lord Ganesha – resplendent in all his finery!

In the midst of all the rejoicing for divine intervention, Pravin – together with his parents Ram and Rajshree Panahale and sister Pooja, 18 – were consumed with an extraordinary zeal that was totally • Be sure to delight, soothe overwhelming. and invigorate the senses at Their incomparable enthusiasm was infectious and I, too, So Spa, Sofitel Mumbai KBC. ended up riding on an excep-

tional wave of religious fervour. Ganpati Bappa Morya!

So Spa indulgence Indulge yourself by staying at the Sofitel Mumbai BKC for this is where you will find So Spa, devoted to the wellbeing of body and mind … the city has been introduced to a luxurious blend of French elegance and Indian culture.

Be the centre of attention, be pampered, as you rejoice in the calm surrounds and energise your senses. So Spa offers a distinctive personal experience: soothing music and exclusive signature treatments, with products from Cinq Mondes and Gemology, two distinctive French brands that have entered the Indian market for the first time, with an expertise in creating premium spa products and treatments.

I opted for one of the signature treatments: So Exhilarating Body Massage – for obvious reasons. It was a soothing, but invigorating massage, combining a tasteful rocking experience that is said to shape and tone your silhouette.

I found what made it a refreshing experience was the use of oriental oils: a combination of argon, olive and boseweilla mixed with the scent of cedar and cinnamon.

An alternative was Ayurvedic oils (combining sesame and boseweilla with neem), but I’m glad I chose the former … for revitalising benefits.

The best therapy, however, was the Destress Express, a customised massage that focused on the back, nape and trapezius muscles and skilfully assisted in releasing accumulated tensions.

To complete the top-to-toe de-stress, choose the detoxifying foot massage that uses a ‘Kansu’ bowl. This Indian reflexology is known for its properties to balance the body heat and relax the whole body.

Above all, what made this a relaxing treatment, in peaceful surrounds, were the gentle hands of the masseuse – and Hariati – had just the right touch!

History of Textile Mills in India: A glimpse into the past

By DHAVAL VYAS. AHMEDABAD. INDIA THERE was a time, when the shares of textile mills ruled the bourses of India. It was a matter of pride to own the textile mills shares. Textile Mills used to issue shareholder’s discount coupons & to get more discount coupons shareholders used to keep various folios. It was an era gone by.

They say Ahmedabad’s luck changed the day the first textile mill started in what was to later become the ‘Manchester of the East’. It was on May 30, 1861, the city’s first mill started operations.

But Ahmedabad knew how to do business with foreigners then.

Mahatma Gandhi and his idea of prohibition were yet to dawn 150 years ago. In the wake of the hooch tragedy, those calling for freeing wine and beer from the purview of Gujarat’s dry laws today should gain inspiration from the celebrations which Ranchhodlal unleashed in front of his British guests at the inauguration of the Ahmedabad Spinning and Weaving Mill. Mahatma Gandhi who emerged as a great political leader began to advocate khadi in place of foreign cloth and this movement also helped the Swadeshi cloth to a great extent. Such favourable circumstances helped to develop the textile industry of Ahmedabad which in due course could achieve the title of Manchester of India. That was really a golden opportunity for developing the manufacturing Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

industries of Ahmedabad. Mills like Calico, Arvind, Jubilee, Ambica, Jupiter etc, seized the opportunity and began to manufacture such a fine quality of cloth that it could easily replace British cloth in the Indian markets.

The leading citizens of Ahmedabad assembled on the mill premises to watch the opening ceremony on 30 May, 1861.

They included-persons from all walks of life - teachers, medical practitioners, businessmen, lawyers, government officials, and artisans.

The English officials, mostly with their families, were special guests. The company’s promoters had stocked liquor bottles for them to celebrate the occasion.

The giant wheels started roaring in the midst of loud cheers as Edigton’s wife cracked a bottle on the ground. The speeches which followed were full of praise for Ranchhodlal.”

Edigton was the technocrat who trained workers to work on the machine.

Ranchhodlal Chhotalal founded the first textile mill in Ahmedabad 150 years ago and the rest is history.

After its creation in 1411, the city went through successive periods of glory and decline. It flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries when it became one of the finest cities in India and then waned during the 18th century, when the Marathas challenged the might of the Moghal Empire. It rose to prominence once again with the establishment of the textile industry and as Gandhi’s base for the nationalist movement for Indian Independence.

Ahmedabad became the base camp for the Indian freedom struggle with Gandhiji’s Sabarmati Ashram on the outskirts of the city, the core. From here he guided India to freedom.

After the freedom movement this city of textiles often called the ‘Manchester of the East’ became a national pilgrimage, a symbol of non-violence and peace.

Though the capital of Gujarat was shifted from Ahmedabad to www.indiantimes.com.au

Gandhinagar, it is still the second largest industrial city in western India. Over a period of time Ahmedabad has consolidated its position as a vibrant business and commercial city but is also famed as an academic centre with a number of premier institutions of higher studies located here.

Ahmedabad is also the main centre of the huge textile industry.

With increasing liberalisation at both the economic level and at the societal level, business protocol adheres to western standards.

Textile Industry: The history of Ahmedabad proves that the important it enjoyed was more as a centre of textile industry with a countrywide fame than as a capital or as city of unique architectural beauty. It is rightly said that Ahmedabad’s prosperity was wellknit with three threads, the silken, the golden and the cotton.

The trade of Ahmedabad would have kept it in the limelight even if it had not been the capital or the centre of art and architecture, and it is only the enterprising spirit of this land that has created

the Ahmedabad of today out of crisis in the past. Had it not been for this Ahmedabad would have been nowhere after the great disorder which was the consequence of the Maratha and the Peshwa rule. Industries which had developed during the regime of the independent Sultans and Moguls were ruined in this period of disorder.

Higher middle class people due to fear for safety of life and property and the lower classes due to unpeaceful conditions had left the city and as we have read earlier the population of 12 lacs was reduced to 80000 in 1818 when the British took possession of the city. To present revitalization and the glory of the city also is due to its progress in industry and commerce.

When Ahmedabad was captured by the British, Europe was then experiencing the birth pangs of the machine age. Raw materials were for the first time turned into finished products by machines on a large scale and with a great ease.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 - 37

Born with Potential DEAR Brisbane Indian Times readers, Welcome you to a new and exciting journey through Inspired Indians column.

You may ask, “What is the purpose of this article?”

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

Today we live in an information explosive society. At our fingertips we have more information that may make us crumble and humble. But seldom has this information helped us to be a better citizen of this nation.

Therefore information alone will not bring transformation to the people. Information alone cannot bring inspiration, which we need to overcome challenges that we face in our life.

We must learn to renew our mind; we must develop a quest for application of true wisdom in order to navigate through life’s challenges. The Apostle Paul makes a powerful statement in a letter to the Romans written around 2000 years ago. He writes, ‘Do not be conformed to this world (this age), but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that you prove what is acceptable and perfect will of God’. (Romans 12:2) Let’s begin this inspiration journey with a simple question. Do you know your true potential? Or do you understand your true purpose in life?

Potential is…untapped talent… hidden

strength…dormant ability…unused success.

Potential is unexposed ability and latent power according to Dr. Munroe, noted author and a teacher.

This further illustration from Dr. Munroe about the word ‘potential’ will shock you and inspire you to reach your dreams. Take a look at the Australia’s mining potential, it was buried waiting to be explored and profited from its hidden treasures.

Dr. Munroe questions us to identify ‘what is the wealthiest spot on this planet?’ Is it gold and diamond mines of Africa? Or is it oil fields of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia? No, none of these.

Want a surprise? The wealthiest deposits on our planet may be just a few blocks from your home or suburb. They rest in the local cemetery or graveyard.

Do not go digging, but dig deep inside your mind to think outside the box.

Buried beneath the sacred soil of the graveyard are the dreams that never came to pass, songs and books they were never written or published, paintings that never filled a canvass, ideas that were never used, visions that were never become realities, inventions that were never designed to final product, plans that never went beyond the drawing board of the mind. Our graveyards are filled with rich potentials. That is a national tragedy.

Let’s journey together and learn how to be inspired so we can fulfil our potential before we end up at the local graveyard. For the wisdom will enter your heart and the knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

Point to ponder: I will not waste my time away with pity excuses any more, but look at the creation to renew my mind and reach my potential before my last breath.

See you here next month, until then be inspired because you are full of potential.

Share your thoughts and inspirations by emailing: navig8grace@gmail.com

The month of Damodara or Kartika Submitted by Sundar Gopal Das DAMODARA Masa is one of the holiest months of the Hindu calendar. It occurs between October 19 and November 17 this year. It is known as the month of Damodar because Sri Krishna was bound by the ropes of Mother Yasoda when he was about 4 years old because He was caught stealing yogurt.

Whilst this may seem ordinary, we should also remember that Sri Krishna had already killed four demons before this and showed Mother Yasoda the innumerable universes in His mouth. This beautiful pastime of Mother Yasoda binding Sri Krishna has been explained in Srimad Bhagavatam.

Sri Krishna declared in the Bhagavat Gita “It is very difficult to become untangled from this material world without surrendering unto Me.” Still the same unlimited Lord, who is without beginning and end, is Himself bound by the pure love of His devotees. The love of the devotees in Vrindavana is especially beautiful because they have no conception that Sri Krishna is the Supreme Lord and love Him thinking Him to be their son, friend or beloved.

Another wonderful pastime occuring in this month is lifting of the Govardhan Mountain. At the time of Sri Krishna, this mountain was 103km in length, 64km in width and 25km high. However Sri Krishna lifted this mountain to protect the residents of Vrindavana from the wrath of Indra.

During this time Diwali is also celebrated.

This month is also called Kartika. The predominating deity of this month is the young daughter of Queen Kirtika, Srimati Radhika.

During this month many people go on pilgrimage, especially to Sri Vrindavana Dhama, the birth and pastime place of Sri Sri Radha and Krishna. During this time there will more than 10000 people who will take a pilgrimage to Vrindavana.

People go on pilgrimage for many reasons.

One is going like a tourist to see old temples and old sites. The second reason is to absolve themselves of all sins and getting self-satisfaction that they have visited a holy place. However going on pilgrimage for these reasons will not give much benefit.

The main reason of going on pilgrimage is to visit those places where the Lord has per-

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QLD INC Jitendra Deo President

MAHARISHI Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1824-1883) was the founder of the Hindu reform organization Arya Samaj, which he established on April 7th 1875, in Bombay India. He also created the 10 principles of Arya Samaj.

Throughout his life, Swami Dayanand preached against many Hindu traditions which he felt were dogmatic and oppressive. These included traditions such as caste by birth, and the exclusion of females from the study of the Vedas. One of his main messages was for Hindus to go back to the roots of their religion, which are the Vedas. By doing this, he felt that Hindus would be able to improve the depressive religious, social, political, and economic conditions prevailing in India in his times.

Swami Dayanand was born on February 12th, 1824 in a town called Tankara in the state of Gujurat, India.

One of Swami Dayanand’s major arguments for going back to the Vedas was that, in his own words “the four Vedas, the repositories of knowledge & religious truth, are the Word of God. They are absolutely free of error, & the Supreme & independent authority”.

The four Vedas are; Rig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sama Veda, & Atharva Veda. To spread awareness of his movement and to revitalize Vedic knowledge, Swami Dayanand published many religious books. These include; Satyartha Prakash (The light of Truth), the Rig-Vedaadi, Bhasyya-

38 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or log on: www.aryasamajqueensland.com

Ipswich to celebrate Carer’s Week 2013 A SPECIAL morning tea will be held to mark Carer’s Week in Ipswich.

Ipswich City Council Youth and Seniors Committee Chairperson Councillor Sheila Ireland said council was joining forces with Carers Queensland to host the Carers Week Big Morning Tea on October 15 to honour and celebrate local carers.

Cr Ireland said the free morning tea would be held from 9.30am to 12pm at the North Ipswich Corporate Centre.

“The Carers Week Big Morning Tea will provide carers with a day out to relax, be entertained while also having the chance to link in with new services and chat to service providers.”

Cr Ireland said Carers Week was held across Queensland annually and will run this year from October 13 to 19 to celebrate, honour and thank family carers and their contribution to society.

“Across Australia carers are providing unpaid care and support for a family member or friend with a disability, mental illness

formed pastimes and associate with advanced devotees who reside in the holy places. Visiting these holy places under the guidance of advanced devotees is especially beneficial as they will be able to explain the glories of all the places. This will create deep impressions in one’s heart and strengths one’s faith and he sees the places that have been described in the scriptures.

For example, the scriptures explained that the rocks would melt hearing Sri Krishna’s beautiful flute sound. There are still places in Vrndavana where one can see the melted rocks with Sri Krishna’s footprints as well as the footprints of calves and deer.

Sri Narada Rsi received the benediction from Sri Krishna that those who will go to His pastime places and hear the glories of these places, especially during this Kartika month, will surely attain love of God very soon.

The main way to honour this month (if you are not able to go to Vrndavana) is to increase our devotional activities especially the singing and chanting of the Lord name’s as well as listening to the Lord’s pastimes.

It is also recommended to daily offer ghee lamps (arati) to the Lord and Tulasi plant.

Bhoomika, and Sanskar Vidhi.

Swami Dayanand preached many messages to Hindus during his lifetime. For instance, he preached that Hindus should worship just one, formless, God. He fought against polytheism by telling people the true meaning of the names of God, & established how all of them pointed at one & the same God - Paramathama, the Supreme Self. Further, Swami was “a voice against superstition, against unrighteousness, which reigned supreme in the garb of true religion, and against a foreign rule”.

Throughout his known adult life, Swami’s main message was “Back to the Vedas”. By this, Swami Dayanand meant that Hindus should stop practising beliefs such as caste, polytheism, pantheism, untouchability, child marriages, forced widowhood, and many other practices which he felt were wrong. He challenged many of the Hindu orthodoxy if they could justify their belief in the aforementioned practices. This induced the anger and wrath of many orthodox Hindus, which subsequently led to 14 attempts at poisoning Dayanand.

Miraculously, he was able to use his Yogic abilities to cure himself from the first 13 attempts. However, the 14th time proved fatal.

Swami Dayanand died, and left the world with his legacy, Arya Samaj. Diwali is also known as Rishi Nirwan Diwas, the day he gave up his life.

or disorder, chronic condition, terminal illness or who is frail.

“Carers Week is not just about celebration, it also provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the obstacles and barriers faced by carers and encourage discussion on emerging needs and issues.

“This special week has continued to grow each year as a reflection of the increasing recognition of carers and the vital role they play in our community.”

The theme of Carer’s Week 2013 is Be Care Aware and will focus on encouraging people to get to know more about Australia’s 2.6 million unpaid family carers who they are, what they do and how they can be supported.

Unpaid carers come from all walks of life with a diverse range of needs and can come into their caring responsibilities at any stage throughout their life.

Bookings for the morning tea can be made by contacting Carers Qld on 3202 1852.

Over $8,500 in funding to support cultural works in Ipswich FIVE local cultural programs will be supported by over $8,500 in Cultural Development Grants designed to strengthen community participation in creative projects in Ipswich.

Ipswich City Council Arts, Community and Cultural Services Committee Chairperson Councillor Charlie Pisasale said these programs were selected for their contribution to community participation in the arts.

“Ipswich is home to some incredible creative workers who engage the community in artistic endeavours and provide Ipswich residents with an outlet for creating stories that reflect our shared lives,” Cr Pisasale said.

“This funding is awarded to community projects that will produce high quality artworks that the entire community will benefit from.”

• Silkstone Eisteddfod will receive $1,000 towards staging their Annual Eisteddfod in

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October 2013.

• Ipswich Musical Theatre Company Inc. will be provided with $2,000 to stage their annual musical “The Sound of Music” in September 2013 in the Ipswich Civic Centre.

• Ipswich Orpheus Chorale Inc. will receive $2,000 to stage a musical in October 2013 in the Ipswich Civic Centre.

• Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod Society will be provided with $2,000 to assist in staging the annual Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod in the Ipswich Civic Centre in May, June and July 2014.

• Music Inc. (Nanango) will receive $1,786 to assist in staging vocal and song writing workshops to be held at the Ipswich RSL for people seeking a career in the country music industry.

For more information about applying for a Cultural Development Grant visit www.ipswich.qld.gov.au.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing

Eat right and chill!

By Heena Mohanlal THESE days women find themselves balancing life as if on a tight rope while juggling knives and spinning a hoop around one ankle!

We women need to stop and relax!

Women often tend to have more responsibilities and less time or money to spend on their own needs. Most of us now do a paid job as well as run a home, we still do almost all the house chores and child minding. Women are brought up to care about everyone else and when time is at premium, looking after themselves is the easiest task to drop.

Being organised is the best way of making extra time in your life and cutting down stress. Admittedly, anyone with children, a home and a job may feel she is doing all the organising humanly possible. Yet there’s frequently room to make things easier for ourselves.

My five golden rules are:1) If it needs to be done, do it today and do it now!

2) Be prepared 3) Work at your own pace 4) Be in the present moment 5) Prioritise what’s most important Anyone who has felt jumpy after having too many coffees or strug-

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

gled solving simple puzzles post missing brekkie knows that food affects our state of mind as well as our physical health. Missing a meal, causes the blood sugar levels fall so low that the brain struggles to function efficiently, subsequently leading to irritability.

It is easy to reach out for quick takeaways when time is short.

Modern processed foods are unhealthily crammed with sugar, salt, saturated fats, refined carbohydrates and artificial additives.

These types of food are low in nutrition and can deplete our supplies of vital vitamins and minerals.

Inadequate carbohydrate intake can result in poor energy levels and fatigue. Wholemeal pasta, brown rice, whole meal bread, fresh fruits and potatoes are good source of carbohydrate energy.

A heavy meal leaves you feeling sleepy, while a high protein supper can keep you awake. Rich foods can make you lethargic while caffeine gives you jitters. Too much sugar or salt may disrupt the body’s chemical and mineral balance, causing mood swings among other harmful effects. Eating well is crucial especially under stressful conditions. Stress wears down the immune system, which explains why we fall ill at difficult times.

Super stress buster foods include bananas, oats, Brazil nuts, lettuce, leafy green vegetables, mackerel and chillies.

Take a short break while you eat,

even if it’s only 10minutes, making time to chew your food properly and to actually enjoy the flavours. Eating in a rush can trigger the release of stress hormones as well as causing indigestion.

For headaches, exhaustion, dizziness and craving for sweets, introduce more eggs, capsicum, rye bread and potatoes in your diet.

Depression, confusion and insomnia include vitamin C in your meals. Black currants, strawberries, parsley, red cabbage and oranges contain high quantities of vitamin C. Japanese women who rarely suffer menopausal symptoms eat masses of vegetables and soya products such as tofu. Cutting down on animal fats, coffee, fizzy drinks, sugar and alcohol is also beneficial.

Relaxing isn’t yet another task to fit into an already crowded day.

It’s about finding ways you enjoy that work for you. Relaxation is a powerful medicine. It speeds recovery from all kinds of illnesses and better still can help prevent them in the first place. It magically fades away pain from tensed muscles, relieves stress, and targets indigestion and heart disorders.

Making time to catch up with friends who have melted away over the years is always a great pick me up. Promise yourself at least one thing a week that’s nothing but fun!

Above all, don’t feel guilty.

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You have the power to decide

Pastor Joseph Dass DEAR reader, it is with great joy we bring you the word of God. You may not be able to control what each day brings but you can control how you react to it. How you approach each day, every situation will determine the kind of life you going to live. You are happy when you get your Tax return, your team wins the finals, the weather man says it is going to be a fine day but then you are unhappy because you have bills to pay, it’s going to rain for a week.

Each day we have the opportunity to be happy, have a laugh, make new friends but then we also have the opportunity to get upset, end up being frustrated, and get offended. This is called a roller coaster living. God does not want us to live that way.

By making some small adjustments we could see every situation, every circumstance, and every difficulty coming your way in a different light. If something is coming your way that looks unpleasant, undesirable then our attitude should be, what changes can be made, what adjustments are needed so I can still be at peace.

Romans 12 v 18 reads “If possible, as far as it depends on you,

live at peace with everyone.”

There is a story of this sail boat which was sailing away with the wind behind it. Suddenly the wind changed and started blowing in a different direction. The captain did not panic, he just adjusted the sails and the boat kept moving towards its destination. You may not be able to change the wind direction but you can certainly adjust the sails to reach the target.

Every day we are to go out with a made up mind, with a positive attitude, filled with hope and expecting God’s favour.

We are to realise that some days will not go exactly as planned.

Scripture tells us we were created to live in peace. Peace is the position of power.

Each time you get offended because someone said something, you got upset because you have to pay another bill, got angry because someone did not give way in the traffic and you lose your peace then you are giving away your power.

When someone says to you “I have good news and bad news, which one would you like to hear first.” Our reply should be,” it doesn’t matter; I have made up my mind not to let go of my peace regardless of your news.”

Our attitude should be, my circumstance does not decide how I should live my life, and I decide how I am going to spend each day.

God bless you Ps Joseph Dass

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 - 39

Medicinal mushrooms

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham MEDICINAL mushrooms have been used as food for thousands of years by many races. The Chinese considered them as the elixir of life, meaning that it is a substance or medicine believed to have the power to cure all ills. The ancient Romans highly regarded them as foods of the Gods conferring immortality on them.

The mushroom consumption and mythology, the tools and methods of mushroom-gathering, the knowledge and beliefs related to edible and poisonous mushrooms and the role of edible mushrooms in folklore are very similar in many counties, indicating that our ancient people knew about mushrooms well.

There are about 38,000 species of mushrooms. Most species have B vitamins, vitamin C as well as calcium, phosphorus and potassium.

Mushrooms have been shown to boost heart health, lower the risk of cancer, promote immune function, ward off viruses, bacteria and fungi, reduce inflammation, combat allergies, help balance blood sugar levels and support the body’s detoxification mechanisms.

People in the Far East believe that eating them regularly help them maintain good health just as Westerners believe in the health protecting effects of regular eating of fruits and vegetables owing to their collective action of fruits and vegetables rather than individual

factors working in isolation.

Ethno botanists, who study how people of a particular culture and region make use of indigenous plants, and medical researchers, are more concerned of maitake, shiitake, and reishi for their anti-viral, anti-cancer and immunity enhancement properties.

They have overlapping properties.

While all boost immune function, all support cardiovascular health and all show promise in lowering the risk of cancer, maitake is especially recommended for the stomach and intestines as well as blood sugar levels. Shiitake treats nutritional deficiencies and liver ailments and reishi promotes respiratory health and spirituality.

Wild maitake is considered the first-rank edible mushroom, because it has a good taste, a crisp texture, and an excellent aroma.

The scientific name of maitake is Grifola frondosa. It comes from the common name of fungi found in Italy. The name refers to a mythical beast which is half-lion and halfeagle.

Laboratory studies have shown that maitake extract can block the growth of cancer tumors and boost the immune function of mice with cancer.

Lead researcher Dr. Sensuke Konno, head of urology at the New York Medical College, said the breakthrough research on maitake mushroom would help in improving the quality of life of cancer patients.

Many chemotherapy drugs currently in use have been derived from natural substances found in plants and therefore it is not far-fetched to think that mushrooms could be a valuable source of potential new

Astrology Aries - March 21 - April 20 Your PR skills and personal relationships will be in focus this month. Casual meetings with people who can prove to be of great importance in your career progress are on the cards. However, don't spoil your relations with colleagues and superiors for uncertain future gains.

Now, talking about personal relationships, Ganesha says that you have to handle them carefully. Be wary about what you choose to express (confide wholeheartedly only in your beloved) to people around you as there is a strong likelihood of them misunderstanding your words. Restraint is called for. This month your health may pose some major problems, and you may have to undergo some elaborate medical treatment. The possibility of a surgery cannot be ruled out. Take care of your energy levels, otherwise you may not be able to perform well on the work front.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22 This month your personal life shall become a lot smoother as you will find the muchneeded peace and moral support in the company of your beloved. However, it may not be smooth sailing on the work front. You may face some hurdles in getting your tasks completed as you will need to constantly follow-up with colleagues. Be diplomatic, especially during official meetings, otherwise your frankness may end up being problematic for others. In business, you may come across opportunities to enhance your profits.

But it is unlikely that you will be able to grab all of them as you may be busy with too many things at the moment. You will loosen the purse strings during the initial period of October, but soon you will realise that you are compromising your future security way too much. Cut down on unnecessary expenses before it is too late, advises Ganesha.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 This month you shall reap the fruits of your past labours. Your personal life will also become better, all thanks to your sincere efforts in nurturing your relationships. Well, there may be some not-sosmooth relationships, but focus on the positives and strengthen them. Ganesha foresees that emotions may cloud your decisions this month. In fact, you are likely to become quite emotional, subduing your logical and practical abilities. You need to ensure that people don't take advantage of your emotional nature. If someone asks for financial help, do the needful only if you have surplus funds. Don't risk your financial security unnecessarily. On the business front, the winds of change may see your profit margins dwindling, which means you will have to introduce cost-cutting measures. But make it a point to not compromise on the quality of the final output, says Ganesha.

cancer drugs.

People with Type 2 Diabetes may also benefit from maitake mushroom, according to researchers Hiroaki Nanba and Keiko Kubo, authors of “Mushroom biology and mushroom products”.

Many doctors in Japan use maitake mushroom to lower blood pressure and blood lipids.

Some studies in the 70s showed the benefits of shiitake mushroom in lowering cholesterol. Shiitake also appears to be a formidable cancer fighter.

Test tube studies in Japan show that shiitake appears to be effective against some serious viruses we face today including HIV and hepatitis B. Further research is needed to confirm the validity.

Vegetarians sometimes use shiitake mushrooms as a substitute for animal protein, because of its appealing flavor and rich nutritional value.

Reishi mushroom is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma and other respiratory complaints.

For a span of four thousand years, the Chinese and Japanese have used reishi mushroom as a medicine for liver disorders, hypertension and arthritis. Today’s researchers have found that reishi has anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Reishi is said to elevate the spirit, because it is a mood-elevating substance. Life is Spiritual, for its forces and factors go beyond matter.

If our mind is peaceful, we shall be happy all the time, regardless of external conditions. It is thought that reishi is capable of producing peace of mind. It is available in syrups, soups and teas.

Tips for staying healthy at work EARNING a living doesn't need to cost you your health.

There are plenty of things you can do to make sure you stay healthy and happy at work.

• Don't ignore stress • Don't sit all day • When you sit, sit properly • Avoid overworked muscles • Look after your eyes For most of us our time at work takes up much of our waking life.

While there's no denying that work can cause stress, aches and pains, it doesn't have to be a negative experience. There are plenty of changes you can make that can help make your work life happier, healthier and more productive.

Don't ignore stress There's no denying that work can be stressful, but sometimes it's the way we think, rather than situations themselves that leave us feeling overwhelmed.

A job that seems too difficult or demanding might be more manageable if you let go of certain beliefs, such as the notion that you should never make mistakes, or that everyone in your workplace needs to approve of you all time. There are also some great online resources that can help you learn about stress – and the role your thinking style can play in exacerbating it.

Also, if you feel overwhelmed at work, you might talk to your supervisor or look at your work style.

As well, it can help to: • Create boundaries between work and personal time. Try not to take work home with you, check your emails outside work hours, or think about work after you knock off.

• Stay connected with family and friends when you're not working.

• Try to say no to extra work.

• Schedule regular breaks at work – no matter how busy you are.

• Get regular exercise.

• Spend time every day doing things just for you: i.e. regularly do a hobby or activity you enjoy, or catch up with friends.

• Manage irrational or negative thoughts such as "I have to be responsible for everything": i.e. write down counterproductive thoughts and challenge them with positive or more realistic ones. Alternatively, seek advice on cognitive behaviour therapy or rational thinking skills training.

• Research and employ stressrelief strategies, such as relaxation and meditation.

• Avoid relying on drinking or using drugs to help you cope.

Many workplaces also offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), which are run by external providers and can offer free help with problems including helping you learn to manage stress.

Continued next issue... abc.net.au/health/features

www.ganeshaspeaks.com Cancer - June 22 - July 22 The going may get tough this month, foretells Ganesha. People around you will come up with all sorts of suggestions and advice, but you need to make decisions without getting influenced by them. After all, you will be responsible for the consequences of your decisions. So be strong and take some firm decisions with your head, not with your heart. On the personal front, you may have to deal with some challenging situations. Your expectations from your loved ones may rise so high that it will be nearly impossible for them to meet your demands. It may even cause rifts in your relationships, so you better understand that people have their limitations and it is not right for you to be so demanding. If there are any conflicts, you need discus them with your family members.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 A definite increase in your energy levels is foreseen. Ganesha advises you to channelise your enhanced energies in the right direction and control your temperament under all circumstances. You should consider doing some physical activities as they will not only help you divert your energies in the right direction but also enable you to keep your cool. As far as finances are concerned, you may not face any serious issues this month. However, it would be a good idea to review your spending habits. If you have decided to buy something expensive, opt for instalments instead of paying the whole amount at one go. You will try to increase your savings, but circumstances may not permit it. During the second half of the month, financial matters will be in the forefront.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 During the month ahead, you will get good opportunities to showcase your analytical skills and intelligence, and according to Ganesha, you will grab them with both hands.

Authority figures at your workplace will notice your sincerity, and appreciate it. The planetary positions also suggest a favourable period for your business. If you want to execute your expansion plans and open new branches, Ganesha gives you the green signal. However, handle financial matters carefully, as they could be confusing. One of the major positives of this month is, you will comfortably tweak your busy schedule, especially during the last few days of the month, to spend quality time with your family and friends. Talking about friends, Ganesha says that you should consult them in case something is bothering you. They may be able to help you take the right decision.

40 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Libra - September 23 - October 22 Your innate quality to strike a fine balance between conflicting affairs shall be fully manifested this month. However, you may not be able to deal with financial affairs with the same finesse, as your expenses shall be more than your cash inflow. Try to manage somehow and avoid borrowing as this is just a temporary phase, says Ganesha. At work, you will be one of the top performers and the cherry on the cake will be the rewards and recognition you will receive for being an excellent employee. Don't expect too much, though. If you are planning to change your job, wait for a better period to execute that plan. Your general attitude towards life will be quite positive and hence you will happily ignore whatever small problems you may be facing at this moment. As for major problems, Ganesha assures you that there will not be many of them.

Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 Choose your friends carefully as some people in your vicinity may be lurking around just to exploit your influence and financial strength. Even if you feel like helping them out of compassion, remember that they will in no way return the favour in future, so strictly avoid any financial transactions. Talking about finances, Ganesha predicts that you will become a lot more conscious about your savings and fiscal security. If you have invested in the stock market, you may not get expected returns this month. It is a good period to start interacting with someone you like, or approach marriage bureaus. Those who have been looking for a suitable match for marriage may successfully end their search this month. However, it is advisable that you weigh all the pros and cons before going ahead with your grand marriage plans.

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 This will be a month of mixed fortunes for you. While there will be success and joy, there will also be struggle and sadness. The first few days of October are favourable for a jobchange. So if you are weighing your options, take a decision and finalise things during this period.

And if you decide to stay put, Ganesha advises you to be prepared for handling some tough challenges.

Your boss may scold you, often for no valid reason. Keep your calm as the tide is not in your favour. You may even have to log in more number of hours at the office to achieve your target. Your personal life may get sidelined. Financially, it will more or less be smooth sailing this month. Avoid taking major decisions during the second half of the month.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 You need to be very clear and careful about what you choose to communicate this month as there is a strong possibility of you being misunderstood. At work, some colleagues may try and drag you into office politics. You need to be diplomatic and handle such situations tactfully.

Thankfully, your boss knows how you are as a person so you will be able to protect your job, and thereby your career. You may have to pay attention to your appearance and communication skills, because it is important to impress people around you. However, be extra careful in verbal or written communications with your superiors, as even a slight mistake can pour cold water on all the hard work you have done so far. If you are married, put in extra efforts to make your marital life smooth.

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22 It takes a lot to take criticism positively, especially for someone like you who detests even a minor harmless negative comment. But this month, people around you will be pleasantly surprised to see a different 'you' as you shall take criticism positively and make improvements in your personality. Ganesha gives you a pat on the back. You may even go for an image makeover. It could cost you a lot, though. Expenses looks set to be on the rise and the possibility of you asking for financial help from some people cannot be ruled out. Well, not many will be ready to help you. But Ganesha is confident that you will find a way out. If you are working at a super-fast speed to reach your goals, you better slow down and catch your breath, else you may end up damaging your health severely.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 Even minor problems will irritate you a lot as you will be highly emotional around this time. Ganesha strongly advises you to control your emotions as they can lead you astray.

Try to stay calm and composed. There will be people who will criticise you, at times in a very rude manner. Don't get bogged down by the harsh words, especially if there is some truth in them.

Keep in mind that criticism may just be the impetus you need to exceed your own limits. You need to take life positively to make full use of your potential. And once you do that you will receive the appreciation that you deserve. You will learn how to deal with worldly tensions, worries and pressures. For investments, consult your close friends and family members who are experts in the area of finances. Travel plans will succeed.

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

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing Natural sunburn remedies for sun damage Nimisha Modi Hetvi Hair & Beauty - 04 123 500 13

HEY Girls, we only worry about sunburn when it is warm and sunny; however it is possible to get badly burned on overcast days that are cool. In fact, it’s more likely, because you won’t tend to feel your skin burning as quickly as you do when it’s hot and sunny.

Sunburn is a serious matter. Research has shown that even one serious sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunburn often leads to dehydration. Healthy skin has high water content and this is depleted rapidly with sunburn.

Prevention is of course the best remedy, but sometimes despite all of our preparations – sunburns happen. When they do, it is very important to treat right away by giving your body what it needs to heal and repair the damage.

Prompt and thorough treatment can reduce the risks of long-term damage. What follows are the most effective home remedies to treat the burn, heal the skin, and reverse severe skin damage.

1. Aloe Vera Gel or Cream: One of the best and quickest remedies for mild sunburn, this African plant can soothe and calm burns. Aloe Vera also helps to heal wounds and preventing scarring. Rub the natural form of the gel (available in many health food stores, or even better, buy an aloe plant for your home) into the location of the burn and leave on the skin. Reapply as necessary. On a side note, Aloe Vera juice also has many health benefits when taken internally.

2. Coconut Oil: Cooling oil that soothes burns, rub coconut oil onto the affected location.

3. Milk: Many people are unaware of the cooling properties of

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milk. If Aloe Vera gel is unavailable, dip a gauze pad into milk and apply it directly to the sunburn.

4. Hydrotherapy: Taking a short, lukewarm bath, or using cool towel compresses aids in keeping the burn moist and cool. Do NOT use hot water, as these further strips the already damaged oils from the skin.

5. Ozontated Olive Oil: Gently rub the ozonated olive oil paste on the sunburned area and let sit. This will help the area heal without blistering and/or peeling. O2-Zap works great for this.

6. Increase Water Intake: Sunburn’s dehydrates the insides of the body, as our natural healing mechanisms attempt to bring more moisture to the burned area. Stay hydrated to avoid the headaches and fatigue that may accompany sunburn.

7. Sandalwood and Turmeric Paste: An ancient Ayurvedic remedy, these herbs have a cooling affect on the skin. Mix equal amounts of these two herbs with a little cool water.

Apply to sunburned area and leave for 15-20 minutes.

8. Vinegar: White vinegar has been known to ease the pain of sunburn when applied to the skin. Apply to the skin as a compress, using a small towel soaked in a mixture of water and vinegar. I would NOT recommend using apple cider vinegar, instead of white vinegar.

9.

Eat More Sunflower Seeds: Studies show that increased intake of Vitamin E food scan help decrease the discomfort of sunburn. Sunflower seeds, as well as many other seeds, are full of Vitamin E. Other foods that are high in Vitamin E include wheat germ, soybean oil and most raw nuts. You can also rub vitamin E on the burn to cool the area.

10. Use Cooling Essential Oils: You can quickly relieve a burn by soaking a wet towel in water containing several drops of cooling essential oils. Oils that reduce burns include lavender, sandalwood, chamomile, eucalyptus, rose hips, and buckthorn essential oils. They can also be directly added to a warm bath.

11.Fresh Air: Bask in the moonlight!

Burns heal quicker in the fresh air, than wrapped in bandages, which can cause the burn to hold more heat in.

Hope this will help you, take care and I will see you next month.

Nimisha

Give a life after your death READING is a big part of my daily routine but one article got my attention significantly. It was a story of a 2 years old girl from Mongolia who was born with terminal form of cerebral palsy and his parents decided to give her death a new meaning by donating her organs. Her organs saved 2 children who otherwise would have died. This story moved me so much. I could imagine the change that I would bring to someone’s life.

I asked myself series of questions. How would a blind child feel when he/she first time see this world? How would a mother or father feel when they found a donor who donated their lungs or tissues that would save their life? A cancer patient can get their life back? It was all very overwhelming for me. I decided to be an organ donor.

As I studied more I found out that in 2012, 1052 Australians got a new life from 354 donors.

I come from a traditional Sikh family.

Culture and Religion have always been a major part of my life and I am proud of that. Just when I was in process of organ donation, I rang my aunty back home in Punjab to say hello and I mentioned to her about my wishes to donate my organs. As I was expecting thumbs up, the response was not quite what I expected. It sounded a bit unreasonable to me when I heard that I would be punished for doing something against the nature. “If someone is blind or

suffering from cancer, god is punishing them for something they had done wrong in their previous life. If you give your eyes to someone, you would be born blind yourself.

This is how nature works.” I was really confused now. To be honest all my excitement was fading away. I started to give it a second thought. Do I still want to do it?

I received the consent form in my mail from Red Cross Australia next day. There was a weird argument going on in my head.

After days of thinking I realised that regardless of what anybody says, god is the one who gave me the wisdom to do this act. It is the basic moral of my religion to love, to respect, equality, to help and the freedom. I am sure if I ever get questioned on that god will be there to bless me. My family and friends would be proud of my decision. I signed the consent form and now I am a proud organ donor.

The reason I shared my story is to request all the south east community to give this great donation a thought. It is an act which is beyond religion, culture or countries. It’s an act of humanity. Save a life after you die.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or you wish to share your experiences.

Jot Singh - gilljot1001@gmail.com 0401 907 785

Measles outbreak 2013 20 SEPTEMBER, 2013: Queensland is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with 19 cases reported so far this year.

Measles is an acute, highly infectious illness which can cause serious complications such as pneumonia (lung infection) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

Measles can spread very easily so anyone who has not had two measles containing vaccinations, or who is not sure, is strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

The measles vaccine is free from your local doctor for anyone born from 1966 and after.

People born before 1966 are considered immune due to growing up at a time when everyone had measles in early childhood.

Symptoms - It usually takes about 10 days for measles symptoms to show, but can take from 7 to 18 days.

The early symptoms of measles include: • fever • tiredness • coughing • runny nose • red inflamed eyes.

These symptoms usually become more severe over the first three days.

In the early stages of infection, small white spots on a red base may appear in the mouth on the inside of the cheek. This is followed by a blotchy, dark red rash, usually beginning at the hairline. The rash will spread to

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the entire body over the next 24 to 48 hours.

Typically, the person will feel most unwell for the first couple of days after the rash appears. The rash usually disappears after 6 days.

Treatment and prevention - Vaccination is the only way to prevent measles.

People with measles should be excluded from work, school or childcare centres for at least 4 days after the appearance of the rash.

Anyone who has been in contact with a person with measles and has not been vaccinated, or has any condition that compromises their immune system, should be excluded from school and childcare for 14 days from the day the rash appeared in the person diagnosed with measles.

There is no specific treatment for measles.

The symptoms are usually treated with rest, plenty of fluids, and paracetamol to lessen pain or fever. Do not use aspirin for treating fever in children.

The measles virus is very contagious. A person may be infectious from about 5 days before the onset of the rash until about 4 days after the rash appears.

The virus is spread through coughing and sneezing or through direct contact with secretions from the nose or mouth.

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Real Estate News Gold Coast market update...

THE Gold Coast’s median house price decreased by 1.1 per cent over the June quarter. However over the 12 months to June 2013, the median house price, based on a higher number of sales, increased by 3.0 per cent representing a significant yearly median house price growth the Gold Coast has not seen for quite some time.

In addition, a review of preliminary sales results suggests that house sales for the June quarter have increased by 26.9 per cent and 45.2 per cent compared to the previous March quarter and June quarter 2012 respectively.

According to REIQ accredited agents, the Gold Coast property market has entered its next phase, after lying on the sidelines for far too long. These positive results no doubt are a result of confidence within the region, which has been steadily increasing over the

past six months. Time on market and average viewings are at healthy levels, although distressed sales still exist in some parts.

The increase in sales activity has started to affect the level of stock on the market, particularly in the $450,000 to $550,000 range where demand is highest. Residential construction such as the northern-end of the region and Royal Pines in Banowa development, look set to benefit from this.

Benowa recorded a June quarterly median house price increase of 23.2 per cent, representative of a rise in the amount waterfront properties sold for in the area. Similar suburbs such as Paradise Point and Runaway Bay also saw good sales of waterfront properties, resulting in such large median price increases over the June quarter.

The unit and townhouse market on the Gold Coast saw a slight decrease in its median

price over the June quarter, down 0.9 per cent to $341,500. This segment of the property hasn’t seen much improvement in recent periods, however is expected to slowly recover on the back of improving home sales.

Recent periods have seen a re-emergence of interstate investors, as Gold Coast property represents a better return on investment than Sydney or Melbourne while first home buyers are slowing returning to the market, after weighing up whether to buy or rent given current interest rates.

Given how the property market is performing, it is no surprise then that the Gold Coast economy is also seeing a turnaround in fortunes. Recent news indicates that the tourism sector is doing well, as both international and domestic airport traffic has increased.

Construction is undergoing a revival also as works are underway on the Commonwealth Games and light-rail projects. Further to this, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has shown additional interest in the sector, with changes

to headworks costs and a review into the construction of affordable housing.

The opening of the Gold Coast University Hospital is another positive, set to create over 2000 more local jobs and adding some diversity to a local economy that has traditionally been reliant on the tourism and construction industries.

The rental market in the Gold Coast region remains relatively unchanged, having recorded a 2.6 per cent vacancy rate for June. Houses as usual are in strong demand, particularly in the $500 to $700 per week price bracket, as are properties within the coast’s beachside suburbs. According to recent RTA figures, the median rent for a three bedroom increased by $5 to $420 per week, after increasing by $15 per week during the March quarter.

Apartments however are still slow to lease in some areas due to an oversupply. Over the June quarter the median rent for two bedroom units remained unchanged at $350 per week.

REIQ Qld Market Monitor

REIQ seeks Gen Y input THE Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has called upon the expertise of young real estate professionals to help guide its future direction.

The REIQ has selected a group of young guns to be part of its Young Industry Professionals (YIP) advisory group. The group, who have more than 80 years of industry experience collectively, has been tasked with helping to shape the future direction of the Institute.

The REIQ has been the state's peak professional association for real estate since 1918 but recognised it must seek the input of its youngest members to remain a viable, modern organisation.

REIQ CEO Anton Kardash said the REIQ must keep looking at ways to remain relevant, accessible and meaningful for all its key stakeholders.

"Emerging agents and young people in general don't necessarily have the enthusi-

asm of their parents toward member-based organisations and associations these days," he said.

"Networking means something different in today's society and the challenge for us is to self-reflect on the value of the membership, revisit our strategy and understand the needs and concerns of our members in order to maintain our progressiveness.

"I'm enthused by the strength, leadership and innovation I've already witnessed in our new YIP advisory group which includes agents from across South East Queensland."

The YIP advisory group will meet regularly with REIQ leadership to discuss pertinent industry matters as well as seek ways to support and educate one another. The group will also host networking and training events throughout the year, with the focus to support and grow other YIPs in real estate.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 43

Real Estate News Market update Brisbane City...

OVER the June quarter, the median house price in Brisbane increased 1.6 per cent to $527,250 and increased 3 per cent over the year ending June.

The preliminary numbers of house sales in Brisbane grew more than 30 per cent between the March and June quarters. More impressive yet was the numbers of sales over the year, which was up about 44 per cent.

Sales in the $500,000 to $1 million, and the $1 million-plus, price brackets have been growing at the strongest rate, which is a good indication that confidence is returning to the market.

Solid performers over the June quarter and the year in the upgrader category included Bulimba, Carina Heights, Coorparoo, Holland Park, Manly and Yeronga.

In Brisbane, the numbers of unit and townhouse sales increased 26 per cent compared to the June quarter last year and were up 21 per cent compared to the March quarter this year.

Median prices across most regions fluctuated over the June quarter due to the composition or types of properties sold over that period of time.

In Brisbane, the median price dipped by 1.3 per cent to $395,000, which is a result that can be classed as steady. Over the year ending June, its median price was down by 0.8 per cent.

Top Brisbane performers which posted median price growth over the quarter and the year included Kangaroo Point, Nundah and West End. In Kangaroo Point, the median unit and townhouse price increased 5.4 per cent over the quarter to $470,000; Nundah’s improved 9.3 per cent to $392,000; and West End’s increased 17.1 per cent to

$480,000 however this was impacted by the sale of new and waterfront properties.

In Brisbane, the vacancy rate remained unchanged at 2.1 per cent as at the end of June. The inner city area of Brisbane recorded a vacancy rate of 2.0 per cent, also unchanged from March 2013. This is despite reports that vacancy levels are normally higher for this time of the year, with the overseas component of student rental demand somewhat limited. However rental competition and vacancy levels are both expected to increase, as some REIQ accredited agents have observed that a substantial number of new apartments are coming on to the market.

Within the middle to outer Brisbane suburbs, rental market conditions remained at tight levels, having again recorded a vacancy of 2.2 per cent. Survey responses were mixed however – after a typical slowdown post-March, the month of June saw rental demand starting to pick up again. One agent noted that some tenants generally seemed content to renew leases rather than move, thus reducing the amount of stock available to rent. Another interesting observation made was of an increase in owners listing and selling houses given the sales market is showing signs of improvement, again reducing the number of available stock to rent.

The latest June quarter data from the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) shows that median rents for three bedroom houses remained unchanged at $410 per week, while median rents for two bed units fell by $5 to $390 per week. The median rent for a four bedroom house decreased by $10 to $490 per week over the three months to June.

REIQ Qld Market Monitor

Green is the new black

By Shannon Molloy reiqblog A big, lush garden or a grassy median strip separating one side of the street from the other will inevitably add value to a property… right? Well, mostly, but new research shows the price impact depends on the suburb.

It’s all about the green! That was the declaration of an urban researcher I interviewed a few months back for a story I was writing about the impact of the natural environment on property prices.

In his view, easy access to open green spaces such as parks or even a pocket of trees can add tens of thousands of dollars to the value of a home. Even a view of a park that’s some way away can have a benefit.

Researchers say it’s all about amenity.

Humans might be increasingly urbanised, with city slickers keen to live as much in the thick of it as possible, but we like pleasant scenery too. We desire to be near, walk amongst and look at tree-lined streets, bushy medians, a nice garden and a big sprawling park or even a ‘pocket green space’.

It made sense. However new research by Melbourne buyers’ advocacy Secret Agent indicates it’s not universal. The value of vegetation instead depends on what suburb you’re talking about.

Secret Agent researcher Jodie Walker says her team analysed 2,100 house sales over 2012 to see what impact green features had on the value of a property. They assumed, as would I, that median strips, front gardens and general neighbourhood vegetation would add money to the bottom line.

“Median strips, for example, make the road visually appealing,” Walker says. “We don’t really have control over whether they’re there or not but potential property buyers should consider how they affect house prices in the suburb of interest because it can make a huge difference.”

They can improve pedestrian safety, lift the outlook from homes and even reduce noise and congestion. In some areas, the presence of a median strip in front of a home can

have a big impact on price. For example, Walker’s research shows a house in Clifton Hill can cost on average $695,000 more if exposed to a median strip.

No, that’s not a typo. But that whopping figure is almost dwarfed by the $1 millionplus extra you’re likely to fork out for a property in Parkville that has a grassy median in front of it.

“However in some suburbs, the absence of a median strip was more valuable than the presence. Again, at the extreme end of the spectrum, a house in East Melbourne without a median was about $750,000 more valuable than one with a median.”

In some suburbs, the difference in value on average between having a median and not was about $50,000. It depends on buyer tastes, the presence of other green facilities and “other contextual factors” that may make the addition of a median strip a pro or a con.

When it came to the benefit of a front garden, almost all homes would see a value increase regardless of where they are, Walker says. Take East Melbourne, where on average you can expect to pay up to $980,000 more for a home with a nice front garden.

“In inner city suburbs such as East Melbourne, having a house with a large setback from the street was considered a valuable aspect when these properties were originally built and that value has carried through to this day.”

According to Walker’s analysis, Cremorne and West Melbourne were the only suburbs in which having a front garden didn’t add any value to the property. In fact, having a

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Hate thy neighbour Shannon Molloy reiqblog.com ONE bloke copped tens of thousands of dollars in damages and legal fees, and faced losing his home and living on the street.

The other guy’s marriage fell apart. That was the outcome of what the court described as a “trivial, sad” dispute.

Ah, neighbourhood disputes. They cause such grief for the parties engaged in them, and usually a certain level of amusement for those observing them. As was the case in Brighton in the United Kingdom when the conduct of two men made a spat between teenage girls look civilised and proper.

Bloke one, who we’ll call Steve, got a bee in his bonnet when bloke two, let’s call him Andrew, applied to council to build a roof terrace. His house was above Steve’s garden flat. The two had hated each other for years.

Absolutely determined to see the planning application fail, Steve engaged in a determined campaign that included forging objection letters by other residents. Andrew cottoned on to the ruse and took his muchdespised downstairs neighbour to court for defamation.

He won and was awarded a few thousand dollars in damages, plus old mate had to pay his legal costs that totalled another $40,000 or so. In the course of proceedings, the court heard about the years of torment that had led to their brouhaha – Steve had loud parties, Andrew allowed his washing to blow into the courtyard, and that sort of thing. All very serious, high-level stuff.

Closer to home, there’s a guy on the Gold Coast in Queensland who has been banned from entering the unit he owns because of a three-year war with his neighbours and the building’s body corporate committee.

Yep, he was such a pain in the proverbial that fellow unit owners took him to court and effectively secured a restraining order – for the building. Amazing stuff.

Meanwhile, there are a bunch of people in Sydney that have teamed up to take on trouble residents who blare music, have parties and carry on loud conversations until dawn.

All the time. I can relate to the horror and annoyance this can cause.

The undeniable and sad fact of life is that some people are stupid, petty and have little to occupy their time. As a result, a simple misunderstanding or gripe can quickly escalate into a suburban take on Game of Thrones, only with crappier production value. garden in these areas is likely to result in a loss of around $20,000 at least.

Why? It seems when a suburb is highly industrialised and dominated by warehousestyle housing, an older home with a front garden won’t sell for nearly as much as a newly renovated, ultra modern property that’s built to the boundary.

The only universal finding from Secret Agent’s analysis was the benefit of street vegetation on a house’s sale price. Whether walking or driving, there’s something special about turning into a tree-lined street. As well as being easy on the eye, vegetation improves air quality, provides shade to buildings and, research shows, is likely to decrease criminal behaviour such as vandalism.

Walker’s research labelled local vegetation as non-existent, sparse or dense. Even hous-

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I lived in a building once that had its own resident troublemaker. She loved drama, even though there wasn’t really any in the complex. So, she manufactured it. And she had props.

This poor old duck would spend her days making signs printed on card in a beautiful font, attached to a broomstick and jammed into a witch’s hat. They were super passiveaggressive and totally unnecessary. She’d pepper them around the building so that no one was oblivious to her complaints.

They were about someone parking in the wrong spot, the collection of junk mail at the letterboxes, the bins being left out too long after collection and so on. Again, very life-threatening issues.

The signs were embarrassing and residents would roll their eyes or snicker when a new one appeared. Only, no one did anything.

So, I dropped Madam Complain-a-lot an email and suggested she’d save herself lots of time by raising issues in person with any offending parties, like a normal human being, rather than customising mini billboards. Then I pointed her to our bylaws, which frowned on debris in common areas, and asked her to find a new hobby to occupy her time. Then I CCed in other owners and the body corporate manager.

She never spoke to me again, but the signs disappeared. I think she’s into scrapbooking these days.

The point is most beefs can be resolved.

There’s no need for a great song and dance.

In many cases, common sense can prevail.

The Conflict Resolution Service in Canberra has a handy guide on how to approach neighbours about a whole host of issues, in an attempt to resolve it peacefully and without fisticuffs. Here it is here.

The helpful advice includes reasonable and calm discussion, brainstorming solutions, compromise and respect.

Sarcastically shaming an annoying neighbour via email to a group of amused onlookers probably isn’t in the guide, although that particular approach can be very satisfying.

Of course, sometimes that’s just not possible and a peace summit is in order. If so, some states have free meditation and dispute resolution services on offer. Here’s some information.

Whatever you do, resist the temptation to call a television network current issues program. You’ll only hurt your pride and probably local property values.

Shannon Molloy is the deputy editor of Australian Property Investor magazine, www.apimagazine.com.au es surrounded by sparse vegetation yielded an extra $135,000 on average. Better still, those with an abundance of street vegetation enjoyed an extra $340,000 in value on average.

“The more trees in the street, the higher the sale price of the adjacent property. When categorised into pricing brackets, it was found that houses priced above $900,000 are more likely to have dense street vegetation, whereas houses between $400,000 and $700,000 have no or sparse vegetation.

Of course, the value of green can generally be significant. But what these results prove is that it’s important to consider what works for the individual property on a particular street in a single suburb, rather than rely on blanket rules.

Shannon Molloy is the deputy editor of Australian Property Investor magazine, www.apimagazne.com.au

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Business Directory PHOTOGRAPHY / VIDEOGRAPHY

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

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RELIGIOUS SERVICES For all 16 Vedic Sanskaar Sanskrit prayers: Hawans, Weddings, Death rites; new homes, anniversaries, birthdays etc Pandit Dr G A Tularam 0403 819 327 or email a.tularam@griffith.edu.au

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Classifieds....

BUSINESS FOR SALE

POSITIONS VACANT

MATRIMONIALS

WHATÊS ON!

David Hinchliffe’s “Reflections” at Middle Heaven - On Now until October 30 - 1.30pm for 2pm start at Chung Tian Art Gallery, part of the Chung Tian Temple, 1034 Underwood Road, Priestdale Qld 4127. “Reflections” features a collection of 32 paintings with two measuring nearly 4m wide. From Buddhist monastics in prayer to landscapes displaying the tranquil imagery of the sun rise over the water.

For more information visit www.chungtian.org.au or call 07 3841 3511 ——————————————— Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld - Vedic Yaj (Havan) - 13 & 20 October - Oct 13 at 17 Somerset Drive, Carseldine 10am-11.30am, Yajmaan Mr & Mrs Jitendra Deo. Oct 20 at Finnish Hall 62 Newhnam Rd, Mt Gravatt 10am-1pm, Yajmaan Mr & Mrs Mul Chand.

October 26 Diwali River Cruise from 5.30pm to 9pm. Please contact Mr & Mrs Vijendra Ray for tickets on 0402 446 780. For more information contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit www.aryasamajqueensland.com ——————————————— Shree Sanatan Dharam Hindu Assn. of Qld Inc present DIWALI MELA - 18 & 19 October - at Rocklea Show Grounds, Goburra St, Rocklea Qld 4106. Bollywood Dances, Cultural items, stalls by most of the Fashion houses in Brisbane...Diwali shopping venue for Indian Clothing under the one roof, food stalls, multicultural stage shows, Fire Works. For more information contact hemant 0403 336 571, Sunil 0411 347 533 or visit www.sanatan.com.au ——————————————— Gujarati Assn. of Qld (GAQ) - Sharad Poonam - 19 October - 6pm-10.30pm at The Courier Mail Piazza, The Parklands, South Bank Cnr Glenelg & Little Stanley Street, South Brisbane Qld 4101. A night of Raas Garba, Music, Masti and food. Entry $8 per person (children under 5 free) 108 Aarti - per person 1 Aarti for $11. Sponsorship opportunities please contact Dr Naitik Mehta 0402 460 860 or Anil Bakrania 0422 342 556 or visit www.gaq.org.au ——————————————— Vishva hindu Parishad of Aust, Inc presents 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Swami Vivekananda - Children’s Quiz Competition - Register by 19 October - 20, 27 Oct & 9 November - FREE event! Who? 5-16 year olds who love fun & competition.

When? Round one: ONline Quiz on 20 Oct, Round two: Regional Quiz 27 Oct, Round three: National Quiz 9 November. To register visit www.vhp.org.au or contact Mano 0431 375 926, Pooja 0406 540 511 or Geeta 0423 297 666 ——————————————— Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - Foundation Day Celebration - 20 October - Everyone is invited to come and join in this unique celebration.

Starts 10am - 1pm at 86 Scott Lane, North Maclean. Maha Prasad will be provided at 1pm. Program: Vishnu Sahastra Nam Archana Arpan, Bhajans, Kirtans & Garba. We wish the Maha Prasad (food) to be sponsored by each and every devotee jointly, so please donate whatever amount you wish towards food

28 year old, 165cm Hindu Brahmin Aust Citizen working full time looking for girl, 20-25 years, fair, slim, non-smoker, non drinker, Hindi speaking, living in Australia (prefer Brisbane), degree or diploma holder. Email shailendrab1@hotmail.com

OCT 13 / NOV 13 sponsor. For food sponsor or any other enquiry please contact: Dhiru Desai 0406 213 153, Bharat Solanki 0411 131 485 or visit shreevishnumayamandir.com.au ——————————————— Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) in assn with BCC & Qld Government present 2013 Diwali, Indian Festival of Lights - 25 October - 11am-11pm at King George Square, Brisbane City. FREE ENTRY. Enjoy the annual cultural extravaganza that includes a variety of Indian Cultural Programs depicting the significance of Diwali.

For further information contact Dr Naidu Bodapati 0421 877 717, Surendra Prasad 0413 004 100.

——————————————— Mantra Room Launch - 25 October - Join us for the launch of Australia’s new Kirtan hotspot - The Mantra Room. Offering an electric mix of music styles combined with a relaxed, enchanting atmosphere, making it popular with all age groups. 6pm at Australian School of Meditaion and Yoga, 236 Montague Road, West End, Brisbane. FREE Event. Visit www.asm.org.au ——————————————— ZURI Presents Festival of Lights - DIWALI - 27 October - First time in Brisbane, a fusion of Bhangra music & professional Australian dancers from Bellacize. Pre-purchased tickets $10 ($15 at the door). 1-367 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley Q 4006. Ph: 3257 4999, email functions@zuri.com.au or visit www.zuri.com.au ——————————————— Banyo District Community Group in association with MDA and BCC - DIWALI celebrations for 2013 - 3 November - 3pm-5pm at 284 St Vincents Rd, Banyo - Outdoor stage; Banyo Bandstand. FREE Entry - Beppo the clown, free jumping castle, food & drinks, giddah, bhangra, bollywood dances, cultural items, stalls. For more information contact Devinder Bains 0423 875 537 ——————————————— Tamil Association of Qld Inc presents Festival of Lights 2013 - Sunday 3 November - 5.309.30pm at City Hall, Brisbane. Dinner & Cultural program night. Adults $40 pp, Children (strictly under 12) $10 pp, Children under 5 is free (seat is not provided) purchase tickets online at www.festivaloflightsdinner.eventbrite.com (credit card charge may apply for online bookings) Parking $8. For more information contact Nava 0400 820 13 or 3711 5363, Saravanan 0406 487 453 ——————————————— GOPIO 2013 Regional Convention & Women's Conference - 9 November - Venue is Sapphire Function Centre in Blacktown, Sydney.

Diaspora Conference, Women's Conference, reception / dinner. PUBLIC EVENT - ALL WELCOME. Register online www.registernow.com.au/secure/Register. aspx?E=10274 GOPIO Regional meeting will be held on 8 November at Novotel Parramatta from 2pm-6pm. Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (PBD) will be held in Sydney from November 10-12. For more information contact Umesh Chandra, GOPIO International

48 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Coordinator (Oceania) on 0421 388 465 or email ceo@chantex.com.au ——————————— Malayalee Association of Qld. Inc presents MAQ BRISBANE INDIAN OPEN - 9 November - at Calamvale Community College sports centre, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale. For more information contact Krishnan Menon 0413 111 181, Dennis Manohar 0402 658 420 ——————————————— Bala Samskar Kendra Qld - Balautsav - 9 November - An evening of Dance, drams, showcasing Hindu Dharma and celebrating Swami Vivekananda’s 150th Birth Anniversary celebrations by students of Bala Samskar Kendra. 5.45pm for 6pm start at Sunny Bank State High School, Gager Street, Sunny Bank.

For more information and ticket prices contact bskqld@live.com.au or call Krrishna 0411 776 509, Priya 0406 730 411 ——————————————— Queensland Sangam - Bollywood Dance - 9 November - 6.30pm-11.30pm at Macgregor State School, 370 McCullough Street, Macgregor. Live DJs and lots of entertainment. For more information contact Arvind 0419 256 205 or Ravi 0403 143 984 ——————————————— BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Australia Cultural Festival of India - 23 & 24 November - 1pm-9pm at Clairvaux Mackillop Collage, 28 Klumpp Road, Upper Mount Gravatt Qld 4122. Enjoy savoury dishes in the food court, experience the Faith, Fearlessness and Friendliness of a child yogi in a real life film, Mystic India (in English), entertain kids with fun activities such as henna and face painting...+ much more. For more information contact Kiran Patel 0433 889 926, Dhirubhai Pala 0400 474 215 or Suresh Patel 07 3299 2929 ——————————————— Gayatri Pariwar (Brisbane, Australia) presents for the first time in Brisbane - ASHWAMEDH GAYATRI MAHA YAGNA - Prayer for World Peace and Harmony - 18, 19 & 20 April 2014 - in the presence of Shraddeya Dr Pranav Pandya and Shraddeya Shailbala Pandya, Head AWGP. 8.45am to 7pm at Mt. Gravatt Showgrounds, 1644 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt. Program includes cultural items, exhibition, interactive thought provoking seminars, yoga and meditation, 201 Kund Yagna. To participate in the 201 Kund Yagna or for further information contact Tirat Achal 0407 620 663 / Ashok Kumar 0411 698 972 / Salik Ram Sharma 3271 5407 or email brisbaneaswamedh2014@gmail.com ——————————————— The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association Gold Coast Bhajan - monthly Bhajans held every third Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale. Activities include Bhajan recitals, short educational presentations and free vegetarian dinner. All are cordially invited to attend. For further infor-

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mation please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org ——————————————— Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South Maclean) – For full list of upcoming events please visit www.sriselvavinayakar.org ——————————————— Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - Every Sunday 4 to 6pm Bhajans, Kirtans, Prawachan by Pt Tripathi Ji followed by Maha Prasadam. 86 Scott Lane, North Mclean. shreevishnumayamandir.com.au ——————————————— Brisbane Super Kings Cricket Club Inc - Every Sunday – Currently we have a few more spots available. To join the club or for further information please contact Sathish 0433 922 733, Bala 0450 927 578 or Rajarajan 0431 433 889.

Visit www.brisbanesuperkings.com or email sathish@brisbanesuperkings.com ——————————————— What’s on in the City- For events happening in Brisbane City and Queen Street Mall please visit www.bnecity.com.au ——————————————— Every Sunday – Brisbane Community Market – Every Sunday from 7.30am-1pm at Moorooka State School, Beaudesert Road Moorooka. Food, fruit and veg, gifts, activities for gifts plus more great stalls.

Seminars - Public Talks / Courses / Retreats........

Brahma Kumaris Australia - Learn to Meditate - FREE Program - 15 October - 8am to 9am. In this session we will introduce you to a meditation technique where you can meditate anywhere, anytime. We will explain how the mind works and how to change our thoughts to positive peaceful thoughts. All our ongoing courses and programs are available at no charge. Please book 07 5575 2126 or email goldcoast@au.brahmakumaris.org.

Venue: 27 Bordeaux Parade (near Le Mans Street) Mermaid Waters. www.brahmakumaris.org/au ——————————————— Migration Seminar - FREE - Every Thursday 4pm at NO BORDERS Migration Advocates, Level 4/20 Park Road, Milton Qld 4064 - 5 mins from City - 50mtrs from Milton Station.

Do you qualify for a work visa or a permanent residence in Australia? Bring your CV, your qualifications and find out if you qualify and what’s the best option in your case. For registration Call 07 3876 4000...limited seats Continued page 50 Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 49

What’s on....Associations / Places of Worship...

BRISBANE BELIEVERS FELLOWSHIP - Zillmere Community Hall, 54 Handsford Rd, Zillmere. Worship time: Every Sunday at 9.30am.

Activities: Holy Communion (First Sunday of the Month), Sunday school, Fasting Prayer, Youth Meeting, Bible Study and Ladies Meeting. Contact: Pastor John Thomas & Mary Thomas, Sanju P. (Secretary) Phone: 0402 551 220 / 0402 907 776 or 0422 815 782 / Email: maryhoney59@hotmail.com Brisbane Christian Assembly, Herston, QLD. - Saturday from 6pm to 9pm. We are praying and God has been doing miracles in many people’s life.

Contact Pastor Prakash Jacob 07 3162 5207 or 0413 347 562. 5/15 Aberleigh Road, Herston QLD 4006 Email: prakashjacob@yahoo.com / Ph: 07-31625207, 0413 347 562 Brisbane Malayalee Association For information contact Secretary Rajni Nair on 0431 299 376 or President Gigie George on 0432 510 045 brisbane.malayaleeassociation@ gmail.com / www.brisbanemalayalee.org Brisbane Multinational Church 757 Gympie Road Lawnton. Church service time is from 9.30am to 11.30am. Special times of prayer for the sick. We will be praying for people with all kinds of sicknesses, needs, spiritual problems etc. This will be followed by free lunch, service time 9.30am -12 noon. For more information please contact Pastor Joseph Dass on 0424 180 240 or Assistant Pastor Shrish Chand on 0450 612 304.

Brisbane Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) 2679 Logan Rd, Eight Mile Plains. www.brisbanesikhtemple.org.au.

Sunday Service 9am to 1pm.

Weekdays evening service 6pm to 7pm including meditation. Mr Baljit Singh Secretary (for all bookings enquiries) Ph: 0412 057 554, Email: secretary@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au. Gianni Kuldeep Singh Priest of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all religious functions) Ph: 0422 705 936. priest@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Burnie Brae, a Senior Citizen’s Centre in Chermside, meet on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. Please contact Sandra or Naomi on 07 36242141

Eben-Ezer Pentecostal Church, Brisbane – Sunday School, Prayer & Fasting, Youth meeting & worship (Malayalam) Contact: Pastor Mathew Tharian 07 3165 7617, 0431 413 482 or Eng. Victor George 07 3359 8946, 0413 069 477.

Ekta Women’s Group, meetings last Sunday of every month from 24pm. For further information contact President - Mrs Kushla Sahai 3344 4715, Vice President - Mrs Kusum Prasad 3209 5174.

Fiji Senior Citizens’ Satsang Association of Qld Inc -1 Kensington Place, Wishart 4122.

Monthly meetings held on th last Sunday of the month at 2pm.

Contact President Surendra Prasad OAM 3849 5435, Secretary Raymond Saran 3290 0653.

Forest Lake AOG Church - Hindi Service - Second Sunday of every month - commencing @ 4.30pm.

Cnr of Alpine Place & Forest Lake Boulevard Road. Contact Sudesh on 0401 519 541.

Hindi Speaking Christian Fellowship - Meets at 2.30 p.m. last Sunday of each month at Merthyr Uniting Church, 52 Merthyr Rd, New Farm. All welcome. Contact Irene 3715 8659.

Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland - Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir - 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld. Every Sunday 4pm to 6pm - Bhajan/Kirtan, Arati and Dinner is provided. Every 1st Sunday of month from 2-4pm Program by Brisbane Bhajan Group.

All welcome. www.laxminarayan.com.au For further information contact: Resident Priest 07 3216 8848, Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202 Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. Gayatri Mandir (178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall). Gayatri Mandir opens every Sunday from 8am to 11am.

Mandir opens with Punditji. Weekly Programs & Mandir Openings: • Every Tuesday from 7pm Ramayan & Bhajan recitals • Every 2nd & 4th Friday from 7.00pm – Ramayan & Bhajan Recitals. • Open Every Sunday from 9.00am – 12.00pm For further information contact President Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 Indian Church Service News - Every Sunday 9.30am 11.00am.

Southern Springs Community

WHATÊS ON!

Seminars - Public Talks / Courses / Retreats........

Harmony Place - Would you like to have a FREE Well-Being Program for your Multicultural Group? - To enjoy life and cope with its many challenges we all need to take care of our physical, mental and social health.

Our Well-Being program provides people from the multicultural community with information and practical strategies they can take away and apply in their daily lives, as well as information about how to access services and resources when help is needed. This a community service program and if FREE for participants. For more information contact Beatriz Martinez, Well-Being team leader 07 3848 1600 or email beatriz@harmonyplace.org.au ————————————— Jigsaw - Diploma of Counselling Courses Diploma of Counselling is VET FEE funded, no upfront costs are involved. Courses delivered at Iceworks Building, Cnr of Dowse St and Given Tce, Paddington, Freshwater Point Resort and 33 TE Peters Drive, Broadbeach.

For more information contact di@jcg.edu.au or visit www.jigsawconsultinggroup.edu.au ————————————— Al-Mustapha Institute of Brisbane - Ilm-eDeen Courses, part-time available. For more information visit www.almustaphainstitute.org ————————————— Brisbane Tamil School Holland Park State School, Bapume Road, Holland Park. For more information on the School please contact President B. Saravanan – saranb@bigpond.com or visit www.brisbanetamilschool.org 50 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsors What’s On section!

Church 59 Marshall Road, Rocklea.

Contact Ps. Sivanus Naidu (Senior Pastor) 3274 2542 or 0417 197 747 Indian Senior Citizen Association The Committee meetings are held 2nd Sunday of every alternate month from 2pm to 4pm or more often as the situations arise. For further information contact, President: Mr Bir Sahai 3344 4715 / 0411739045, Vice Presidents: Mr Ram Sumer 3349 7238, Mr NK Sharma 3711 4201.

International Congress of Fiji - for more information contact Sarat Maharaj 3263 2093 or 0407 111 709 or visit www.icfi.org.au International Multicultural Christian Fellowship - Worship & Word every Sunday at 9.30am to 11.30am followed by free sausage sizzle - everyone welcome. For full details of events contact Pastor Raj Singh 0407177117 or rajmavisforjesus @yahoo.com.au / www.elevatechurch.org.au Islamic Society of Gold Coast - Cnr Allied Drive & Olsen Avenue, Arundel. For more information visit www.goldcoastislam.com.au Islamic Society of Queensland hosts Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. 2nd Saturday of the month at Rochedale Mosque - 2664 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains.

Dinner provided to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact Imam Ali on 0407 156 527, Asif Ali Khan on 0411 516 007.

Kannada Sangha Qld Inc Promoting Kannada culture, Kannada activities and community based events and functions. For more information contact: President Dr Balaji Hiremagalur 0421 583 273 Secretary Navin Kumar 0413 164 401, kannada sanghaqld@gmail.com www.chandana-brisbane.org.

52 Parkway Crescent Murrumba Downs Qld 4503.

Lourde Matha Malayalee Community Every month Malayalam Mass (Qrbana) in Brisbane. For more information about upcoming events. Contact Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy 4697 3177 youth coordinator. Siju Mathew 0432 192 558.

Malayalee Association of Qld – For a detailed list of upcoming events, contact the President C K

Oonnikrishnan Nair on 0416 927 100 or ckuknair_maq@hotmail.com E: maq@brisbanemalayalee.org or visit www.brisbanemalayalee.org.

Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Brisbane Mandram - For more information contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483, Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064 or Sakthi Kalyanasundaram 0411 165 067 Nexus Church - 151 Flockton Street, Everton Park Qld. For more information please call 07 3353 1377 or visit www.nexuschurch.com.au Public Zikre Mustapha programme - Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. Last Saturday of the month at Logan Mosque - 260 3rd Avenue, Kingston. Dinner provided free to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact the chairman Mr Nawab Khan on 3209 4627 Queensland Fiji Football Association - QFFA - For more information visit facebook: QueenslandFijiFa or visit www.qffa.com.au Queensland Telugu Association For a list of upcoming events and membership information, please contact: Secretary, Mr Sai Gollapudi on 0409 907 934 or email saigollapudi@yahoo.com Sant Mat (Sant Baljit Singh) - Sant Mat is a practical path based on meditation on the inner Light and Sound, ethical values, service to others and love for all creation. For further information contact 1800 462 193 or visit www.santmat.net.au Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - 86 Scotts Lane, North Maclean, Qld 4280. Our Dharam Guru Param Pujya Pundit Tripathi Ji resides at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir. Daily opening Hours: 7-11am / 5-8pm.

Every Sunday: 4 to 6pm. Bhajans / Kirtan, prawachan, Prasadam and Maha Prasadam. For more information contact 0481 238 360 Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) and Hindu Education Centre - 4915 – 4923 Mt Lindsay H’way South Maclean. Temple Opening Hours: 7:30am – 11:00am and 5:00pm – 8:30pm. Pooja times – Weekdays 9:00am and 7:30pm.

Weekends 9:00am and 6:00pm.

Contact President Vimal “Vic” Ratnam 0411 594 394, Temple Priest 07 5547 7302. For full list of upcoming events please visit

www.sriselvavinayakar.org St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church Brisbane Malayalam Holy Qurbono, Sunday School and other spiritual activities.

Holy Qurbono celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jigi Varghese at 2pm on the third Saturday of every month at St Mary’s & Joseph’s Coptic Orthodox Church, 2 Hamish Street Calamvale Qld 4116. For more information about upcoming events and activities please contact: Dr. Joy Pynadath 0431 631 397, Joy Mathew 0403 114 470.

The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Gold Coast Bhajan monthly Bhajans held every third Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale. For further information please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org.

TOUCH Group of families Program includes Bollywood dance, Sri Lankan dance, Saomoa cultural dance, fashion show, musical program. Anyone who would like to join can contact touch.families@gmail.com or call Sripathy & family 0432 768 607, Vijekumar & family 3823 4628.

Vaishnav Sangh of Qld. For more information email tvsoqld@hotmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/tvsoq Varnam Cultural Society (Qld) Inc. For more information call Rajarajan 0431 433 889 / Ayyapann 0418 909 825 or email varnamqld@gmail.com What’s on is your Council guide to what is happening in Brisbane. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au> Women of Light Our purpose … is to equip women for Life, by providing opportunities for personal growth, believing that every women is valued as a role model to her family, her work, her church and her community. We meet Every alternate Thursday at 11.00am at 3, Montserrat Place, Forest Lake and Buckby St, Nundah. Contact – Mavis, 0418 745 179, 07 3879 973

OCT 13 / NOV 13

Chinmaya Mission Australia – Family programs every Sunday morning at Holland Park State High School from 10am-11.45am.

Balahivar classes for children and teenagers and gita classes for adults are conducted under the guidance of spiritual teacher, Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya. Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au or email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au ————————————— Hindustani Language School conducts lessons in Hindustani language and Indian Culture every Saturday from 2pm to 4pm, at both its major centres at Calamvale Community Intermediate College, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall. Hindi is our mother tongue. Students of all ages wishing to learn: * Hindi Language *Indian Culture * Dance & Drama * Music * Leadership and Personal Development Contact: Secretary Jay Haripersad on 3243 7062 - Vice President Mul Chand on Mobile 0418 461 960 - or President Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or Mobile 0407 111 709Lotus Ashram - Free yoga lessons every Friday at Sunnybank Primary School, Glendower Street, from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. Donations are welcome. For details, email ambashram@gmail.com ————————————— Thaai Tamil School – Tamil Classes – Conducted weekly at 2 locations – 1.

Sunnybank State High School, Cnr Boorman & Turton Streets, Sunnybank. Saturday 2.30pm5.30pm. 2. Centenary State High School, 1 Moolanda Street, Jindalee. Sunday 2.30pm5.30pm. Contact 0423 730 122, thaaitamilschool@gmail.com or visit www.thaaitamilschool.com www.indiantimes.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 51

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Bala Samskar Kendra Queensland Proudl dly y presentss

BALA B ALA UT UTSAV S

An Evenin ng of Dance , Drama , showcasing Hindu in Dharma and Celebrating Swami 9LYHNDQDQGD·V 150th Birth Anniversary Celebration ns by Students of Bala Samskar Kendra

Date: Saturday 9 November Time: 5:45 PM for 6:00PM Start Venue: Sunny Bank State High School, Gager Street, Sunny Bank

Contact: bskqld@live.com.au Entry: Single: $15 Student: $10 Family: $40 (2 Adults and 2 Children)

Ticket price includes dinnerr.

Poornima: 0466932607 66932607Supported By Krrishna: 0411776509 Priya: 0406730411 Ram: 0416813747 Ranjani: 0422431397 52 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 53

Bollywood & Entertainment Krrish 3 was Hrithik Roshan’s ‘Release of Indian films will biggest challenge soon double in Japan’ HRITHIK Roshan is back in his superhero guise once more in the hotly anticipated followup to ‘Koi Mil Gaya’ and Krrish - Krrish 3. The film will dazzle audiences with a thrilling roller-coaster ride of visual effects, stunts and, of course, the very gorgeous Mr Roshan in his superhero costume!

Speaking about Krrish 3, Hrithik Roshan has revealed that the film was one of his most challenging and demanding to do. The superstar spent a grueling four hours each day in make-up and costume to achieve his unique look complete with high-grade prosthetics and body contour suit.

Portraying as many as three strikingly different looks, Hrithik says the journey for Krrish 3 has been a fairly challenging but rewarding one. Commenting on the hard work involved in making the film, he said: “Krrish 3 is the most difficult film. I play two roles. If I want victory again, I’ll have to go through the battle again.”

The shooting of Krrish 3 has tested Hrithik Roshan’s mettle to the fullest, but the talented actor of such mega hits as Dhoom 2, likes challenges of all kinds. The spiritual actor believes that whenever something gets difficult it is his axis point to growth. “The finest steel must go through the hottest fire”

is the modular he lives by.

The visual effects team found the shot in which Hrithik jumps from a bridge, which is 2000 meters above sea level, the most difficult shot to accomplish. That one sequence required around 3,000 different shots which were then put under various algorithms to see what would look most natural. A dedicated team of 35 people were concentrating on this one scene for four months.

The challenge was to make Hrithik leap in the air for 45 seconds and then land him in an upright position.

Keeping in mind minute specifics like: How would a body land? Where would his feet touch the ground? At what speed? And what should be a superhero posture after he takes that leap?

“It was difficult playing many roles In Krrish 3” says Hrithik. “The script of “Krrish 3″ has been such that it challenged each and every character and department from the production to the creative”.

‘Krrish 3′, which is directed by supremo Rakesh Roshan, will be the third instalment in the franchise after ‘Koi Mil Gaya’ (2003) and ‘Krrish’ (2006). Krrish 3 releases globally on 4th November 2013.

Bollywood stars in queue for Prabhu Dheva THEY last worked together in the 2009 hit, Wanted, the film that also marked Prabhu Dheva’s directorial debut in Bollywood. And now the choreographerdirector is set to work with Salman Khan once again in Ramesh Taurani’s yet-untitled production. However, the super-busy director will be able to take up the film only after finishing work on his Saif Ali Khan-starrer.

Currently, Prabhu is caught up with backto-back films. While December will see the release of Shahid Kapoor-starrer R...

Rajkumar, he has already started shooting with Ajay Devgn for their next, Action Jackson. This will be followed by the Saifstarrer. Also, if the buzz is anything to go by, Prabhu might work on another film with the Rowdy Rathore (2012) actor Akshay Kumar too.

For the past few days, the trade has been

abuzz with news that after wrapping up Sajid Nadiadwala’s Kick, Salman will start shooting for Prabhu’s next by the end of this year, so that it can release around Diwali or Christmas next year. However, an insider from the industry says, “Prabhu sir will start Saif’s film towards the start of next year but there is no clarity on the start date of Salman’s film. So how can there be a release date or the question of completing the film by next year-end?”

The insider further adds, “As of now, only Sohail Khan, Anees Bazmee (director of No Entry Mein Entry) and Nadiadwala have got confirmed dates from Salman.”

When contacted, Prabhu confirms, “Yes, the movie with Saif should start by early 2014. As for the film with Salman, they (makers) are yet to work out the dates. So I can’t say when will that film will go on floors.”

HT

Deepika Padukone finds mentor in Salman Khan?

WHILE they are both famous actors, Salman Khan and Deepika Padukone are yet to share screen space with each other. They even came close to signing Sajid Nadiadwala’s Kick, but the deal didn’t work out. However, that doesn’t mean that the two have not been in touch with each other.

According to Deepika, the Dabangg (2010) actor makes it a point to call or message her whenever he hears about her. While speaking to us recently, Deepika had said, "Salman and I are in touch. When he sees my films or watches my advertisements or spots my (movie) posters, he lets me know what he feels about them. And then when we bump into each other, we exchange knowing smiles. Whichever film I do with Salman will be a special one."

Industry sources claim that Deepika is keen on working with Salman, but their

prior commitments continue to keep them occupied.

While the latter is currently shooting for his brother Sohail Khan’s directorial venture, Jai Ho, Deepika is busy working on Farah Khan’s Happy New Year with Abhishek Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, among others.

Incidentally, even though Shah Rukh was Deepika’s first male costar (in Farah Khan’s Om Shanti Om; OSO, 2007), she revealed to us that Salman, too, had an important role to play at the beginning of her career.

"I may have debuted with Shah Rukh, but Salman was the first person to offer me a film," she said, surprising many. "He spotted me way before OSO; when I did my first few ads. I had just hit the modelling circuit back then."

HT

54 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

AAMIR Khan-starrer ‘3 Idiots’ not just gave the $2 billion Indian film industry a ‘foothold’ in Japan but also opened up viewers to a ‘comparatively traditional’ affair like Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan, says Akifumi Sugihara of Japan’s 101-year-old production studio. The number of releases will soon double, he predicts.

Sugihara, executive vice president (international operation department) of Japan’s oldest film production and distribution firm Nikkatsu Corporation, first came to India in 2011 to attend the Mumbai Film Mart (MFM), an annual business-to-business platform at the Mumbai Film Festival.

Since then, his company has released four Indian films in Japan - ‘3 Idiots’, which is still showing, ‘Don 2’, ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ and

‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’. This month he will be busy releasing ‘Makkhi’ in his country.

Sugihari talked about the market of Indian films in Japan and how increased co-productions between the two countries can provide ‘a big stimulus for Asia to form a new highly potential entertainment market’.

Neeta Lulla, national Award winning costume and fashion designer crafts the look for Rajinikanth’s Magnum Opus Kochadaiiyaan – The Legend INDIA’S leading and highly cherished Fashion Designer, Neeta Lulla, yet again claims her throne in international costume and fashion design for the entire look she has conceptualized for each of the characters in India’s first Photorealistic Performance Capture Film, Kochadaiiyaan - The Legend. The highlight however remains designing the look of superstar Rajinikanth who stars as a legendary mythological character in the film.

Talking about his look in the movie, director Soundarya Rajinikanth Ashwin said, “Neeta has done an outstanding job on the costumes for Kochadaiiyaan. The details in the armour and the weaponized look of the costumes really creates an impact. The photorealistic performance capture technology used in the film is extremely advanced and the work done on the costumes really shines through.”

Given the uniqueness and majestic persona of the film, Neeta Lulla and her team immersed in extensive research over an expansive period of time in order to achieve the perfect look and deliver intricate luminosity to each of the garments designed for Kochadaiiyaan.

A gargantuan 150 costumes per character was designed on paper, of which 20-25 costumes for each character were selected and detailed. Due to the intricacy of the designs for the costumes, each embroidery pattern was photographed and expertly placed on the garment, to deliver a flawless finish.

Neeta also created a range of 20 to 30 looks especially for the armour suit as well as the supporting cast of Kochadaiiyaan. The armour suit included predetermined detailing that was achieved through careful understanding of its movement and appeal, in keeping with the authenticity and credibility of the era.

Neeta Lulla says “It feels totally wonderful to be a part of Kochadaiiyaan. I am proud to be associated with Rajni Sir’s venture which is directed by his daughter Soundarya. Being a part of Kochadaiiyaan is definitely a milestone in my career. I think, the project is larger than life for two aspects- one being Rajni sir and the other being that it is a photo realistic motion capture film format that is a first of its kind. Its visual grandiosity conceived by Soundarya makes the scale of this project one of the

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biggest I have worked on and definitely one to watch out for!”

She further added, “Another interesting aspect was that we created the looks not in fabric form but a detailed overview in sketch form. My creative team and I worked on for almost 8 months on the various characterizations of Rajni sir and the other supporting cast. It was a different kind of design experience altogether.”

To create the costumes, the characters were created by Neeta on a sketch format - first in colour then a croqui developed by the CG technicians. Detailed research was also conducted to achieve the right ornate look for the fine-looking jewellery, its use on the sketch and eventually on the form. Taking into account the script and the accurate look for the characters the detailing was embellished which took almost 6-8 months of sketching and re-sketching in order to derive the final result.

India’s first Photorealistic Performance Capture film Kochadaiiyaan – The Legend is not only set to transcend boundaries creating a market first in the realm of world cinema but will cement Indian Cinema’s place indefinitely within the global film fraternity.

To see the teaser trailer visit: http://www.youtube.com/erosnow/ Kochadaiiyaan – The Legend releases worldwide this 12th December 2013.

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Bollywood & Entertainment

Falguni Pathak’s show in Brisbane…

ZEST Entertainment organized the Falguni Pathak’s Dandiya Bash for the first time in Brisbane on 27th September 2013 at the Brisbane Basketball Stadium located in Auchenflower.

Zest Entertainment would like to thank all the people who made this event a great success.

As she is known for, Falguni Pathak & her team gave an energetic performance comprising of her popular songs & some new Bollywood songs. Brisbane was grooving to her tunes!

Falguni loved the people of Brisbane and the spirit of dancing to her beats. Her tour to Australia was very fruitful and promised to continue the journey each year.

You will be surprised to know there were more than 7,000 people across Australia who attended, 1600 people were from Brisbane.

It was amazing to witness a diversified group of people dancing on same beats, learning from one another and enjoying.

Not to be missed there was delicious delicacies from Northern to Southern part comprising from street food to authentic IndoChinese.

With the successful organization of this Event, Brisbane has raised the expectations of bringing such events on a wider scale.

We would like to thank all our sponsors for supporting this event and a special thanks to our Media Partners Brisbane Indian Times, Pardes express and Brisvaani.

We would like to continue this event each year with the same enthusiasm. Hope to see you all next year. If

you missed it!!!

Please like Falguni Pathak Brisbane Dandiya Bash 2013 on Facebook for more photos.

I keep getting Bollywood When Shilpa Shetty was mistaken for Vidya Balan offers: Brett Lee BRETT Lee may have tried out Bollywood before, but he’s too busy for a second stint in desi films. The Australian cricketer, who featured in a cameo in the 2009 flick Victory, says there are new offers alright but he hasn’t taken up any. “I keep getting a few (Bollywood) offers, but the timings and all make it a bit hard. Let’s see how it goes,” says the 36-year-old.

With actor Shah Rukh Khan as his T20 team owner though, staying away from Indian films must be difficult. “Yes, I guess it is. I had the pleasure of catching up with Shah Rukh Khan the other night. I hadn’t seen him for a while since the domestic T20 league got over, so it was good to catch up. He is also very busy; we were laughing at the fact that he flew to Australia and I came to India (and still we hardly get time to meet when in each other’s countries).” SRK is known to have recently cracked a joke with Lee on cricket vs films — ‘If you don’t take 10 wickets (in the T20 matches), you’ll have to dance and sing in films,’ he’d said. Lee, however, answers in cross-tease when asked about that. “If he (SRK) gives me an opportunity (to play in his team) next year, I’ll try taking 10 wickets, and then he will have to act with me in a movie!”

As for his favourite Hindi films, the choices clearly go by the actors who’ve been the owners of his T20 teams. They are “the ones that feature Shah Rukh Khan or Preity

Zinta (co-owner of the T20 team Lee played for, in 200810).”

Lee on a different ‘note’ Cricketer Brett Lee, who is also known for his musical prowess, talks to us about his collaboration with veteran singer Asha Bhosle, his new band — White Shoe Theory and his love for music. Ask him if he is able to devote time to his band from his busy schedule, and he says, “After Six & Out, I started a new band called White Shoe Theory, and have been with them for 2-3 years. The band also toured India in 2010 and we are looking forward to bring out our next set of songs early next year.”

As far as the genre of his band is concerned, Lee says, “The songs that my band is working on are more of commercial rock, bit different from the love song ‘You’re the One For Me’, which I did with Asha Bhosle … though that was also a lot of fun.”

Apart from dedicating his time to music, Lee’s also on a fitness high. Ask him how important it is for a fast bowler to maintain his fitness level and stay away from injuries, and the pacer says, “I have been training really hard now. I am back at the gym five days a week and every spare afternoon I go for an extra round with my puppy.” “I am lucky that I am not playing ODIs or Test matches, and can focus on T20 cricket. My aim is to get as fit as possible,” adds Lee, who was in the Capital as the brand ambassador for Pedigree.

HT

Ali Zafar spoofs Bollywood songs AFTER winning over fans with his hit songs, Ali Zafar made his name as an actor with his debut Bollywood film, Tere Bin Laden (TBL; 2010). Now, director Abhishek Sharma is making a sequel to it and the actor will be featured in a special song in the film. “It will be a peppy number and will be picturised on Ali. It’s also going to be a take on popuCall Trudi on 07 3356 0102

lar Bollywood songs,” says a source close to the film.

Although Ali is not playing the lead in the film, and has reportedly been replaced by Manish Paul, the inclusion of the song seems to be a way to reach out to his fans. “People who have loved his performance in TBL will get to see him again in the sequel,” adds the source.

AT A recent jewellery store launch in Pune, actress Shilpa Shetty was repeatedly mistaken as fellow actress Vidya Balan.

Shetty, who had come to inaugurate the eighth store of the jewellery brand, was specially called as her birthday also falls on the same date (June 8).

Vidya Balan happens to be the brand ambassador of the store, and has apparently been signed for the next two years as well. She could not be present as she is shooting out of the country. When the owners mistakenly addressed Shilpa as Vidya, a confused Shilpa exclaimed, "I will forgive you for

that. Never mind, Vidya is a friend." Shilpa also made funny gestures of hitting the owners with her mike.

Later, owners were asked if they wished to make Shilpa their brand ambassador. The owners said, "Since we have signed Vidya, we will not be taking any other ambassadors. However, we are lucky to have the gorgeous Shilpa to inaugurate our eighth store in Pune." However, Shilpa jokingly showed 'interest in being the brand ambassador,' by telling, "I wish Vidya goes for a lot of tours and outdoors and I guess I get the opportunity."

Aditya Pancholi assaults a female journalist?

ADITYA Pancholi is back in the news for all the wrong reasons. After being booked for attacking his 55-year-old neighbour in Versova area in Mumbai, the actor has allegedly attacked a female journalist.

An NDTV report says that the actor allegedly attacked a female journalist of a TV channel recently. The report ads that her hand was apparently hurt by Pancholi's car and her camera was also smashed. The inci-

dent happened recently when she went to get a quote from him.

Until recently, the Pancholis have been in the news in relation to starlet Jiah Khan's suicide case. Aditya Pancholi's son, Suraj, was arrested but later released by the police in the suicide case of the 25-year-old Jiah Khan, who hanged herself on June 3rd at her residence in Mumbai.

Mallika Sherawat becomes nostalgic MALLIKA Sherawat was recently in the city to promote her new show, 'The Bachelorette India', and even though it wasn't her first visit to Gurgaon, she felt like it was.

She told us, "This is not the Gurgaon I know. I used to come here many years ago and this is not how I knew this city.

Around 10 years back, I used to come here to meet my cousins and there were no skyscrapers like there are today. Gurgaon used to be quiet and close to nature, and we loved it like that."

The actress keeps shunting between

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Mumbai and LA now, but she's from Haryana, and this visit made her nostalgic. She said, "The positive side of Haryana, or any other smaller village in north India, is the warmth in these families. I love how everyone is so closely connected and people take advice from their taus and chachas and other members of their extended families. This is something that is missing in every metropolitan city elsewhere."

Another thing she misses about Haryana is the food. "Saag in winters is something that I love to eat," she said.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 55

Bollywood & Entertainment Akshay Kumar celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with pomp and gusto

Bollywood movie grand masti hits 100crores mark in India DIRECTOR Indra Kumar’s adult comedy has hit the bull’s eye at the domestic box office - it has crossed Rs.100 crore mark and a trade analyst says it has become “the first adult film to attain the status”.

“And it’s a century... Grand Masti crosses Rs.100 crore net mark in India. First ‘Adults’ film to attain this status,” tweeted trade analyst Taran Adarsh.

Aftab Shivadasani, who plays one of the male leads in the movie, took to the microblogging site to share his excitement about the film’s growing numbers at the ticket window.

Aftab, seen as Prem in Grand Masti, tweeted: “And history is made - the first adult film to make Rs.100 crores! Feeling elated to be a part of history! Thank you all.”

Also starring Riteish Deshmukh and Vivek Oberoi as the male leads, the sequel to 2004 hit movie Masti, came out Sep 13 as it was panned by the critics for being too vulgar.

Co-produced by Ashok Thakeria and Indra Kumar, the film has been presented

by Bharat Shah and distributed by Eros International Worldwide.

After minting Rs.66.4 crore in the opening week, the movie has entered the prestigious Rs.100 crore club in its third week.

Shah is happy about the Indian collection and told IANS: “It’s very good”.

Asked if this indicates that the audience has started accepting sex comedies, he said: “Yes, definitely. The credit goes to the director and producers of the movie and also to the cast.”

HT

International premiere for Kangana Ranaut KANGANA Ranaut is all set to impress the international audience with her yet-to-be released movie, ‘Queen’. The movie is slated for a world premiere at the 18th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) in South Korea. It will be screened in the window on the Asian Cinema section of the festival.

The director of the film, Vikas Bahl, is glad to showcase a ‘human story’ on an international platform.

“We are quite happy to have a world premiere at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival,” says Bahl.

Queen, which was shot in Delhi, traces the journey of a Delhi girl who goes on a world tour alone, after her marriage falls through.

The movie will have three screenings, on October 9, October 10 and October 11.

Bahl, who is travelling to South Korea to showcase the film and to interact with the international press there, says, “I am very excited that a film about a simple girl from Delhi is being recognised and appreciated internationally. It’s good to know that a human story always finds a universal audience.”

Attended by directors, actors and distributors from across the world, Busan has become a favoured destination for filmmakers to reach a global audience. The festival that started on Oct 3 will end on Oct 12.

AKSHAY Kumar, the ‘Boss’ of Bollywood has had a great start to the month starting with his Birthday on the 9th of September when he turned 46, followed by Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations with his friends and family.

Akshay is an ardent believer of Lord Ganesha and offered prayers and gratitude during the holy season for his family and career. Akshay spent a solemn prayerful week with his family and they recently bid adieu to the Lord. Akshay and Twinkle’s elder son Aarav took charge of the Ganpati visarjan this year considering Akshay had to leave for his shoots. The 11year-old seemed to enjoy himself as he actively participated in the rituals before the immersion. Dressed in a sky blue Kurta, Aarav looked dapper and seemed excited as he carefully helped in carrying the idol while the procession made its way to Juhu Beach, where the Lord was later immersed.

Also with Akshay’s latest film ‘Boss’ on its way and the title song basking in a great amount of popularity and liking amongst fans, Akshay and the makers of Boss decided to present their fans with a splendid gift.

Akshay Kumar and the makers of ‘Boss’ made a special ‘Ganpati Mix’ of the track,

which pays respect to the Elephant God. The single has been distributed free across all Ganesha pandals (canopies) across the city and state.

The director of Boss, Anthony D’Souza, reveals what went behind this special mix. “Lord Ganesha is considered to be the Boss of Gods. So we decided to have a version of the title track, dedicated completely to Him. It has the full Ganesh Chaturthi flavour with a lot of celebration and joy,” he says. “For the Ganpati special mix, we have used a lot of dhols and lejhim beats. It is Bappa after all, so even the song has to be more than special.” The song is being played across all pandals during the entire Ganesh festival, with Akshay visiting many of them to offer prayers.

Akshay was also recently seen promoting his film ‘Boss’ alongside long time friend Salman Khan at the sets of Big Boss 7. He seemed to enjoy the opening episode and bonded well with all the contestants as well as Salman.

This month indeed seems to have been packed with great time with family and friends for Akshay and he surely doesn’t seem to be complaining!

Priyanka Chopra to romance Hrithik Roshan or Farhan Akhtar?

AFTER her last hit film, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (ZNMD; 2011), director Zoya Akhtar is now gearing up for her next venture. A week ago, reports revealed that her next film’s female lead, Priyanka Chopra, will play the sister of the male lead Ranveer Singh. The film is a family drama that deals with the relationship between siblings.

Now, sources say that two names — Hrithik Roshan and Farhan Akhtar — have been shortlisted to play the part of Priyanka’s love interest in the movie.

An insider from the production house reveals that Hrithik is currently the makers’ hot favourite, as his pairing with Priyanka in successful movies like Krrish (2006) and Agneepath (2012) has proved to be effective at the box office.

Zoya’s brother, Farhan, however, has an added advantage. Not only has he starred in both of her films — Luck By Chance (2009) and ZNMD; he is producing this untitled project too. “He also seems to be keen on working with Priyanka. On

numerous occasions, Farhan has spoken highly of her acting, in films like Barfi!

(2012) among others,” says an insider.

However, what muddles matters a bit is the fact that the three new projects that Farhan has signed are not being made by his production house. As a result, he might not have any dates to allot to Zoya’s film, which is set to go on the floors either by the end of 2013 or by early 2014.

HT

Namita Debroy’s Nritya Bharati School of Kathak Dance annual concert and graduation ceremony ON 14 September, 2013, Namita Debroy’s Nritya Bharati School of Kathak Dance held its annual concert and graduation ceremony at the Indooroopilly State High School.

This concert was dedicated to Namita Debroy’s late mother, Sm.Kamala Bhowmik who passed away in June this year.

Despite her enormous loss Ms Debroy continued with the concert.

As in the past years, the concert was a great success and the calibre of the performances was beyond expectations. The audience of some 600 enjoyed the synergy of the dances which ranged from classical Kathak dances to folk and Bollywood dances.

56 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Bollywood & Entertainment Ranveer Singh happy with imprint of lean body ACTOR Ranveer Singh shows off a lean muscular body in the song Ram ji ki chaal from the forthcoming film Ramleela, and says he is glad that he got a chance to leave an imprint of his fit frame on celluloid. “It’s probably the most intense training programme that I have been through to get in that kind of shape for Ram ji ki chaal. It’s well worth it now that I see it on screen,” the 28-year-old said in a video of the making of the song. “I am very happy that I looked like that at least once in my life and that it is imprinted on celluloid,” he added.

Deepika Padukone stars opposite Ranveer in this romantic action drama, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Set in Gujarat, Ramleela also stars Gulshan Devaiah and hits theatres November 15.

HT

Disappointed: Irrfan Khan on Oscar debate THE debate around whether Irrfan Khan starrer The Lunchbox should have been India’s official entry to Oscars, instead of The Good Road, has not died down. And after the film’s makers, director Ritesh Batra and producers Anurag Kashyap and Karan Johar aired their disapproval, Khan, too, says that he is disappointed.

"As an actor everybody expects from their film; they are biased about it. The movie is your own product, so you feel disappointed. But they have their own system. Beyond that what can I say? It is the public who will judge. I don't want to judge right now,” he says, adding that the right film should be chosen for the platform.

"Oscars is not just a name. It has the potential to change the construct of Indian cinema. If your film is recognised there, then it changes the perception of the world. It becomes a source of encouragement for the present and the coming generation if the right film goes and does something there. If a film is chosen that

doesn't have the potential to travel that journey, then the opportunity is lost," says the actor who was in the capital recently.

The 46-year-old adds that going by the response the film got at the Cannes Film Festival, The Lunchbox clearly had potential. “From the very beginning, the film had blessed energy around it. When it went to Cannes, it was immediately sold all over the world; which doesn't happen usually. The most fortunate thing about the film is that it has the potential to engage the universal audience," he says.

HT

Juhi Chawla urged Maharashtra state chief secretary Jayant Banthia to take steps to prevent the harmful effects due to radiation from cellular towers JUHI Chawla met Chief Secretary Jayant Banthia on Monday 7 October, urging him for government support to spread awareness regarding the ill effects of radiation coming from mobile towers. The actor has been a prominent member of the movement against the mobile towers in the city for some time now. Speaking to TOI, Banthia said, “She wanted government support to raise awareness about radiation from mobile towers and phones. Many people sleep with their cell phones under their pillows and there are others who keep them in their shirt pockets. She wants the government to help her in creating awareness.’’ Urban development department’s principal secretary Manukumar Srivastava and Environment department’s principal secretary R A Rajeev were also present during the meeting.

Activist Prakash Munshi, of NGO Indians for Safe Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Environments of Radiation from Mobile towers and Associated Hazards, also accompanied Chawla. They both urged Banthia to facilitate more debate on the issue at the government level.

Banthia said the government will soon have a meeting wherein public debate will be held and officials from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and Dr

Rajendra Badwe of Tata Memorial Hospital will be invited to speak. Also, the state government will soon prepare a draft policy on cell phone towers, which will be published on the state urban development department’s website Meanwhile, sources in the state government said the state had commissioned the then additional chief secretary (health) Sharwaree Gokhale to draft a detailed report on ill-effects of cell phone towers and steps to be taken. Soon after her retirement, however, the government did not take much interest in the issue and the drive lost steam. Not only that, the report was damaged in a fire on June 21 last year.

The urban development department, which was asked to make stringent rules regarding the towers, claimed there was no specific report to prove that radiation caused cancer and other diseases.

TOI

Shah Rukh Khan's Happy New Year fetches $5 mn for UAE IT was completed in three weeks and is the first fulllength feature film to be shot almost entirely in the Emirates. The Dubai TV and Film Commission expects more interest from Bollywood now and has received confirmation from two more films already. The shooting of Shah Rukh Khan-starrer.

Happy New Year has brought an estimated $5 million to the UAE, according to a report.

According to The National, benefits to the Emirate's economy include hotel room rents, • Happy New Year cast & crew. flight fare and equipment days. and space rentals.

"This will have an impact culturally.

Dubai TV and Film Commission said that it will provide a more precise figure of the They're creating jobs and we're hoping that earnings through the Shah Rukh-starrer by further Bollywood films will support (our) GDP. We are expecting the next door to this month or the next.

Happy New Year was shot in three weeks open for Bollywood to be in Dubai and the and is the first full-length feature film to be Middle East," Al Sharif said.

Rebates and incentives are one of the key shot almost entirely in the Emirates. It will areas of focus for the film commission as it be released next year.

The film commission expects more interest works to attract productions to the Emirate, from Bollywood now and has received con- not just from Bollywood, but from all over firmation from two more film crews for the world.

"We are putting together plans for the shooting in the Emirates. The commission years to come to provide soft and hard did not provide details of the films.

The commission worked with Khan's pro- incentives and rebates. Dubai is a tax-free duction company, Red Chillies destination and we have to take advantage Entertainment, for about a year to organise of that."

"We're looking to improve many things. the shoot.

In the past, Bollywood films chose Dubai We have a project in Studio City which is part of a Tecom investment to build a as a location only for a scene or two.

"This is not just a dance scene but about 50,000 square foot site with a water tank.

80-90% of the film was shot in Dubai. We These will benefit the filmmakers," Al had to learn the logistics. Normally we've Sharif was quoted by the newspaper as sayonly dealt with a maximum of 40 people ing.

"Dubai needs to let the world know it has who come to do a dance scene in two to five days," chairman of the film commis- the infrastructure. It is comparable to any place in the world. It is high time a lot of sion, Jamal Al Sharif, said.

The Red Chillies team was given a lot of Indian films, not just Bollywood, should be incentives by the Dubai International encouraged to come here and this will be a Airport, Emirates Airline as well as the stepping stone to showcase the beauty of Dubai and how wonderful and easy it is to immigration authorities.

The entire movie crew booked 180 rooms shoot (here)," Shah Rukh said in Dubai last HT at the Atlantis Hotel on the Palm for 25 month.

Double blow to Ranbir Kapoor’s 'Besharam' BESHARAM’S failure at the box office has come as a boon to the smaller releases lined up. While leading multiplexes are pulling down the Ranbir Kapoor starrer from their screens, the surplus has gone to 'War Chhod Na Yaar' and 'Baat Bann Gayi', with the two films seeing an average of 50 percent increase in the number of screens allotted to them.

A source in a suburban multiplex told TOI, "On an average, 'Besharam' will lose 50 percent shows because of its poor performance at the box-office." Anand Vishal, Head of Operations, Fun Republic, said, " While the programming for the coming Friday is yet to be finalised, on an average Besharam is getting five to seven shows a day in a property with three to four screens. War Chhod Na Yaar will see three to four shows in a four screen multiplex."

When contacted, producer of 'War Chhod Na Yaar', Prashanth Narayan confirmed that he has been benefitted. Narayan said, "My distributor has told me about this. The promo has been accepted well and the energy is very positive. We had approximately 400 screens before but now we are getting 700 plus screens."

Meanwhile, 'Besharam's ordeal is not over yet as the film looks set to not fare well in the satellite rights market too. Though

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Jayantilal Gada of Pen India, the agency which procures satellite rights for Zee's entertainment channels, had signed a deal with the makers of the film, a negative clause had also been added to the contract stating that 'Besharam' may have to take a cut in its price tag if it does not cross a certain amount at the box office. Though Gada refused to give us the figure at which the film was bought, sources tell TOI that the film was sold for Rs 45 crore.

Gada elaborated on the clauses of the contract though, saying, "Sometimes films fail at the box office and the satellite deal with the film is linked to its box office performance. We have a clause that there could be a cut in the price if the film does not touch a mark mentioned in the contract.

We also have an exit clause in this case too."

So is Zee reconsidering its satellite deal with the producers of Besharam? Gada replied, "We will decide in the next 30 days as the film has only run for a few days now."

It maybe recalled here that the satellite rights of 'Chennai Express' were sold for Rs 40 crore with a rider—which stated that if the film crosses the business-mark of Rs 138 crore, the producers of the film will get paid Rs 48 crore.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 57

Sports News

Ganga heading for 2,000 medal count GANGA Prasad recently competed at the Trans-Tasmin masters throwing competition, he is still winning medals and chasing his 2,000 medal count.

He competed in Trans-Tasman masters throwing competition in Athletics and won second position. This involved javelin, shot put, hammer throw, weight throw and discus.

It was a great achievement as this competition is between Athletes from New Zealand and Australia.

More competitions coming soon.

Well done Ganga, Congratulations!

QLD vs NSW - Queensland victorious and take title!

FIJI Qld Social Golf Club travelled to Coffs Harbour over the labour day long weekend to play golf against NSW team.

The event was held over two days at Nambucca Heads and Coffs Harbour golf clubs, 26 members took part and were accompanied by their partners.

The Queensland team won the title, making it two in a row.

The annual event is played amongst ex Fiji residents now residing in restrictive states.

IPL spot-fixing probe won't be an eyewash, says justice Mudgal

Retiring from Test cricket made me more emotional: Rahul Dravid NEW DELHI: He has been the finest ambassador for India in the traditional form of the game and Rahul Dravid, after calling time on his cricket career, remained true to his first love -- Test cricket.

"It was (emotional) in some ways. It's when you give up Test cricket, that's when you feel emotional," Dravid said when asked whether he felt emotional turning up for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians in the last match of his professional career.

"It was a privilege to lead such a bunch.

The franchise has gone through a lots of ups and downs. It has been the same group and there was great working environment," Dravid, who captained Rajasthan Royals to the final of Champions League T20, said.

As he has done on many occasions, Dravid did mention that the spot-fixing scandal involving India international S Sreesanth was "very disappointing".

"It wasn't an ideal thing to have happened.

I don't want to comment specifically but those were extremely challenging times," Dravid told in an interview to a TV channel.

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Dravid felt that the spot-fixing incident is a lesson for the cricket establishment that one needs to be "vigilant".

"Look, people who want to corrupt the game are not going to go away. It's a lot about the choices that an individual makes.

We have to be vigilant."

Dravid gave a logical answer as to why he came in at No 8 during the final last night.

"Chasing a target with an asking rate of 11 per over is certainly not my strength at 40 plus," he laughed.

"It has been a memorable journey with the Royals. It started three years back and last two years, I have been a captain. The whole campaign has been excellent. Yesterday was a good night and I got a lovely reception from the Delhi crowd."

He was all praise for veteran Praveen Tambe who grabbed 12 scalps in the tournament to emerge as highest wicket-taker.

"While we play international cricket, we must never forget that we have the Praveens of the world playing for along with us in the club matches. It's a heart warming story of Praveen's skill, fortitude and attitude."

The best part about retirement according to Dravid "is not having to practise anymore".

"I will get to spend more time with my family. I haven't planned about my second innings. Right now however, I need a holiday."

NEW DELHI: Justice Mukul Mudgal assured that the probe into the IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal would not be an eyewash.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday 8 October set up a probe panel headed by former chief justice of Punjab and Haryana high court Mudgal to inquire into the allegation of betting and spot-fixing in IPL. "I can assure that it won't be an eyewash, I don't have the terms of references right now and I can say more after I get it," Mudgal told a news channel.

The justice reminded that the probe has been constituted by the apex court and not BCCI. The "cricket loving" justice also hinted that if the need arise the committee can question anybody in the Indian Cricket Board.

Senior advocate and additional solicitor general N Nageshwar Rao and Assam Cricket Association (ACA) member Nilay Dutta are the other two members of the newly-formed probe committee, and Mudgal have no doubts about their credentials.

The court has asked the probe panel to complete its inquiry within four months.

The apex court also directed BCCI and Srinivasan not to interfere in the probe.

The committee will investigate Gurunath Meiyappan and owners of Rajasthan Royals and file a report on erring IPL franchisees, it said.

The SC also ruled that N Srinivasan can resume his duties as BCCI president, so long as he doesn't deal with any matters relating to the IPL.

My goal is to be number one in the world: Sania Mirza HYDERABAD: Having won five doubles titles in the 2013 season, Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza termed the year as one of the best of career and hoped to win more Grand Slams and be world number one in the years to come.

"People win one tournament and say they had a good year. So, I am very happy. One of the main targets is to try and win a Slam. I am going to try and win more Slams and try and win a women's Grand Slam as well.

That's what we really play for. May be, that's the only target I can set," she told reporters at her tennis academy on the outskirts of the www.indiantimes.com.au

city.

Sania's latest triumph came in the China Open where she teamed up with Cara Black in women's doubles.

"I always used to say when I was playing, whenever I used to give myself a target, I used to get injured. So, I stopped giving myself a target. Because, I would achieve it and I would get hurt. Sometimes, I think I push my body too much.

"If someone told me at the beginning of the year, I am going to win five tournaments by the end of year, I would have taken it with both hands.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013 — 59

60 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, October, 2013

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102