BIT SEPT 12 ISSUE

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Volume 9, Number 12 Saturday, September 15, 2012

Brisbane

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

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

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Qld Treasurer delivers 2012-13 State budget

Full story page 6

• Treasurer Tim Nicholls delivered the 2012-13 budget on 11 September.

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• • • • • • • • • • • •

Inside

Letters to the Editor.......................2 Migration Matters...........................4 Local News.................................3-19 Business News...............................20 Who, What, Where, When..........22 Health & Well Being................28-32 Astrology.........................................32 Real Estate................................33-35 Business Directory/Classifieds...36-37 What’s On................................38-43 Bollywood & Entertainment...44-45 Sport..........................................46-47

Brisbane

Indian Times A Div isi on of Qld Multicultural Time s

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

From the Publisher WELCOME to the September Issue of our newspaper, last month has been such a busy month for me and September poised to be a bit relaxed.

I must begin by putting on record my amazement at the audience behaviour of Brisbane, we have definitely come a long way and have truly come of age, yes I am talking about the behaviour at various shows in Brisbane. We are now witnessing a very well behaved audience as opposed to the very rowdy behaviour witnessed a few years back, when we had toilet cisterns being ripped off, hand basins smashed, abusive remarks to artists. All of these led to many venues becoming very strict and some refusing to give the venues for our functions.

The second India Day Fair proved to be a great success, the credit goes to the whole committee for putting together such a professional event. I was fortunate to visit Townsville for the international Unity in Diversity Conference and Townsville Cultural festival. Dr Favadin Daliri is truly a father figure for the town, the support and respect that the community gives him is heartening.

I spoke to many people and they all said yeah we are doing this for Dr Farvadin,

even the technician who fixed my laptop for the presentation, said he did not work for the venue but had come to help Dr Farvardin with the arrangements, he looked after all the AV requirements for the conference. I spoke to St John's Ambulance, the security people, the gate keepers all worked in Harmony.

I must mention the Bollywood segment, amazing performances by the student groups, they gave such powerful performances. Roving around the festival grounds I ran into some very old friends, friends whom I had not seen for almost 27 years.

From Townsville I headed off to Auckland to take part in my Mums 80th birthday.

Talking about birthdays, September marks our birthday, Brisbane Indian Times was launched in September 2003, the first full colour publication of its kind, this is our Volume 9 number 12 meaning the twelfth issue in year nine. The next issue will be the first one in our tenth year. It has been an extraordinary journey thus far, a journey full of challenges tears and sweat. Trudi has shared this journey for all bar a few issues, from day one we have maintained a full time professional office in a business premises. Our distribution is by a professional company. Our news paper has main-

tained its unique uninfluenced original style and quality. We have supported many community associations with their functions.

Brisbane Indian Times was nominated for Lord Mayors multicultural awards.

I must say that many of the community positions that I have held have been a result of our newspaper. I have had the good opportunity of taking part in so many functions, all off which adds to the life skills and widens your vision. We have been continually increasing the number of prints to meet the demands, I understand some outlets run out very quickly. I must thank all our distributers, advertisers, correspondents and readers for the continued support. I have often been criticised for having too much about me in the newspaper, I try not to be in there too much but it becomes our professional obligation to report on as many functions as possible, fortunately or unfortunately I do attend quite a few of them and leaving them out just because I am associated in some way will not be fair to them. I must stop now for obvious reasons. Looking forward to our next issue Volume 10 Number 1 as we embark upon our tenth anniversary year.

Until next month, Happy reading Umesh Chandra

Letters to the Editor Brisbane Indian Times welcomes letters to the editor. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 300 words. All letters, must have a full name, residential address and a phone number. Hard copy letters must have legible signature. Only your name and suburb are published. Initials and pen names are not accepted. All correspondence to the editor is assumed to be for publication unless marked otherwise. The editor reserves the right to abridge, alter (edit) or withhold any correspondence without explanation. Opinions expressed must be genuinely held by the letter writer. Please send your thoughts and opinions to: The Editor, Brisbane Indian Times, PO Box 197, Taigum Qld 4018 or email: prod@indiantimes.com.au

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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.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 3

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations SkillSelect Round 1 Results

ON 1 August 2012 the first round of invitations to apply to migrate under the new skilled independent and skilled family sponsored visas were issued. As SkillSelect is a new system, the first round of invitations was low, with the expectation they will increase in the next round on 1 September 2012. Invitations to apply to migrate were for the following visas: • Skilled Independent (subclass 189) visa; and • Skilled – Nominated or Sponsored (Provisional) (subclass 489) visa (Family Sponsored) This process does not include nominations by state and territory governments, which also result in invitations being issued. State and territory governments have been nominating clients since 1 July 2012 and data on outcomes is provided below.

The number of invitations to apply to migrate issued under the August 2012 round was 100 places (significantly lower than future rounds). And they were allocated as follows: • Skilled - Independent (Subclass 189) (Permanent) 90 • Skilled - Regional (Subclass 489) (Provisional) - Family Sponsored 10 The following table above right shows points claimed by the clients who were successfully invited to apply in this round.

In each round of invitations to apply to migrate, the highest point scorers for each subclass are invited to apply for the relevant visa. For clients who have the same level of points, the time at which they reached their current points score in that subclass (referred to as the visa status date) determines the order of invitation. EOIs with earlier visa status dates are invited before later status dates.

In this round, the lowest points score

invited, and the latest visa status date invited was 75 for both Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) (Permanent) & Skilled - Regional (Subclass 489) (Provisional) - Family Sponsored.

Significant investor visa

The Significant investor stream will commence from 24 November 2012 through the SkillSelect system.

Significant investor stream

The significant investor visa will be part of the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (Subclass 188) visa and the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) (Subclass 888) visa.

Visa applicants must: • submit an expression of interest in SkillSelect • be nominated by a state or territory government • make investments of at least five million Australian dollars into complying investments.

Visa applicants do not need to satisfy the innovation points test and there are no upper age limits. The visa stream features a residence requirement of 160 days spent in Australia over four

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years while holding the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) visa. Visa holders will be allowed to extend their provisional visa by an additional two years, with a maximum of two extensions permitted.

Complying investments

Complying investments for the significant investor visa stream include: • State or territory government bonds • Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) regulated managed funds with a mandate for investing in Australia • direct investment into private Australian companies not listed on the Australian stock exchange.

Visa applicants may hold investments in each of the above investment options and may also change between complying investments, provided they meet specified reinvestment requirements. The investment must be held in the name of the applicant, or together with the name of their spouse or de facto partner and must be made: • directly by the applicant or together with their spouse or de facto partner Continued page 6

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 5

Qld Treasurer delivers International Unity in diversity 2012-13 State budget conference in Townsville From front page THE first budget of Campbell Newman's Liberal National Party (LNP) government, elected in March, will deliver a $10.8 billion deficit for 2012/13.

Treasurer Tim Nicholls says the deficit is largely due to decisions locked in by the previous Labor government, and also includes $800 million in one-off redundancy payments for thousands of public servants axed since March.

But Mr Nicholls has boasted of a $652 million surplus to come in 2014/15, the first genuine surplus Queensland would have in nine years.

The debt "nosedive" the government has leaned on to justify its massive program of jobs and services cut is being reversed, with debt sitting at $73.7 billion in 2012/13 and falling.

In 2013/14, the deficit is projected to be reduced to $3.7 billion, representing a $7 billion turnaround in just one year, Mr Nicholls says.

While the treasurer has celebrated the results of his tough economic settings, Tuesday's budget will be remembered by most for the broad scale job cuts it contains.

The document confirms the equivalent of 14,000 full-time jobs in the state public service will be lost in 2012/13, with 10,600 redundancies to be paid.

Mr Nicholls says the government will stop the job cuts there, with voluntary separations and redundancies to cost $3.7 billion over the next four budgets.

"What we've done today is the extent of the fiscal repair task, we don't anticipate that we will need to undertake this type of task again," he told reporters.

"We hope this government nor any other government has to."

The budget also confirmed miners' fears, with a hefty increase in coal royalties.

Coal valued at between $100 and $150 a tonne will now be subject to a 12.5 per cent tax - up from 10 per cent.

Coal sold for more than that price

will attract a 15 per cent royalty, up from 10 per cent.

Mr Nicholls said that over the next four years, royalty payments would be down by $1 billion, and tax revenue down by $1.1 billion.

He said he had little choice but to hit coal miners with higher royalties, to generate $1.6 billion over the next four years.

"We believe that in terms of the equity across the board ... we'll see a fair division of royalties," Mr Nicholls said, rejecting criticism that Queensland would be the most expensive place in the world to mine.

Miners could rely on the royalties regime to remain in place for 10 years, and have access to a new senior cabinet committee, Mr Nicholls said.

Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan has threatened to penalise states dollar for dollar, through cuts to federal funding, if they increase royalties.

Under the 30 per cent minerals resource rent tax (MRRT) on the "super profits" of miners, the federal government is bound to reimburse them for all existing mining royalties and any future increases the states impose.

Mr Nicholls said he would be surprised if Mr Swan decided to penalise his home state in that way.

"If Mr Swan has a problem with his own legislation he should take it back into the House in Canberra and not penalize Queenslanders," he said.

Also rising is the property transfer duty threshold and rate, with the threshold for the highest marginal rate to increase from $980,000 to $1 million.

Casinos and clubs will contribute an extra $16.5 million to the state's coffers in 2012/13 thanks to changes to gaming taxes.

Economic growth in Queensland is expected to remain solid in 2012/13 at four per cent, and unemployment to remain steady at around six per cent.

THE fifth International Unity in Diversity Conference was held Rydes Hotel Southbank Townsville from 16th to 17th August. The event was part of Townsville cultural festival which is in its 18th year under the able leadership of Dr Farvadin daliri (OAM).

The Conference theme "A Transition to Change" was very timely. As the global community is forced to reconsider its perspective on human relations, resource management, ecological responsibility and financial accountability, we are also facing the prospect of inevitable changes as a result of systemic failure of world institutions, in securing human dignity, rights and ecological sustainability. Furthermore, due to global economical challenges, we are forced to step backward from the vision of protection of the dignity of humanity and bio diversity of ecology. Australia as a nation is not immune from these drastic developments that will either throw nations into chaos of unpredictable changes or result in further disadvantaging less able people of the world such as refugees and third world countries.

The conference attracted international experts and leaders who led the discussions about transition for change as a reality of the immediate future with a view that if communities prepare for a change and conscious acceptance of positive direction for change, the world will be a better place for all.

The first session on day one was chaired by Umesh Chandra of GOPIO International and President Queensland Multicultural Council. The keynote address was by Helen Szoke Federal Race discrimination commissioner with the topic Racial Equality Myth or Possibility, this was followed by a presentation by Warren McMillan Chair of Multicultural development Foundation and People of Australia Ambassador. Galila Adelsalem presented on behalf of Islamic Women's Association of Queensland.

Source Herald Sun

Umesh Chandra moderated the plenary session with Latesha Tuck, Community Educator, gambling Help Team at Centacare, Coralie Cassidy, indigenous representative and Joe Maloney Research and information officer Australian Catholic Migrant & Refugee Office.

In the afternoon session Umesh Chandra presented his key Note address. He presented a paper on Turning Vision into reality - The challenges.

On day two Dr Andrew Jakubowicz presented a paper on " What would a real policy on Multiculturalism look like, if we had one? Dr Farvadin Daliri spoke on " Multiculturalism is more Aussie than BBQ". Erfan Daliri presented on Building a resilient Community. Senator Claire Moore delivered her key note speech, Robert Hointink State director for Department of Immigration and Citizenship spoke on the movement of people as refugees globally and Australia's position.

A panel debate facilitated by Ann Pedler took place in the afternoon session. The conference was very well organised, attendees got free passes to the cultural festival which takes place annually along the Strand.

The festival showcases various community talents on many stages, a global village is also created during the festival, foods from around the world was available at various stalls.

Various talented artists performed on the main stage, the show stealer was the Bollywood segment. As soon as the segment was announced the huge marquee had no spare seats left. The dances presented were mainly by the Indian Students, and they did put a lot of energy in the dances, truly amazing.

The cheer and applauses were very encouraging. Lately there has been a large influx of Indian students in regional cities like Townsville and Darwin.

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Continued from page 4 • through a company where the total amount of issued shares are owned by the applicant or together with their spouse or de facto partner • through a valid trust where the trustees and beneficiaries include the applicant or their spouse or de facto partner together.

Investments cannot be held within the superannuation regime.

Australian Securities and Investment Commission regulated managed funds

Complying managed fund investments must be regulated

by ASIC. The mandate for the managed fund must be in Australian assets only and limited to the following: • infrastructure projects in Australia • cash held by Australian deposit taking institutions • bonds issued by a state or territory government • bonds or equity in Australian companies listed on the Australian stock exchange • bonds or term deposits issued by Australian financial institutions • real estate property in Australia • other ASIC regulated managed funds that invest in the above list of assets.

The fund must be open to the general public and the fund manager must provide a compliance declaration adhering to the Department’s investment requirements.

Direct investment into non-listed Australian companies

For direct investment into non-listed Australian companies to be classed as a ‘complying investment’, the following criteria must be met: - the company must genuinely operate a qualifying busi6 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

ness in Australia - the applicant must obtain an ownership interest in the company - the company must be registered with ASIC - the company must have an Australian Business Number (ABN).

Qualifying business

The Migration Regulations 1994 define a qualifying business as an enterprise that: a) is operated for the purpose of making profit through the provision of goods, services or goods and services (other than the provision of rental property) to the public; and b) is not operated primarily or substantially for the purpose of speculative or passive investment.

Ownership interest

The Migration Act 1958 defines ownership interest: In relation to a business, means an interest in the business as: a) a shareholder in a company that carries on the business; or b) a partner in a partnership that carries on the business; or c) the sole proprietor of the business; Including such an interest held indirectly through one or more interposed companies, partnerships or trusts;

Residence Requirement

Investors are required to spend a minimum of 160 days in Australia over four years while holding the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) visa. If an investor chooses to extend their provisional visa additional time spent in Australia is required. The residence requirements for the three possible periods of the visa are; - 160 days over four years for the initial provisional visa, www.indiantimes.com.au

or - 240 days over six years for the first extension, or - 320 days over eight years for the second extension.

Investors will be able to satisfy the residence requirement at any time while holding a Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (subclass 188) visa.

Condition 8503 ‘No Further Stay’

Condition 8503 can be applied to a visa and limits the holder’s ability to apply for another visa (other than a protection visa or a temporary visa of a specific kind) to extend their stay whilst in Australia. Once departed from Australia, this condition no longer applies. This condition allows the department to grant more visas in those cases where extra surety may be needed that a visa applicant will depart Australia at the end of the period of stay allowed by the visa.

Imposing condition 8503 is discretionary and may be imposed on many visa subclasses, more commonly in the Visitor Visa program. Within this program, it is a mandatory condition on Sponsored Family Visitor (Subclass 679); Approved Destination Status scheme Tourist visa for People’s Republic of China (Subclass 676) and Professional Development visa (Subclass 470) In the 2011-12 Visitor Visa program year, 389 084 visas were granted with 8503 imposed (49% of all application DIAC use their discretion to impose condition 8503 on 237 485 visitor visas, of which 90% were Subclass 676 – Tourist visas.

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) Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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Be prepared this summer Visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/beprepared or call Council on (07) 3403 8888. If you need an interpreter, call 131 450 and ask to speak with Brisbane City Council.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 7

Sripad BV Siddhanti Maharaja visits Brisbane for Jamnastami Submitted by Sundar Gopal Das IT was Maharajaji’s first trip out of India and we were fortunate that he was in Brisbane for Sri Krishna Janmastami.

Evening programs were held for 8 days leading to Janmastami at the Paloma Reception Centre in Sunnybank.

The programs were well attended and the audience was captivated with Maharajaji’s harikatha. On Janmastami night Maharajaji kept everyone awake to midnight via his sweet harikatha, recitation of prayers, lively kirtana, culminating in abhiseka, bathing of the Lord, arati and followed by prasadam.

Over the eight nights, Maharajaji quickly went through Srimad Bhagavatam giving important instructions through the pastimes of Dhruva, Prahlad, Ajamila and Ambarisa Maharaja and then related the sweet pastimes of Sri Krishna. Everyone also enjoyed participating in Govardhana puja.

A little excerpt from his classes is as follows.

The sweet pastimes of Sri Krishna are described in Srimad Bhagavatam. Srimad Bhagavatam was compiled by Sri Vyasadeva. Even though he had divided the Vedas, manifested the Upanisads, Mahabharat and Puranas, he still wasn't satisfied. He couldn’t understand why and asked his spiritual master, the great sage Narada Rsi. Narada Rsi replied that although Vyasadeva had written so much, he had not given emphasis on the pastimes of Sri Krishna, especially His sweet Vrndavana pastimes.

Narada Rsi continued. Sri Krishna took birth like an ordinary baby in Vrndavana.

He played with His cowherd friends like an ordinary person, climbing on their shoulders and them climbing on His shoulders.

His friends used to feed Him their remnants. They do not believe that Sri Krishna is God but their best friend. They have so much intimacy with Sri Krishna.

Furthermore seeing Sri Krishna naughtiness, Mother Yasoda goes to chastise Him and Sri Krishna becomes scared of her and starts crying even though fear itself is frightened of Sri Krishna. You have not written all this.

Furthermore Sri Krishna becomes completely controlled by the selfless pure love of the gopis and gives up His crown at their feet saying I cannot repay you even though He stated in the Bhagavad Gita that He is the Supreme Lord.

Naradaji continued to Vyasadeva. If you write about these pastimes automatically your soul will become peaceful and satisfied. On the advice of Narada Rsi, Vyasadeva compiled Srimad Bhagavatam and within it wrote the sweet pastimes of Sri Krishna.

Most people have a disease of the ear. This disease is the eagerness to hear worldly things, in particular when speaking about others. If one continually listens to the pastimes of Sri Krsna, especially His childhood pastimes, this can cure this disease of the ear. Sri Krishna’s childhood pastimes are so sweet and enchanting that they completely attract the heart.

The Lord performs such sweet pastimes to taste the love of His devotees, bestowing compassion unto His devotees and drowning them in an ocean of bliss.

• Simone Nalatu.

ing in providing a variety of opportunities to get physically active with netball and volley ball. The Good Start Program from Children’s Health Queensland, Queensland Health will be present to engage children in some activities that will be fun and educational. There is also a marching parade where there is an opportunity to show dance and style talent! There will be food stalls to keep bellies full and lots of company to keep the talanoa going. If you are interested in a friendly social game of netball please be in touch with either Simone or Reema. It would be great to see both communities uniting together to celebrate Fiji Day. For more information about either of these days please contact Simone Nalatu 0412 399 424 or brisfijisports@hotmail.com or Reema Naresh yatrika@gmail.com 0431 533 947

08 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

• Abihseka of the Lord on Janmastami.

• Devotees carrying Bhoga to offer to Giriraja Govardhan.

Just as Sri Krishna’s pastimes were full of nectar for Vyasadeva, hearing these pastimes will be cause of our liberation and cut all our bondage to this world. Hearing and reciting of Sri Krishna’s pastimes will make us develop unflinching love for Him and

destroy all the illusion in the heart.

Any comments or questions, please contact us on bhaktibrisbane2010@gmail.com We regularly gather together for sat-sanga so please contact us if you are interested.

Government extends tourist visas for parents of Australians

Celebrate Fiji Independence Day the Fijian Way… with Sport & Socialising TO celebrate Fiji Independence Day, a Sports Day has been organised. The sports day will feature a Rugby 7’s competition, a netball and volleyball competition. This year the rugby competition will be held at North Rugby Union Club on the 6th October 2012. The netball and volleyball competition will be held the following week, 13th October 2012 at the Bracken Ridge Indoor Sports Centre.

Each event is designed to bring all members of the Fijian community together to celebrate Fiji Day. In the past the day has been patroned mainly by the indigenous Fijian community. This year it the hope of the organising committee to celebrate and share this event with all who trace their lineage to Fiji, in particular Fiji Indians.

It would be great if the Fiji Indian Community could rally up support and put in for a mixed netball team. The focus of the day in on non competitive social games, there will be a medal for all who participate. The day looks promis-

• Sripad BV Siddhanti Maharaja.

THE Gillard Government will extend tourist visas for parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to enable them to visit their family in Australia for longer, the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Chris Bowen MP, announced on 4 September, 2012.

“I know that many people are patiently waiting in the queue for a parent visa so we want to provide more generous tourist visas to enable regular extended family visits,” Mr Bowen said.

“The Government will grant five-year tourist visas with a 12-month stay on each entry to suitable applicants who have applied for a parent visa outside Australia.

“The Government will also consider tourist visas of up to three years with a 12-month stay on each entry for people not currently in the parent visa queue.

“These changes recognise the valuable role parents play in assisting their children and grandchildren in Australia and the social

benefits such visits provide.”

The changes are expected to be in place by the end of this year.

“Tourist visa grants will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will enable parents to spend more time in Australia with their families while they wait for a parent visa,” Mr Bowen said.

“To be granted a tourist visa, applicants must meet Australia’s health and character requirements, have access to adequate funds, have health insurance to cover any healthcare costs during their stay, and intend a genuine visit to Australia.”

Tourist visa holders will be subject to a visa condition limiting applications for further visas while they are in Australia. As with all tourist visa holders, they will be expected to spend some time outside Australia between visits to their families.

For more information on the changes visit www.immi.gov.au/visitors/tourist/ whats-new.htm

Labor stands up for Queensland’s multicultural community with new Bill OPPOSITION Leader Annastacia Palaszczuk has today (23 August 2012) reintroduced important legislation into State Parliament recognising Queensland’s important multicultural community after the LNP Government refused to.

Ms Palaszczuk said the Multicultural Recognition Bill was originally introduced by the former government but, after lapsing after the last Parliament, was to be scrapped by the LNP. “And I was appalled to learn that,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“In a multicultural society like Queensland this refusal of recognition by the LNP government is not only disturbing, it’s discourteous and offensive.

“This LNP Government by refusing to take up the cause has in turn refused to recognise our multicultural community.

“We already know that the LNP doesn’t care about Queensland’s multicultural community but they have rubbed salt into that wound by slashing services provided by multicultural organisations.

www.indiantimes.com.au

“The philosophy behind this Bill is fundamental – Queensland’s multicultural community is vibrant and important and valuable. It is a community that deserves the recognition of us all and the Labor Party will always recognise that.”

Ms Palaszczuk said Queensland had a proud record of welcoming people from diverse cultural, religious and linguistic backgrounds.

“Queensland is a multicultural success story—home to more than 200 cultures, 220 languages and 100 religious beliefs.

“People from all walks of life and all parts of the globe have all contributed towards our great state.

“Around one in five Queenslanders were born overseas and 7.8 per cent of us speak a language other than English at home.

The Multicultural Recognition Bill recognises the diversity of the people of Queensland and the valuable contribution of diverse groups to the Queensland community and promotes Queensland as a united, harmonious and inclusive community.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 9

International Arya Swim-A-Thon to raise Mahasammelan (Summit) 2012 - $70,000 to purchas a New Delhi India new urgently needed

bus for Kuraby State Special School

By Jitendra Deo President APSQ A memorable gathering of Aryans and Arya Samajas from all over the globe International Arya Mahasammelan will be held in New Delhi India from 25th to 28th October 2012.

Sarvdeshik Arya Pratinidhi Sabha - International Arya League in association with Delhi Arya Pratinidhi Sabha have taken the initiative of bringing together the Aryans of the entire world and the aim is to eradicate the differences between various sects and religions and to make the world "Noble". India hosted the first International Arya Mahasammelan in New Delhi in 2006. The event was so successful that a decision was taken to organise similar Arya Mahasammelans in different countries in subsequent years.

Accordingly International Arya Mahasammelans were organised in Chicago USA – 2007, Mauritius- 2008, and Suriname 2009 and Holland 2010.

The modern age is an age of logical thinking. In this age every subject is to be proved through intellect and logic.

Any subject matter whether religious, social or political is not to be accepted blindly just because our ancestors have told us to do so. One should only accept a fact if it has been proved true, through knowledge and science and is in accordance with the law and its creation. After the centuries of darkness Maharishi

Dayanand Saraswati was the first person in the modern age who laid the foundation of the organization called Arya Samaj. This organization was formed on the basis of intellectual thinking and differentiating truth and untruth. Arya Samaj is not a religion though it is a religious organization which practices the teachings of the four VEDAS, namely RIGVED, YAJURVED, SAMVED and ATHARVAVED. Hinduism as per the teachings of the VEDAS had existed for thousands of years but had been polluted by the malpractices through ignorance of what is right. When Maharishi Dayanand saw that Hindus were carried away by a number of beliefs which did not hold good as religious principles, he realized that it was time to remind people of their glorious past which was framed by the great people like Shri Ram Ji and Shri Krishn Ji and great rishis like Yajnavalkya, Vasisht, Vishvamittra, Patanjali, Kanad, Jaimini and others.

Arya Samaj is the revival of the ancient VEDIC movement and this is the only institution which stands for the VEDIC religion devoid of any superstitions and blind faiths, it is inviting humanity under the banner of “One GOD one religion and one community.

The Sammelan will be attended by representatives from the following countries: Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa, Australia, Fiji, Myanmar, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand,

Armenia, Bangladesh, Japan, Nepal, Pakistan, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Holland, Russia, Switzerland, UK, Canada, USA, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago.

There will be strong representation from Australia and Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Australia will represented by up to 12 members who will be heading to New Delhi in October. It will be an opportunity for the Aryajans from all over the world to congregate.

An estimated two hundred thousand Aryans from all over the world are expected to witness and partake in this magnificent and grand occasion.

Many eminent sanyasies and scholars will form the core group of the gathering. Our revered Gurukuls, Dayanand Sevashram Sangh and Arya Veer Dal are the source of such excellence. The programs will be divided in a number of parallel sessions and will be arranged in such a manner that every one will have options to attend program of his/ her choice.Many esteemed speakers will address those sessions making it an interactive and soul – searching experience.

Adequate arrangements have been made for all the guests with daily havan yajna, yoga and spiritual discourses.

This is once in a life time opportunity and Aryans from all over the world are invited to be a part of this historical and memorable event under the auspices of Arya Samaj.

Indonesian Eid Ul Fitr

• David Forde with some of the students from Kuraby State Special School.

KURABY State Special School has 80 The Lions Club of Kuraby have organstudents with intellectual impairment ised a Swim-A-Thon to raise the much from a diverse range of cultures (includ- needed funds to purchase the new bus. ing Aboriginal) and religions. Students They request that you please sponsor/ are aged between 5 to 19 years old. support the 10km (400 x lap) non-stop 40% of the students have Autism and a swim as undertaken by David Forde further 12% have additional impairment from the Lions Club of Kuraby.

- physical, hearing or vision impairment.

To add to the challenge, the swim will All the students have an be completed only using arms (no leg intellectual impairment Please suppo allowed). rt a 10km kicks and so do not learn at (400 x The Swim-A-Thon will take lap) non the same level or rate as swim place on Friday 19 October, as undertak -stop commencing their peers. Thus, it is D at 5.45am at e n b y important and essential avid Forde from th Runcorn Swimming Pool e (behind Runcorn State High to teach students real Lions Club of Ku ra b y life situations to assist School). them in developing All the proceeds through the their understanding of concepts and life Lions Club of Kuraby and skills.

100% of sponsorships to the bus proA school bus is essential to take the stu- ject. dents to these “real life” places where they can maximise the learning time.

For further information please Many of the students cannont physically access train or public bus transport. contact Ian Glew on 0412 507 478 or The school has a 24 seater bus which is ianglew@optusnet.com.au. very old and constantly in need of very Sponsorships can be paid by concostly repairs. The school need to tacting Ian Glew or via direct bank replace the bus with a new one as a matdebit to the Lions Club of Kuraby ter of urgency.

Westpac Bank Account: BSB 034 Finding the money is a major task for 093 Account 256 210. such a small school. A new 24 seater If paying by direct debit, please bus, fully seat belted, will cost approxiinclude your name and the word mately $110,000. Today, about $70,000 “swim” is still to be raised.

INDONESIAN Islamic Society of Brisbane celebrated Eid Ul Fitr at Holland Park State School on Sunday 26th August.

In the holy month of Ramadhan Muslims fast. When the month is completed they celebrate a special day called Eidul Fitr.

The Indonesian Community have a tradition of celebrating Eid Ul Fitr with

their family and having a feast with their neighbours (Muslims and non Muslims). This tradition in Brisbane is continued by Indonesian Islamic Society of Brisbane were by they invite Indonesian Community, Islamic Organizations, Humanitarian Organizations, Community Leaders and Interfaith Groups to celebrate the special occa-

sions together.

The colourful display of delightful cultural items where performed on stage, Dr Abdallah as the main speaker delivered a powerful unscripted Talk on Multiculturalism in Islam. A delicious Indonesian feast followed the official proceedings.

• From left: President Islamic Council of Queensland, Brother Muhammad Yusuf with wife, Usha and Umesh Chandra (President Queensland Multicultural Council) as well our main sponsor, Dr Abdallah (main speaker; Multicultural in Islam).

10 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

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2012–2013 Multicultural Qld partnerships program annual grants round THE Queensland Government is committed to creating more inclusive communities and celebrating the rich cultural diversity that exists in our state.

I am pleased to advise that the 2012-2013 Multicultural Queensland Partnerships program annual grants round is open.

The grants round offers funding for community events and projects that promote multiculturalism, positive community relations and community capacity, including improved access to services, under the following categories: • week-long festivals • multicultural festivals • cultural heritage events • strengthening capacity projects I encourage organisations and community groups across Queensland to consider submitting funding proposals with innovative strategies, such as the new week long format, to support the promotion of increased community awareness about Queensland’s rich cultural diversity and its benefits, and improved support for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to access services.

Queensland Multicultural Week, alongside Lunar New Year Week and Italian Week are the official ‘State Government’ endorsed and promoted weeks. Applicants from across Queensland are encouraged to hold their community events within the dates stipulated below. This format will assist applicants and their community’s ability to expose the many benefits of their event to a wider audience. Each event will be promoted and included as part of the State wide promotions.

Participation in this week can be comprised of a single event which occurs on a particular day, up to a multitude of several events across several days.

The proposed event must be held at a time relevant to: • Lunar New Year (10 – 24 February 2013) • Italian Week (26 May – 2 June 2013) • Queensland Multicultural Week (1 – 9 September 2013).

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The year 2013 marks the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Australian South Sea Islanders, who were first brought to Queensland between 1863 and 1904 from eighty Pacific Islands, but primarily from Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands to work in the sugar industry. Since then, Australian South Sea Islanders have played a major role in the economic, cultural and regional development of Queensland, contributing to many other aspects beyond the sugar industry.

Australian South Sea Islanders have a unique place in Australian and Queensland history as a distinct cultural group. The original South Sea Islanders were first brought to Queensland between 1863 and 1904 from 80 Pacific Islands, primarily Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, to work predominantly in the sugar industry. Of mainly Melanesian descent, they were for nearly 50 years the industry's principal labour source.

Organisations which are looking at developing activities that commemorate the 150th anniversary of the arrival of Australian South Sea Islanders in Queensland, and proposals that aim to increase community awareness about the needs or promote improved support for Australian South Sea Islanders are encouraged to apply for funding.

The 2012–2013 Funding Information Paper has further details about other funding priorities, funding categories and how to develop an application, and can be accessed at www.multicultural.qld.gov.au/ multicultural.

The closing date for applications is 10 October 2012.

If you require further information on the program or the Funding Information Paper, you may contact Multicultural Affairs Queensland on 3224 5006.

Arthur Maudlin Acting Executive Director, Multicultural Affairs Qld, Department of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander & Multicultural Affairs

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 11

GOPIO Queensland hosts India Day Fair GOPIO Queensland hosted their second India Day Fair on 12 August at Roma Street Parklands. The second India Day Fair attracted more than ten thousand people throughout the course of the day. Glorious Queensland weather added to the fabulous day. The day began with a parade led by Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and many other dignitaries, many supporting associations also took part. Following the Parade the flag raising ceremony took place, Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and Honorary Consul for India in Queensland, Mrs Archana Singh respectively raised the flags while the National anthem were sung from the main stage.

Traditional welcome to country was conducted by Uncle Albert Holt an indigenous Elder. GOPIO Queensland Chapter President Mr Shyam Das welcomed everyone to the function, he highlighted the importance of the celebration and thanked everyone for coming. He also recognised the support of local and State government in making India Day Fair a reality in Queensland.

Other speakers included Dr Maha Sinnathamby, Patron of GOPIO Queensland, who delivered an inspirational speech motivating everyone. Mrs Archana Singh honorary Consul for India in Queensland also spoke on the importance of celebrating India's Independence Day, and in doing so paid respect to the brave soldiers who gave their lives in the freedom struggle.

This was India's 65th Independence anniversary.

Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robert Cavallucci talked on the strong ties between India and Queensland, he was said the department was particularly pleased to support India Day Fair now in its second year. Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, eloquently dressed in his Indian costume spoke on India Independence day and the cordial relationship that Brisbane shared with India and in particular with Hyderabad, Brisbane's sister city. He jokingly said the he could not give whole of Brisbane a public holiday on 15th August, but central Brisbane only. 15th August was the Ekka Day Holiday for Central Brisbane.

GOPIO Queensland Committee had made provisions for adverse weather by having a large supply of Umbrellas and caps, these were especially brought in from India and they had GOPIO logos on them. The raffle ticket was streamlined with a single draw pattern, the tickets were especially made in a lottery ticket style with a perforated butt that had the name and contact details of the winner, this was done to save time. China Southern Airlines sponsored the raffle ticket for a return flight from Brisbane to Delhi.

The stage performances this year were of a very high standard, the performance s were complimented by a good sound system. The stage management team, the programming committee, other committee members, the MC's and volunteers all worked seamlessly in maintaining a steady flow of the program within the timeline. The programming committee had several requests for performances which could not be accommodated due to time restraints. This year the audience numbers remained steady throughout the day. Their cheering and applauses encouraged the performers, they were obviously enjoying the program. There was a variety of performances including a live Band, classical dances, Patriotic songs, Old time melodies, regional Folk dances, Choirs, Bollywood dances and much more.

Brisbane Babas Band performed old time favourites, current Bollywood, delightful Tamil numbers and their famous Bhangra.

The Bhangra led to the amazing grand finale fireworks, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed, last year with a slight shower people had missed this beautiful fireworks display.

On an annual basis, as part of India Day fair GOPIO Queensland presents a life time achievement award to an individual in recognition of his or her lifelong contribution to the Indian community. This year the recipient was Mr Sansar Sharma, Mr Sharma arrived in Australia in 1973, since then he has been actively involved in community work such as badminton Club, Toastmasters of which he came the Area

• Front: President of GOPIO Brisbane Chapter, Mr Shyam Das. Sitting from Left: Uncle Albert Holt, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, Hon Consul for India for Queensland Mrs Archana Singh, Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Mr Robert Cavallucci, Leader of Opposition in Qld Ananstacia Palaszczuk and patron of GOPIO Qld Dr Maha Sinnathamby.

• Sansar Sharma receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from Freya Ostapovitch MP

Governor and won the distinguished Toastmaster award. He started Hindi Broadcast in Darwin on Top 8 FM - a subsidy of SBS Darwin.

He moved to Brisbane in 1984 and started broadcasting from Radio 4EB, which he continued for ten years.

Mr Sharma was instrumental in the formation of Indian Cultural Association which has been successfully hosting the Annual Indian Bazaar at Mount Gravatt Show grounds for many years. He revived India Club of Queensland and remained the president for fifteen years, through which he hosted many dignitaries including Indian High Commissioner. India Club of Queensland had been organising Indian Independence celebration for many years.

He has also been a founding member of Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Burbank, on whose committee he has served at various executive levels. Mr Sharma has demonstrated personal passion to contribute without regard for personal gain and worked diligently to support and uplift the whole Indian community, especially helping Muslims to gain funds for building a Mosque in Darwin and Hindus to build temple both in Darwin and Brisbane.

India Day Fair this year was used to launch "GYAAN" which stands for GOPIO Young Achievers Awards Night, this will be held annually, the committee will decide whether to incorporate that within India Day Fair or have a separate function as other chapters .

The recipients of GYAAN 2012 awards this are as follows: 1 Best Science - Nikkitha Venkattachalam 2 Best overall student - Mathuja Bavan 3 Sports Award - Sovan Patnayak 4 Commerce Studies - Katherine Hannah Christopher 5 Community Category - Alka Jagessar 6 Performing Arts and Visual Arts outside school - Rinki Bala and Amitha Jaggessar.

The venue for India Day Fair, the amphitheatre of Roma Street Parklands is logistically a challenging venue, however, it has the charm and grandeur that befits this celebration. The venue has limited space for stalls so the number of food stalls are limited, the committee is working with Roma Street Parklands management in coming up with solutions for electricity etc. which may enable extra spaces for stalls. With restriction on pegging which could potentially damage underground irrigation system in the parklands kids amusement could not be facilitated, alternative securing methods are being explored to fill in this much need attraction of the kids. Parking issues remain the same for any inner city venue, however people are getting used to it and have found various parking spots or public

12 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

• MC’s Nabil Alikhan, Raina Kushal and Alka Jaggessar.

• GYAAN recipient Best Science - Nikkitha Venkattachalam.Her brother is pictured accepting the award on her behalf.

Photo by Rajendra Padhee.

• GYAAN recipient Best Overall Student Mathuja Bavan. Photo by Rajendra Padhee.

• GYAAN recipient Sports Award - Sovan Patnayak. Photo by Rajendra Padhee.

• GYAAN recipient Commerce Studies Katherine Hannah Christopher, pictured with Umesh Chandra and Robin Jaggessar.

• GYAAN recipient Community Category Alka Jaggessar. Photo by Rajendra Padhee.

• GYAAN recipient Performing Arts & Visual Arts outside School - Rinki Bala Photo by Rajendra Padhee.

• Some members of the Brisbane Babas Band performing with Dhiraj Shresta.

transport to get to the event.

The event enjoyed the support of FICQ and its member associations, QUT students association "Cultural Society of India and many others. Tentative date for next year's India Day Fair is 18th August.

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• A delightful Krishna performance Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Lord Mayor announces executive chef for City Hall LORD Mayor Graham Quirk announced on 28 August that multi-award winner Russell Armstrong will be appointed executive chef for City Hall.

The Lord Mayor made the announcement as he inspected progress on the building’s iconic auditorium ceiling dome, which has been updated with new LED light technology allowing it to be programmed to change colours and display patterns to suit the occasion.

Cr Quirk said the appointment of Mr Armstrong was an exciting opportunity to establish Brisbane City Hall as the culinary soul of Brisbane.

“Up until now large functions held at City Hall had to be catered for externally and food had to be arduously loaded into City Hall through a back alley entry,” Cr Quirk said.

“This meant the thousands of events held in it every year, including those for charity, were faced with inhibitive costs and

labour pressures, but no longer.”

Cr Quirk said City Hall’s new 845m2 commercial kitchen would be capable of serving 1,200 plates of food a day across 12 individual function spaces.

“It’s fitting that a chef with Russell Armstrong’s worldly and local experience and culinary acclaim will be at the helm,” he said.

Brisbane Born, Russell Armstrong brings a wealth of culinary knowledge from his time working as a chef at the Gold Coast’s Palazzo Versace; Australia’s first six-star hotel, working in European hotels and operating his own acclaimed signature restaurants in Brisbane such as Seasalt at Armstrong’s.

Brisbane City Hall Catering and Venue Management Operators EPICURE will operate the kitchen on a function-basis and employ a team of seven full time chefs. EPICURE utilises local producers and products.

Cr Quirk said that City Hall’s restoration was progressing well with installation of 8,500 LED lights in the auditoriums dome ceiling now complete.

“The auditorium is really taking shape with its floor boards being re-installed next month along with the Father Willis organ and the framing for the three tiered balcony seating is progressing well,” Cr Quirk said.

“The restoration is now 70 per cent complete as the intricate painting and tiling work continues throughout the building and the works on the Ithaca auditorium to re-install its original ceiling tiles continue.

“These upgrades have been carefully integrated with the existing features to compliment the building’s heritage value, combining to make the space a spectacular experience for visitors when City Hall is delivered back to the people of Brisbane.”

Brisbane

Indian Times A Div isi on of Qld Multicultural Time s

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To view the latest video news log onto our website www.indiantimes.com.au Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 13

Brisbane Malayalee Association (BMA) celebrated the wondrous, colourful and vibrant festival of Onam ONAM is an ancient festival which still survives in modern times. It is the state festival of Kerala in India and celebrates harvest festival and the annual visit of Asura King Mahabali. It falls during the month of August-September with festivities including intricate flower carpets, elaborate banquet lunches, snake boat

races. The festival lasts for ten days.

BMA celebrated Onam with Sports day and cultural events during two weekends on 25 August and 1 September. The occasion was graced by the presence of MP, Mr Jason Woodforth.

More photo’s in wwww section, page 22.

Fiji Seniors News....

IN this addition I will start with words of peace.

The birth is beginning, death is a destination and life is a journey. We want effective assistance in all stages of that journey, for our self and for those we love. To have effective assistance we all have to develop peace in our selves.

All human beings are striving for peace.

As soon as he develops his intellect, his search for peace begins.

In youth of his life, friends, family and wealth, things will give pleasure, this is a conception of peace. In efforts to obtain these, the youthful stage passes. There after he realises that peace in life is still lacking.

If he is fortunate, and has the company of the wise, he may realise that none of this of these possessions will give him peace. If this realisation does not come even then, in the last stage, of old age, he is painfully unhappy, and full of remorse, for spending his energy on worthless objectives, for having wasted his precious life and for not having the peace, what he strived for.

People, who are wise, should be careful that this does not befall them. So, how does one beget true peace?

All religions screamingly tell, peace can be had only by right conduct - virtuous, simple balanced living. This fact is emphasized over and over again.

Mr Surendra Prasad as a president of Fiji Senior Citizens Assoc of Qld participated with other Pacific Islanders and Maori Health Needs assessment and Consultation in 2009. Now from the research fundings, federal funding has been made available for the Good Start Program. For the first time in Queensland health there is a Multicultural Health Workforce including Fiji Indians. That means that the Fiji Indian Community of Brisbane has been recog-

Hindu Society of Qld Inc News...

nised by Queensland health as part of Pacific Islands. Fiji Indians of Brisbane will now benefit by having greater access to culturally appropriate community based initiatives. A Fiji Indian Health Worker will be delegated to work with the Fiji Indian Community of Brisbane to promote healthy living.

I would like to remind everyone that Fiji Seniors Multicultural Seniors week dinner will be held on 15th September, 2012 at Holland Park state High School, Bapuame Street, Holland Park West commencing at 6pm. It will be a unique event where we will have the opportunity to meet other communities and to socialise, make friends and develop healthy attitudes towards one another and it will help to integrate with different communities. It will also help to make Australia a Harmonious and peaceful Country.

The speaker will be Mr Ian Walker MP assistant Minister for Planning - representing the Queensland Government, Cr Angela Owen-Taylor representing the Lord Mayor and there will be many other dignitaries attending the event. A presentation of trophies to the winning soccer team and other presentations will also be part of the program.

Fiji Seniors is providing scholarships for 16 students in secondary school in Fiji. And will continue to provide them education from form three to form seven respectively.

I would like to thank Brisbane Indian Times for providing space in their Newspaper to Fiji Seniors to enable us to provide information affecting the community.

Surendra Prasad OAM President, Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Qld Inc - 2nd September, 2012

Muslim Charitable Foundation news....

RAMADAN this year was enjoyable due to the spiritual aspects, the connectedness of family and friends and Janeth Deen the pleasant weather enjoyed by Queenslanders. For all those we missed our greetings, we hope you enjoyed your Eid celebrations.

MCF distributed food hampers, and meat vouchers to the needy in the local community during Ramadan.

MCF wishes to thank all those who donated their Zakaat for us to distribute. $22,000 was donated for the Muslims in Burma who have been displaced due to the uprising against them.

The Kuraby Lions have assisted a family from Cambodia with two children and MCF

donated a new stove to them as they have been without any support from Government.

MCF committee members are committed to helping those in need, especially Queenslanders, as we are aware that times are difficult with the economic difficulties facing those who have been retrenched or are unemployed, in medical emergencies and any other cause that arises.

We also continue to need help from the Muslim community to ensure we have funds available to help the needy.

Funds can be deposited directly into our accounts: Bank of Queensland BSB 124155 Zakaat A/C No 20897312 Interest A/C 20897385 General A/C 20897392

14 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

Shree Ganeshaye Namah Presidents Message: Deepawali Aap Sabhi Ko Subh Ho GREETINGS to you all. It gives me immeense joy to invite one and all to the Deepawali celebration to be held at the Cannon Hill Anglican College, Corner of Krupp and Junction Road on Saturday 3 November 2012.

Hindu Society of Qld is proud to facilitate this annual event whereby friends and families join in to celebrate this festival together. In the theme of providing enjoyment to all ages, the program starts with the traditional Indian dances and performances followed by dance and sounds of Bollywood. Buffet Vegetarian dinner will be served from 5.30pm.

The Navaratri celebrations will be held at the Temple from Tuesday 16 October 2012 to Tuesday 23 October 2012.

In August, Krishna Janam Astami was celebrated at the Gayatri Mandir. It was encouraging to see the Shradha and Bhakti of all the devotees. Our sincere thanks goes to Pt. Praveen Shandil and the members of the community who supported this event by making donations in cash, food or in kind.

I urge you all to renew your Annual Membership as it becomes due in June each year. Please note that children at the Annual General Meeting AT the Society’s annual general meeting held on 22 July 2012 all members were elected unopposed. Mr Dhirendra Narayan has been newly elected to the committee. Our sincere thanks to Mr Nagendra Prasad for his dedicated service to the Society, who did not seek reelection.

Raffle Tickets As part of our fund raising initiative we are selling Raffle tickets.

The first is $1,000 in cash (sponsored

by Tirat and Staya Achal)

age of 18 years need to pay the single membership as they are not covered within the family membership. We welcome you to join in as Life Members of the Society by paying $1000 per couple.

Our Society currently has a loan of $35,000 owing on the Bracken Ridge property. Our initiative of TARGET 500, is helping us to pay this debt within one more year. TARGET 500 is aimed at getting $100 per year from 500 individuals of our community for the next 3 years. I kindly urge you to support this initiative and help us to achieve our goal. Our commitment remains to pursue the DA approval process on this property for the new temple and hall facilities. We strongly encourage you all to actively participate in this project.

I am pleased to advise that the temple now also opens on Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the morning from 7am to 11am with the presence of Pt. Praveen Shandil.

I look forward to your continued support in achieving the goals and prosperity of our Society and to meet you all at the Deepawali Celebration. Our thanks goes to all our sponsors in supporting this event.

Best wishes for the festive season Prakash Shandil The second prize is $750 in cash (sponsored by R N A Homes Pty Ltd) The third prize is $500 in cash (sponsored by Dr Dip Chand) The fourth prize is $100 in cash (sponsored by Mr Nagendra Prasad and family.

The cost of a ticket is $2 and a book will cost $20. The raffle will be drawn at Cannon Hill Anglican College at 9pm on 3 November 2012.

Please kindly support our initiative by buying and selling the tickets.

Please contact any of us for the tickets.

Gayatri Mandir 178 Lyndhurst Road Boondall Qld 4034 Phone: 07 3865 3164 - Fax: 07 32047 4760 Web: www.hindusocietyqld.com Postal: PO Box 73, Taigum Qld 4018 Official Pundit: Pt. Praveen Shandil punditji@bigpond.net.au - 0408 385 375 President: Prakash Shandil prakash_shandil@hotmail.com - 0408 876 414 Secretary: Sunil Maharaj skmaharaj@live.com.au - 0403 943 220 Treasurer: Jiten Lal jitendralal@certis.com.au - 0421 675 908

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Donatelife reaches out to Australians of Muslim faith PARLIAMENTARY Secretary for Health and Ageing Catherine King launched a video resource to support Australians of Muslim faith in their decision-making and family discussions about organ and tissue donation on 22 August 2012.

Ms King said the video, Reaching Out, highlights the life-transforming benefits of organ and tissue donation in a way that has resonance and relevance for people of Muslim faith. “Providing information on organ and tissue donation in a way that has relevance to culturally and linguistically diverse communities is a priority for the Australian Government,� Ms King said. “I am confident that Reaching Out will encourage Australians of Muslim faith to discover more about organ and tissue donation, make informed donation decisions and, most importantly, discuss their wishes with family members.�

Reaching Out has been produced by the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Council of Australia (FECCA) in consultation with representatives from Muslim communities in Australia.

It provides different perspectives from people within the Australian Muslim community on organ and tissue donation. It features a doctor, transplant recipients and their families and an expert providing interpretations of Islamic Law. Commenting on FECCA’s role in developing the resource, the organisation’s Chair, Pino Migliorino, noted, “FECCA is proud to have been involved with this initiative,

aimed at promoting organ and tissue donation in Muslim communities. As the peak national body representing Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, FECCA fully endorses the video and encourages all Australians to consider having discussions with their family and friends about organ donation.�

Ms King said that new research commissioned by the Organ and Tissue Authority highlighted the need to improve access to information about organ and tissue donation for Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. “Just 39 per cent of Australians from nonEnglish speaking backgrounds have discussed their donation wishes with family members over the past 12 months, compared with 60 per cent of those from English speaking backgrounds,� Ms King said.

Australians from non-English speaking backgrounds are also less likely to know the donation wishes of family members at just 39%, compared with 56% of all Australian families.

Reaching Out was funded as part of the Organ and Tissue Authority’s Community Awareness Grants Program. It is one of 23 projects focused on addressing barriers to decision making and family discussion within culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

Reaching Out can be viewed at www.youtube.com/donatelifeaustralia.

For more information visit www.donatelife.gov.au.

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SCHOOLS around Australia continue to embrace the ATOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new, free online educational resource â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tax, Super + You. So far more than 186 schools have registered to use the resource, with 47 schools having set-up courses for their students.

The resource was launched by Assistant Treasurer David Bradbury on July 10 at MacGregor State High School in Brisbane.

Mill Park teacher Mr Ken Ong said â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am using it for my Year 12 pastoral class as I feel my students need to know how the tax system works in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;big wide worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;?

Mill Park Secondary College in Victoria is one of the first schools to incorporate Tax, Super + You into their curriculum. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My advice is for schools to explore the content for their own particular needs.

There is a large amount of information available that can be adapted in many different ways. It would be valuable for all students entering the workforce,â&#x20AC;? Mr Ong said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The teacher led courses were straightforward to set up and the registration process

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Schools give Tax, Super + You top marks Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal

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had a quick turnaround time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She was delighted with the extremely positive response to date from schools. I encourage schools that have not yet registered to visit the website to see what the resource offers,â&#x20AC;? Assistant Commissioner Tricia Macbeth of the ATOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school education program said.

Tax, Super + You helps young Australians recognise why tax and super are community assets, and why good habits are linked to good citizenship.

It is a complete learning management system. It contains four modules: Tax 101, Personal tax, Business tax, and Superannuation and a series of interactive videos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It also includes suggested lesson plans to help teachers when needed but can also be used as a self-paced learning tool, lessening the demand on teachers,â&#x20AC;? Ms Macbeth said.

Visit www.taxsuperandyou.gov.au to find out more about this new resource.

Visit www.ato.gov.au/media centre/ speeches for the Commissioner's launch of this initiative.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 15

"Find the Dynamic You" says Hindu Youth Australia Courtesy Akila Ramarathinam "FIND the Dynamic You" was the main message as Hindu Youth Australia (HYA) encouraged youth to explore their identity and furnish their understanding of Hindu Dharma.

The current HYA team, filled with many new faces, showed great initiative and amazing leadership in preserving, promoting and propagating Hindu Dharma within Australia. It was this youthful combination and enthusiasm that sparked a series of eye-opening presentations and insightful workshops at the 3rd Australian Hindu Youth Conference held on Sunday 5th August 2012. Over 120 delegates attended this landmark event, portrayed to be one of the most unique youth events conducted in Australia. In his congratulatory message, Hon Victor Dominello MP praised Hindu Youth Australia’s efforts and stated that “the activities of HYA and the annual conference ensure that Hindu Australians will have a strong foundation in spiritual values and become fine adult citizens of Australia”.

The conference commenced with traditional Vedic Chanting, Ganesh Pooja and the honouring of the local Aboriginal tribe.

Dr. Geoff Lee MP, Shri Viraja Krishnadasa and Dr. Jennifer Cover provided inspirational addresses praising the dynamic nature of Hindu youth in Australia. HYA coordinator Arjun Nidigallu was the main keynote speaker at the conference and his topic was on “Hindu Renaissance”. Arjun approached this topic from many interesting viewpoints before admitting that “Hindu dharma doesn’t require rebirth, it’s been alive and well for 150 thousand years, but rather it’s OUR rebirth in Hindu Dharma that is required”. Arjun also introduced a “why, what, how” model and correlated these concepts to each aspect of the conference. He requested the youth to focus more on the “why” aspect of Hindu Dharma as this would “improve our understanding as Hindus”. He also noted that “all answers lie in our Dharma” and mentioned the very reason of HYA’s existence is to “promote, propagate and preserve our Dharma”.

The post morning tea session concentrated on science and culture. Aravind Srinivasan used a practical metaphor to describe the concept of “Pooja”. He equated the act of performing a pooja with that of inviting a friend over and thus went on to explore when, why, how and the benefits of doing a pooja. Sushyanth Subramaniam complemented this session with his presentation on “Temples”. Aligning with the keynote presentation, Sushyanth primarily focused on the “why” element during his delivery. With step-by-step

16 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

reasoning, he justified why “we should all go to a temple out of interest rather than being forced”. Sushyanth’s immaculate research and in-depth examination of literature was a real treat, and all participants marvelled at the historical significance, socio-economic factors, architectural principles, spiritual benefits and scientific wonders of our ancient temples.

In the post lunch session, three parallel workshops were constructed to reflect the practical nature of Hindu Dharma and delegates were required to attend all workshops one by one.

“Body, Mind and Soul – A U M Meditation”: Yogacharya Devidasanji took the participants on a spiritual journey through his meditation and pranayama workshop.

He demonstrated the concept of pranayama and explained the 7 spiritual chakras in the body which are ignited when any such deep meditation is performed. With the aid of Devidasanji, the participants then performed stage-by-stage meditation. Participants were asked to chant the OM mantra and focus on their breathing throughout various parts of the body. Many participants commented on the positive energy that emanated during and after performing the meditation.

“The art of Public Speaking and voice projection”: Mrs. Vandana Anand facilitated an exciting session on the art of public speaking. The session was an eye-opener for many high school and university students, as she stressed the importance of speech and voice projection for everyday activities. Vandana talked about the basic framework for public speech and then interactively pointed out the positive effects of tone, clarity, expression, gestures and body position when delivering messages to an audience. As an exercise, she split the participants into smaller groups and asked them to present short speeches. All participants gave each other feedback making this a very potent learning exercise.

“Improve your mental arithmetic” Vedic Mathematics: Anusha Nidigallu conducted a thought-provoking workshop on improving mental arithmetic. She explained several mathematical concepts drawn from Vedic Sutras and then illustrated these concepts with examples. Some of the concepts included finding compliments, multiplication by 11 and division by 19. The workshop was highly interactive, engaging and very enjoyable. Many of the participants in the feedback form acknowledged the relevance and importance of mental arithmetic in their daily lives.

The final session incorporated the core principles of our

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dharma, social service and provided a formal round up to the conference. HYA Coordinator Krishna Ramarathinam delivered an enterprising presentation on “Why Sanskrit”.

The segment commenced with a short Sanskrit skit in which Krishna demonstrated the present day spoken “Samskrutam” language. With the aid of some activities, he then went on to explore the language history, its contributions towards Hindu Dharma, the influences on other languages, the spiritual benefits, the scientific benefits and linguistic benefits. In his concluding statement, Krishna reiterated “Sanskrit as the underlying foundation for every aspect in our Dharma” and urged participants to learn the “Language of the Gods” (“Deva Bhaashyam”).

Kailash Satyanarayan opted for an emotional approach to his inspiring presentation on “Social Service”.

Commencing with a heartfelt personal story, Kailash brought the audience to tears as he revealed some shocking statistics in today’s world. He then explained his idolized version of “A perfect world” “A perfect family” and cried out for help in making this dream come true “Vasudheiva Kutumbakam” – The World is one big family.

After an emotional journey, HYA event managers Pavan Raju and Manikkam Iyer wrapped up the conference with a detailed summary. Pavan requested participants to focus on the “Why” Hindu Dharma aspect in order for us to achieve a better understanding of our Dharma. And this “better understanding” is what makes us dynamic Hindus.

Hindu Youth Australia is a not for profit organization and the affiliated wing of Vishva Hindu Parishad Australia Incorporated. Please visit www.hinduyouth.com.au for more information.

Hindu Youth Australia members: Krishna Ramarathinam, Arjun Nidigallu, Aruna Gandhimathinathan, Rohith Kuntumalla, Pavan Raju, Manikkam Iyer, Sushyanth Subramaniam, Kailash Satyanarayan, Pooja Sashi, Jaya Teyjas and Aditi Chaudhari

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New Indian High Commissioner visits Brisbane HIS Excellency Mr Biren Nanda, High Commissioner for India made his first official visit to Brisbane on 28 August, he was accompanied by his wife Mrs Rukhmani Nanda and deputy High Commissioner Mr Surinder Datta.

H.E. Biren Nanda completed his post Graduate in Economics from Delhi School of Economics and joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1978.

H.E. Nanda has previously served as a diplomat in Indian Missions in Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Washington, D.C. and Tokyo. He was Consul General for India in Shanghai from 1966-2000, deputy chief of mission in the Embassy of India in Tokyo from 2000-2004 and Ambassador of India in the republic of Indonesia from 2008-2012.

Prior to taking up his assignment in Jakarta, H.E. Nanda was Head of the division in the Ministry of external affairs which looks after relations between India and countries of Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

H.E. Nanda took on the role of High Commissioner for Republic of India to the Government of The Commonwealth of Australia from April 26, 2012.

H.E. Nanda is married to Mrs. Rukhmani Nanda and they have one son aged 26 years.

A civic reception was organised by AIBC at Rangla Punjab restaurant, members of FICQ and GOPIO also supported the event.

Robert Cavallucci Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs hosted an official lunch at Parliament in the honour of H.E Biren Nanda.

Honorary Consul for India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh graced both the occasions.

Indian Students caught in rorts for residency HUNDREDS of Indian students are paying criminals for fake work references to get Australian residency in a racket worth millions of dollars.

The scam involving restaurant and small business owners has been described by officials as an "an organised and lucrative criminal enterprise" which undermines the skilled migration program. It has been exposed in more than a dozen rulings by the Migration Review Tribunal, which has cancelled the temporary and permanent residency of students who paid up to $3500 for fake documents.

The students bought references saying they had 900 hours of unpaid work experience in jobs such as cooks, bakers, mechanics and hairdressers. The references gave them half the required points towards residency.

The tribunal, which has heard 15 cases of students fighting the fraud allegations in the past year, noted that many Indian migration agents touted baking and cookery courses as "a fast track to permanent residence".

Most of those cases fought in the Migration Review Tribunal were held in Melbourne, but they are merely a snapshot of a wider fraud that has taken place nationwide, according to the Immigration Department.

Five trainees who used fake documents showing they had worked as cooks or pastry chefs ended up working in Australia as taxi drivers, security guards or on checkouts.

One Indian student paid the scam's kingpin $3500 to be a cook and another paid a chef $2500 for a fake reference and a photo of him in the kitchen.

The key man in the scam, Carmine Amarante, worked at training college Della International in Melbourne. He has been jailed for three years for the $2 million rort but he was not the only one abusing immigration's lax security.

Amarante created 541 fake documents attached to 471 visa applications lodged with the department. He charged between $1500 and $2500 for each fraudulent document and paid the business owners $300 to $500 for each signature.

The Immigration Department has been cancelling visas since uncovering the five-year scam but declined to comment. Last month an Indian citizen who used fake documents, Ram Kishan Dhiman, lost his battle to stay in Australia in the Federal Magistrates Court.

Dhiman claimed to have done work experience at a Pymble restaurant, a claim the tribunal found was untrue.

In May, Rajinder Singh appeared before the Migration Review Tribunal and admitted he bought a bogus reference David Young, a tribunal member who heard several cases, said "a scheme designed to bring skilled individuals, including cooks, into Australia" was manipulated to allow into the country "a taxi driver, who never worked as a cook".

He described the scheme as "a calculated fraud".

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 17

Mahas Book release marks the official Launch of India House Project

By Umesh Chandra

adopted from an article by James Thomson

NOT every rich list member would nominate Mahatma Ghandi as his inspiration, and help put together a book based largely on the Indian leader’s philosophies.

But Maha Sinnathamby is not your average rich list member! Having travelled with him to Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Malaysia I have had the pleasure of sharing some very significant moments with him, the memories of which I shall cherish forever. These are moments that broadens your horizon and provokes your thought process, inspires you to achieve higher goals in life.

Ranked 39th on BRW’s Rich 200 list with a fortune of $820 million, Sinnathamby's fortune is based on the creation of an entire region – the Greater Springfield master plan community, located outside Brisbane. In the last 20 years, Sinnathamby and business partner Bob Sharpless have taken the project from a parcel of apparently unusable land to a mini city that has more than 23,000 residents, overcoming the usual property developer’s curse – little or no funds – several times.

But instead of celebrating his success with a party, a jet or a sports car, Sinnathamby has marked the milestone by helping to publish a book called 'Stop Not Till the Goal is Reached'.

The official launch of the book took place on Monday 27 August amongst invited guests and dignitaries. On Monday 3 September a special function to release his book and launch India House Project took place at the Parliamentary Annexure. The function was coordinated by FICQ and supported by GOPIO Qld and Tamil Association of Queensland. The function was well attended by not only the members of the Indian community but the wider community and politicians. Dr Maha Sinnathamby gave any inspiring speech and obliged the audience for signatures and photos. Springfield Land Corporation has donated land in Springfield for the project, the challenge is now for the community to come up with a workable model and funding. The project will be coordinated by FICQ with the support of various other associations.

The book, written by Scottish author Karen McCreadie with Sinnathamby’s full cooperation, is a part biography, part business guide and part self-help manual.

At the core of the book are the 10 principles that Sinnathamby says he has based his life around. But interwoven is a biography (which, it must be said, portrays Sinnathamby in an extremely positive light) of his career.

The book can be hard to follow at times, as the narrative moves back and forth in time, with various incidents used to support the 10 life rules of the property mogul. But what comes through is a picture of an entrepreneur with three core beliefs drawn from his “idol and inspiration” Mahatma Ghandi: persistence, hard work and positivity.

“They are fundamental beliefs that I’ve had for 30 years,” Sinnathamby told SmartCompany.

“Ghandi changed the course of history. He had no money, had no army. He had the self-belief that righteousness and truth

could win alone.”

Sinnathamby’s rules are: 1. Make one idea your life 2. Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached 3. Work relentlessly 4. Be fearless – face the brutes!

5. The darkest night bring the brightest dawn 6. Pure in thought, word and deed 7. Character is established through a thousand stumbles 8. Everyone is great in their place 9. Create your own destiny 10. All power is within you Sinnathamby says the last rule is most important. Above all else, he says his message it about self-belief and self-awareness.

“You’ve got to believe in yourself and you’ve got to trust yourself. You are your best friend. Trust your friend, believe in your friend.”

Beyond the 10 rules the book tells a quite remarkable story of a property developer who arrived in Australia with nothing, made a fortune, lost it and then took on the extraordinary project of building a new city.

Sinnathamby arrived in Australia in 1959 at the age of 20 to study engineering at the University of New South Wales. He was married by arrangement in Malaysia nine years later and after working as an engineer in his home country he decided to take a chance and move to Perth in 1971, where one of his brothers was living.

It was a poorly timed move. Perth was in one of its mining busts and Sinnathamby was forced to contemplate going on the dole. He and a Swedish migrant sold rulers to hardware stores (the metric system had just been introduced, and the Swede had a supply of rulers with metric units on one side and imperial on the other) before Sinnathamby moved into selling real estate on commission. His wife and young family joined him in Perth in 1972, just months before Sinnathamby landed a job at the Perth Municipal Water Board.

But the real estate bug had bitten and

Sinnathamby spent his weekends dragging his kids around Perth’s suburbs trading real estate. In 1976, he and a Water Board colleague set up a company called Murdoch Projects and entered the world of property development.

According the book, Murdoch Projects grew quickly, with its value increasing from $17,000 to $7 million. Sinnathamby and his partner were millionaires and he bought a house in the exclusive Perth suburb of Peppermint Grove.

But things started to go downhill in 1982 when Sinnathamby’s business partner moved overseas. A year later, with a recession brewing, he launched what would be a disastrous attempt to raise $14 million through a public trust. When a key investor pulled out of the capital raising, Sinnathamby was forced to hand the money raised back to investors and was left with debts of $42 million.

Today, Sinnathamby looks back and says it was his “first visit to hell”. He sold all assets held in his wife and children’s names and avoided bankruptcy. At the final creditors’ meeting, Sinnathamby promised creditors he would sell his family home for $170,000 and give them $100,000, but pleaded for $70,000 so he could start again.

Creditors, who received just 10 cents in the dollar, agreed to the deal.

Looking back, Sinnathamby says he was proud he “fought the battle all the way” and did not simply declare bankruptcy and walk away. He says he was deeply hurt by the episode, but determined to start again.

“I have a very strong philosophy that you never give up and when you fall down you have to pick yourself up. Because it is you and you alone that matters.”

Sinnathamby was finished in Perth and in 1984 he arrived in Brisbane with new business partner, a young engineer named Bob Sharpless.

Sinnathamby, inspired by master plan residential communities he had seen overseas, went on the hunt for a big, dramatic project.

When a parcel of old forestry land outside

of Brisbane came up for sale in 1991, Sinnathamby’s vision for a city began to develop. Eventually, Sinnathamby acquired the 10,771 hectare site for less than $8 million.

Sinnathamby happily admits the deal went against the better judgement of his business partner, who shared the market’s view that the land was unviable for residential development. His wife even broke down in tears at seeing the land, which Sinnathamby agrees was “desolate” when be bought it.

“Not one person believed in the project at all. Between the business groups, the councils, the state government and the federal government, not one person believed.”

The path to turning that parcel of land into the Greater Springfield was one Sinnathamby describes as “all-out war”.

Not only did Sinnathamby have to tread the property developer’s eternal tightrope of funding the staged development, but he also had to negotiate a planning process so involved that it required legislation to be passed by the Queensland parliament.

Sinnathamby also had to contend with a highly-critical report on ABC Television’s 7:30 Report which raised allegations (subsequently found to be baseless) about political donations made by Sinnathamby.

He then had to endure a “second visit to hell” in 1999.

“Within six years of starting, the economy collapsed again,” Sinnathamby says. “We owed the banks $9 million, we hadn’t paid interest in 15 months and then the bank gave us 30 days to pay back the loan.”

A deal with Delfin eventually saved the project, but only after two months where collapse seemed inevitable.

“That was my second visit to hell. It’s a difficult journey. You just have to have the stamina and the strength of mind.”

Greater Springfield is now home to more than 23,000 residents, boasts its own education and health precincts and is due to be connected to Brisbane by rail next year.

It’s time to Walk the Walk....

THE Crescents of Brisbane’s 9th Annual CresWalk2012 fun walk and run takes place on 23 September at Orleigh Park, West End. This popular community event caters for families and ALL AGES and fitness levels from toddlers in prams to seniors and everyone in between.

The Brisbane River forms a glorious backdrop for the 2.5km and 5km routes on Riverside Drive.

The low entry-fee includes an after-run brunch and activities in the park and you also stand to win one of themany random prizes including TWO NIGHTS at the Hilton Apartments at Surfers Paradise.

18 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER!

Enter Now at www.crescentsofbrisbane.org/CresWalk2012/ CresWalk2012_Main.htm For more information email theteam@crescentsofbrisbane.org or call 0402 026 786 www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 19

Business News Verghese Kurien: the architect of India's White Revolution (Obituary)

By Quaid Najmi ANAND (Gujarat), Sep 9 (IANS) He made the ordinary, neighbourhood 'doodhwala' (milkman) a key player in the country's struggle for economic development and progress at the grassroot level.

Verghese Kurien (pictured), the man who brought milk revolution in the country, died early Sunday 9 September in Gujarat.

He was instrumental in laying the foundation of democratic enterprises at the remote villages and farflung hamlets which ensured economic justice. And it was with people's voluntary participation.

Honoured as the architect of India's White Revolution, which catapulted India to be the world's largest milk producer, Kurien managed the feat in the 1970s at a time when it faced grim uncertainties over its food security.

Kurien, the founder-chairman of National Dairy Development Board (1965-98) and also chairman of Gujarat Co-Operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd (GCMMF)(1973-2006), and also the Institute of Rural management (1979-2006), dedicated his life to the cause of empowering the humble Indian farmers through cooperatives, said current GCMMF Managing Director R.S. Sodhi.

"He strongly believed that by placing technology and professional management in the hands of the farmers, the living standards of millions of rural poor could be improved," Sodhi said Sunday in a tribute to Kurien's management skills.

Born Nov 26, 1921 in Kozhikode, Kerala, Kurien - who was destined to become India's top 'milkman' - graduated from Loyola College in 1940 and later completed his engineering from Guindy College of Engineering, Chennai. But it was after a brief stint at TISCO that he obtained a gov-

ernment of India scholarship to study dairy engineering.

Having acquired specialized training at the Imperial Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in Bangalore, Kurien went to the US and completed his masters in Mechanical Engineering with dairy engineering as a minor subject from the Michigan State University, in 1948.

A year later, he was assigned to a Government Creamery in Anand, Gujarat as part of his bond commitment.

Arriving in Anand on a hot May 13 in 1949, Kurien was a harried man, only waiting to be released from his bond and leave the place as quickly as possible.

He got his release orders after six months and was all set to pack up and go to the city of big bucks, Bombay (now, Mumbai) - but a minor incident halted him in his tracks.

Just as he was preparing his exit, Tribhuvandas Patel, the then chairman of Kaira District Co-operative Milk Producers Union, popularly known as 'Amul', with whom Kurien had developed a good friendship, requested him to stay back in Anand for some more time and help him organise his co-operative society's dairy equipment.

Kurien stayed back for a few more days...going on to become a legend through Operation Flood, launched in 1971.

"His forced tenure at Anand changed the destiny of the entire Indian dairy sector. He help the fledgling dairy co-operative movement and was forced to stay there to see it flourish. The rest is history," Sodhi said.

The Dairy co-operative movement had a modest beginning with the first Dairy Cooperative Union in Gujarat formed in 1942 with only two village co-operatives joining

as members.

Around 65 years later that figure has grown to a staggering 16,100 with 3.20 million milk producers pouring millions of tonnes of milk into the GCMMF containers twice daily.

The NDDB, formed by Kurien's efforts, replicated the Amul Model all over India with remarkable results which dramatically increased the country's milk production.

Through Kurien's efforts vide the Amul Model, the country's milk production shot up from a mere 20 million metric tonnes (MMT) per annum in 1960 to a whopping 122 MMT last year.

The GCMMF's average daily milk production rose from 2.50 million kgs to 12.5 million kgs during the same period.

Kurien's main contribution was to design systems and institutions, which people could develop themselves, as he believed

development of man can best be achieved by putting in his hands the instruments of development.

"He believed that the greatest assets of this country are its people, and dedicated his life to the task of harnessing the power of the people in a manner which promoted their larger interests," Sodhi explained.

He proved it by the Operation Flood in 1971 - creating a national milk grid - which was implemented in three phases.

Not only did it result in making India the world's largest producer of milk and milk products, it also helped reduce malpractices by milk producers and merchants, and alleviated poverty during that era.

The world took note of Kurien's efforts and showered honours on him, including India's Padma Vibhushan, the World Food Prize, Magsaysay Award, Carnegie-Wateler World Peace Prize, International Person of Year from US and other recognitions, for his work that touched millions of lives everyday in remote areas.

China's inflation accelerates Beijing, Sep 9 (IANS) China's consumer price index (CPI), a key gauge of inflation, rose 2 percent year-on-year in August, accelerating from a 1.8 percent growth in July, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Sunday.

Food prices, which account for nearly one-third of the weighting in the calculation of the country's CPI, climbed 3.4 percent in August from a year earlier, faster than a 2.4 percent increase in July, reported Xinhua citing the NBS. The producer price index (PPI), which measures inflation at the wholesale level,

slumped 3.5 percent year-on-year, compared with a 2.9 percent decline in July, the NBS said.

It marked the sixth straight month of downswing after China's PPI saw a drop in March for the first time since December 2009.

On a month-on-month basis, the CPI grew 0.6 percent in August and the PPI moved down 0.5 percent, according to the NBS. In August, producer purchase prices shed 4.1 percent year-on-year and 0.5 percent from July, the NBS data showed.

Household Assistance Package - Tax Reforms Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal THE Australian Government has implemented the Household Assistance Package to assist low and middle income families under its Clean Energy Future plan.

Under the Household Assistance Package the Department of Human Services is responsible for issuing initial payments to eligible people (occurring from May 2012) and for ongoing assistance through regular Government entitlements (occurring from March 2013). Government payments made under the package are tax-free.

The ATO is responsible for the administration of the Tax Reforms under the package, which occur from 1 July 2012. These occur in two phases, with the first beginning on 1 July 2012 and the second beginning 1 July 2015.

CHANGES FROM 1 JULY 2012 A combination of a higher tax-free threshold and changes to the first two marginal tax rates, together with a change to some tax offsets, will overall provide assistance to low and middle income earners. These changes will also help reduce the complexity in the tax system.

1. Personal tax rates The tax-free threshold is the amount of money you can earn before you have to pay tax. To be eligible for the taxfree threshold you must be an Australian resident for tax purposes. You must also fill in a tax file number declaration form when you start a new job.

From 1 July 2012: • The tax-free threshold will increase from $6,000 to $18,200.

• The first marginal tax rate will increase to 19 cents for every dollar of taxable income that exceeds $18,200 up to the threshold of $37,000.

• The second marginal tax rate will increase to 32.5 cents for every dollar of taxable income that exceeds $37,000 up Example 1: Michael works full time as a teacher.

He earns $70,000 a year. In 2011-12 income year he paid 30 cents of tax for every dollar he earned over $37,000, plus the base tax rate of $4,650. That means he will have to pay $14,550 of income tax.

In contrast, under the 1 July 2012 changes to the marginal tax rates Michael will pay 32.5 cents of tax for evry dollar he earns over $37,000, plus the base tax rate of $3,572. If he still earns $70,000 for the 2012-13 financial year he will pay $14,297 of income tax.

20 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

to the threshold of $80,000.

All taxpayers earning below $80,000 will receive a tax cut, with most receiving up to $300. No one will be required to pay more income tax.

2. Tax offsets From 1 July 2012, there will be changes to some tax offsets. A tax offset directly reduces the amount of tax you pay.

The two major offsets affected are: 1. The low-income tax offset: The offset will be reduced to $445 with individuals entitled to receive this offset if their taxable income is below $66,667. The offset will begin to be reduced by 1.5 cents for every dollar of income over the threshold of $37,000.

The combined effect of the higher tax-free threshold and the low income tax offset is that the effective tax free threshold will rise to $20,542. This means that individuals can earn up to $20,542 from the financial year 2012-13 without paying any income tax.

2. The pensioner tax offset: The pensioner tax offset was a rebate for low income earners on selected government pensions. This offset will be merged with the more generous seniors Australians tax offset, to be now known as the new seniors and pensioners tax offset (SAPTO).

Example 2: Sarah works part time as a sales assistant. She earns $30,000 a year. In the 2011-12 income year, she paid 15 cents of tax for every dollar she earned over the tax-free threshold of $6,000.

The low-income tax offset of $1,500 reduces the amount of tax Sarah has to pay. Sarah will have to pay $2,100 of income tax.

In contrast, under the 1 July 2012 changes to the marginal tax rates, Sarah will pay 19 cents of tax for every dollar she earns over the new tax-free threshold of $18,200.

However, her low-income tax offset will be reduced from $1,500 to $445. If she still earns $30,000 in the 2012-13 financial year, she’ll pay $1,797 of income tax.

CHANGES FROM 1 JULY 2015 The second phase of the Household Assistance Package Tax Reform will bring about additional changes.

1. Personal tax changes From 1 July 2015, the tax-free threshold will increase again from $18,200 to $19,400 with the second marginal tax rate increasing from 32.5 cents to 33 cents on income www.indiantimes.com.au

exceeding $37,000 up to $80,000.

2. Low income offset From 1 July 2015, the low-income tax offset will be reduced from $445 to $300, with individuals entitled to receive this offset if their taxable income is below $67,000. The offset will begin to be reduced by 1 cent on every dollar of income over $37,000. This means that individuals can earn up to $20,979 from the financial year 2015-16 without paying any income tax.

MORE INFORMATION • visit our website for more information - about the Household Assistance Package - Tax Reform www.ato.gov.au/content/00313295 - about tax and super in 25 languages www.ato.gov.au/otherlanguages • phone the ATO on 13 28 61 from Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 6.00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) - if you do not speak English well and need help from the ATO, phone the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 13 14 50 • visit one of our shopfronts • speak to your registered tax agent • For more information about the Household Assistance Package and other assistance visit www.Australia.gov.au/householdassistance Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Business News South Korea's auto production plunges SEOUL, Sep 9 (IANS) South Korea's automobile production plunged 25.9 percent in August from a year earlier due to frequent partial strikes by major automakers, a government report showed.

Auto production by the nation's five carmakers, including Hyundai Motor, Kia Motors, GM Korea, Renault Samsung Motors and Ssangyong Motor, reached 237,477 vehicles in August, down 25.9 percent from the same month of last year, according to the Ministry of Knowledge Economy.

The sharp drop was attributed to a supply shortage stemming mainly from partial strikes by key carmakers. Top automaker Hyundai Motor and its affiliate Kia Motors saw their unionized workers go on strikes around 10 times last month, reported

“Show me the money!”

Xinhua.

Hyundai lost around 68,000 vehicles in production last month due to the partial work stoppages that cost around 40,500 units for Kia and 7,400 units for GM Korea respectively, according to the ministry.

Hyundai and Kia, the main affiliates of the world's No. 5 automaker Hyundai Motor Group, manufactured cars that amounted to 78,843 units and 87,762 units each in August, down 34.7 percent and 19.6 percent from the prior year.

Cars produced by GM Korea contracted 17.3 percent on-year to 49,022 units in August, while auto production by Renault Samsung and Ssangyong Motor dropped 43.6 percent and 2.1 percent each last month.

Tax focus for the year ahead Courtesy Sudesh Aggarwal IN releasing the ATO’s annual compliance program today, Tax Commissioner Michael D’Ascenzo said it was important for the community to be given the opportunity to understand the ATO’s compliance activities and practices.

This year the ATO will put under the microscope: • tax fraud and avoidance schemes • people who fail to declare all their income • the highly wealthy • property-related tax issues, and • employers who do not meet their superannuation obligations.

“By openly setting out our focus areas for the year ahead we want to encourage people to make the right decisions. This includes helping them avoid being trapped by tax schemes, in particular by stepping up our efforts to ensure people can recognise, reject and report tax avoidance schemes,” Mr D'Ascenzo said.

Focus areas identified by the ATO as significant risks to tax and superannuation compliance this year include: • occupations that have shown a pattern of relatively high levels of work-related claims, including IT managers, plumbers and defence force personnel • high income earners involved in tax avoidance schemes

• unreported cash transactions within the plastering and café industries • contractor arrangements, in particular in the construction industry, and • the self-managed superannuation fund sector • employer obligations for superannuation in high risk industries Stopping false claims and identity crime are a continuing priority this year, with the ATO increasingly analysing and matching information provided by third parties.

“We check over 600 million transactions a year. This means that we can detect those who do not report all their income from things like dividends and interest, capital gains, and foreign income,” Mr D'Ascenzo said.

“Last year we stopped more than 109,000 income tax returns for potentially incorrect or fraudulent claims saving the community almost $200 million in revenue.

“We are also focusing on businesses meeting their superannuation obligations, with a continuation of compliance activities focussed on high risk industry groups. This is our fourth year for this program, and we

WELL, that’s what financial operating position. For statements do. They show you example, a company is the money. They show you generally assumed to be where a company’s money a “going concern” when came from, where it went, and Vivek Chopra accounts are produced. where it is now.

But if the company faces Reviewing a company’s financial state- persistent cash flow issues or debt probments provides an investor with vital infor- lems, that should be reflected in the mation about a company’s performance and accounts. position in its industry. Analysing financial Lastly, the company must also provide a statements using financial ratios, such as directors’ declaration, a signed opinion by price-earnings ratio, allows comparisons of company directors stating that the financial other companies in the industry, and in the report is true and fair, complies with market as a whole. accounting standards and that the company The four main elements of financial state- can meet its debts as and when they fall ments are: due.

• Statement of comprehensive income Ratios are an important tool in understand(SOCI) ing the company’s current performance and • Statement of financial position (SOFP) enable future forecasting. Some useful • Statement of cash flows (SOCF) ratios are as follows: • Statement of changes in equity (SOCE) • Debt-to-equity ratio SOFP shows what a company owns and • Inventory turnover ratio what it owes at a fixed point in time. SOCI • Operating margin shows how much money a company made • P/E ratio and spent over a period of time. SOCF • Liquidity Ratios shows the exchange of money between a • Current ratio company and the outside world, also over a • Cash ratio period of time and SOCE shows changes in Changes in assets and liabilities on the the interests of the company’s shareholders SOFP are also in the SOCI, which results in over time. the company’s gains or losses. Cash flows Australian companies must consider some provide more information about cash assets major financial reporting requirements such listed on SOFP. as: Overall, financial statements provide powFirst, they must comply with Australian erful information to investors and informaAccounting standards, so that financial tion is the investor’s best tool when it statements can be readily compared and comes to investing wisely. understood.

Second, financial statements must provide In order to review or interpret financials ‘true and fair’ view of the company’s finan- for investment/valuation purposes or prepacial position. The financials must present a ration of financial statements contact Vivek picture in line with the company’s true Chopra on 07 3218 3900. will be scrutinising cafes and restaurants, real estate businesses, and carpentry businesses in home building or construction.

“Since 2005 we have collected and paid $1.7 billion in superannuation guarantee to employees.”

“And, for small to medium and large business, we will be looking particularly at restructures that shift profits offshore and the GST risks associated with the sale, transfer and acquisition of property, Mr D'Ascenzo said.

“An area we will be focussing on is the tobacco industry’s excise obligation relating to any destruction of product and refund claims in the transition of plain packaging from 1 December.”

Underpinning the compliance program this

year are a number of initiatives the ATO is promoting to support those who want to do the right thing but need some help.

“We believe the majority of people try to do the right thing in meeting their tax obligations, and we find that where mistakes are made there is a low rate of them being repeated,” Mr D’Ascenzo said.

“So this year the program also outlines what we are doing and what resources are available to help make complying as easy and inexpensive as possible.

“This includes special assistance for those who are new to the tax system. Last year we provided business assistance visits to almost 10,000 businesses.”

The Compliance program 2012-13 can be downloaded from www.ato.gov.au

BIT OCT DEADLINES ADVERT BOOKINGS / EDITORIALS 28 SEPTEMBER 2012

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 21

Who, What, Where, When • Indian Senior Citizen Association Seniors Week celebrations held on 26 August at Runcorn Heights State School Hall.

• Members of Queensland India Council with Queensland Treasurer Tim Nicholls at Parliament House at their meeting on Tuesday 21st August.

• Ramayan Pooja at the residence of Bijay and Anila Nand on the 25th of August with Kunaal Nand.

• Hon. Consul for India in Qld, Mrs Archana Singh and Prof. Singh held a flag raising ceremony at the Indian Consulate on 15 August to celebrate India’s Independence Day. Pictured above are the Singh family with family and friends.

• Mrs Shiu Kumari Bharos celebrated her 80th birthday in Auckland New Zealand at Sunil and Praveena Chandra's residence.

A Havan was conducted by Pundit Vasant Bhai Shukla. Three of her Children Umesh Chandra, Sunil Chandra and Asha Swarup together with three Grandchildren Shikha, Ashmeeta and Manisha and One great Grandchild Mohan graced the auspicious occasion.

The function was attended by a large number of family and friends.

• Brisbane Malayalee Association recently held their Onam Festival. Pictured left are the Bollywood performers and above Brisbane Malayalee Executives.

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 23\

24 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

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Dr Mustafa Ally among the finalists in the Courier Mail 2012 Pride of Australia medal THE Courier Mail, Sunday Mail Pride of Australia Medal, now in its eighth year recognises our unsung heroes.

They come from all walks of life and age ranges: teachers, students, doctors, volunteers, children and parents. And they all have one thing in common they have made a positive differnece to the world.

A well known face from the community, Dr Mustafa Ally was one of the finalists in this years awards in the Fair Go category. Nominees in this category should: be an Australian permanent resident or citizen, born overseas, who has enriched Australia through their community involvement, hard work and willingness to embrace their new home.

University academic Dr Mustafa Ally is deeply committed to racial and religious harmony and multiculturalism. When he lived in South Africa, he vocally opposed apartheid and advocated strongly for nonracial sport. He looked out for disadvantaged students at Durban University of Technology.

Since arriving in Australia in 1994, Brisbane’s Dr Ally has been a positive role model in the Muslim community. He organised the first Muslim Symposium and Expo in Queensland in 2007, founded the Qld Muslim Historical Society and is editor-inchief of Crescent Community News.

He is also president of Crescents Brisane and encourages young people to become actively involved in their community. Dr Ally has raised more than $100,000 for numerous appeals.

Brisbane Indian Times wishes to congratulate Dr Ally on his nomination and thank him for his positive contribution to the community. He truly is an inspiration to all.

Full details of award finalists can be found on the Courier Mail Website.

Source: Courier Mail.

Discovering an unforgettable Indian link in New Zealand Since arriving from Mumbai seven years ago, she has been studying hotel management.

Rajendra Chauhan, 30, boasted a There’s something soul-stirring fulfilling career in accounts and hosabout visiting New Zealand, particpitality and completed his masters in ularly when you meet so many felcommerce in Udaipur, came to low Indians.

Rotorua, qualified as a massage It was an enriching experience to therapist and is duty manager at a note the presence of a sizeable local resort. (estimates at more than 100,000) Highlights of Rotorua Indian population, but it was even Rotorua receives more than 3 milmore encouraging to discover that lion visitors annually and they go the number of tourists from India to there for more than just a rejuvenatNew Zealand had increased by 77% ing therapy in the geothermal since 2005. venues.

According to Mischa MannixOpie, regional manager India & • Rajendra Chauhan has a welcome smile for visitors The smell of sulphur can be overpowering, at first, and the wisps of South East Asia, Tourism New to Hells Gate, Rotorua. Photo: Rama Gaind steam linger lending an eerie atmosZealand, the number of Indian Judge Avinash Deo Bhakta, of the tourists going to New Zealand is fore- Auckland District Court, who is an phere, but Rotorua is a hot spot for cast to rise to 44,757 by 2016.

Indian from Uganda, is another judge mineral springs. Visit Te Puia, New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts She said India was New Zealand’s of Indian origin.

12th largest market in terms of arrivals Dr Rajen Prasad, QSO, is a Labour Institute, discover the renowned with other nationalities in order of Party MP who was Race Relations Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve with majority being Australia, UK, USA, Conciliator (1996 – 2001), the first Pohutu Geyser illuminated as a natural China and Japan.

Chief Commissioner of the Families and spectacular backdrop and marvel at the geothermal park and bathe in the In the 12-months to May 2012, more Commission (2004 – 2008). than 29,200 Indian tourists had visited Professor Debes Bhattacharyya, direc- mud pools at WaiOra Hells Gate.

Celebrate when the locals greet you New Zealand. Of this figure, 13,936 tor of the Centre for Advanced came for a “great holiday … New Composite Materials at the Faculty of with Kia Ora (hello in Maori) because Zealand is a very popular destination Engineering, University of Auckland, you will have an extraordinary vacafor honeymooners”. has received international academic tion in New Zealand!

Rama Gaind was a guest of Tourism Residents of Indian origin honours for his work in composite The land of the Great White Cloud has materials including India’s highly pres- New Zealand and Destination Rotorua Marketing. a nerve-tingling connection with India tigious ‘Glory of India’ award. and people of Indian origin. The list of Patriotic connection prominent figures include Sir Anand There was even a choice when it Satyanand who was the first NZ came to listening to a Hindi radio Governor-General of Indian descent. station 24/7: Hulchul or Apna.

A lawyer, judge and ombudsman, Sir That was an entertaining treat!

Anand became the 19th GovernorApproximately 1000 Indians General, and was in office for five live in Rotorua, a major north years until August 31, 2011. island tourist destination.

Other reputable residents include: It wasn’t long before I met three Dame Sukhi Turner DNZM was Indians in Rotorua: Deepak Mayor of Dunedin from 1995 until Mehta, was porter at the Holiday 2004. She and husband New Zealand Inn, who after three years was on cricketer Glenn Turner ‘retired’ to Lake his way to greener pastures in Wanaka (45 minutes north of Wellington, while Prajakta Queenstown).

Chaukekar, duty manager, who Dr Ajit Swaran Singh was the first felt that every day brought fresh Fiji-born Indian to be appointed to the adventures since she met “differ- • Wisps of steam linger over Rotorua … a hot spot District Court Bench in New Zealand. ent people every day”. for mineral springs. Photo: Rama Gaind Story and pictures by Rama Gaind

Indo Fijians migrate with excess luggage of Family Violence

By Thakur Ranjit Singh THERE is little doubt that there are high incidents of family violence in Fiji, and statistics and high amount of funds spent on this vice is self evident. The unfortunate part is that when Fijians, especially Indo Fijian males migrate to developed countries, they tend to take this trait of family violence with them. So is the case with those migrating to New Zealand, where high levels of family violence are detected among Indians in general and indo Fijians in particular. The matter is perceived so great that the community, represented by Waitakere Indian Association (WIA) collaborated in a workshop with New Zealand Police, Settling In (Ministry of Social Development -MSD), and Auckland Council, to tackle this social issue in the community.

The workshop, which was held at Glendene, Auckland last month, attracted some seventy five (75) people representing a cross-section of the community. The workshop covered the journey from India to Fiji to New Zealand, raised awareness of family violence and gave an overview of this problem in the New Zealand context. The workshop also included a breakout session to generate ideas on what the community could do to take action.

Pundit Devakar Prasad, former deputy general manager of Radio Fiji, a respected priest and Indo Fijian community leader in Auckland, set the scene for the day with the unique history and analysis which explained why Indo Fijians behaved differently. With indenture from India in unpleasant circumstances and inheriting a political system that gave little security, Indo Fijians have been looking for a country which they could call theirs. “Because of our past insecurity and turbulent history, we tend to stick together and did little to mix around, and hence still carry rituals and ways which are outdated and perhaps irrelevant, “ he told the workshop.

Former lecturer, Chief Families Commissioner and Race Relations Conciliator, Dr Rajen Prasad echoed the fact that while Indo Fijians were very successful in some areas, there were others where more work needed to be done. “We should have zero tolerance because if we tolerate little violence, you will tolerate more violence,” he warned. With his decades of experience in dealing with social issues, he agreed Family Violence is also a problem for Indo Fijians, and they needed to start there. This was further substantiated by local police officers, who presented examples and statistics which showed there was a reason to be concerned.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

• Sunil Chandra, (standing) President of Waitakere Indian Association (WIA) explaining a point to (from left) Bhuwan Prasad from WIA Senior Citizens group, Dr Rajen Prasad, former Families Commissioner, former Race Relations Conciliator and list Labour Party member of parliament., and Community worker Sneh Prasad.

Officials from Government agencies, Child Youth and Family and Ministry of Social Development further shed light on the problems and issues in our community.

The empowering process came when audience broke out into six groups to brainstorm the issue. The message flowing through the workshop was that there is a problem and there should be zero tolerance for Family Violence.

Community was encouraged to speak up and seek help which was available from police and other support agencies. Media was named as a source which could be utilised to spread the message. All groups concurred that the issue of Family Violence be raised openly. People were encouraged to seek help without hesitation or restriction, in a culturally-sensitive atmosphere with assurance of privacy and confidentiality.

People in whom almost all groups showed confidence were local Pundits and priests who occupied positions of influence, trust and reverence. These were built from historical necessity from days of Girmit (indenture), and hence were identified as medium of change and influence.

However, a disappointing feature of the workshop was the www.indiantimes.com.au

complete absence of Indo Fijian Pundits despite invitations sent to some ten of them. The only exception was Pundit Devakar Prasad, who was critical of some rituals and traditions relevant during Girmit eras but outdated in modern New Zealand. “What is missing from our rituals carried from some 120 years is the link of our scriptures to this modern world. We need to change, and despite absence of Pundits, I will make a start with help from community,” Prasad reassured the workshop. Another group agreed with Prasad and said that religious ways and rituals propagated by some Pundits were done in abstract with no relevance to modern life. The role that Pundits played during indenture days in Fiji was that of a spiritual leader, a counsellor, a learned person and a role model. With the current situation where we have graduates and educated people in virtually all homes, the role of Pundits has degenerated to rituals and monetary gains only. It was essential for a change where Pundits become more respected and relevant to educated migrants. They need to rise up from their current role of merely somebody conducting hawans, narrating abstract mythological literature and reciting mantras nobody understood.

With feedback from community, the workshop resolved to develop a summer communication campaign to promote the message “It’s not Ok but it’s Ok to ask for help.” It was agreed to use local media, and to utilise influential and respected members of the community like professionals, sports people and religious leaders. Pundits in particular were urged to change, and make religious messages more relevant to modern day living. The key message to go out was an acknowledgement of the fact that there is a problem.

In this pilot workshop, the Indo-Fijian community and the government agencies benefited mutually and other communities can learn through this “bottoms up” experience. This augers well as a joint project, and remains a forerunner to finding solutions to other social issues.

The message going out to Indo Fijian males migrating to New Zealand is, like drugs and other prohibited items, they should dump the excess luggage of family violence in the rubbish bin as they enter Customs in New Zealand.

[E-mail; thakurji@xtra.co.nz] [Thakur Ranjit Singh, apart from a communication specialist and community worker, is also an executive of Waitakere Indian Association, and was the chief liaison officer in this workshop.]

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The power of Dua (Supplication) Prepared By: Imam M. Aslam IN the name of Allah the most gracious, the most merciful, all praises due to Allah S.W.T. and blessing and salutations upon the Beloved Prophet Muhammad Sallalahu Alaihi Wassalam. I would like to describe the importance of Du'aa, we believe that Allah is the most merciful and the most gracious and he opens the door of Tauba (to seek forgiveness) for us and commanded us to make Du'aa. Whoever has been given the opportunity of making Du'aa, he is given a great Ni'mat (bounty). Du'aa is a great hope for us which makes us closer to Allah S.W.T. "Truly, Allah loves those who repent, and He loves those who cleanse themselves." (Al-Baqarah 2:222) "Dua is the essence of Ibadah (worship)." (at Tirmdhi, Ahmad) "There is nothing more dear to Allah Ta'ala than a servant making dua to him." (at Tirmdhi, Ahmad) "The person who does not ask from Allah Ta'ala, Allah Ta'ala becomes angry with him." (at Tirmdhi, Ahmad) "The dua of Momin for his brother in his absence is readily accepted, an angel is appointed to his side, whenever he makes a beneficial dua for his brother the appointed angel says "aameen and may you also be blessed with the same." (Sahih Muslim) "If you ask, ask Allah and if you seek help, seek help from Allah." (at Tirmdhi, Ahmad) "O my servants, were the first of you and last of you, the human of you and jinn of you to rise up in one place and make a request from me, and were I to give everyone what they requested, that would not decrease what I have any more than a needle decreases the sea if put into it." (Sahih Muslim) "When a person dies, all his actions come to an end with the exception of three: 1) Sadaqa Jaariyaa recurring charity; 2) Knowledge from which benefit continues to be reaped; 3) And the prayers of his pious children for him."

(Sahih al-Bukhari) "The invocation of anyone of you is granted (by Allah) as long as he does not show impatience by saying "I have invoked Allah but my request has not been answered." (Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim) "And whoever does evil or wrongs himself but afterwards seeks Allah's forgiveness, he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Surah anNisa; 4:110) "And declare the freedom of your Rubb from imperfection beginning with His praise, and ask His forgiveness. Verily, He is the One Who accepts the repentance and Who forgives." (Surah 110:3) "Any Muslim who supplicates to Allah in a Du'a which contains no sin breaking of kinship, Allah will give him one of three things: either his Du'a will be immediately answered or, it will be saved for him in the thereafter, or it will turn away an equivalent amount of evil (from him)" The companions said "so we will ask for more" he replied, "Allah is more (generous)." (at-Tirmidhi, Ahmad) "Ask forgiveness for your sin and also for the believing men and women" (47:19) "The Prophet (SAW) said to him while Ibn-Abbas was riding behind him on the same mount "Young man, I shall teach you some words (of advice): Be mindful of Allah and you will find him in front of you. If you ask, ask only Allah and if you seek help, seek help only from Allah. And know that if all the nations were to gather together to benefit you, they would benefit you only with something that Allah had already prescribed for you, and if they gather together to harm you, they would harm you only with something that Allah had already prescribed for you. The pens have been lifted and the pages are dry." (at-Tirmidhi) "Ask and you will be given, ask you will be given" (at-Tirmidhi) "And when my servants ask you concerning me, (tell them) I am indeed near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls." (Surah al Baqarah; 2:187) "And your Lord said, invoke me and I will respond to your invocation." (40:60) "Invoke your Lord with humility and in secrecy, for God loveth not those who trespass beyond bounds." (7:55) "So invoke Allah making your worship pure for him." (40:14) "Invoke Him only, making your religion sincere to him." (7:29) The Prophet (SAW) was asked "which Du'a is more heard (by Allah)?" The Prophet (SAW) said, "The Du'a during the last part of the night and after the Fard prayers." (at-Tirmidhi, 3421) Aisha (RA) said, "No believer makes Dua and it is wasted. Either it is granted here in this world or deposited for him in the Hereafter as long as he does not get frustrated."

"Or, Who listens to the (soul) distressed when it calls on Him, and Who relieves its suffering, and makes you (making) inheritors of the earth? (Can there be another) God besides Him? Little it is that ye heed!" (an-Naml:62) "For any one among you, if the door of acceptance of du'a is opened, then the doors of His Mercy are also opened. The best du'a Allah likes is the one in which the caller asks for the goodness of this world and the goodness of the next world." (at-Tirmidhi, al-Hakim) "Du'a is a weapon of a believer, a pillar of religion, and a light of the heavens and the earth." (alHakim)

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"Nothing prevents predestination except Du'a, and nothing stretches the age except righteousness." (at-Tirmidhi) "Do not feel hopeless with Du'a since nobody is to be annihilated with Du'a." (ibn Hiban) "Abu Darda' (RA) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah(SAW) saying, "Whenever a Muslim supplicates for his (Muslim) brother in his absence, the angels say: `May the same be for you too." [Muslim, 1494] "And ask forgiveness for your sin, and also for (the sin of) believing men and believing women" [47:19] "I heard Allah's Apostle saying." By Allah! I ask for forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day." [Sahih al-Bukhari, 8:319] "Narrated abu Hurairah (RA) Allah's Apostle said, "For every prophet there is one (special invocation (that will not be rejected) with which he appeals (to Allah), and I want to keep such an invocation for interceding for my followers in the Hereafter."

[Sahih al-Bukhari, 8:317] An-Numan bin Bashir (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: "Verily, Supplication is worship." [al-Arba'a (the four), at-Tirmidhi] Abu Hurairah(RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: "Nothing is more honourable (most liked ) before Allah (SWT) than Supplication." [at-Tirmidhi, ibn Hibban and al-Hakim] "Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before us." [surah 21:90] "Dhan-Nun (Jonah), when he went off in anger, and imagined that We shall not punish him. But he cried through the darkness (saying): La ilaha illa Anta (none has the, right to be worshiped but You) Glorified be You, Truly, I have been of the wrongdoers." [surah 21:87] Anas (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: "A supplication made between the Adhan and Iqama is not rejected." [an-Nasai and ibn Hibban] Abu Hurairah(RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: "There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah (Ta'ala), then Allah (Ta'ala) will definitely meet his demand." And he (the Prophet (SAW) pointed out the shortness of that time with his hands." [Sahih al-Bukhari] Abu Hurairah(RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said: "The nearest a slave can be to his Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) is when he is prostrating, so invoke (supplicate) Allah (Ta'ala) much." [Sahih Muslim] Abu Ummamah (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) was asked: "O Messenger of Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah (Ta'ala), he said the end of the night and at the end of the obligatory Salat (prayer)." [at-Tirmidhi] "Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller)." [al Bayhaqi] "Is not He Who responds to the distressed one, when he calls Him, and Who removes the evil, and makes you inheritors of the earth, generation after generation. Is there any god with Allah?

Little is that you remember." [surah 27:62] There are deep sighs of remorse and sorrow echoed from every corner of the Muslim World.

As much as we strive to change this morbid situation we should never forget that Allah Ta’ala is fully aware of the plight and condition of every soul. Everything happens only with His permission and will. In every crisis Rasulullah's (SAW) total effort and focus was directed towards dua as his dependence lay entirely in Allah(SWT). The most glaring example was during the battle of Badr, when Rasulullah (SAW) spent the entire night in fervent dua until the Sahaba (R.A) had to stop him. Dua is certainly the most lethal weapon we have and no crisis or catastrophe should deter us a single degree from this course. The benefits of dua are innumerable and its effects and fruits will be seen in the Hereafter also. However, acceptance of dua is dependant on two crucial aspects - pure halal sustenance and total unconditional abstention from sin.

1. Allah Ta'ala - Loves to Be Asked He encourages that in all things. He is angry with the one who does not ask of Him and He encourages His slaves to ask of Him. Allah says: “And your Lord said: “Invoke Me [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islamic Monotheism) and ask Me for anything] I will respond to your (invocation)” [Noble Quran 40:60] “And when My slaves ask you (O my beloved Messanger) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright” [Noble Quran 2:186] 2. Sincerity Towards Allah Alone in Making Du’a Allah says: “And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him)” [Noble Quran 98:5] 3. Ask Allah by His Most Beautiful Names Allah says: “And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah, so call on Him by them, and leave the company of those who belie or deny (or utter impious speech against) His Names” [Noble Quran 7:180] 4. Praising Allah as He Deserves Before Calling Upon Him Fadalah ibn ‘Ubayd said: Whilst the Messenger of

Allah (peace be upon him) was sitting, a man came in and prayed and said, “O Allah, forgive me and have mercy on me.” The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “You have been too hasty, O worshipper. When you have prayed and are sitting, praise Allah as He deserves to be praised, and send blessings upon me, then call upon Him.” [At-Tirmidhi] 5. Sending Blessings Upon The Prophet (peace be upon him) The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Every Du’a is kept back until you send blessings upon the Prophet (peace be upon him).” [At-Tabarani] 6. Facing Towards The Qiblah ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab said: On the day of Badr, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) turned to face the Qiblah, then he stretched forth his hands and started to cry out to his Lord: “O Allah, grant me what You have promised me, O Allah, give me what You have promised me. O Allah, if this small band of Muslims perishes, You will not be worshipped on earth.” He kept on crying out to his Lord, stretching forth his hands, facing towards the Qiblah, until his cloak fell from his shoulders.

[Muslim] An-Nawawi said: This shows that it is Mustahabb (preferred) to face towards the Qiblah when making Du’a, and to raise the hands.

7. Raising The Hands The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “Your Lord, may He be blessed and exalted, is Kind and Most Generous, and He is too kind to let His slave, if he raises his hands to Him, bring them back empty.”

[Abu Dawud].

The palm of the hand should be raised heavenwards, in the manner of a humble beggar who hopes to be given something.

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “When you ask of Allah, ask of Him with the palms of your hands, not with the backs of them.”

[Abu Dawud].

8. Having Certain Faith That Allah Will Respond Focusing with proper presence of mind, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Call upon Allah when you are certain of a response, and remember that Allah will not answer a Du’a that comes from a negligent and heedless heart.” [AtTirmidhi] 9. Asking Frequently A person should ask his Lord for whatever he wants of the good things in this world and the Hereafter, and he should beseech Allah in Du’a, and not seek a hasty response, because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The slave will receive a response so long as his Du’a does not involve sin or severing of family ties, and so long as he is not hasty.” It was said, “What does being hasty mean?” He said: “When he says, ‘I made Du’a and I made Du’a, and I have not seen any response,’ and he gets frustrated and stops making Du’a.” [Bukhari] 10. Being Firm in Du’a Because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “No one of you should say, ‘O Allah, forgive me if You wish, O Allah, have mercy on me if You wish’; he should be firm in his asking, for Allah cannot be compelled.” [Bukhari and Muslim] 11. Beseeching, Humility, Hope & Fear Allah says: “Invoke your Lord with humility and in secret” [Noble Quran 7:55] “Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us” [Noble Quran 21:60] “And remember your Lord within yourself, humbly and with fear and without loudness in words in the mornings and in the afternoons” [Noble Quran 7:20] 12. Saying Du’as Three Times ‘Abd-Allah ibn Mas’ud said: “Whilst the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) was praying at the Ka’bah, Abu Jahl and his companions were sitting nearby. They had slaughtered a camel the previous day, and Abu Jahl said: “Which of you will go and get the abdominal contents of the camel of Banu So and so and put it on the back of Muhammad when he prostrates?” The worst of the people went and got it, and when the Prophet (peace be upon him) prostrated, he placed it between his shoulders. They started laughing, leaning against one another. I was standing there watching, and if I had had any power, I would have lifted it from the back of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). The Prophet (peace be upon him) remained in prostration, not lifting his head, until someone went and told Fatimah. She came with Juwayriyah, and lifted it from him, then she turned to them and rebuked them. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) had finished his prayer, he raised his voice and prayed against them. and when he made Du’a or asked of Allah he would repeat it three times. and he said: “O Allah, punish Quraysh” three times. When they heard his voice, they stopped laughing and were afraid because of his Du’a. Then he said, “O Allah, punish Abu Jahl ibn Hisham, ‘Utbah ibn Rabi’ah, Shaybah ibn Rabi’ah, al-Walid ibn ‘Uqbah, Umayyah ibn Khalaf and ‘Uqbah ibn Abu Mu’ayt,” and he mentioned the seventh but I cannot remember who it was. By the One Who sent Muhammad (peace be upon him) with the truth, I saw those whom he had named slain on the day of Badr, then they were dragged and thrown into the well, the well of Badr.” [Bukhari and Muslim] 13. Ensuring That One’s Food and Clothing Are Lawful (i.e., Halal) The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “O people, Allah is Good and does not accept anything but that which is good.

Allah enjoins upon the believers the same as He enjoined upon the Messengers. He says: ‘O (you) Messengers! Eat of the Tayyibat [all kinds of Halal (lawful) foods which Allah has made lawful

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(meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables, fruits)] and do righteous deeds. Verily, I am Well-Acquainted with what you do’ [Noble Quran 23:51] ‘O you who believe (in the Oneness of Allah.

Islamic Monotheism)! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with’ [Noble Quran 2:172] Then he mentioned a man who travels for a long distance and is disheveled and dusty, and he stretches forth his hands towards heaven saying, ‘O Lord, O Lord,’ but his food is Haram, his drink is Haram, his clothing is Haram, he has been nourished with Haram, so how can he be responded to?” [Muslim] Ibn Rajab said: Ensuring that one’s food, drink and clothing are Halal, and that one is nourished with Halal, is a means of having one’s Du’a answered. End quote.

Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.) taught that every time you do Tasbeeh (praising Allah), a plant is being planted for you in Jannah. Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.) said what means: "Dua is worship." (Authentic Hadith) There are five elements that cause the Dua to be answered: I. A Reason related to the one making Dua, or a state in which he is in that makes his more likely to be answered (as mentioned in the Holy Quran and Sunnah), the examples include: 1) fasting person 2) traveller 3) one who is oppressed 4) a pious child who makes Dua for his parents II. A Reason related to the Dua itself; meaning the etiquettes of Dua are adhered to so that the Dua may be perfected: 1) begin by praising Allah and sending prayers and blessings upon Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.)

2) gain nearness to Allah through Tawassul, either by: a. calling upon Allah by His names and attributes b. calling upon Allah by one's good deeds 3) Be on Wudu (Ablution) 4) Face the Qiblah 5) Never ask for that which is Haram (such as breaking ties of kinship) 6) Ask about anything and everything you need and the best way is to generally ask for the good of Dunya (world ) and Akhirah (Hereafter) 7) Make your Dua contingent upon Allah's knowledge (for examples say: Allah give me such-andsuch "if it is good for me" because only He truly knows what is good for you.)

8) Insist for it, beg, stay determined to get it because you are fully dependent on Him 9) Don't use "if you want/will to" because Allah does what he wants 10) Raise hands to shoulder level with palms facing towards the sky 11) Lower one's gaze in humility.

12) Lower one's voice in humility.

13) End your Dua with praise of Allah and prayers upon Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.)

14) Be patient in waiting for the response: Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.) teaches us that whenever anyone makes Dua, he will be answered unless he says "Allah didn't answer me." And if he is not answered in this Dunya then either Allah will remove from him some harm in this Dunya because of his Dua or he will save his reward for him on the Day of Judgment.

III. Special Times when Dua is most likely to be answered: 1) when it's raining (rain is blessing from ALLAH) 2) Last 3rd of night especially. before Fajr; called Sahr 3) Between Athan/Azan and Iqamah 4) Standing at mount Arafat (part of Hajj) 5) During the Qoonoot of Taraweeh in Ramadan 6) Lailatul Qadr 7) Friday 8) When a fasting person breaks his fast 9) Before drinking Zam-Zam 10) Right after Salah (prayer) 11) In sujood (prostrations) IV. That there be no obstacles for the Dua to be answered: This usually refers to one's relationship with Allah. Does one truly feel dependant and humble in front of Allah? Does one truly believe that Allah has the power to do whatever He wishes? And most importantly, is this person so sinful, having no regard for Allah's commands, yet he expects Allah to grant him what he wishes for? If one's food, drink, and clothing are all from Haram sources, Allah would not honor such a person with a response as is mentioned in a Hadith.

NOTE: However, all humans are sinners, and they may, at any time choose to change and come back to Allah. True Tawbah (repentance) means that one's Istighfar changed their heart and being.

This is what all of us should seek. Allah accepts the repentance from his servants if they are sincere. Even if we have sinned so much, we must always call upon Allah, for we cannot live without His blessings and sustenance. In fact, not to make Dua is another sin which angers Allah. So if one fears that his Dua may not be answered because of sins, let him begin his Dua with Istighfar and its conditions of acceptance are the following: 1) immediately stop the sin and anything related to it 2) regret what you did sincerely 3) to promise never to return to that sin If it is between you and another person, then also: 4) ask their forgiveness Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.) taught that every time you do Tasbeeh (praising Allah), a plant is being planted for you in Jannah.

Rasoolullah (p.b.u.h.) said what means: "Dua is worship." (Authentic Hadith) We make Dua'aa for all Hujjaj who are going to travel to perform Hajj , may Allah Ta'ala accept their Hajj. Ameen.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 27

Cultural advancement and cultural misleading

By Yadavendra Das Sunshine Coast, Australia Continued from last issue THE shelter of Krishna and His transcendental loving service is required to sustain the altitude of true liberation from this material world. Ultimately, there is no other choice as confirmed negatively in SrimadBhagavatam 10.2.32, where the demigods address the Supreme Personality of Godhead as follows: ye 'nye 'ravindäkña vimukta-mäninas tvayy asta-bhäväd aviçuddha-buddhayaù äruhya kåcchreëa paraà padaà tataù patanty adho 'nädåta-yuñmad-aìghrayaù “O lotus-eyed one, those who think they are liberated in this life but who are devoid of devotional service to You are of impure intelligence. Although they accept severe austerities and penances and rise to the spiritual position, to impersonal Brahman realization, they fall down again because they neglect to worship Your lotus feet.”

It is positively confirmed in Bhagavad-Gita As It Is 14.26, where the Supreme Person speaks as follows: mäà ca yo 'vyabhicäreëa bhakti-yogena sevate sa guëän samatétyaitän brahma-bhüyäya kalpate “One who engages in full devotional service, unfailing in all circumstances, at once transcends the modes of material nature and thus comes to the level of Brahman.”

The other great misinterpretation inspired from the Vedic scripture is of course the Darwinian theory of evolution.

Evolution is a reality. The living entity, meaning the soul, transmigrates from one body to another according to his karmic credit. Just as a tenant can afford to choose an apartment according to the accumulated credit in his bank account and income, similarly the soul is granted a body by higher authorities, according to his aggregate desires and stock of past work (karma).

There is a gradation and there is consequently an upward path and a downward path. This is confirmed in Bhagavad-Gita As It Is 2.13: dehino 'smin yathä dehe kaumäraà yauvanaà jarä tathä dehäntarapräptir dhéras tatra na muhyati “As the embodied soul continuously passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death. A sober person is not bewildered by such a change.”

That one body of a specific species magically transforms into the bodily form of another species is definitely not a standard phenomenon, as Charles Darwin would want us to believe. Most probably not even over a period of millions of years. The Vedas teach us that there are as many as 8 400 000 different species of life instead.

Unfortunately such wildly concocted and false theories are accepted as standard knowledge and taught to innocent children in schools. Is it a wonder then that modern society is plagued with so many problems, if its citizens are thus forcibly misled and brainwashed from the earliest stages of

their lives by leaders who are themselves blind as to the ultimate goal of life? (SB 7.5.31 na te viduù svärtha-gatià hi viñëuà) In Srimad Bhagavatam 7.1.6, Prahlada Maharaja, a genius of a devotee child, suggests that Srimad Bhagavatam, the pure Purana from India, best presented in an authorized and scholarly English translation

by Srila Prabhupada, should instead be introduced in the schools from the most tender age. Educators who are truly interested in the ultimate benefit of their pupils would do well to follow this meaningful advice. çré-prahräda uväca kaumära äcaret präjïo dharmän bhägavatän iha durlabhaà mänuñaà janma tad apy adhruvam arthadam “Prahlada Maharaja said: One who is sufficiently intelligent should use the human form of body from the very beginning of life—in other words, from the tender age of childhood—to practice the activities of devotional service, giving up all other engagements. The human body is most rarely achieved, and although temporary like other bodies, it is meaningful because in human life one can perform devotional service. Even a slight amount of sincere devotional service can give one complete perfection.”

His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada, the Founder-Acarya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness has expertly, selflessly and mercifully given all the answers that we may require. This means that if we experience some problems in our lives, it is because we do not know Srila Prabhupada well enough. Therefore we should increase our attachment to Srila Prabhupada and hear and study the words emanated from His lotus mouth more and more.

To chant Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare means to authoritatively petition Lord Sri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, and His internal energy, of which the personification is none other than Her Divine Grace Srimati Radharani, to pleeeeeeeeeease engage me in Your loving devotional services. A long “e”, may be along with contortion of the body like a determined child, is required, because eagerness, preferably intense eagerness, must accompany our petition to be successful. That much power the infinitesimal living entity is granted in his relationship with the unique infinite living being, Sri Krishna. This relationship is also called in Sanskrit language “sambandha”. The absence of chanting of the holy names of God, will indicate inversely that our desire for divine service is waning or nonexistent.

Therefore let us all take up enthusiastically the chanting of the Hare Krishna MahaMantra and thus become progressively situated in our constitutional position of eternal servants of the Supreme Brahman, Sri Krishna, and become truly fulfilled and happy! Hallelujah!J

Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc What ails the climate

Jitendra Deo President

THE climate is at the receiving end of all ills. The main cause of change for the worse in the global climate is global warming which in turn is triggered by emissions in home- hearth, industry, transportation; one may say the green house gases are caused by production and consumption of energy.

In view of the above logic, the danger to Maldives, Mumbai, London, the Netherlands and other low lying areas of being submerged in the rising waters of oceans is as grave as ever. The Arctic is melting, the ice sheets of Greenland are converted into rivers, the glaciers are melting and taking the shape of dangerous icebergs floating into new water bodies of the Arctic and they all give the danger signal to low lying land on planet earth. The sea

water is eating into land causing social tension.

The food for humans and fodder for animals will be sown and harvested in lesser areas giving rise to violence, food riots and

what have you.

Yugratna Shrivastava, a teenage student from Uttar Pradesh, India and an activist to prevent global warming has rightly pointed out in her address to the United Nations General assembly that we, as individuals, may contribute our time and knowledge by educating the less privileged men and women not to burn cow dung or jungle wood in open hearth or chulah as that too contributes to global warming and climate change that affects rainfall and food production. Indeed Ban Ki Moon, Secretary General of the United Nations opened a new chapter by inviting her to participate in the UN deliberations to prevent global climate change.

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

Saying NO to worry...

DEAR reader, it is with much joy we bring you the word of God today.

When faced with life's uneasy concerns and potentially disastrous Pastor Joseph issues, we worry. It seems that worry has spread its wings over all of humanity. The question is why does someone worry? The reason could be our need to prepare for the worst or it is easy to become negative and expect things to go wrong etc.

Scripture tells us that worry is not a blessing from God. Jesus told His listeners in Matthew 6v24,25 that one cannot serve both God and money. Serving money will only lead you to worry about your life, what you are going to eat or drink, and about your body, what you are going to put on.

That is when you worry, you are trying to fix everything, every difficulty in your own strength. Scripture tells us that the enemy steals our joy by taking our trust away from God. In John 10v10 Jesus said that He came that we may have and enjoy life. God wants us to have a happy and satisfying life. The solution is saying NO to worry. In Matthew 6v33 Jesus said we are to serve or learn to trust God and not allow worry to get the better of us. Worry is a destructive force with the ability to keep people bound so they do not live a happy life. Isaiah 26v3 says "you will keep in perfect peace whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you."When we worry, we are keeping our minds on what the enemy is telling us

Dass

instead of what God is saying to us. Listening and obeying God keeps us overflowing with joy for in Philippians 4v7 we read "And the peace of God... will guard your hearts and minds,

in Christ Jesus".

1Peter5v7 tells us to cast our cares upon God for He cares for us. Often people with certain needs have carers looking after them. That means these people are wholly dependent upon their carers for all their needs. The verse also says that we are to cast all our cares upon God. When a fisherman wants to catch fish, he has to let go or throw the net into the water. We are to do the same. We are to come to a conscious decision to let go or throw all our worries over to God so that it is no longer in your care but God's. And remember, it is no good giving worry over to God then trying to get it back. To have victory we must let it remain with Him for He knows how best to handle it. Worrying will not do any good to us, that's why Jesus said worry cannot add anything to us, on the contrary it will take away our peace and joy from us. It's like a rocking chair, that keeps you moving but gets you nowhere. So refuse to worry!

Let's pray "Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for keeping us in your perfect peace every day, in Jesus name, Amen".

Blessings Ps Joseph

Now, a technique to regularise abnormal heartbeats WASHINGTON, Sep 9 (IANS) Scientists have now discovered a technique to regularise abnormal heartbeats.

A new freezing technology, called cryoablation, has shown promising results in normalising heartbeats after being tried out at Baylor Jack and Jane Hamilton Heart and Vascular Hospital.

Some 2.5 million Americans alone suffer from abnormal heartbeats or atrial fibrillation, which causes deadly strokes.

"It appears the major complication rate is lower with cryoablation, and patients seem to tolerate it better," said Manish Assar, cardiac electrophysiologist at the Baylor Hospital who conducted the procedure.

Currently, one of the several methods to regularise heartbeats is catheter ablation, a minimally invasive surgical option, which uses heat technology to treat the problem at the source, according to a Baylor statement.

A catheter is a long, thin, plastic-coated wire with several metal contacts on it - is guided into the heart after the physician has determined the type of arrhythmia (abnormal heart rate and rhythm).

Its most common side effects are those encountered with any IV insertion, including bleeding at the site when the catheter is removed, infection, blood clot formation within the vessel, and bleeding under the skin with formation of a hematoma (collection of blood).

Irregular beats involving the heart often obscure the threat to the brain. Their symptoms are shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and dizziness or light-headedness.

Irregular beats could be instrumental in the formation of blood clots in the heart, which

break off and travel to the brain, blocking major vessels, resulting in a stroke.

"Atrial fibrillation is responsible for 15 to 20 percent of strokes," said Assar.

"The strokes that are a result of atrial fibrillation are large and have higher mortality than other strokes and higher rates of serious disability than other strokes."

"One of the biggest misconceptions about atrial fibrillation that I hear from patients is that if they can't feel it, they don't have it," said Assar.

"But the diagnosis is made through an EKG (ECG), and if the EKG says they have atrial fibrillation, they have it."

While many patients exhibit no symptoms, that wasn't the case for Doug Gerber.

"Over time my heartbeat had become irregular. It would race to over 150 or slow down to under 50," he explained.

"It would pound so hard that I could see it beating through my shirt."

After attempting to control his erratic beats though medication, Gerber sought a more permanent solution, which he received at Baylor.

"My electrophysiologist understood exactly what was happening and recommended cryoablation," he said. Since the procedure, Gerber and his family have been able to look to the future without worrying about his heart.

Generally speaking the average rainfall in some areas of Asia and Africa is much less now than it was a couple of decades ago.

The food production is consequently affected adversely. We may make an endeavour to educate people of both developing and developed world to take to HAVAN (Yajna)on a community level. This process of making an offering of purified butter and a mixture of fragrant herbs to the fire lit ceremonially causes rainfall in deficient areas. It will cool down the climate and increase food production. The world organisations may adopt HAVAN (Yajna) in an organized manner on an experimental basis.

Besides cooling of climate a socio-religious activity like this will definitely cool tempers and prevent social tensions. Men, women and children of all faiths, regions and religions are free to perform HAVAN (Yajna). No eyebrows will be raised. It is

not expensive either and even lower middle class families may perform HAVAN (Yajna) to purify their local environment.

Many families going through this drill will produce a cumulative effect to neutralize local factors causing climate change.

There cannot be two opinions that the time to act is NOW. Procrastination is the thief of time. A delay in dealing with the climate change may adversely affect our Mother Earth and consequently Mankind. It is our sacred duty to let our children and children’s children inherit an Earth that is conducive to good health, lessens social tensions and generates spiritual happiness.

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Atrial fibrillation can strike at any age, but it is most prevalent in the elderly. No matter how old a patient is or whether or not they exhibit any symptoms, atrial fibrillation can lead to other serious health problems.

Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or visit: www.aryasamajqueensland.com Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing Older obese kids eat less than healthy peers WASHINGTON, Sep 10 (IANS) Obese kids who are older actually consume fewer calories per day than their healthy peers, while younger overweight children consume more calories than their healthy peers.

These findings are the outcome of a new study by University of North Carolina (UNC) School of Medicine paediatrics researchers, who compared the eating habits of overweight children aged between nine and 17 years compared to those younger than nine years.

"Children who are overweight tend to remain overweight," said Asheley Cockrell Skinner, assistant professor of paediatrics at UNC, who led the study the journal Paediatrics reports.

"So, for many children, obesity may begin by eating more in early childhood.

Then as they get older, they continue to be obese without eating any more than their healthy weight peers," Skinner said, according to an UNC statement.

"One reason this makes sense is because we know overweight children are less active than healthy weight kids.

Additionally, this is in line with other research that obesity is not a simple matter of overweight people eating more the body is complex in how it reacts to amount of food eaten and amount of activity," added Skinner.

Skinner and co-authors Eliana Perrin and Michael Steiner from the UNC, examined dietary reports from 19,125 children aged aged one to 17 years old that were collected from 2001 to 2008 as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Anuradha Raman launches stoles, target everyone NEW DELHI, Sep 5 (IANS) Designer Anuradha Raman, known for giving Indian handlooms a contemporary and modern twist, has unveiled her first collection of silk and cotton stoles for the patrons of Indian textiles.

"From a college-going girl to a professional women, there is one piece of Anuradha Raman for everyone," the designer said in a statement.

The collection offers a range of hand-blocked, hand woven and hand-embroidered stoles and they can either be worn as a "dupatta" or can simply be used as wraps.

"This is the first time I am doing stoles using silk and cotton with vibrant colours that are signature of my style.

These stoles can be worn over tunic or top and can be easily teamed up with Indian attire," she said.

Her clientele boasts of popular names like Kirron Kher, Dolly Thakore, Bubbles Sabharwal, Lushin Dubey and Brinda Karat, The price range starts from Rs.2,500.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 - 29

Health Beauty Wellbeing Food for thought

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham LESS newborn babies are dying worldwide.

The study spanned over 20 years. The study included all 193 World Health Organization member states. The study found that newborn deaths fell from 4.6 million in 1990 to 3.3 million in 2009. Newborn deaths (within the first four weeks of life) account of all child deaths before the age of five.

Poor quality sleep could increase the risk of high blood pressure in older men. A study has found that people with the lowest level of slow wave sleep (one of the deeper stages of sleep) had an 80% increased risk of developing high blood pressure.

Laughing helps deal with pain. An Oxford University study has found. Laughing out loud triggers the release of protective feelings of wellbeing and managing pain. The researchers found that the pain threshold increased by 10% after watching just minutes of comedy. Social laughter is correlated with an elevated pain threshold.

Laughter is the best medicine.

Pets can be important sources of emotional and social support for everyday people. A recent study has found that pet owners had greater self-esteem, tended to be less lonely, more extraverted and were physically fitter. A dog is a manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friend.

The majority of people who experience recurrent cluster headaches are males.

About 3 percent of people experience a tension-type headache on most days. About 20 percent of people have migraines in both developed and underdeveloped countries.

Peak prevalence for migraine is from 30 to 39 years of age.

An estimated 18 million people worldwide have dementia. By 2025 the number will double. Only a small number of dementia cases are thought to be due to genetic fac-

tors.

An ancient Egyptian remedy for acne featured ostrich egg, olive oil, flour and milk.

The sebaceous glands are active before birth in both of the sexes.

Urticaria may be part of an allergic reaction, when skin cells release histamine and other substances that cause local inflammation. The itchy red rash that results may affect a small area of skin or it may erupt over the entire body. One in five people will develop urticaria at some time in their life.

Antibiotics have no effect against viruses which are the cause of colds and flu. If cold or flu symptoms persist for more than a week, or if symptoms of a secondary infection (such as earache or coughing up green or yellow sputum) develop, see your doctor.

Babies, young children, the elderly and those with reduced immunity who develop flu symptoms should see a doctor immediately. Colds are more frequent in children due to their lower resistance to infection.

Asthma causes attacks of wheezing and shortness of breath. Swimming is good exercise for asthma. The moist pool environment may be a helpful factor.

Persistently high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects as many as 1 in 5 adults in the US. It puts strain on the heart and arteries and can damage delicate tissues, such as the eyes and kidneys. Every 2 pounds or approximately 1 kilogram of weight you lose can lower your blood pressure by 2.5/1.5 mmHg. Hypertension affects approximately 75 percent over the age of 75.

Over 50 percent of Americans over the age 65 have some degree of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the knees, finger joints and the base of the thumb.

The most common sites of fractures due to osteoporosis are the spine, wrists and hip.

References: Journals of the Royal Society of Health New Medicine by Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier

Sleeping pills don't work for 40 percent poppers LONDON, Sep 10 (IANS) Sleeping pills seldom worked for 40 percent of the poppers who suffer from insomnia, says a survey of 20,000 people, according to a British study.

Some 42 percent of the patients currently on medication have been sleeping badly for over 11 years or more. A further 22 percent had insomnia lasting two to five years, while one in six had suffered between six and 10 years, the survey revealed.

Experts said the study suggested that sleeping pills were not combating long-term sleep problems and that cognitive behavioural therapy has been proven to be more effective.

Around 10 million National Heath Service (MHS) prescriptions for sleeping pills are issued each year. But NHS guidelines say they should be for short-term use only usually for two weeks and up to a maximum of four weeks at a time, the Daily Mail reports.

Findings from The Great British Sleep Survey of more than 20,000 adults in Britain found we are a nation of poor sleepers. The average score of sleep quality was only five out of 10. Long-term poor sleepers were twice as likely to have relationship problems, suffer from daytime fatigue and lack of concentration.

The survey also showed almost one in 10 with insomnia were on sleeping pills prescribed by their doctor, with one in five using over the counter remedies. American research this year found sleeping pills may significantly increase the risk of premature death.

The latest survey was sponsored by Sleepio, an online sleep improvement programme which uses cognitive behavioural techniques. Andrew McCulloch, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation, has campaigned for the NHS to highlight the importance of sleep.

Spring skin care tips Hetvi Hair & Beauty Nimisha 0412 350 013 HEY Girls, Spring is officially here in Brisbane so here are some tips to look after yourself in Spring!

As a new season is approaching, many of us start making various changes in our routines. Preparing our skin for the new season is essential in order to be able to look our best at any given moment.

Although subtle, a few changes in our skin care rituals can make a great difference in the way our skin looks, so learn to prepare your skin for the Spring season in a few easy steps.

As seasonal changes start to emerge, our skin is faced with various different challenges. Significant temperature variations can often take a toll on our skin unless we learn to adapt to them. If the winter season proved to be extremely hard for your skin, the new season might be your chance to start over in a completely different way. Fortunately, having flawless skin is much easier during the warmer months as your skin is subjected to fewer problems. Creating an effective skin care routine may take a little work initially, yet, after you get used to it and begin to see results, it becomes a lot simpler.

Moisturizing is by far the most important aspect we should take care of. Although moisturizing regularly is just as important during Spring as it is during Winter, it is generally smarter to switch to a lighter moisturizer. A rich moisturizer might have done a good job protecting your skin during the cold winter months, however, once the temperatures go up, it might feel a little greasy. Using a heavy duty moisturizer can still be a good idea for body areas that are prone to dryness, however, making the switch is still necessary. If you don't want to purchase a new moisturizer, mixing a little rosewater in your moisturizer might do the trick.

Those who have oily skin might also want to invest in a mattifying gel, as it might serve as a good base for a long lasting makeup.

For those who have other types of complexions, this idea might not work well as these gels can be too drying. If dryness is a problem, weekly homemade facials are recommended to be able to get a natural glow and nourish the skin at the same time.

Sunscreen remains an absolute must during the warmer months, so looking for a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 20 is recommendable. A moisturizer with SPF is also a good alternative for those who are looking for versatile products. An important aspect

to remember is that you should pay attention to the areas that are likely to be forgotten such as the back of the ears, the lips, your fingers and so on. Scheduling an appointment with your dermatologist for a skin exam is also a good choice to be able to see if any potential problems have occurred.

While shopping for adequate skin care products for Spring, it is important to think about the potential problems you might face during the warm season. If sunscreen makes you more likely to have acne breakouts, then buying a formula that has active ingredients such as avobenzone and oxybenzone in it or simply an oil free one might be a good choice. Also, experimenting with a different foundation tone might be a good choice as your skin tone will surely change in the upcoming months.

Exfoliating regularly is another essential ritual you should not neglect. Choose a gentle exfoliator that will not irritate the skin and make sure not to overdo it. Apply a gentle lotion afterwards to replenish moisture and avoid irritations. Aside from the basic skin care ritual it is also crucial to take a closer look at your makeup routine.

Staying informed about the latest trends and opting for lighter shades is a good idea as it will help you reinvent your look and highlight your best facial traits.

Last but not least, paying attention to your diet and exercise regimen and striving to make better choices is another aspect that will have an impact the way your skin looks. Make sure to include plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables, drink a lot of water and exercise regularly to improve the way your skin looks from within.

Enjoy and take care.

Parna Ghose goes to NY Couture Fashion Week NEW DELHI, Sep 6 (IANS) Her motto is to make India-inspired fashion popular in the global arena and Indian-American fashion designer Parna Ghose gets another opportunity to do so at at the Couture Fashion Week (CFW), starting Sep 15 in New York, where she will flaunt her bridal collection inspired by "traditional Indian art".

"The elegance in traditional Indian arts is timeless and eternal and that is the inspiration behind my collection. Each piece is unique, handcrafted and have meticulous embroideries and embellishments," Ghose, who designs under the label Pure Elegance, told IANS. The 16th season of CFW will take place at Waldorf-Astoria hotel. The three-day event will witness designers from around 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

the world showcasing the latest trend in fashion and accessories.

Ghose will showcase her collection on day two of fashion gala.

"The collection is soft, elegant and vintage which makes it reminiscent of timeless beauties. It includes a mix of ultra-feminine flowy skirts and dresses in vibrant colours, exquisite fabric, timeless designs that are enhanced with thread, zari and antique zardosi embroidery. I cannot wait to see the girls sashaying down the ramp in lehengas, saris, long anarkalistyled kurtas and churidars," she added.

The designer, who also showcased at the Dubai Fashion Week and Vancouver Fashion Week, says India's rich fabric is being appreciated around the globe, but 'India Inspired' couture line www.indiantimes.com.au

is yet to get prominence in the world.

"India-inspired branded couture is notably absent from the wardrobe of western women today. This is especially remarkable since India's rich fabric, superb artisanship, and century's old tradition is hailed globally. Pure Elegance aspires to bring 'India-inspired' fashion into mainstream," she said.

"It also strives to help its clients make a distinct statement about their individuality that is consistent with their values yet contemporary to 'wow' their friends," she added.

Known for its traditional ethnic couture and ready-to-wear western designs, Pure Elegance is a South-Asian fashion brand based in the US. Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing Green tea boosts memory BEIJING, Sep 6 (IANS) Scientists now have an explanation for why green tea is good for the brain -- it lies in the chemical properties that affect the production of brain cells, improving memory and spatial learning.

"Green tea is a popular beverage across the world," said Yun Bai, professor from the Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.

"There has been plenty of scientific attention on its use in helping prevent cardiovascular diseases, but now there is emerging evidence that its chemical properties may impact cellular mechanisms in the brain."

Yun's team focused on the organic chemical EGCG, (epigallocatechin-3 gallate) a key property of green tea. While EGCG is a known antioxidant, the team believed it can

also have a beneficial effect against age-related degenerative diseases, the journal Molecular Nutrition and Food Research reports.

"We proposed that EGCG can improve cognitive function by impacting the generation of neuron cells, a process known as neurogenesis," said Yun. "We focused our research on the hippocampus, the part of the brain which processes information from short-term to long-term memory."

The team found that ECGC boosts the production of neural progenitor cells, which like stem cells can adapt, or differentiate, into various types of cells. The team then

Medical University statement.

"We ran tests on two groups of mice, one which had imbibed ECGC and a control group (without ECGC)," said Yun. "First the mice were trained for three days to find a visible platform in their maze.

Then they were trained for seven days to find a hidden platform."

used lab mice to discover if this increased cell production gave an advantage to memory or spatial learning, according to a

The team found that the ECGC treated mice required less time to find the hidden platform. Overall the results revealed that EGCG enhances learning and memory by improving object recognition and spatial memory.

Device to free diabetics from pinpricks?

BERLIN, Sep 9 (IANS) A non-invasive approach could free diabetics from the pain of several pinpricks.

A tiny bio-sensor engineered by Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems IMS, Germany, is able to monitor glucose levels continuously using tissue fluids, such as in sweat or tears, which can be radioed to a mobile device.

In the past, such bio-electric sensors were too big, too imprecise and consumed too much power.

Patients with Type-1 diabetes need to keep a close watch on their levels, since their bodies are incapable of producing the insulin to break down the glucose in the blood, according to a Fraunhofer statement.

Testing a drop of blood several times daily on a strip, is the only way they can ascertain the blood glucose value, so they can inject the correct amount of insulin needed.

And this pricking may also cause inflam-

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

mation or cornification of the skin. And for pain-sensitive patients, the procedure is agony.

The bio-sensor transmits the data via a wireless interface, for example to a mobile receiver. Thus, the patient can keep a steady eye on his or her glucose level.

"In the past, you used to need a circuit board the size of a half-sheet of paper," explained Tom Zimmermann, business unit manager at Fraunhofer Institute IMS. "You also had to have a driver. But even these things are no longer necessary with our new sensor."

Besides, the sensor consumes substantially less power, which increases the durability of the system - allowing the patient to wear the sensor for weeks, or even months.

The sensor is able to send and receive data packages, but it can also be supplied with power through radio frequency.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 - 31

Vyasapuja offering on the occasion of the appearance day anniversary, August 11th 2012 of Om Vishnupada Paramahamsa Parivrajakacarya Astottara-sata, Sri Srimad Abhay Charanaravinda Bhaktivedanta Swami Maharaja Prabhupada, FounderAcarya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness and Institutor of the Bhaktivedanta Book Trust. V4 Dear Srila Prabhupada, Please accept my humble obeisances at your holy lotus feet on this Vyasapuja day 2012.

Another year has passed and it seems to me that the older we get, the faster time passes, just as while climbing a mountain the view becomes more and more encompassing. We also observe that some of us become a little exhausted after forty or so years of active, adventurous and often intense devotional service. We consequently make appropriate adjustments. In the early days of Iskcon, a common saying was:” Work now, samadhi later.” Has the time for “samadhi” finally arrived? We may take solace from the following passage of Srimad Bhagavatam 4.21.33 purport: “The question may be raised that since the Lord is supposed to be worshiped by great demigods like Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva and others, how can an ordinary human being on this planet serve Him? This is clearly explained by Prathu Maharaja by the use of the word yathadhikara "according to one's ability." If one sincerely executes his occupational duty, that will be sufficient” In contrast to some of my God brothers and God sisters, there are only a few occasions, when I was privileged to have a direct exchange with you, while you were physically present. In Hyderabad, India, December 1976, while you were giving afternoon darshan, a temple authority entered the room and asked for some manpower. I thought to myself: ” Well, let me take advantage of the presence of my Spiritual Master, stay at darshan and hear from Him.” But this was not to be. In your commanding tone of voice, you immediately said to me.

“You go also.” And I went indeed.

A few days later, on a morning walk at the Hyderabad farm, I clearly remember mentally offering my back for You to step on, to cross a small ditch. I must have been inspired by the story of Bali Maharaja who offered his own head as the emplacement for the third and final conquering step of Lord Vamanadeva. Even though mental offerings are accepted in devotional service and credited as devotional service, it would have been of course, more useful to proceed with action because your feet can kick away all stumbling blocks. But I was too reserved and you did cross the ditch otherwise.

On that particular Hyderabad stay, you also strongly chastised one of your disciples for sleeping in. There will be no need to mention in this offering, the exact wording of your chastisement.

In 720909let.krishnadas, You state: “You mentioned that your pathway has become filled with stumbling blocks, but there are no stumbling blocks, I can kick out all those stumbling blocks immediately, provided you accept my guidance. With one stroke of my kick I can kick out all stumbling blocks.”

Therefore my humble request is: Srila Prabhupada, with your powerful transcendental lotus foot - you may even wear the kicking boot, if you so desire - please kick out of my heart whatever is still left of my personal weaknesses, anarthas and misconceptions. You sometimes eloquently mention the use of the kicking boot to silence the scientists in their

non-sense, subversive, anti-God, materialistic propaganda.

There is no happiness in the prison house of the material world. Floods, earthquakes and various wars confirm the version of the SB 1.19.20 that material nature’s function is to sometimes crush the conditioned souls: “Prahlada Maharaja, while praying to Lord Nrsimha, said, "O my Lord, I am very much afraid of the materialistic way of life, and I am not the least afraid of Your present ghastly ferocious feature as Nrsimha. This materialistic way of life is something like a grinding stone, and we are being crushed by it. We have fallen into this horrible whirlpool of the tossing waves of life, and thus, my Lord, I pray at Your lotus feet to call me back to Your eternal abode as one of Your servitors. This is the summit liberation of this materialistic way of life. I have very bitter experience of the materialistic way of life. In whichever species of life I have taken birth, compelled by the force of my own activities, I have very painfully experienced two things, namely separation from my beloved and meeting with what is not wanted. And to counteract them, the remedies, which I undertook, were more dangerous than the disease itself. So I drift from one point to another birth after birth, and I pray to You therefore to give me a shelter at Your lotus feet."

Neither is the path of bhakti-yoga easy “ when it is practiced factually according to the rules and regulations” as you state in the purport of Bhagavad-Gita As It Is 7.3 (BGAII). You have deliberately chosen to set the bar of Krishna conscious achievement highest.

As a God brother recently put it: “You are super great.”

“Agädha-dhiñaëaà dvijam: the Acarya is a perfect brahmana and has unlimited intelligence in guiding the activities of his disciple.” Srimad Bhagavatam 6.7.15 purport. All glories to you, Srila Prabhupada!

Therefore, as you have taught us, I wish to pray along with King Kulashekara in Mukunda Mala stotra 33 kåñëa tvadéya-pada-paìkaja-païjaräntam adyaiva me viçatu mänasa-räja-haàsaù präëa-prayäëa-samaye kapha-väta-pittaiù kaëöhävarodhana-vidhau smaraëaà kutas te “O Lord Krishna, at this moment let the swan of my mind enter the tangled stems of the lotus of Your feet. How will it be possible for me to otherwise remember You at the time of death, when my throat will be choked up with mucus, bile, and air?”

Here in Brisbane, what was originally predicted in May 1997 to take 18 months has taken fifteen years to come about. By Their transcendental pleasure, Their Lordship Sri Sri Gaura Nitai have now, in May 2012, moved to Their own land or at least to the refurbished house right next to it, at 32 Jennifer St, Seventeen Mile Rocks Qld 4073, ph. Syamarani Mataji 0405 118 868. This certainly is a historical step toward the establishment of their final Brisbane residence. A new and exciting chapter has just begun for Iskcon Brisbane! Slowly but surely, Their transcendental intentions are becoming manifest on the physical plane. What are 15 years compared to the 10 000 years of the

upcoming Caitanya age!

A slower pace is not at all a disqualification. As You write in 681224let.Gurudasa and 690715let.Syamasundara: “The best thing is that you have now a first-class building for a temple at 7 Bury Place (London). It doesn't matter if things are going a little slow; but make everything slow but sure. That is a good principle. To do things hastily and incorrectly is not good. There is a proverb in Bengali sabure mawaphale. This means that all valuable nuts like almonds, macadamias, walnuts, coconuts, etc. all take a long time to fructify. Anything valuable takes a little time to come into existence. Therefore there is no harm in waiting for the best thing. But everything is well that ends well: That should be the principle.”

Spiritual progress is not some kind of a temporary and frenetic convulsion but a progressive path followed gradually and “step by step” as confirmed in Bhagavad-Gita As It Is (BGAII) 6.25: “Gradually, step by step, one should become situated in trance by means of intelligence sustained by full conviction, and thus the mind should be fixed on the self alone and should think of nothing else.”

Neither is big buildings Sri Krishna’s first requirement! In Padma Purana He says instead: Naham tisthami vaikunthe yoginam hridayesu va Tat tat tisthama narada yatra gayanti madbhaktah “I am not in Vaikuntha, nor in the hearts of the yogis. I remain where My devotees engage in glorifying my activities.”

As a consequence, I am now finally residing at walking distance of Their Lordship’s temple. I have been waiting all along for this to happen.

While persevering in my service of book distribution, I am so glad I have been patiently waiting for this historical move, as the fruits are invaluable.

Even though I had considered moving elsewhere, Their Lordships have mercifully prevented me. Right inspiration also came again from reading Your letters. In letter dated April 3rd 1969 to Krishna Das, we find the following statements: “So you have to adjust things by the indication of Lord Krishna. Don’t do anything whimsical.

The direction comes through the Spiritual Master and anyone who abides by the order of the Spiritual Master to give shape to the wish of the Lord he is perfectly surrendered soul. So don’t be childish. Stay there.”

It is a great spiritual advantage and asset to live at walking, driving and why not flying distance from any ISKCON temple in the world, Archerfield airport, Brisbane’s original airport, is very nearby- even more so when old age has arrived. As we all know but sometimes like to forget, old age is the immediate precursor of death. This proximity to any of Sri Krishna’s embassies, established under the initiative and inspiration of Your Divine Grace, enables us to participate in authentic and authorized spiritual activities and affectionate dealings, as You expertly and especially describe in Nectar of Instruction verse 4 and purport, thus preparing our journey back home, back to Godhead.

“Offering gifts in charity, accepting charitable gifts, revealing one's mind in confidence, inquiring confidentially, accepting prasada and offering prasada are the six symptoms of love shared by one devotee and another.”

Not only do we have a Sunday Feast at Brisbane City’s Govinda’s Restaurant at 5 PM, 99 Elisabeth St., first floor, ph. 07 32100255 but at two different locations, we have two simultaneous Saturday Feasts as well, also at 5PM. One Saturday Feast takes place at the new temple location mentioned above and the other happens at the Graceville Scout Hall, 14 Young St, Graceville Qld 4075, contact Sakhi Rai Prabhu 0403 585 771. People value choice in the market place, including the market place of the Holy Name. In the beginning this division of Saturday Feasts looked externally like some kind of a yatra-split, and jealous people became temporarily happy. Until the new residence for the deities was ready, Jayavijaya Prabhu, the current temple executive head, had generously made his martial art premises available for the corresponding Saturday Feast.

Of course, at 32 Jennifer St. we also have the regular daily temple program, 365 days a year, starting at 4 AM and finishing around 9 PM, as per your glorious instructions. Mundaners generally work from 9 AM to 5 PM. The devotees of the Lord work from 4 AM to 9 PM and sometimes more than that. Your Divine Grace certainly set the standard of working for Krishna more than just from 4 AM to 9PM. Please allow us to follow in your footsteps.

May Lord Krishna give us the intelligence and energy to do just that! I have also read in the news, that The Honorable Kevin Rudd, current member of the Australian Parliament and former Prime Minister of Australia, although not currently a member of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness also sleeps very little. Besides that I have just met a gentleman who works at Brisbane Metropolitan Markets and he starts work at 1 AM. It is a life style choice and early start is after all not such a extraordinary thing.

The sweet and melodious kirtans of Krishnapada Prabhu, Janardana Prabhu Acyutapriya DD, Ananda Shakti DD and others help us realize how simple and simultaneously sublime this process of Krishna consciousness is, that simply by chanting Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare, one can attain the ultimate perfection of life.

There certainly is purity, life and keenness at Iskcon Brisbane and those who have life are able to preach effectively for the pleasure of Your Divine Grace and the pleasure of Their Lordship Sri Sri Gaura Nitai.

Thank you again for initiating us into the chanting of the ultimate sound vibration: Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare Your insignificant, unsteady and aspiring servant, Yadavendra Das August 11 2012

Astrology Aries “The Ram” “The Go-Getter” March 21 - April 20 Positive energy and optimism looks set to be the theme of this month. Moreover, matters like reincarnation, occult science and mysticism may grab your attention. You may study and gather information about such matters, and as a result your understanding about life and paranormal may get enhanced.

The dates to watch out for important tasks are 12, 13, 21, 22.

Taurus “The Bull” “The Builder” April 21 - May 22 For the most part of the month, you may come across exciting, entertaining and pleasing times. Enjoy!

However, towards the end of the month, you may need to shift your focus towards your health, work and other vital issues.

All that aside, home and family will remain pivotal all throughout the month. The dates to watch out this month are 14, 15, 23, 24.

Gemini “The Twins” “The Magician” May 23 - June 21 The pace of life is likely to pick up, and you look set to enjoy every moment of this development. The times shall be hectic, and you will need to multi-task. There may hardly be any moment of dullness or idleness.

However, don't get so busy in this whirl that you put your domestic responsibilities aside. The suggested dates for conducting important tasks this month are 8, 16, 17, 25, 26.

Cancer “The Crab” “The Caterer” June 22 - July 22 Work, home and family – the three of the most important aspects of your life will be in focus this month. Out of the three, home and family matters will keep you most occupied.

Children will be your priority. They will become more ambitious, and you will lend your full support to ensure their dreams are fulfilled. The dates to watch out this month are 10, 11, 19, 27.

Leo “The Lion” “The Boss” July 23 - August 22 The domestic front may need your undivided attention. There is a likelihood of some serious conflicts, which may have been brewing for quite some time now. Try your best to restore harmo32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

ny and peace. Be careful if you have children at home; keep dangerous and sharp objects away from them. The good dates this month include 10, 11, 19, 27.

Virgo “The Virgin” “The Accountant” August 23 - Sept 22 Happiness, good health, prosperity, opportunities and some obstacles –the month looks set to be quite a package for you. Thankfully, your energy and enthusiasm levels would match up the hectic pace. Achieving goals and fulfilling desires will, thus, not be a problem. Yes, there will be some obstacles and challenges, but they will help you stay focused and not become complacent, feels Ganesha. The dates to watch out for any important tasks this month are 14, 15, 23, 24 Libra “The Scales”“The Councellor”Sept 23 - October 22 The month ahead may prove to be beneficial for you on the financial front, as you are likely to take some pretty sound decisions. Your spouse/partner will aid and support you both emotionally and financially in your endeavours. However, be ready to multi-task, as it would not be a good thing to remain fixed on only one aspect of your life. The dates to watch out for important tasks are 16, 17, 25, 26.

Scorpio “The Hydra” “The Psycho Analyst” Oct 23 - Nov 21 As the month begins, you may feel that you have been depending on others and following their views for a long time now. The times demand change, and thus you may see yourself yearning to get your freedom back. Take some time to figure out how you want to bring in the necessary changes. The important dates this month are 10, 11, 19, 27.

Sagittarius “The Archer” “The Teacher” Nov 22 - Dec 22 Past two months may have been sluggish. Expect all your hard work to now start yielding results. Slowly but steadily, life shall gain some long-due momentum, and soon you may find yourself busy. The important dates include 12, 13, 21, 22. www.indiantimes.com.au

Capricorn “The Goat” “The Mayor” Dec 23 - January 30 The month ahead may put you in an introspective frame of mind, mostly on the account of the financial and monetary front. You may not have been saving a lot of money in the past few months, and the results may, well, be more than visible now.

The important dates are 14, 15, 23.

Aquarius “The Water Bearer” “The Innovator” Jan 21 - Feb 19 There may be a plenty of activity around you, this month. However, you will need to stay focused on your goals, and not let anything slow down your progress. Your hard work and patience will help your attain newer heights. The dates to watch out for important tasks this month are 16, 17, 25.

Pisces “The Fish” “The Social Worker” Feb 20 - March 20 It is the time to put all your plans and strategies into action. You will be feeling a sense of emotional harmony, so now, you should start concentrating on your worldly goals. A lot depends on how well you have planned the execution of your ideas. The dates to watch out include 10, 11, 19, 27.

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

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Real Estate News Steady as She Goes for Reserve Bank of Australia REALâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) President, Ms Pamela Bennett says todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (4 Sept, 2012) decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to leave official interest rates unchanged was not unexpected.

The announcement coincides with the release of the Adelaide Bank/REIA Housing Affordability Report for the June quarter which shows improvement in housing affordability with the proportion of income required to meet loan repayments decreasing 0.8 percentage points to 31.9%. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It seems the market may be responding to previous interest rate cuts, but there are a number of other measures we need to take into account before we can call it a change in direction,â&#x20AC;? Ms Bennet said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Home-owners will always like to see interest rates go down. A drop of .25% of

the cash rate would have decreased the average home loan repayment by $50 a month and increased affordability by 2.5% with the proportion of the median family income to meet average loan repayment decreasing from 31.9% to 31.1%.

Ms Bennett says the difficulties faced by those wanting to enter the market havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been resolved and issues such as inefficient state taxes, excessive red tape and landrelease delays urgently need to be addressed

by COAG. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interest rates are an important consideration when deciding whether to rent or to buy, but there are still a host of other barriers for first home buyers that need to be overcome too. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect all the work to be done by the RBA,â&#x20AC;? Ms Bennett concluded.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 33

Real Estate News

Construction begins at Pioneer Valley

AN exciting new beginning is under way at the Pioneer Valley residential estate at Kuraby being project managed by Dennis Project Management on behalf of the Hatia Property Corporation.

Having been partially developed following an initial release by the Hatia Property Corporation in 2008, Dennis Project Management is contributing its expertise to the latest phase of Pioneer Valley’s development.

Dennis Project Management director, Grant Dennis, announced that construction on a new 231-lot boutique infill development at Pioneer Valley has commenced.

“Civil construction works began in August and are expected to be completed by early 2013,” Mr Dennis revealed.

“This current project has been designed to complement and build on the success of Pioneer Valley’s previous development,” he added.

Pioneer Valley offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle within the Brisbane city boundaries, being just 17 kilometres south of the CBD. The initial stage presently under construction consists of 37 blocks ranging in size from 480 – 671sqm at prices starting from $297,000.

Planning within the first stage of the development includes provision for two parks, one of which will feature a children’s playground. Pioneer Valley has also gained approval to be an NBN-serviced estate.

Mr Dennis said that the estate had been

specifically designed to harmonise with the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

“Parklands and waterways will feature prominently throughout Pioneer Valley, with more than 50% of the estate, amounting to in excess of 50 acres, having been allocated as open space,” he explained.

Through inspired design, the various precincts within the estate will have subtle differences in style and ambience to ensure a diverse and aesthetically appealing neighbourhood.

Adding to Pioneer Valley’s many attractions, Kuraby railway station and the Underwood commercial precinct are close by. Kuraby Primary School is on the estate’s doorstep, in addition to other well established schools in the local area.

“Everything is close at hand, including schools, major shopping centres, public transport and easy access to the Gateway and Pacific Motorways,” Mr Dennis commented.

True to the spirit of adventure and enterprise of the early settlers that is carried in its name, Pioneer Valley rewards those who aspire to an exciting new lifestyle in a prime location.

“Pioneer Valley is creating a tradition of its own as families look to build their futures here,” Mr Dennis said.

“The estate is surrounded by booming areas such as Sunnybank, Robertson and Macgregor. With so much to offer, it is not surprising that interest in Pioneer Valley has been extremely strong.”

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

To find out why now is the perfect time to start a new beginning at Pioneer Valley, phone 07 3341 7946 or visit www.pioneer-valley.com.au for further information. Enquiries are also welcome at the Sales Office located in Pioneer Drive, Kuraby which is open from 10am to 5pm every Saturday to Wednesday.

The tide has turned At the recent annual awards night for the Yong Franchise Group it was all about improvement. Nine out of ten of the top individual award winners all improved on their previous year’s performance. Even the person who did not have an overall improvement can be excused as he had an extended overseas holiday during the year.

In fact, the top ten averaged an increase in their commissions of slightly over thirty five thousand dollars from the previous year.

The downturn in the economy has had a profound effect on the Real estate Market, with a large number of people finding it too hard and leaving the industry.

However it is obvious that the best people are still in the industry and that those people are not just surviving but they are thriving in this market.

It was worth noting as well that the people who led the way by selling the most properties (In other words, doing what their clients wanted). Were also the leading marketers of properties, proving again that despite the dominance of the various forms of low-cost on-line marketing. The best results are still achieved from a strong all-

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round approach to marketing, utilising not only the internet but also the print media.

A special congratulation goes to Maggie Diu from Yong Allawah in NSW picking up three National number one awards. She was the leading agent in Australia for sales commissions, the number of listings achieved and Marketing Dollars collected and spent.

Also deserving of special mention is Tina Edwards; Tina was the Number one for Queensland and Number two nationally.

This is an exceptional result, given the especially tough times the Queensland Real Estate Market has been through.

Queensland has not only suffered the effect of the GFC but also the additional effect of the severe floods.

Well done to Maggie and Tina and all the other award winners.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 35

Business Directory AIR CONDITIONING / REFRIGERATION SERVICES

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Shirley Pande Young Professional (ACQ) Civil Marriage Celebrant JP (Q) Weddings Baby Naming's Renewal of Vows Commitment Ceremonies Engagements Birthdays Legal Legitimate

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Civil Marriage Celebrant, JP (Qual) Ph/Fax: (07) 3287 7132 - Mob: 0421 351 061 E: lekhram@tpg.com.au www.lrams.com

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We are contactable 24-7! 0421 070 803 dawatindian@hotmail.com Find us on facebook www.dawat.com.au

CIVIL MARRIAGE CELEBRANT PARMA NAND - CIVIL MARRIAGE CELEBRANT, JP For friendly, unique, reliable and professional marriage, renewal of vows, commitment, engagement and birthday ceremonies including master of ceremonies.

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36 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

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MIGRATION SERVICES

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For all Vedic Sanskaar Sanskrit prayers: Hawans, Weddings, Death rites; new homes, anniversaries, birthdays etc Pandit Dr G A Tularam 0410 649 736

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ALLIANCE required for a Good looking,well educated Punjabi Khatri issueless divorcee girl, 42, 5’-3”, Both brothers in Aus. Only never married/issueless divorcee, 42-50, correspond. E-mail: bhalla_harish@hotmail.com or Ph: 0421 088 401 ----------------------------------------------------------------------Alliance required for a very beautiful, highly qualified Chartered Accountant, Law Grad, Masters Finance (Germany) widely travelled Indian girl 36, 5'1".

Only well settled professional 36-40 correspond.

Mobile: 0425 428 317 Email: img@email.com

Vacancy for resident Priest Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland Inc. (HMA) is seeking the services of a FULL TIME RESIDENT PRIEST. The successful applicant will initially be employed on a two year contract period after three months probation. Thereafter this contract will be renewable on an annual basis for further blocks of twelve month periods on mutual agreement.

The position is based at HMA’s Temple site at 46 Daymar St., Burbank, Qld 4156, Australia within Brisbane’s Metropolitan area (approx. 15 kilometres from Brisbane City) Responsibilities: The position will report to HMA Executive Committee and be responsible for all the daily activities of the Temple including but not limited to: 1. Performing daily pooja activities of the Temple. (to be discussed during interview) 2. Performing pooja rituals for devotees during the operating hours of the Temple.

3. Performing discourses / pravachans on Sundays and during major religious functions eg Maha Shiva Ratri, Shree Ram Naumi, Shree Krishna Janam Astami, Nav Raatri and the like.

4. Observing and fulfilling all assigned rituals and duties associated with the Temple and its Dieties.

Qualifications, Attributes and Skills required: 1. To be the Priest of this Temple, it is imperative that you have previous experience in similar role in a temple environment.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

2. Qualifications and experience in Karamkaand is mandatory.

Experience and knowledge in performing rituals and pooja for all the Hindu Dieties in a temple is also mandatory.

3. Possess excellent command of Hindi, Sanskrit and be affluent in Vedas and Hindu scriptures. Ability to speak English fluently would be desirable.

4. Knowledge of any other duties that will be related to the rituals associated with the temple.

Remunerations – Remuneration package will be discussed at the interview.

The package will include free modern accommodation including allowance for electricity, water and telephone. The accommodation is situated within the temple precinct.

Closing date of Application: Applications close on 30th September, 2012 and shall be addressed to; The Secretary, Hindu Mandir Association, P O Box 2211, Mansfield Delivery Centre, Mansfield 4122. Or email to - aprasad1@bechtel.com For further enquiries please contact Thakur Bhim Singh on 0412 438 194

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 37

WHAT’S ON!

SEPT 12 / OCT 12

Community Events...

Disability Action Week is being held from 9 to 15 September and is your opportunity to take positive action to ensure that everybody is welcome in our community.

One in five Queenslanders has a disability of some kind, and disability touches the lives of most Queenslanders in some way – through the experiences we have with friends and family, at school, in the workplace and in the community.

Disability Action Week aims to encourage positive attitudes towards people with a disability, and promote improved access to the wider community.

Get involved Community events and activities are the heart of Disability Action Week. Every year, community groups, businesses and other organisations celebrate by getting involved and staging their own events.

There will be plenty of fun activities for people of all abilities to get involved, so get energised and enjoy the events in your community during Disability Action Week 2012. Check out the events calendar to see what’s happening during the week.

Planning an event?

If you are holding an event for Disability Action Week make sure you visit our website where you can register your event, read some hints and tips to make sure it’s a success, and download free promotional materials. This year, you can even a send an einvite to let friends, family and colleagues know about your celebrations.

Join in the conversation Follow us on Twitter @DisabilityQLD or tell us about your plans using #DAW2012 Further information To find out more about Disability Action Week visit www.qld.gov.au/disability or call 1800 177 120 (TTY 1800 010 222).

-------------------------------------------------------------------Fiji Senior Citizens - Satsang Association of Qld Seniors Week Multicultural Dinner Saturday 15 September – at Holland Park State High School, Bapuame St, Holland Park West from 6pm - 9pm.

Cultural performances from 7-9.30pm. For more information please contact Surendra Prasad 0413

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsor What’s On section!

004 100 / Raymond Saran 3290 0653 / Surya Narayan 3208 5823.

-------------------------------------------------------------------Intensely Soul: Transformational Odissi - Indian Classical Dance & Music - Sydney based Nirmal Jena and his Delhi based sister, Pratibha Jena Singh, present powerful and poignant Odissi dance and music in their first Australian tour together.

Canberra Performance Sat 15 Sept 7-9pm Sydney Performance Wed 19 Sept 7-9pm Melbourne Performance Sat 29 Sept 7-9pm Brisbane Performance Sat 6 Oct 7-9pm. For full details of how to book etc and workshop dates etc email intenselysoul@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Brisbane Mandram - Bajan – Sunday 16 September from 57pm at 1 Lalina Street (Cnr of RiverHills Road & Lalina Street, Middle Park Qld 4074. For more information contact S. Mahalingham Paramanathan on 0438 778 483 -------------------------------------------------------------------Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) Brisbane (South MacLean) – Lalitha Sahasra Nama Storam chanting Sunday 16 September Wednesday 19 September – New Temple Building Sangusthapanam (Conch Laying Ceremony) for constructing the Temple of Sri Selva Vinayakar will be held on Ganesh Chathurthi this year. Devotees are cordially invited to this auspicious event and can sponsor a Valamburi Conch (right handed conch) for $101 to place under the main sanctum of Sri Selva Vinayakar, Sri Amirthagadeswarar and Sri Parvathi Devi. For full details / sponsoring a conch, please contact the temple priest at 07 5547 7302 and Mr Vimalachandran 07 3279 3696 / 0411 594 394. www.sriselvavinayakar.org Temple located at 49154923 Mt Lindesay Highway, South Maclean Qld 4280 -------------------------------------------------------------------Kannada Sangha Queensland - Celebration of Ganesha Chathurthi Utsava Saturday 22 September – at Albany Creek Community Center, Cnr of Ernie Street & Chapman Court, Albany Creek Qld 4035. Pooja will start 6.15pm onwards. RSVP by 3 September. For more information on celebrations / membership please email kannadasanghaqld@gmail.com

-------------------------------------------------------------------“Eswaralaya Kalaikoodam” presents an evening of Classical Dance Saturday 22 September – To be seated at 5.45pm, commences at 6pm. Venue TBA. Tickets $10 per adult and includes dinner.

Tickets will not be sold at the door. Announcer: Mrs Mangaleswary (Manga) Surendran, 0433 967 489, email: manga.suren@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------Chinmaya Mission Australia presents Brisbane Annual Navratri Family Camp 2012 Friday 28 September - Sunday 30 September – Topic: Vision of Life (adults) based on Bhaja Govindam - Lord Shiva - The Eye Opener (kids) based on Shiva Purana. Where: Kindilan Outdoor recreational centre, Cnr Days & German Church Rds, Redland Bay Qld. For more information and ticket costs please contact Suresh on 0434 309 817, Mahitha on 0466 272 489 - email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au or visit www.chinmaya.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------Thaai Tamil School Queensland – First Annual Cultural Event - Saturday 6th October For event ticket booking please visit http://thaaitamil.eventzilla.net/ visit school website www.thaaitamilschool.com/ For more information please contact Mugunth Subramanian on 0423 730 122 or email thaaitamilschool@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------ECCQ Multicultural Summit 29th & 30th October – Queensland major multicultural conference is back again in 2012! To gain more details and to register please go to www.eccq.com.au/summit/ -------------------------------------------------------------------COUEE COMMUNITY NEEDS YOUR HELP!! Wednesday 31 October - World Sideburn Day – Help a mate with Prostate Cancer www.octoburn.com -------------------------------------------------------------------Hindu Society of Qld, Deepavali Celebrations Saturday 3 November – at Cannon Hill Anglican College, Cnr Junction and Krupp Rds, Cannon Hill.

Pooja from 5.30pm, Dinner & Cultural Program from 6pm. Tickets: Members $10, non-members $15 and children under 12 years free. For more information contact Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414, Sunil Maharaj 0488 324 891 or Jitendra Lal 0409 737 753.

The Sangam Association of Queensland Inc 1 Casuarina Road, South McLean Qld 4280 Australia

Incorporation No: IA20484

ABN: 78029584296

NAMO NARAYANA Venkatadri Samam Sthanam Brahmande Nasti Kinchana Venkatesa Samo Devo Na Bhuto Na Bhavishyathi

PURATTASI POOJA DATE: VENUE: TIME: PROGRAM:

Saturday 29 September 2012 Mariamman Kovil Starts at dusk (approx. 6.15pm) Pooja at gate Pooja at all shrines Special Lord Venkateshwara Pooja (inside hall) R eciting of 108 names of Lord Venkateshwara Chanting of Lord Vishnu Sahasranamam (1000 names of Lord Vishnu) K iran/bhajan recital Aarti at 9.00pm Distribution of Prasadam ALL WELCOME

Auditor Veal & Prasad Accountants P O Box 30 Browns Plains QLD 4118 Ph: 07 3809 2055

38 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

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Solicitor Narayan Lawyers 115 Ham Road Mansfield QLD 4122 Ph: 07 3420 3599

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 39

WHAT’S ON!

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsor What’s On section!

SEPT 12 / OCT 12

Festivals...

Public Lectures...

The Gold Coast Multicultural Festival Sunday 16 September – Evandale Parklands in Bundall. For more information visit www.goldcoastmulticulturalfestival.org/ -------------------------------------------------------------------Ethnic Youth Ministry Council - Annual Multicultural Fiesta Saturday 22 September – from 4pm til late at the Vietnamese Catholic Community Centre, 42 Lilac Street, Inala. FREE admission. Live entertainment, food stalls, rides, performances etc. Fireworks at 8.30pm. For more information please contact Sr. Anne Surtees OSU 0407 776 851, Vincent Do 0401 253 488 or email ethnicyouthministrycouncil@googlegroups.com -------------------------------------------------------------------Taiwan festival Saturday 22- Sunday 23 September – at Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. FREE admission. it is an all inclusive multicultural festival, aimed at celebrating the great lives of the Taiwanese-Australian community in Brisbane and to foster a more interconnected and harmonious society. More than 100 varieties of Taiwanese food, funrides for rids, all day performances, fireworks and a lucky draw prize for many return airfares! What’s more? The Taiwan Festival in Brisbane is recruiting drummers to participate in the Guinness World Records challenge. So be part of this challenge.

Team up with your friends, colleagues and neighbours now and register onlne: www.taiwanfestival.com.au/festival-news/ guinness-world-records-challenge/ For more information on the event please visit www.taiwanfestival.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------Brimm Mandal - "Ganesh Festival" Saturday 29 September – For this event the Brimm committee have decided to organise in-house, variety programs, to be performed by interested local participants (Adults & Kids). Those who are interested in performing during this occasion please contact brimmandal@gmail.com For more information please contact Pallavi Kelkar 0422 620 518, 07 5665 8509 or Smita Nagpurkar on 0401 578 842, 07 3266 3153. Visit www.brimm.org.au

Teachings and experiences of Sri Sathya Sai Baba – followed by Q & A Session – Sunday 16 September at Holland Park High School, Bapaume Rd, Holland Park from 2.30-5.30pm. Presenter: Prof G Venkataraman. For more information contact Suren t.surendran@griffith.edu.au ------------------------------------------------------------------The Indian Consulate of Queensland and the Institute of Asian Studies are proud to present: Free Public Lectures 2012 Venue: Indooroopilly Library, Cinema Level, entry through the sliding doors at level 5, if arriving before 4 pm. Doors close at 4.00 pm sharp, so if you are a few minutes late, kindly make your way through the back door, which can be accessed through the car park on level 5, near the after hours return chutes for the library.

Hope to see you all there. 16th September, Sunday, 4 pm to 5 pm. Topic: God Particle- Higgs Boson Speaker: Prof Kuldeep Paliwal. For more information email indcon@optusnet.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------Dzogchen Rinpoche - Public Talks on Realising True Happiness through wise decisions. Thursday 27 September – at Millwell Road, Community Centre, Maroochydore. Doors open 7pm.

Tickets $20 ($15 concession). The talk will be followed by a three-day retreat on How to Make wise Decisions from 28th September, the Queens's Birthday weekend, on the Sunshine Coast. For more information go to www.shenpenaustralia.org

40 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

Shows...

Star Alliance Entertainment presents Garba / Dandiya event Sunday 30 September Singer Atul Purohit and Rutumbhara group! at The Arena, Sleeman Sports Complex from 7pm till 11.30pm. For more information contact Chirag Parikh on 0417 244 724 or email staralliance@y7mail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------FREE LUNCHTIME CONCERT - Tuesday 9th October Beatles Tribute Show at

www.indiantimes.com.au

the beautiful Salvation Army City Temple 167 Ann Street Brisbane 12 noon to 1pm Free admission Cate Shaw on Vocals, Chris Poulsen on Keys, Jeremy O'Connor on Double Bass, Luke Glanville on drums, Josh Hatcher on saxophone.

For more information visit www.cate.net.au -------------------------------------------------------------------Tweed Theatre Company's production of "Find the Lady" - Friday Night 19 & 26 October at 8pm DST - Saturday/Sunday - October 20, 21 & 27 & 28 at 2pm DST. A night out at the Theatre - an English Comedy/Thriller by Michael Pertwee and directed by Coral Kelly. Cabaret style seating at tables of 8 at Tweed heads Civic Centre - DST. - BYO Drinks & Snacks. Groups wanting to sit together MUST book on the same booking.

Phone 1800 674 414 Adults $15 Concession/Children $12

WEEKLY....

Brahma Kumaris Australia, Mermaid Waters Offers Free meditation courses, Free positive awareness courses and Free afternoon retreats. Contact 5575 2126 or email goldcoast@au.bkwsu.org -------------------------------------------------------------------Brisbane Tamil School – Holland Park State School, Bapume Road, Holland Park. For more information on the School please contact President B. Saravanan – saranb@bigpond.com or visit www.brisbanetamilschool.org -------------------------------------------------------------------Burnie Brae, a Senior Citizen’s Centre in Chermside, are pleased to advise the start of a special social programme for Indian Senior Citizens. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. It is an opportunity to socialise, participate in a variety of activities and enjoy some delicious vegetarian meals. Transport maybe provided to and from the Day Social Club if you live near the Centre. If you have any queries please contact Sandra or Naomi on 07 36242141.

-------------------------------------------------------------------Chinmaya Mission Australia – Family programs every Sunday morning at Holland Park State High School from 10am-11.45am. Balahivar classes for children and teenagers and gita classes for adults are conducted under the guidance of spiritual teacher, Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya. Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au or email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland - Every Sunday 4:00pm to 6:00pm – Bhajan/Kirtan, Pravachan by Pt Tripathi Ji, Arati and Dinner is provided. Every 1st Sunday of the Month from 2:00pm to 4:00pm - Program by Brisbane Bhajan Group at Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir, 46 Daymar Street, Burbank QLD 4156. All Welcome. Website: www.laxminarayan.com.au For further information contact: Resident Priest 07 3216 8848; Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202 -------------------------------------------------------------------Lotus Ashram - Free yoga lessons every Friday at Sunnybank Primary School, Glendower Street, from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. Donations are welcome. For details, email ambashram@gmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------------The Victory Hotel – THE VICTORY GOES BOLLYWOOD Every Tuesday Night from 9pm in the Club with Jesta. The Victory Hotel, Cnr Edward and Charlotte Streets, Brisbane City Qld 4000. www.thevictory.com.au -------------------------------------------------------------------Women of Light is a multicultural group of women whose passion and desire is to reach out to women who are looking from friends, are hurting, need help in any area. Women of Light meet every Monday at 11am for a time of fellowship, sharing and encouragement. Join the ladies for a free lunch every Monday. For more information contact Mavis on 0418 745 179 or 07 3879 9735.

-------------------------------------------------------------------Now, South Indian Classical Music (ie Carnatic Music) lovers can enjoy their favourite music on Global Digital Channel of Radio 4EB every Sunday from 9.00AM to 10.00AM. Listeners who do not have DAB+ radio can listen the program live on the web at http://www.4eb.org.au/ {click on under Global on Listen to the Global Digital live stream via windows media player..} Swaralahari can be heard on 4EBFM98.1 every Thursday from 1.30PM to 2.15PM. Swaralahari welcomes budding young carnatic music artists to appear on Swaralahari.

Swaralahari address swaralahari@4eb.org.au Swaralahari website is http://www.qldswaralahari.org/ which can be best viewed using Google chrome webbrowser. There you can listen past swaralahari programs.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 41

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON! AUM - Arya Pratinidhai Sabha of Qld Inc. Vedic Yajna (Havan) Venue: Finnish Hall, 62 Newnham Road, Mt Gravatt.

September 16 - Time: 5-7pm Tune to Radio Brisvaani on Sundays 7-7.30am for Vedic Sandesh Program. Read about Vedas in this paper.

Contact: Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or log on www.aryasamajqueensland.com for further information.

-------------------------------------------------------------BRISBANE BELIEVERS FELLOWSHIP â&#x20AC;&#x153;Expect Great things from the Lord and Attempt Great things for the Lordâ&#x20AC;?.

Address: Zillmere Community Hall, 54 Handsford Rd, Zillmere. Worship time: Every Sunday at 9.30 AM. Activities: Holy Communion (First Sunday of the Month), Sunday school, Fasting Prayer, Youth Meeting, Bible Study and Ladies Meeting.

Contact:Pastor John Thomas & Mary Thomas Sanju P. (Secretary) Phone: 0402 551 220 / 0402 907 776 or 0422 815 782 Email: maryhoney59@hotmail.com -------------------------------------------------------------Brisbane Christian Assembly, Herston, QLD. Expect a miracle from God, Come and pray for any need in your life, with us in Herston (near RCH Hospital) every Saturday from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. We are praying and God has been doing miracles in many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. Contact Pastor Prakash Jacob 07 3162 5207 or 0413 347 562.

Brisbane Christian AssemblyAddress: 5/15 Aberleigh Road, Herston QLD 4006 Pastor: Prakash Jacob Events: Prayer, Fellowship, Worship, Adult Bible Study, Kids Bible Study, Love in Action, and much more..

Saturday Schedules: 6:00pm-7:00pm: Kids Bible Study, 7:00pm-09:00pm: Intercessory Prayer Sunday Schedules: 10:00am-01:00pm: Worship in Truth & Spirit, Bible Study, Prayer, etc.

Email: prakashjacob@yahoo.com Ph: 07-31625207, 0413347562 -------------------------------------------------------------Brisbane Malayalee Association Brisbane Malayalee Association (BMA) represents the Malayalee community in and around the city of Brisbane to preserve and maintain the Kerala culture and heritage. BMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;is a non-profit, non-political, nonreligious cultural organisation that has a constitution and by-laws. BMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;provides a forum for the Malayalees residing in Brisbane and neighbouring areas to meet and exchange views and to foster their friendship, goodwill, moral, social, educational, literary, artistic and cultural heritage. For more information contact Secretary Rajni Nair on 0431 299 376 or President Gigie George on 0432 510 045 brisbane.malayaleeassociation@gmail.com www.brisbanemalayalee.org -------------------------------------------------------------Brisbane Multinational Church NEW ADDRESS - 757 Gympie Road Lawnton. Church service time if from 9.30am to 11.30am.

Special times of prayer for the sick Next healing meeting is on 27 May. We will be praying for people with all kinds of sicknesses, needs, spiritual problems etc. This will be followed by free lunch, service time 9.30am -12 noon.For more information please contact Pastor Joseph Dass on 0424 180 240 or Assistant Pastor Shrish Chand on 0450 612 304.

-------------------------------------------------------------Brisbane Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) 2679 Logan Rd, Eight Mile Plains. www.brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Brisbane Sikh Temple is open 7days a week, free food (langar is served daily) Sunday Service is from 9am to 1pm. Weekdays evening service is from 6pm to 7pm including meditation. Mr Baljit Singh Secretary of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all bookings enquiries) Ph: 0412 057 554, Email: secretary@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Gianni Kuldeep Singh Priest of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all religious functions) Ph: 0422 705 936 Email: priest@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au -------------------------------------------------------------Eben-Ezer Pentecostal Church, Brisbane â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday School, Prayer & Fasting, Youth meeting & worship (Malayalam) Contact: Pastor Mathew Tharian 07 3165 7617, 0431 413 482 or Eng. Victor George 07 3359 8946, 0413 069 477.

-------------------------------------------------------------Fiji Senior Citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Satsang Association of Qld Inc 1 Kensington Place, Wishart 4122. Monthly meetings will be held on th last Sunday of the month at 2pm. All members are invited to attend. For further information contact President Raymond Saran 3290 0653, Secretary Surendra Prasad OAM 3849 5435 or Treasurer Shui Shankar 3841 3058 -------------------------------------------------------------Forest Lake AOG Church Hindi Service - Second Sunday of every month - commencing @ 4.30pm. Cnr of Alpine Place & Forest Lake Boulevard Road. Contact Sudesh on 0401 519 541.

-------------------------------------------------------------Hindi Speaking Christian Fellowship Meets at 2.30 p.m. last Sunday of each month at Merthyr Uniting Church, 52 Merthyr Rd, New Farm All welcome. Contact Irene 3715 8659.

-------------------------------------------------------------Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland - Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir NEW ADDRESS - 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld Every Sunday 4pm to 6pm - Bhajan/Kirtan, Pravachan

by Pt Tripathi Ji, Arati and Dinner is provided. Every 1st Sunday of month from 2-4pm - Program by Brisbane Bhajan Group. All welcome. Website: www.laxminarayan.com.au For further information contact: Resident Priest 07 3216 8848, Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202 -------------------------------------------------------------Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. Gayatri Mandir (178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall). Gayatri Mandir opens every Sunday from 8am to 11am. Mandir opens with Punditji. Weekly Programs & Mandir Openings: â&#x20AC;˘ Every Tuesday from 7pm - Ramayan & Bhajan recitals â&#x20AC;˘ Every 2nd & 4th Friday from 7.00pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ramayan & Bhajan Recitals. â&#x20AC;˘ Open Every Sunday from 9.00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12.00pm For further information contact President Prakash Shandil 0408 879 414 -------------------------------------------------------------Hindustani Language School conducts lessons in Hindustani language and Indian Culture every Saturday

42 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

Brisbane Indian Times proudly serving the Multicultural Community since 2003 - proudly sponsor Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On section!

SEPT 12 / OCT 12

from 2pm to 4pm, at both its major centres at Calamvale Community Intermediate College, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall. Hindi is our mother tongue.

Students of all ages wishing to learn: * Hindi Language *Indian Culture * Dance & Drama * Music * Leadership and Personal Development Contact: Secretary Jay Haripersad on 3243 7062 - Vice President Mul Chand on Mobile 0418 461 960 - or President Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or Mobile 0407 111 709 -------------------------------------------------------------Indian Church Service News Every Sunday 9.30am - 11.00am. Southern Springs Community Church 59 Marshall Road, Rocklea. Meet with Indian Christians for prayer, praise & worship.

Fellowship & refreshments after the service. contact Ps. Sivanus Naidu (Senior Pastor) 3274 2542 or 0417 197 747 -------------------------------------------------------------Indian Senior Citizen Association Committee meetings are held 3rd Sunday of every alternate month from 2pm to 4pm. For further information contact: President: Mr Bir Sahai 3344 4715, Secretary: Mr Tirat Achal 0407 620 663, Treasurer: Mr Hari Prasad 3209 5174 -------------------------------------------------------------International Multicultural Christian Fellowship Elevate Church (AOG Church) Vision - Each One Reach One Worship & Word every Sunday at 9.30am to 11.30am followed by free sausage sizzle - everyone welcome.

Home prayer meeting every Wednesday at 7.00pm to 8pm. Fasting and prayer Thursday from 7.00pm to 8.00pm for special needs. Youth group - every Friday 6.30pm to 8.30pm at 3, Montserrat Pl, Forest Lake Kids church - special kids church every Sunday Music and food - once a month at the Forest lake stage 5pm onwards.Womens group - every thursday 11.00am pls contact Ps. Mavis on 0418745179 Revelation 3:20 (NIV)Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

Church Address - Elevate Church, Grand Avenue Primary School, Forest Lake 4078, Corner of Grand Avenue and Centennial Way, Contact Pastor Raj Singh with any questions about church on: Mobile 0407177117 or Email rajmavisforjesus@yahoo.com.au www.elevatechurch.org.au -------------------------------------------------------------Islamic Society of Queensland hosts Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. 2nd Saturday of the month at Rochedale Mosque - 2664 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains. Dinner provided to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact Imam Ali on 0407 156 527, Asif Ali Khan on 0411 516 007 or Shamim Khan on 0403 541 012.

-------------------------------------------------------------Kannada Sangha Qld Inc Promoting Kannada culture, Kannada activities and community based events and functions For more information contact: President Dr Balaji Hiremagalur 0421 583 273 Secretary Navin Kumar 0413 164 401, email: kannadasanghaqld@gmail.com www.chandana-brisbane.org. 52 Parkway Crescent Murrumba Downs Qld 4503.

-------------------------------------------------------------Lourde Matha Malayalee Community Every month Malayalam Mass (Qrbana) in Brisbane.

An opportunity to meet with other malyalees for Mass, prayer and spiritual renewal. For more information about up coming events. Contact Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy 4697 3177 youth coordinator.

Siju Mathew 0432 192 558.

-------------------------------------------------------------Malayalee Association of Qld â&#x20AC;&#x201C; For a detailed list of upcoming events, contact the President C K Oonnikrishnan Nair on 0416 927 100 or email ckuknair_maq@hotmail.com, Dr Cyril Fernandez - Vice President on 0404 433 044 or email cgfernz@hotmail.com.

E: maq@brisbanemalayalee.org or visit www.brisbanemalayalee.org.

-------------------------------------------------------------Public Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. Last Saturday of the month at Logan Mosque - 260 3rd Avenue, Kingston. Dinner provided free to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact the chairman Mr Nawab Khan on 3209 4627 -------------------------------------------------------------Queensland Telugu Association President â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dr Prakash Nallamilli; Treasurer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mr Manoj Vemula; Secretary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mr Sai Gollapudi; Executive Committee Members â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mr Srikanth Chalasani, Mr Sudershan Kanthakadi. For a list of upcoming events and membership information, please contact: Secretary, Mr Sai Gollapudi on 0409 907 934 or email saigollapudi@yahoo.com -------------------------------------------------------------Sant Mat Regular Meeting (Sant Baljit Singh) Kelvin Grove. Sundays 3.30pm. Contact Dr Sandeep Gupta on 07 3123 9440 or sandeep@santmat.net.au -------------------------------------------------------------Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) and Hindu Education Centre 4915 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4923 Mt Lindsay Hâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;way South Maclean. Temple Opening Hours: 7:30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11:00am and 5:00pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:30pm. Pooja times â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Weekdays 9:00am and 7:30pm.

Weekends 9:00am and 6:00pm. Contact President Vimal â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vicâ&#x20AC;? Ratnam 0411 594 394, Temple Priest 07 5547 7302 ---------------------------------------------------------------St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church Brisbane Malayalam Holy Qurbono, Sunday School and other spiritual activities. Holy Qurbono celebrated

by Rev. Fr. Jigi Varghese at 2pm on the third Saturday of every month at St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coptic Orthodox Church, 2 Hamish Street Calamvale Qld 4116.

For more information about upcoming events and activities please contact: Dr. Joy Pynadath 0431 631 397, Joy Mathew 0403 114 470, Roby John 0401 900 494 ----------------------------------------------------------------TOUCH Group of families Program includes Bollywood dance, Sri Lankan dance, Saomoa cultural dance, fashion show, musical program. Anyone who would like to join can contact touch.families@gmail.com or call Sripathy & family 0432 768 607, Vijekumar & family 3823 4628, Saravanan & family 3823 5037, Shanker & family 3711 3912, Sri Jayendrakumr 3272 5781 ---------------------------------------------------------------Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on is your Council guide to what is happening in Brisbane. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au>

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HINDU SOCIETY OF QLD INVITES ALL TO OUR ANNUAL

DEEPAVALI CELEBRATIONS Saturday 3rd November 2012 at Cannon Hill Anglican College-Cnr Junction and Krupp Rds, Cannon Hill Pooja from 5:30pm Dinner & Cultural Program from 6:00pm Tickets: Members $10; Non Č&#x201A;members $15 and children under 12 years free.

For more information contact: Prakash Shandil - 0408 876 414 Sunil Maharaj- 0488 324 891 Jitendra Lal - 0409 737 753

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 43

Bollywood & Entertainment Intensely Soul: Transformational Odissi Indian Classical Dance & Music "Nirmal Jena’s performance of Odissi dance was one of those rare delights when a solo performer gives so generously and vividly of his talents that it’s often hard to remember that there is only one person out there. .....This was painting, sculpture - a whole culture - coming to life" - Jill Sykes, Sydney Morning Herald

Jai Ho Sukhwinder in Brisbane OSCAR award winning Bollywood Singer Sukhwinder Singh performed live in Brisbane on Friday 10 August at Brisbane Convention Centre.

Sukhwinder performed most of the popular numbers to the delight of the audience.

The audience were amazingly well behaved. It was encouraging to see such well disciplined audience behaviour. This will encourage promoters to get more shows for Brisbane. A number of venues in Brisbane have become very selective due to past disorderly audience behaviour.

The hall at the plaza level of the Convention centre was full to capacity. The sound, light and staging was well laid out, the distribution of speakers throughout the hall was a big plus and a credit to the organisers. The limited number of musicians did very well with their partially preprogrammed backing music. The backing vocals of the accompanying choir boys was commendable.

The promoters had the event well organised in terms of security and seating sequences etc.

'Neethaane...' music hit, sold 1 lakh copies CHENNAI, Sep 10 (IANS) The soundtrack of upcoming Tamil movie "Neethaane En Ponvasantham"(NEP) is selling like hot cakes with 100,000 copies sold since its release Sep 1.

"Physical (hard copies) has crossed one lakh with fantastic pre-booking. 'NEP' also had a ticketed launch concert where we bundled concert tickets along with CDs and sold close to 7,000 copies within a span of 48 hours," Ashok Parwani, head south, Sony music entertainment told IANS in an e-mail inter-

action.

Composed by maestro Illayaraja, NEP is a perfect blend of melody and trance.

The album consists of eight tracks, which are sung by singers like Yuvan Shankar Raja, Ramya, Karthik and Sunidhi Chauhan, among others.

Directed by Gautham Menon, "Neethaane En Ponvasantham" is a romantic film starring actors Jiiva and Nani. It will be released in Tamil and Telugu. However, the release date has not been decided yet.

Richa Chadda to play don in 'Fukrey' NEW DELHI, Sep 10 (IANS) Actress Richa Chadda, seen in crime thriller "Gangs Of Wasseypur", is set to play a mafia don in Farhan Akhtar's next production "Fukrey", a comedy.

Richa has been signed on for a significant role in the film. Her character will be called Boli Punjaban.

"Yes, Richa Chadda has been signed for 'Fukrey'," Ritesh Sidhwani, partner in Farhan's Excel Entertainment, said in a statement.

Atul Kasbekar, whose agency Bling! looks after Richa's work, says "Ritesh

saw 'Gangs of Wasseypur' and loved Richa's performance."

Pulkit Samrat of "Bittoo Boss" fame is the lead actor in "Fukrey". But Richa does not have a role opposite him. Other actors for the movie are yet to be finalised.

The film's title is a slang, which means good-for-nothing.

Directed by debutant Mrigdeep Singh Lamba, "Fukrey" is a buddy movie, revolving around Delhibased youngsters and their life in high school and later, college.

Ranbir Kapoor sings a song for 'Barfi' MUMBAI, Sep 10 (IANS) Although Ranbir Kapoor plays a deaf and mute person in his upcoming silent film "Barfi", he has lent his voice for a promotional song in the film.

"Yes, Ranbir Kapoor has sung a song titled 'Fatafati'. It is not part of the film and it was recorded impromptu. We are releasing this song online and on TV, It will not be in the film. It's a fun song that we wanted the peo-

ple to see and enjoy," "Barfi!" director Anurag Basu told IANS. As per reports, the song was shot during the filming of 'Barfi!' and the lyrics have some Bengali words.

Also featuring Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D'Cruz, the film is coming out Friday 14 September.

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

EVERY now and then there comes a time when we need to take a moment out of our busy lives and remind ourselves of the universe within, often all but forgotten as we run from one task to the next. Sydney based Nirmal Jena and his Delhi based sister, Pratibha Jena Singh, present powerful and poignant Odissi dance and music in their first Australian tour together. Audiences in Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane will be mesmerized with soul stirring and energetic dance and music. Representing fourteen generations of performing arts, this brother and sister duo practices their family’s unique style of Odissi pioneered by their father and guru, Surendra Nath Jena of Odisha India. For them, the arts are a way of life, ageless, timeless and universal.

Both Nirmal and Pratibha are trained in many genres of the arts. They dance, sing and play several instruments. Each performance will feature duets, solos and a live music presentation. For Nirmal and Pratibha their art is abundantly more than a discreet tradition from Odisha in India; it reflects the wisdom and knowledge inherent in ancient and diverse traditions of the world, an essential link between the past, present and future. They are passionate about using their dance and music to transform modern societies and inspire a focus on the ‘inner’ or emotional and spiritual capabilities. Performances in each city will be followed by public workshops enabling participants to experience more deeply the essence and power of the arts to influence every aspect of life. A family arts tradition of this nature is rare, valuable and needs to be nurtured by contemporary societies.

2012 NATIONAL TOUR DATES (Performances & Workshops) Canberra Performance Sat 15th Sept 7-

9pm James O Fairfax Theatre National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place Bookings Essential (02) 6240 6528 eventbookings@nga.gov.au Workshop Sun 16th Sept 12.30-2.30pm Canberra Dance Theatre Cnr Barry Dr & Kingsley St, Canberra City Bookings Essential: odcsydney@yahoo.com.au Mob: 0422000691 Sydney Performances Wed 19th Sept 79pm,Sat 22rd Sept 9-11pm,Sun 23rd Sept 7-9pm Italian Forum Cultural Centre, 23 Norton Street, Leichhardt Bookings Essential: Sydney Fringe box office Tel: (02) 9020 6980 or www.sydneyfringe.com Workshop Mon 24thSept 6-8pm Italian Forum Cultural Centre, 23 Norton Street, Leichhardt Bookings Essential: Sydney Fringe box office Tel: (02) 9020 6980 or www.sydneyfringe.com Melbourne Performance Sat 29th Sept 79pm Monash Music Auditorium Bldg 68 Monash Univ Wellington Rd, Clayton Bookings Essential: (03) 9905 1111 boxoffice@monash.edu www.monash.edu/mapa Workshop Sun 30th Sept 10.30-12.30pm Monash University Drama Theatre Bookings Essential: (03) 9905 1111 boxoffice@monash.edu | Brisbane Performance Sat 6th Oct 7-9pm BEMAC, Qld Multicultural Centre 102 Main St, Kangaroo Pt Bookings Essential: (07) 3391 4433 www.bemac.org.au Workshop Sun 7th Oct 10.30-12.30pm BEMAC, Qld Multicultural Centre 102 Main St, Kangaroo Pt Bookings Essential: (07) 3391 4433 Performances: $28, $18 concession, $15 for children 15 & under Workshops: $25, $15 & $10 for children 15 and under

Fortunate to have dream cast for 'Satyagrah': Prakash Jha MUMBAI, Sep 10 (IANS) Prakash Jha, who has managed to put together an ensemble cast for "Satyagrah", says that he is lucky to have Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgn Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal and Manoj Bajpayee playing important roles in a film that focuses on corruption in the country.

"Today, it seems that the middleclass all over the world is in anguish with the system and is gearing up to almost renegotiate democracy. This is where our history is going to be settled. It's such an important juncture in the world history," Jha told IANS. "There is corruption of wealth and power and it seems that the course of history is going to be settled. I'm extremely fortunate

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to have a dream cast of Mr. Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay, Kareena, Arjun and Manoj playing the key roles," he added.

Scheduled to go on the floors in January next year, "Satyagrah" will address the ethos of a peaceful mass protest against corruption.

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Bollywood & Entertainment Jogiya Gurdas Maan pleases Brisbane Gold Coast Punjabis getting ready to PAAARTY… GURDAS Maan, a living legend, as they call him lived up to his name on Sunday 9 September. He had just flown in from Auckland where he had a concert on Saturday night, despite the travelling, the sound testing etc, he put his heart and energy in to the show.

Gurdas Maan is an Punjabi singer, songwriter, choreographer, and actor. He is considered one of the most notable figures in the world of Punjabi music. He was born on January 4, 1957, and to his credit he has the following albums: Boot Polishan, Vilayatan, Yaar Mera Pyar, Punjeeri, Ucha Dar Babe Nanak Da, Dance With Gurdas Maan, Best of Gurdas Maan, Khedan De Din Chaar, Solid Gold, Volume 1, Legends, Volume 4, Legends, Volume 1, Gurdaas Mann Hits, Solid Gold, Volume 2, Legends, Volume 2, Remix, HeerMore.

The performance was held at the now very popular venue, Plaza Ballroom of Brisbane Convention Centre in Southbank. The event was another sold out house full one, the musicians who have been with Gurdas Maan now for some time were just amazing. Punjabi numbers are more reliant on the rhythm hence the line of musicians was more in the rhythm section with only two

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in the melody section. The keyboard and guitar in the melody, while the rhythm section had a Dholak, Tabla, Dhol, Tim Bales, metalic Matka, full western Drum kit, a SPS and a SPD 20 Octapads.

The crowd cheered as Gurdas Mann performed the all time popular numbers, the audience was well behaved, obviously enjoying a great show. Patrons who chose to dance did so towards the back of the hall, and did not disturb the audience, The living legend acknowledged this from the stage. The show was brought to Brisbane

by Italian Nero's restaurant and Khalsa Group of Companies.

YES!!! It’s that time of year again when the Gold Coast Punjabis make Queensland Rock. Every year the small Punjabi community of fifty families in the Gold Coast puts on a Desi Night. And it is always a night to remember. Plenty of fantastic chut putta food; great fun entertainment and of course you get to dance the night away to the latest bhangra and Bollywood numbers.

This year the Desi Night, which is open to all, is on 22nd October and as always it is for a great cause. The Gold Coast Sikh Association the GCSA is organizing the night in order to raise funds for its School Building Fund.

The School is already underway and Punjabi classes are run from temporary rented premises and from homes. However, with its own premises, the school will be able to offer a far richer curriculum and also open up a great deal more to nonIndians to offer cultural courses. This will help to spread the word and improve the understanding of the Indian community in Australia. The School project has already

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got the go ahead for tax deductibility; the curriculum is being fine-tuned and the show should get on the road within a few months.

Whilst for some time the school will continue to operate as it does now from rented local school classrooms, the vision is to have its own building and hence the fund raising Desi Night.

Desi Night regularly attracts some three hundred supporters and merrymakers and this year GCSA President Patwant Singh Calais reckons, “We want to break the record with 400.”

Its for a great cause, so give the Gold Coast Punjabis all the support you can – you are guaranteed to go home with a satisfied tummy, a big smile on your face and who knows, maybe a raffle prize or two as well.

Enjoy.

Tickets available from: Preety Bains: 0422 052 597 Chamkaur Gill: 0404 071 519 Patwant Singh Calais: 0418 740 825 Mok Singh: 0401 946 966

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 45

Sports News Agassi inducted into US US sponsors India-Pakistan Open Court of Champions girls soccer exchange NEW YORK, Sep 10 (IANS) American tennis great Andre Agassi, a two-time US Open champion, was inducted into the US Open Court of Champions that celebrates the legacy of the greatest singles champions in the history of the US Open.

Agassi received a huge cheer from the Arthur Ashe Stadium during a ceremony held on Sunday 9 September that was attened by recently retired Andy Roddick, 2003 US Open champion, Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, Pete Sampras, Jimmy Connors and John McEnroe.

Agassi won the US Open twice, first as an unseeded player in 1994 and again in 1999, when he prevailed in a five set marathon over Todd Martin.

"In all the years that I watched Andre Agassi play, I thought that he's the kind of person who might do more when he's done with his sport than what he's already done on the court," Patrick McEnroe, General Manager of USTA Player Development, who led the on-court ceremony, was quoted as saying by the tournament's website.

"Andre was a champion and a leader to so many of the young Americans coming up when they were first on tour," added Patrick McEnroe, a former player and younger brother of tennis legend John McEnroe.

Roddick, who first took on Agassi as a 17year-old in 2000, said every player wanted to be like Agassi.

"He had such a big impact on my life when I was a kid," Roddick said.

"Everyone wanted to be like him. He had an

entire generation of kids wearing jean shorts and pink tights. I was lucky to be able to tag along with Andre early in my career, either as a practice partner or playing against him in exhibitions. Watching him go into rooms and shake everyone's hand and look them in the eye, he gave everyone the kind of undivided attention you don't often see from professional athletes."

Agassi was moved by the ceremony.

"This is the only Grand Slam in my career that I've never missed," said Agassi. "The reason, quite honestly, is you...when people ask me if I miss the US Open, I don't hesitate. I miss your sounds. I miss your silence.

I miss giving you everything I had and a little bit more. Thank you for giving me everything you've had for 21 years and a little bit more."

MUMBAI, Sep 10 (IANS) Under19 World Cup winner Harmeet Singh will be part of the Cheteshwar Pujara-led Rest of India side for the Irani Cup tie against reigning Ranji Trophy champions Rajasthan. The match has been shifted to Bangalore from Jaipur.

The domestic season opener will take place in the southern city from Sep 21 to 25 after the Jaipur venue was deemed unfit to host the match.

Harmeet, the left-arm spinner who helped Indian colts win the title in Australia, has also found a place in the India 'B' squad for the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy scheduled from Sep 29 to Oct 2 in Rajkot, the BCCI All-India Senior Selection Committee decided here Monday 10 September.

The other India U-19 team members in the side are all-rounder Baba Aparajith and speedster Sandeep Sharma.

Pujara will captain the 'B' team while Subramaniam Badrinath has been named the skipper of the 'A' side.

The third team in the tournament will be Vijay Hazare Trophy champions Bengal.

Rest of India squad: Cheteshwar Pujara (captain), Murali Vijay, Ajinkya Rahane, S. Badrinath, Dinesh Karthik, Wriddhiman Saha, Yusuf Pathan, Pragyan Ojha, Parvinder Awana, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Stuart Binny, Abhimanyu Mithun, Harmeet Singh.

India 'A': S. Badrinath (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik, Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan, Ishant Sharma, Parvinder Awana, Abhimanyu Mithun, Pragyan Ojha, Iqbal Abdulla, Harshal Patel, Udit Birla.

India 'B': Cheteshwar Pujara (captain), Murali Vijay, S. Anirudh, Kedar Jadhav, Robin Bist, Stuart Binny, Ravindra Jadeja, B. Aparajith, Praveen Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Munaf Patel, Harmeet Singh, Rohit Motwani, Sandeep Sharma.

Harmeet Singh named in Rest of India squad

Russia looks to toughen match-fixing laws WASHINGTON, Sep 10 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russia is planning to bring in a bill that would toughen match-fixing laws in football.

Head of the Russian Olympic Committee Alexander Zhukov, who is also the vice speaker in the country's lower house of parliament, said that the bill will be introduced by this fall.

Russian football is persistently dogged by claims of match fixing, including in the Premier League, although few of the accusations are ever upheld by the authorities.

The head of the Russian Football Union's committee on match fixing, Anzor Kavazashvili, vowed earlier this year to eradicate the problem by naming and shaming culprits and increasing fines.

But Zhukov said Russia needs to follow the lead of countries that make it a criminal offense to be any part of it.

"In lots of countries there are precedents whereby the punishment for these kinds of things is not only disqualification, but treated as a crime," said Zhukov, who was here meeting other parliamentary representatives from G8 countries.

"The bill in which sanctions are toughened is already prepared," Zhukov said, explaining that "the absence of hard sanctions does not allow us to investigate these (matchfixing) incidents to the end".

Zhukov said the bill would be formally submitted for approval to the Russian State Duma in the fall session.

46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

WASHINGTON, Sep 10 (IANS) Eighteen young female soccer players and two coaches from India and Pakistan begin a tour of the US Tuesday 11 September as part of a dual country soccer exchange to promote common interests through sports.

Throughout the 10-day programme, members of the delegation will share their experiences, learn about the US through the lens of sports, interact with young American athletes, and meet with US sports professionals.

The Sep 11-22 tour marks the third sports exchange with Pakistan and the fourth with India, the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs' Sports United Division announced Monday 10 September.

The programme will include a series of intensive soccer clinics, conflict resolution workshops, and sessions on disability sports.

The group will meet with officials from

DC Parks and Recreation for a discussion on sports nutrition and training.

The DC United Women's Team will host a clinic for the group and the team's philanthropic organization, United for DC, will organize a volunteer activity.

The delegation will also visit ESPN in Washington, DC to learn about the sports media world.

Sports Visitors are youth and coaches who travel to the US for technical sports training, sports management, and conflict resolution training, the State Department said.

Sports Visitor programmes give young people an opportunity to discover how success in athletics can be translated into the development of life skills and achievement in the classroom, it said.

Since 2003, Sports United has brought over 1,000 athletes from over 60 countries to the US to participate in Sport Visitor programmes aimed at engaging youth worldwide.

Australia to play in Little League Baseball World Series AUSTRALIA has gained automatic entry into the Little League World Series from 2013.

The new Little League International alignment gives Australia’s National Champion team; decided at the Little League National Championships in May each year, an automatic berth into the World Series. Up until now, Australia has had to go through the Asia Pacific Little League qualifying tournament.

Australian Baseball Federation CEO, Brett Pickett, said Little League is in an exciting period of growth in Australia and this World Series berth strengthens our

place with the other top baseball regions in the World” said Mr Pickett.

Australia is now our fourthlargest country in terms of total participation.”

Little League is the largest participation sport in the world, played by over 2.5 million kids worldwide. The international competitions are unique in that the competing teams are not selected national representative sides.

The teams that play at the Little League World Series are from local community charters, playing on the world stage with the same team mates they play with every weekend.

The full regional alignment

in Little League (Majors) Baseball for 2012, and for next season: 2012 Regions Latin America Canada Caribbean Mexico Japan Middle East and Africa Europe Asia-Pacific 2013 Regions Latin America Canada Caribbean Mexico Japan Europe and Africa Asia-Pacific and Middle East Australia

I-League lucrative option for Cameroon players NEW DELHI, Sep 10 (IANS) India's I-league clubs have approached the players of the second-string Cameroonian football side that finished runners-up in the Nehru Cup earlier this month.

Emmanuel Bosso (pictured), coach of the 'Local Lions' said some I-League clubs have approached his players and negotiations are on.

Bosso feels that though the level of football in Cameroon is miles ahead than that in India, but I-League remains a lucrative option for his players.

"Some clubs have approached my players.

But the window is closed right now. All my players have been contacted. Agents of various clubs have been trying to recruit my players. They are also keen to play and could be a good learning curve for them.

But the level of football in India is low," Bosso told IANS. Bosso said Indian players can improve by playing against good Cameroonian players.

"In Cameroon the level of football is much better and for India to reach there their players need to work on their fitness," he said.

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Cameroon has two division in their provincial league, Elite 1 and 2. But inability to pay footballers well has weakened the league with very few foreigners choosing to come and big stars going abroad to apply their trade.

A top player in Cameroon league gets a little over a $10,000 to $20,000 per year while good African imports can earn $100,000 to $200,000 in India.

Nigeria's Odafe Okolie, who plays in Kolkata club Mohun Bagan, is the highest paid professional footballer in India earning close to $350,000 per year.

Cameroon's young striker Samuel Bite said the money sounds exciting but he still needs time to think about it.

"Some clubs have approached me but I have not made my decision yet. I'm still thinking about it. Lot of my team mates have been contacted as well," he told IANS. Asked to name the clubs that contacted Bite said: "That I can't tell you right now, all I can say is that I am very interested.

India are at mid-level, even we (Local Lions) are at the same level so adjusting to the Indian game would not be difficult."

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Sports News Cuba achieves historic performance in Paralympics HAVANA, Sep 10 (IANS) Cuba achieved its best performance in the London Paralympics 2012, which ended Sunday 9 September, winning nine gold, five silver and three bronze medals.

The best Cuban athlete was runner Yunisdis Castillo (pictured), who won three gold medals and set three world records, reports Xinhua.

Castillo, who is a rightarm amputee, had the best performance of the Cuban delegation. Last Saturday she won her third gold medal in 400meter (T-46), set up the world record with 55:72 seconds, followed by South African Anrune Liebenberg (56:65) and Polish Alicja Fiodorow

(58:48).

The Cuban runner became the first woman to win three gold medals in Paralympics, also won the 100-meter competition with a record of 11:95 seconds, as well as the 200-meter competition with a record of 24:45.

With her three medals and records, Castillo became the Cuban most laureate disabled athlete since Barcelona 1992, winning a total of five gold medals, including the two gold medals she won in Beijing 2008. She now surpassed the four gold medals won by jumper and runner Enrique Cepeda in Barcelona 1992 and Athens 2004.

The second best Cuban

athlete was runner Omara Durand, 20, an athlete with visual impaiment, who won the 100 and 400-meter competitions and has the current world record in 100 and 200meter and is the world champion in 200 and 400 in Christchurch-11.

Durand said: "I am very happy with the two gold medals. It's the best thing that ever happened to me."

The other Cuban gold medals were won by Leonardo Diaz in discus throw, and by Luis Felipe Guerra in long jump, who currently has the world record of 7.66 meters.

The last two gold medals were won in judo by Dalidaivis Rodriguez, who won the 63-kilo-

gram division, after defeating Chinese Tong Zhou and by Jorge Hierrezuelo, who won the 90-kilogram division against British Samuel Ingram.

In the London Paralympic Games, Cuba surpassed its earlier best performance in Atlanta 96, placing the 13th in the final medal table, which is led by China, followed by Britain and Russia.

The Cuban delegation had 24 athletes, while four years ago, in Beijing 2008, Cuba sent 31 athletes, the largest since Barcelona 1992.

In Beijing 2008, Cuba won five gold, three silver and six bronze medals for the 23rd overall place.

Sachin Tendulkar joins Facebook NEW DELHI, Sep 10 (IANS) Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar joined the social networking site Facebook, attracting over 4.4 lakh 'Likes' within a few hours.

"I'll like to welcome you to my Facebook family. As a child, I always dreamt of playing cricket for India and I chased my dream of winning the World Cup for 22 years. It wouldn't have been possible without your support," read Tendulkar's account on the website.

His page also provided a link to www.sachinworld.com "I wanna take this opportunity to thank all of you for having prayed for me and wish

well for me. I look forward to sharing my experience with you, join me on my facebook (page) so that we both can share this experience and go through this journey together," he added.

Tendulkar already has an existing page on Facebook but it is managed by an agency appointed by him.

The icon informed the world about him joining Facebook through another social networking site Twitter where he is a regular.

He tweeted through his account ?@sachin_rt: "Dear friends, welcome to my facebook page. I hope you had the chance to go through it. If not join me on and be a part of this journey with me."

Cricketer Shaun Tait to make Bollywood debut?

NEW DELHI, Sep 10 (IANS) Australian cricketer Shaun Tait has been approached to step into the acting pitch in Bollywood with Abhishek Kapoor's directorial "Kai Po Che!" He is expected to play a prominent part in the movie.

"Kai Po Che!" is the big screen adaptation of Chetan Bhagat's book "The 3 Mistakes of My Life". It features Sushant Singh Rajput, Amit Sadh and Rajkumar Yadav in key roles.

Since cricket is an integral part of the film, production company UTV Motion Pictures is on the lookout to cast a prominent international cricketer to cast.

It has already roped in Indian bowler Ashish Nehra to coach Sushant for his role of a cricket enthusiast in the film.

"Ashish suggested Shaun's name when the makers were brainstorming on who to cast for the part. But unlike Ashish, Shaun will

actually play a prominent role in the film.

UTV is in final talks with Shaun, who has shown interest in the film," said a source.

Manish Hariprasad, creative director, studios, Disney-UTV, confirmed the news, saying: "Abhishek Kapoor wanted a wellknown international fast bowler for the climax. And Abhishek's good friend Ashish put us in touch with Shaun. We're in discussions with him, and hope to have him on board soon."

However, Tait will only do the film if his shooting schedule doesn't clash with his commitments towards the Australian team.

"Cricket will always come first for him. He liked the script and wants to do the film, but he will only give them a go-ahead if his timings work out," says the source.

UTV is working on the shooting schedule accordingly.

David for Edinburgh Cup golf BANGALORE, Sep 10 (IANS) David D'Souza qualified for the Duke of Edinburgh Cup golf tournament to be held at the Windsor Castle in England from Sep 30 to Oct 4 following his performance in the just-concluded Toyota Golf Festival at the KGA course here.

The following will participate in the World Golfers Championship in Durban, South Africa: • 0-5 Handicap Category: Jaibir Singh (Handicap 3) 39 Nett points.

• 6-10 Handicap: Toshiyuki Kasai (10) 30 Nett points.

• 11-15 Handicap: Shamsher Puri (13) 38 Nett points.

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Brisbane Indian Times proudly sponsors QFFA’s advertising space.

Naming Rights for Queensland Inter-district Championship (QIDC) Trophy

• 16-20 Handicap: V Munesh (20) 47 Nett points.

• 21-24 Handicap: HC Lokesh Chandra (21) 41 Nett points.

QFFA wishes to announce that tender is now open for the QIDC trophy naming rights. The naming rights will apply for the duration of three years. Applicants should nominate an yearly sum for the naming rights for each of the three years.

QFFA reserves the right to make final decision in the selection of the successful applicant.

Please send your tender in a sealed envelope attention to: Jitendra Prasad (QFFA Secretary), P.O.Box 30, Browns Plains, QLD 4118

www.indiantimes.com.au

Tender closes 28th September, 2012 THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012 — 47

48 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, September, 2012

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