Nov 13 issue

Indian Times

Brisbane

A Division of Qld Multicultural Times

As God is One, we respect all Religions

Print Post Approved PP:424022 1724

Volume 11, Number 2 Saturday, November 9, 2013

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

Diwali..Diwali..Diwali...

• FICQ Diwali at King George Square, for full details of Diwali functions are located on page 18.

From the Publisher

WELCOME to our November edition, hope you all had a wonderful and joyous Diwali and hope the coming New Year will be beneficial to you.

This is the time to write off old scores and start fresh. Last month it was pleasing to note the large number of Diwali celebrations, celebration not only by Indian organisations but also the wider community.

Diwali has truly taken a global perspective, which is pleasing to note, as we know that Diwali is not associated with a single legend by many, we have the Mahavir Jayanti, Bandi Chood and other associated celebrations.

Many counties enjoy a public holiday on Diwali. I was amused when someone approached me at one of the public celebrations and commented on a stage item performed by Australia girls his rather racist comment was, “they are not Indian girls”, and he said do you call that Indian? My reply was that we should be happier that other communities are embracing our culture; they are actually going out of their way to master our tradition arts (Music and dance) form. Can you imagine the time and effort put in choreographing and presenting the item?

In today’s day and age that kind of mentality has no place, we here in Australia a Nation which has given us so much, we should never forget that Australia has not always been what it is today, it has taken time to get to where we are today. When a nation as a whole can change its thinking, we as a community have to play our part. In a truly multicultural community there is no place for racism. At one of our Multicultural functions I had said that true multiculturalism is demonstrated today as we have today witnessed Taiwanese women performing an Arabian cultural item, it shows that now were not only appreciating other cultures, but we are actually learning their art forms.

I have been busy with the organisation of GOPIO regional conference in Sydney, the task has been a bit challenging as I am based in Brisbane. If you thought that Brisbane has far too many functions think again, Sydney takes the cake with so many functions people are confused, dignitaries attending the functions are in an overload mode, and they from time to time forget which function they are going to. The PBD regional in Sydney is taking shape, however it has not attracted the numbers that would have been desirable. The high cost of hosting events in Australia has taken its toll, our labour costs being so high and sponsorship being hard to get. GOPIO Queensland has managed to get Minister Vyalar Ravi to come to Brisbane, the visit has been arranged through GOPIO Queensland and the function is being held by GOPIO Queensland supported by FICQ and other Indian associations. A dinner reception will be held on 13th November, please refer separate article on the event.

Many people have been inquiring about our annual awards night, unfortunately this year it will not be hosted, the decision was taken in consultation with our naming right sponsors, State Government has taken on the multicultural community awards and Brisbane City Council has taken on the Multicultural business awards, so the awards are there, it’s just that we are not hosting it any more. It was something we really enjoyed hosting, but there is no sense in duplication.

Amazing how quickly this year is coming to an end, one more month to go, Christmas decorations are already out in the shops. In conclusion I would like to thank all our readers, advertisers and contributors for your support over the last ten years.

Until Next Month Happy Reading Umesh Chandra

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Inside • Letters to the Editor.......................2 • Migration Matters...........................4 • Local News.................................5-21 • Business News...................................22 • Who, What, Where, When...24 & 26 • Health & Well Being................32-34 • Astrology.........................................34 • Real Estate................................35-37 • Business Directory.......................38-39 • Classifieds..........................................40 • What’s On.................................41-43 • Bollywood & Entertainment...44-45 • Sport..........................................46-47

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

2 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November 2013

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

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

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 3

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Proposed Simplification of the Student Visa Assessment Level Framework ON 29 October 2013 the Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection announced the government’s proposal to simplify the student visa Assessment Level (AL) Framework. The department proposes to simplify the AL Framework by removing AL4 and AL5. As a result the AL Framework would comprise three assessment levels (AL1 to AL3) with current AL4 countries/sectors reduced to AL3. The

department also proposes to reduce the financial requirement for AL3 student visa applicants from 18 months to 12 months.

However, for AL3 applicants would be required to be provided by a close relative of the visa applicant.

The AL Framework manages immigration risk in the student visa program by aligning minimum requirements for student visa applications to the immigration risk posed by applicants from a particular country applying for a particular student visa subclass. The Migration Regulations prescribe what level of English language proficiency, financial requirements and previous study the applicant must provide based on their AL. Assessment levels currently range from AL1 to AL5.. The higher the AL, the greater are the evidentiary requirements that apply. Under the new proposed amendments the department intends to reduce the number of ALs from five to three (AL1 to AL3) with the removal of AL4 and AL5. Current AL4 visa applicants would benefit from this change as there would be a reduction in the level of evidence of English language proficiency, financial capacity and previous study that they would need to provide to the department for the grant of their visa.

For example, international students seeking a Schools sector (subclass 571) visa from countries that were previously AL4 would, under the proposed changes, be able to enrol in Australian schools from Year 7 instead of from Year 10. This would provide a substantial benefit for both students and schools.

Currently an AL3 student visa applicant must provide evidence of funds from an acceptable source to pay for their expenses for the first 18 months of their stay in Australia. Subject to the legislative change process, the department proposes to reduce the evidence of finances required for AL3 students from 18 months to 12 months.

However, as a result of this change, funds for AL3 applicants would need to be pro-

vided by a close relative of the student visa applicant.

The department’s proposed reduction to the financial requirement for AL3 student visa applicants will bring the overall financial requirements for an Australian student visa in line with key competitor countries, enabling education providers to more effectively compete internationally based on the quality of their education.

This proposed reduction to the financial requirement for AL3 student visa applicants is made possible by the existence of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement which provides an additional integrity safeguard that was not in place when the AL Framework was initially established.

The GTE requirement, which was introduced in November 2011, provides a safeguard to ensure that only genuine applicants are granted a student visa. The GTE requirement considers whether the holistic individual circumstances of an applicant indicate that their intention is for a temporary stay in Australia. Assessment of the GTE requirement takes into account a number of factors relating to an applicant such as their immigration history, circumstances that may encourage the applicant to return to their home country and circumstances that might encourage them to remain in Australia.

The department’s proposed changes to simplify the AL Framework would only affect new student visa applications made after the changes have been implemented in early 2014.

Extension of student visa streamlined visa processing arrangements to non-university education providers from March 2014 It is proposed that streamlined visa processing arrangements will be available to certain low immigration risk non-university education providers who offer Bachelor, Masters and Doctoral degree courses. This would be an extension of the arrangements that have been available to the university

sector since March 2012.

Under the proposed extended arrangements, student visa applicants with a CoE from a participating education provider in Australia would be assessed as though they were a lower immigration risk and are generally not required to provide the same amount of documentary evidence that is required for higher assessment levels, regardless of their country of origin, visa subclass or course of study. Applicants would still need to have a level of English language proficiency to enable them to complete their studies, be able to support themselves financially for the duration of their stay; and satisfy the genuine temporary entrant requirement.

All applicants would still be subject to basic requirements such as having health insurance and meeting the health and character requirements. The department can still request documentary evidence to verify an applicant’s claims. Education providers and students can have greater confidence that visa applications would be processed faster.

The arrangements also make the visa application process easier for students as they are not required to provide the same levels of documentary evidence needed for higher assessment levels.

In order to be invited to participate in the proposed extended streamlined visa processing arrangements, education providers must be assessed to be of low immigration risk. An education provider’s immigration risk level is calculated by assessing data held in departmental systems relating to prospective and actual international students associated with that provider. This includes data about student visa refusals, including fraud, and compliance with visa conditions relating to student visa applicants intending to study at the provider’s institution, as well as actual students who have visas linked to that institution.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 5

Recent news about Australian Migration Regulations Continued from page 4 Changes to Requirements for Skills Assessment through Australian Computer Society (ACS) Graduate Skills Assessment Application Process Changes The following changes will come into effect on Jan 15, 2014: • The ACS Temporary Graduate – 485 skills assessment will clearly state that it is specifically for the purpose of applying for a subclass 485 visa application. Applicants with an Australian study component that are applying for a subclass 485 visa will be assessed on the Australian qualification only, based on the completion of the relevant Australian Bachelor degree or higher.

• Applicants with an Australian study component that wish to apply for permanent residency will require either 1 year of relevant work experience or completion of an ACS Professional Year Program to receive a suitable skills assessment which can be used for general migration purposes.

• The ACS Post Australian Study Skills Assessment is intended to support graduates in applying for permanent residency under the General Skilled Migration or Employer Nomination Scheme after completing an Australian study component.

• The Australian study component is taken into consideration because of the value of studying in Australia and the exposure to Australian culture and language, which in turn places applicants in a better position to be employed in their nominated occupation.

• The work experience or professional year program is assessed for suitability of the full skills assessment and the applicant is considered skilled from the completion date of the relevant Australian degree. The Post Australian Study Skills Assessment can be used for migration purposes in general.

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)

6 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

Light Party – positive alternative to Halloween Courtesy Rajesh Singh THE community of Inala and the surrounding celebrated Light Party (R) on the 31st Oct held at Richland East State School.

Halloween is seen as a negative influence on the community by many parents, as it undermines teaching about values and safety. As a result, over 12 years a “Light Party” has been held in NZ, USA, Uk, Australia as a positive alternative.

This has met the needs of families by providing a free community event that is safe, fun and celebrates all that is good.

This is the second year for Elevate Church to host this event. The positive response to this event and the appreciation of parents has been encouraging in 2012.

The organisers of this Party is Elevate Church, Forest Lake whose Pastors are Raj and Mavis Singh. Their vision for Forest Lake is to see a community of people living their God given destiny.

The members of Elevate church

and some of the teachers at Richlands School played a major part by volunteering. It has been a great success with nearly 250 people attending the event this year. Everyone who came had to be dressed in something positive. No scary or gholish costumes were allowed. If kids turned up with the scary costumes we had spare costumes which they were given to put on.

The main aim of this event is to promote and celebrate things that are good and positive which also leaves the families feeling loved and valued. The entry was with Gold coin optional and everything was free - jumping castle, fairy floss, free party food, take away bags, face paint-

ing, clown with balloons etc.

The best part of the party as per feedback received from parents and kids was the concert which was free with a live band of young kids performing and a Gospel message was delivered using a pumpkin that darkness cannot stand in the presence of Light.

Major sponsors were Asia Pacific Forest Lake, prizes were sponsored by Office Works Oxley, Richlands councillor Mr Milton Dick, Mr Anthony Shorten, Mr Bernie Ripoll, Coles, Bargain Mania and family and friends who made this a success.

We are looking for more volunteers next year. If you are interested to be a part of this please feel free to contact Mavis on 0418745179.

The next upcoming event is Christmas Carols at Forest Lake on the 16th of Dec 4.30pm at lake stage.

Elevate church has their Sunday service at 9.30am at Grand Ave school. We would like to invite you to come and visit us.

Indian Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs to visit Brisbane UNION Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi is set to visit Brisbane on 13th November 2013. The minister’s visit has been arranged

by GOPIO International and the dinner reception is being organised by GOPIO in association with FICQ and other Indian Associations.

The dinner reception will be held at QUT Gardens Points, campus at the state of art new roof top venue room 360, as the name suggests the venue has 360 degree views with beautiful Brisbane River cliffs as a backdrop.

Many people of Indian Origin

residing in Brisbane will get a first hand opportunity in meeting the minister and taking up any related matters with him. Professor Prasad Yarlagadda, co chair of GOPIO Science and technology has been the driving force behind this function. In the usual manner the event is supported by FICQ and AIBC, members have been attending the planning meetings.

The venue has limited capacity and is likely to be sold out

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hence associations are advised to book in their tables to receive the discounted table rate.

Individual tickets prizes are $90 per person and Corporate tables are for $1250.

The official program is planned for 6pm start followed by dinner at 7pm. Paid parking is available at the venue.

An online registration system has been created on Register now website type in “GOPIO Function” and follow the prompts to complete the regis-

tration.

Minister Vayalar Ravi will be second minster in this portfolio to visit Brisbane; previous Minister Jagdish Tytler had visited Brisbane when the ministry was first established.

At that time people were not aware of the newly formed ministry. There were two dinner function s held at that time one in Brisbane and one in Gold Coast.

GOPIO President Dr Maha Sinnathamby is supporting the event; Dr Maha Sinnathamby and GOPIO International coordinator have met Minister Vayalar Ravi on many occasions.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 7

Westpac wishes Wealth & Prosperity to customers who celebrate Diwali WESTPAC is offering bonus interest on its eSaver online savings account and a discounted home loan offer which we hope will brighten our customers' celebrations.

Customers wanting to save will receive bonus interest for the first 3 months when opening a new Westpac eSaver account.

Customers can enjoy ongoing access to their money via their linked account and earn up to 4.11% p.a. variable rate on their new account for 3 months (includes 1.61% p.a. introductory fixed bonus rate for 3 months plus 2.50% p.a. standard variable rate).

To help those buying property save more now and in the long term Westpac is offering a discount of 0.90% off our standard variable rate until 29 November 2013 for new home loans of $250,000 or more under Westpac’s Premier Advantage Package. In addition, customers can also receive savings from a range of Westpac and BT Financial products and services covered under this package.

Damien MacRae, General Manager of Westpac Premium said: “Westpac has always had strong ties with the Indian community; we have a diverse workforce who actively work to serve and provide our customers with a great experience when they deal with Westpac.”

“I’m delighted that we are able to continue to support the Indian community giving our customers the opportunity to save more or use the money to celebrate their new home with family and friends,” he said.

Saving on the variable rate is only one way that Westpac helps customers own their own home sooner. Mr MacRae points out a number of ways new and existing property owners could look at to pay off their home loan earlier as highlighted by the findings from the recent Westpac Home Ownership Report.

1. Use an offset account - Have your salary

• Swami Venktaya, Ashil Sharma, Supreet Kaur, Neenu Mediratta, Suraj Kapila, Vicki Singh, Sian Lewis, Ross Watts and Prashanth Paramanathan.

paid directly into your offset account so that it starts offsetting against the balance of the mortgage straight away.

2. Plan ahead - Use an offset calculator to visualise how you can save money and reduce the life of your loan. You can access this calculator at westpac.com.au/homeowns.

3. Increase frequency of repayments While simple this is a great way to make savings on your home loan. For example, paying half your monthly repayment every fortnight means you would make the equivalent of an extra month’s repayment every year.

4. Spend money to save money - If you can afford to increase your repayments, this can mean significant savings over the life of a loan.

5. Make lump sum payments - Consider

putting any lump sums of money you receive into your offset, such as a tax refund or any bonus.

6. Take advantage of rate cuts by keeping your repayments the same. You would be surprised at how much of a difference making even small decreases will make over time.

Offshore, Westpac is building its capability in the Mumbai branch which it opened 12

*NOTE: Participating branches for special Diwali FX and TT offer include Sydney, Ashfield, Burwood, Strathfield, Auburn, Blacktown, Liverpool, Merrylands, Parramatta, Seven Hills, Brookvale, Wentworthville, West Ryde, North Ryde, Westmead, Mouth Druitt, Blacktown, Castle Hill and Bankstown.

Deepavali celebrations in Sydney!

By M P Singh

Make sure you and your home can weather the storm.

months ago.

The Mumbai branch is equipped to offer retail banking products and services to Westpac customers, providing a convenient and safe banking experience to the Indian community.

To find out more about Westpac’s product offerings visit www.westpac.com.au today.

WITH more and more Indians migrating and settling down so well in all sorts of fields in Australia, the demand of living and preserving the cultural values has increased many folds. This year’s Deepavali celebrations in Sydney were remarkable. Starting from Martin Place to Olympic Park and then in Parliament House, the excitement of celebrations was well lit on the faces of Indian community.

Apart from these highlighted events, there was another landmark celebration held in hotel Amora Jammison in heart of Sydney CBD. To commemorate Deepavali, the hotel’s management set up an Indian / Bollywood theme for one week (29thOct to 4th Nov).

The hotel’s lobby, restaurant etc were decorated with Indian style crafts and lights. Not only that, there were Bollywood dances to entertain the guests and special Indian cuisine was setup remarkably to enthuse the spirit of Deepavali in all hotel patrons for that week. All this was brain child of Ms Sonia Gandhi of Gandhi Creations who collaborated with General Manager of hotel Amora Jammison, Mr Stephen Floyed to come up with this novel idea and have further plans to extend the same to other famous hotels / restaurants of Sydney as well in future.

India’s Consul General Mr Rakesh Goel especially graced the occasion and thanked the hotel management for this great venture.

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8 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

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Flights out of Australia are operated by Singapore Airlines, as well as its regional wing, SilkAir. *Conditions apply: Fare shown is for return travel from Melbourne to Delhi and includes the price of the air ticket, associated taxes, levies and surcharges correct as at 17/10/2013. Special fares are also available from other Australian ports and to other destinations in India. Fares are valid for departures from 01/11/13 to 30/11/13 and 16/01/14 to 31/03/14. Other fares are available for sale outside these periods. Fares do not include optional charges, such as service fees, date change fees and cancellation fees. A few countries still levy airport taxes, which can only be paid by the customer, in cash, at the airport prior to departure.

This offer is subject to availability and confirmation. Singapore Airlines reserves the right to alter or extend this offer without notice. Final booking/payment date is 25/11/2013. Fares are eligible for 50% KrisFlyer mileage accrual but are not eligible for redemption upgrades. Additional terms and conditions apply.

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Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Youth Wing launched!

Kartik Menon Joint Secretary, GCHCA IN A bid to encourage young people to be more actively involved in cultural and community pursuits, the Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association launched its Youth Wing on October 20th.

The group’s inaugural event, the ‘GCHCA Youth Networking Day’ was a resounding success. 26 young people between the ages of 12 and 24 gathered at Highland Reserve Park, Upper Coomera to socialise, play games, discuss spiritual concerns and brainstorm ideas for future youth initiatives.

Developed by ‘youth for youth’, all activities on the day were facilitated by students from the University of Queensland and Griffith University’s Gold Coast Campus.

Tharshika Saravanapavan, a Medical student at Griffith University and one of the lead facilitators of the days said, “The amount of energy youth have nowadays is truly astonishing! We need to create a platform for them to channel this energy in the right way and with the right attitude. This event is definitely something special to me and I hope to see it grow further.”

Feedback received from participants was equally positive.

QURBANI 2013/1434 Courtesy Janeth Deen ALHAMDULILLAH, through the joint efforts of Muslim Aid Australia, Muslim Charitable Foundation, Ai Imdaad Foundation and World Orphan Fund, the day of Qurban was taken to remote areas in different countries - Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, Cambodia and Palestine,

15 year old Tharshiniy Subramaniam, a student from the Queensland Academy of Health Sciences said, “The event exceeded my expectations. It was good to be around other so many people from a similar cultural background. I had a lot of fun and I am certainly looking forward to future events.”

where representatives were on the ground to ensure the slaughter and distribution took place. Qurbani was also performed in many countries in Africa.

Muslim Charitable Foundation in Brisbane raised over $17,000 towards this project. A spokesman for MCF stated: “This was our first joint venture for Qurban with our partners Muslim Aid and we are very satisfied with this effort. We are indeed very grateful to the Muslim community of Brisbane who once again supported our Qurban Plus drive. The look of joy and gratitude on the

GCHCA wishes to inform everyone that the youth activities will be ongoing and we look forward to more young people joining us. What better way to learn about culture and religion than in a fun, supportive environment?!

For more information about future activities, please contact us at gchcan@gmail.com

faces of the many recipients is in itself very rewarding.”

Locally, Muslim Charitable Foundation distributed meat parcels to many needy families with the assistance of volunteers. MCF is very grateful to our donors, sponsors, volunteers and wellwishers, for their continued support.

possible to assist the thousands of Australians that have been affected by the continuing fires in New South Wales. The collections have already commenced and approximately $5,000 has been raised in a few days. More collections will take place in the various Mosques throughout Brisbane over the next few weeks.

Those wishing to transfer directly into a bank account can deposit their donations into the following account: Account Name: Muslim Charitable Foundation Emergency Account / Name of Bank: Bank of Queensland BSB: 124 155 / Acc: 3089 7395 / Reference: NSW Fire We see this as our Islamic duty to assist our neighbours and we urge all Australians to dig deep and assist as much as they can.

We pray that Allah helps us help those in need to the best of our ability.

NSW Bushi Fire Appeal Muslim Charitable Foundation, Muslim Aid Australia and Al-Imdaad Foundation have rallied together to raise as much funds as

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 11

Sikhs from Australia Special Diwali gift, to a nominated for International destitute family Sikh Awards 2013 MELBOURNE, 18 October 2013 (Gurinder Kaur): The Sikh Awards recognise Sikh contributions and excellence in a variety of fields from nominations received from around the world.

The Sikh Awards is a unique occasion to meet and network with Sikhs from all disciplines including business, scholars, politicians and respected nonSikh community members from all faiths.

The ceremony will be held in London on Saturday 9 November 2013. The awards ceremony will be a night of celebration for all, the presentations will be carried out at a glittering and star studded ceremony which begins with mocktail reception followed by a delightful full four course vegetarian banquet together with outstanding entertainment.

For the first time, there are two nominees for the Sikh Awards 2013 from Australia Ms Jatinder Kaur (pictured) – Jatinder Kaur is the Director of JK Diversity consultants, which specialises in working with migrant and refugee communities. She was born in the U.K. and migrated to Australia in 1995. She has over 11 years of experience of working in policy, research and social work practice. In 2007, she conducted the first Australian research study in the child protection system and its interface with migrant and refugee families. She has published two academic papers. In July 2012, she launched the ‘Cultural Diversity and Child Protection’ report, which reviewed all the available

Australian research evidence to establish ‘baseline knowledge’ for policymakers, practitioners and researchers.

Mr Harkirat Singh Ajnoha – Harkirat Singh at the age of 21 migrated from India to Australia as a student. He started the Sikh Blood Donation Drive with Australian Red Cross and the Sikh Food Donation with Food Bank Vic. He travelled all around Australia promoting the Sikh identity as well as getting Sikhs to donate blood. The Sikh community broke the record with the most number of blood donations in one day.

He was awarded with a medal by Australian Red Cross Blood Service in 2010 and 2011. He has also started the GianiDitt Singh School of Sikh Studies, for Sikh youth.

Guests are attending from across the world including India, USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia.

SinghStation.net

• In the picture, carpenters showing Shiu Wati’s house completed in preparation for Diwali 2013.

By Sarat Maharaj SOME people will remember an e-mail plea to provide shelter for a Shiu Wati and her two teen-age daughters in Tovata, Labasa. Their family house had collapsed as a result of old age and structural fatigue.

Boondall Lions Club took up the challenge and asked their counterparts in Fiji for more information, such as, land tenure, an approved house plan, and material & labour costs. The total amount needed was $11,000. A request for cash donations was sent out to some people in our local community here in Brisbane. The support was good and we raised $5,300.

Just as we have managed many other similar projects, we asked for sponsorships from people in Fiji, rather than just sending over cash. The land tenure was secured from a Fijian landowner, a hardware company provided materials almost at cost, a

religious group volunteered to construct the toilet & shower at their own cost, and a social worker, Selina Wah, from another religious group provided all basic household necessities for the family.

All this took a bit of time but the house was eventually completed recently, and the family has moved into a proper house. It was a fitting gift for the family from all those generous donors in Brisbane and in Fiji. May God’s blessings be with everyone who contributed to this project.

If you wish to join Boondall Lions Clubs and help with community projects, please contact me on 0407 111 709 or e-mail regmaharaj@gmail.com. Lions Clubs International is the youngest and the largest community service organisation in the world, with 1.3 million members in 203 different countries.

For more information, visit www.lionsclubsinternational.org.

Ipswich prepares for Wordfood slam heat ATTENTION all slam masters, street and beat spoken word maestros, hip hop freestylers, haiku writers and performance poets - the Ipswich heat of the Wordfood slam event will be held on November 21.

Ipswich City Council Tourism and Libraries Committee and Ipswich Poetry Feast Committee Chairperson Councillor David Pahlke said

the heat would be held at The Squealing Pig at The Federal Hotel, 214 Brisbane St, Ipswich from 6pm to 8.30pm.

Only the first 16 people to sign-up from 5.30pm will get to compete.

Slam is a live spoken word competition that has become a global phenomenon since being created in the 1980's in Chicago.

Open to all people and all forms of spoken word - poetry, hip hop, theatre or whatever each person "slams" their words for two minutes to a live audience among whom five are selected to score each poet's work.

The audience at a slam has the freedom to express itself in any way they see fit and can scream and cheer or if they

“Caveat emptor: All advertisements included in our publication are in accordance to the disclaimer statement on page 2.”

12 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

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don't like a poet, they can finger snap, foot stomp and even boo.

Cr Pahlke said the top three place-getters at the Ipswich heat would go on to represent Ipswich at the Woodford Slam final at the Woodford Folk Festival on New Year's Eve and compete there for a $1000 prize.

Since 2006 The Woodford Folk Festival has hosted an annual spoken-word program with some of Australia's best writers and performers and the slam poetry competition has included a representative from Ipswich each year.

Cr Pahlke said prizes would also be awarded to the three Ipswich place getters.

"The first place getter will receive $100 cash, their name on a perpetual slam trophy and a season pass to the Woodford Folk Festival valued at $480.

"The second and third place winners will each receive New Year's Eve pass to the Woodford Folk Festival (including camping), valued at $139."

Cr Pahlke said renowned performance poet and slam MC Ghostboy - also known as poet David Stavanger - would host the Ipswich

slam heat.

"Ghostboy is one of Australia's most innovative performance and spoken word artists," Cr Pahlke said.

"He was the winner of the 2013 Arts Queensland Thomas Shapcott Poetry prize for his manuscript Special and has been involved over the past few years with the slam events held in Ipswich as part of the Ipswich Poetry Feast."

In 2006, Ghostboy established the highly successful Queensland Poetry Festival Slam with his mentor and close friend Marc Smith from the United States who is the founder of the slam form.

Since then Ghostboy has been a regular at major festivals throughout Australia including The Sydney Writers Festival, "NightWords" at the Sydney Opera House, Broken Hill Poetry Festival, Brisbane Writers Festival, The Queensland Poetry Festival, The Festival of Cairns and The Noosa Long Weekend Festival.

Ghostboy is also the co-ordinator of two of the nation's biggest slam events in the Australian Poetry Slam (Queensland heats and final) and the WordFood slam and spoken word showcase that is held as part of the Woodford Folk Festival.

Further information is available online at www.ipswichpoetryfeast.com. au/ Inquiries about the event can be directed to 3810 6755.

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 13

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir cements Foundation Day

Brisbane Indian Times DECEMBER DEADLINES ADVERTISERS / EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS 29 NOVEMBER

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A MILESTONE in the history of Vishnu Maya Mandir was achieved on 20th October 2013 when the foundation day came to fruition. Hard work, dedication and the unwavering will of Dharam Guru Pandit Harsh Ram Tripathi has seen the project towering ahead.

Pundit Ji creates that sense of urgency which in turn drives devotees to achieve the extraordinary task. Getting the required approvals was by no means any easy task, peo- â&#x20AC;˘ Bharat Solanki of Vishnu Mandir honouring the three Silpis, Chandra (right), Hament Naik (middle) and Deepak Kumar ple like Hament Naik, Suresh (back left).

Suresh Chandra, Deepak Kumar and others worked hard to make one of its kind which will incorporate a spesure that the proper approvals were sought cial water feature for the Murti of Lord and the whole project went ahead legiti- Vishnu.

Bhanjans were by Vijay Kumar and his mately.

It is very important for our community to group (members of All World Gayatri understand that we should always uphold Pariwar Brisbane Branch), after bhajans the law of the Land, we are indeed very for- maha Prasad (food) was served to all pretunate that Australian Government with its sent. The atmosphere was joyous and a broad multicultural policy allows us to sense of achievement prevailed. This is a freely practice our religions and they assist major achievement for our growing comus in building our places of worship provid- munity, we should be proud that our comed we do the right thing and follow the munity is getting another Mandir, be it a rules and regulations of the land and seek private initiative or be it a fully associated proper approvals etc when erecting a place initiative, it is still a Mandir which will furof worship. If handled properly we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ther the objectives of Hinduism. only get the approvals but we get assistance When a true devotee comes to a Mandir or any place of worship for that matter, does it from the three levels of Government.

Devotees in large numbers braving the matter who is in the committee, or does it harsh Queensland sun took part in the his- matter whether or not the Mandir is run toric foundation day. The ground work had independently or by a Sanstha?

For a true devotee all that matters is that been completed and the piers had been dug, devotees sat around the perimeter of the there is a Mandir where he or she can offer excavation and all took part in the special their prayers and take part in religious festipooja. Once completed this Mandir will be vals.

Tickets now on sale for 2013 Ipswich Christmas lights tour TICKETS are now available for Ipswich's annual Christmas lights bus tours in December.

Ipswich City Council Tourism and Libraries Committee Chairperson Councillor David Pahlke said guided coach tours of a selection of the best displays from the 2013 Ipswich Christmas Lights Competition would be held on December 17, 18 and 19.

"These tours are usually very popular with many regulars that go every year again wanting to take part," Cr Pahlke said.

"Tickets are already selling fast so we advise people to get in early if they want to join in the fun as tickets usually sell-out."

The tours will leave the Ipswich City Council carpark at 45 Roderick St at 7pm.

A light supper and comfort stop is provided at the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in Queens Park.

The tour will conclude at around 9.45pm and bookings are essential.

Cr Pahlke said the Christmas bus tours would take people to a variety of Ipswich's

14 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

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wonderful lights displays.

"Many people traditionally visit the city's Christmas lights each year and these tours provide people with a way of experiencing these displays in a relaxing and fun way.

"We invite people to join the tours for a fun, festive time.

"Ipswich residents put a great effort into their lights displays each year and most do it simply as a way of sharing the Christmas spirit with the community.

"Their displays help to bring Christmas alive and add a special magic to the city in the lead-up to Christmas Day." Tickets for the tours are $20 for adult, $15 for children and concessions or $60 for the family.

They can be bought online at the Discover Ipswich website at http://www.discoveripswich.com.au/ or by visiting the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre which is open seven days a week.

Inquiries can be directed to the Information Centre on 3281 0555.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 15

Ministerial visit at Gayatri Mandir QUEENSLAND Multicultural Minister, Glem Elmes visited the Gayatri Mandir on Tuesday 22 October. Gayatri Mandir situated at 178 Lyndhurst Road, Boondall is operated by Hindu Society of Queensland, and it is one of the oldest established Mandirs in Brisbane.

The Society observes and celebrates all Hindu religious festivals on the premises, they organise the annual Diwali celebration off site to accommodate the large number of attendees. The society is represented at UQ multifaith chaplaincy by their Nominee Umesh Chandra. The dedicated Pundit for the Mandir is Pundit Praveen Shandil.

Regular prayer meetings are held at the temple every Tuesday and Friday Nights. President Prakash Shandil gave a brief history of the Society; he also shed light on the activities of Hindu Society of Queensland and the activities at Gayatri Mandir.

Minister Glen Elmes said he was pleased to hear about the activities of Hindu Society of Queensland, and was particularly pleased to have actually visited the Mandir (temple) and to have seen firsthand the facilities. He wished the Society the best for their forthcoming Diwali function and advised that Wayne Briscoe, Executive Director, Multicultural Affairs, Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs would be attending the Diwali Function on 26th October.

Minister Glen Elmes was accompanied by member for

• From Left: Member for Sandgate, Kerry Millard, Multicultural Minister, Glen Elmes, Member for Nudgee, Jason Woodforth, Founder Member, past president & life member, Umesh Chandra, president Prakash Shandil & Loretta Shandil.

Nudgee Jason Woodforth MP and Kerry Millard member for Sandgate. Founder member, past president and life member Umesh Chandra was also present at the meeting.

Queensland Premier hosts reception for Indian Community

Band on a roll!

BRISBANE’S most performed Bollywood and Bhangra Band, Brisbane Babas, had a very hectic October. The small group of talented musicians and singers keep entertaining audiences. The band that was established over twelve years ago has not been able to organise a single show of their own, the closest was the a performance they did for Hindu Society of Queensland at Hendra State High school quite a few years back. The group has been kept busy with bookings by other organisers.

The group has come a long way from where it started and have now adapted to a small group. Event organisers who have to pay airfares and accommodation are always looking for smaller groups to perform. The group is very versatile and can tailor make a program for any event, be it Bhajan night, Jagran, Bollywood night, Gazhal night or their every popular live Bhangra. The shows are mainly small segments and hence the group cannot accommodate five or six singers which one may have at a three or four hour show. As and when needed the group invites guest singers to join in the show.

Last month the group did a number of performances for Diwali, they performed for FICQ Diwali in King George Square.

The show was much appreciated by the audience, they all joined in the dancing, however as time was limited all their requests could not be fulfilled, the sound guys took a while to set up, hence the performance time was reduced. People said this was the only performance where the audience participated in such a joyous manner.

Their second performance was for Brisbane City Council Diwali in Chinatown Mall. The whole event was very well organised with a record number of people in attendance over the five and half hours. The selection of the performances was superb.

Brisbane City Council had asked Umesh Chandra to be the MC for the

entire duration. Brisbane Babas band had three powerful segments.

Next morning the group was on a flight to Mackay for Mackay Regional Councils global grooves and Diwali celebration.

This was the group’s second performance in Mackay. The event once again is very well organised, the good feature is the two stages side by side (at an angle), one stage for dances and speeches and one for Bands. This allows for enough time for setup and sound test. As soon as the band began, the crowd went crazy, they burst out dancing to the energetic performance.

The fans started showering money onto the singers and they did it to the tune of seven hundred dollars. The event was well covered by channel seven and local media.

Apart from the Diwali performances the group performed at Chatra Chor, a function by Indoz Sikh Community Centre and for Woodford Folk festival Launch.

Baldev Singh Nijjar (Dev Nijjar) and Satnam Singh as main Bhagra singers, Parth Raval on the keyboards, Kushal Sami on Tabla, Alpesh Vaitha on Octapad, Umesh Chandra on supplementary pads and amazing Jaggi Dholi on the dhol where the main group.

At the FICQ Diwali performance Wilson Allu joined in with the Guitar and long time band member David Kumar joined on the keyboards, Sunny Devugan joined in with the Harmonium. David Kumar is recovering from a severe medical condition and this was his first performance in twelve months.

16 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

The meeting concluded with a morning tea. Editor of Brisbane Indian Times, Trudi Tarres and President Shandil’s wife Loretta Shandil were also in presence.

ON Tuesday 29 October Queensland Premier, Campbell Newman hosted the annual Indian community cocktail reception.

The event was again held at the speakers green to accommodate the growing numbers attending this annual function. Member associations of FICQ and other Indian associations and individuals attended the function.

Premier Campbell Newman said “The Queensland Government is committed to making Queensland a great place to live, work and raise a family.

“We want Queensland to be a great State with great opportunity. Building a strong economy, based on the four pillars of tourism, agriculture, resources and construction, is key to achieving this.” He also emphasised the importance of the strong bilateral trade agreement with India, Queensland is one of the largest trading partners. He thanked the Indian community for their contribution into making Queensland a better place to live; he thanked the community for the rich cultural heritage that they have brought to this great land. He said he is looking forward going back to India with a trade delegation.

Speakers for the night were Queensland Premier Campbell Newman, Honorary

Counsel for India in Queensland, Mrs Archana Singh, Patron of GOPIO and Joint Patron FICQ Dr Maha Sinnathamby and president of FICQ, Dr Naidu Bodapati.

GOPIO Queensland reached another level when GOPIO Queensland President Shyam Das presented a statue of Mahatma Gandhi to Premier Campbell Newman. He was also asked to speak on behalf of GOPIO. The function demonstrates Queensland government’s ongoing commitment to the Indian community, and the importance that the State Government places of our growing community. Earlier in the day there were concerns about the function with severe weather conditions predicted.

Walk for Daniel raises awareness of child safety KEEP Kids Safe in Ipswich was the message sent loud and clear by the successful Day for Daniel walk in Ipswich on 25 October.

Health and Community Safety Committee Chairperson, Councillor Andrew Antoniolli MC'ed the event and paid tribute to the great work of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

"The disappearance of Daniel Morcombe sent shockwaves throughout Queensland and right around the nation," Cr Antoniolli said.

"From this dreadful experience the Morcombes have channelled their grief and fury into the incredible foundation that bears Daniel's name dedicated to safer communi-

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ties for our children."

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation held the first Walk for Daniel in November 2005.

Walk for Daniel is part of Day for Daniel and raises community awareness of child safety and actions we can all take to make our community safer for children.

All proceeds from this event went to the Daniel Morcombe Foundation to continue their vital work.

More information about the important work of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation can be found at http://www.danielmorcombe.com.au/.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 17

Diwali, Diwali and Diwali!

THE celebration of Diwali is becoming popular with a record number of celebrations staged this year. Shree Sanatan Dharam Hindu Association of Queensland Inc, celebrated the festival of Diwali, the highlight of the Hindu calendar in great style at the Rocklea Show grounds on the 19th and 20th of October.

The Indian community was joined by members of other ethnic groups to celebrate the occasion with cultural dance items, food and displays of colourful Indian costumes by the various sari houses across Brisbane. The event was partly funded through a grant received from the Queensland Government as part of their multicultural festival celebrations. The celebrations finished off with a grand fireworks display.

FICQ in association with Brisbane City Council and supported by the Queensland Government, proudly hosted the 4th Annual Diwali Celebrations on 25th October 2013 at King George Square, Brisbane.

The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland Inc. (FICQ) is the umbrella body of its member associations in Queensland. Diwali festivities extended from mid-day to nearly 11 PM. Such events require plenty of financial support which was gratefully received from Brisbane City Council, Queensland Government, and Springfield Land Corporation just to name a few. The member organizations were of course a big part of the success with their keen and enthusiastic memberships coming to help. The function was tremendously supported by GOPIO Queensland, Brisbane Indian Times and Radio Brisvaani.

The invited guests and dignitaries were welcomed at a formal VIP reception around 5.30pm with Mrs Lila Pratap, Chairperson of FICQ Women’s Committee leading the welcome ceremony – red dots were applied on the foreheads of all invited guests and a welcome scarf was conferred upon each of these guests presenting true Indian culture. After the sumptuous dinner, formal part of the evening commenced around 6:30pm.

FICQ President Dr Naidu Bodapati welcomed all the dignitaries and invited guests along with the large numbers of general populous. These invited guests comprised The Hon Senator Sue Boyce, representing the Prime Minister of

Australia Hon Tony Abbott, The Hon Glen Elmes MP, representing Hon Campbell Newman, Premier of Queensland, Cr David McLachlan representing Hon Graham Quirk, The Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Mrs Archana Singh, the Hon Consul of India, the Patrons of FICQ namely Dr. Maha Sinnathamby, and Surendra Prasad. Aunty Delmae Barton presented the welcome speech providing ‘approval’ of the celebrations in the square on behalf of the traditional owners of the land. FICQ Patron Dr. Maha Sinnathamby was motivational as always and encouraged the development and enhancement of Indians in Queensland.

The Entertainment factor throughout the function was the high quality performances put together by the very talented local performers who represented various member organizations of FICQ. The rich display of a variety of dance forms made the whole experience culturally enhancing while the musical melody of the ‘Art of Living’ group was spiritually binding.

The good part of FICQ’s Diwali celebration is that it is a free entry event open to one and all – being a Friday, when most people finish work early or prefer to go into the city for late night shopping, massive numbers of people enjoyed the above celebrations. FICQ estimates some 20,000 plus people to have walked past the function venue throughout the day, the visitors were handed a souvenir program book prepared specially for the event by FICQ. Over-all a fantastic day out in the heart of Brisbane with plenty to look out for and enjoy. The hard work put in by the FICQ Executive Committee strongly led by Dr Naidu Bodapati, under the able guidance of their Patrons and ably supported by their member organizations made this event so successful.

FICQ extends its heart-felt thanks the Queensland Government and to Brisbane City Council to support their initiative so whole heartedly.

18 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

BRISBANE City Council as part of their monthly multicultural celebration hosted their Diwali function in Chinatown mall. The event attracted a record breaking crowd; the stage program featured classical Indian Music, Bollywood dances, a spectacular fire dance and the ever popular Brisbane Babas Band with their colourful and energetic performances.

Brisbane City Council invited Radio host and a local resident, Umesh Chandra to be the MC for the entire five and half hour duration. The program was well thought off and all of the challenging aspects of sharing a stage with a live band and dancers were planned. The fire crackers display really set in the real Diwali mood .The valley has become a hub of festival and cultural activities, the council has major plans for revamping the Malls.

FOR Hindu Society of Queensland, Diwali celebrations has been a major annual activity, Hindu Society of Queensland was one of the first Organisation to hold Diwali celebrations on a large scale. Their function was held on Saturday 26th October 2013 at Cannon Hill Anglican College. Wayne Briscoe executive director of Multicultural Affairs Queensland was the chief guest at the annual event. The stage items were well presented; the event also featured the annual raffle draw for fundraising, the main prize of one thousand dollars cash was donated by Usha and Umesh Chandra. The venue is quite practical and Chandni Events did a wonderful job of the decorations. Himaansu Kumar replaced his dad as the MC this year.

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BRISBANE – We need you for a unique Audience!

SAVE YOUR LIFE TONIGHT is a new program for ABC1 that will explore the major health issues affecting Australians today. Filmed in front of a live audience at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, the series will focus on prevention.

Audience members will have the opportunity to participate if they wish by having simple checks that could reveal the health risks they face.

Also featuring a host, panel of medical experts and celebrity guests, over six episodes we will cover issues to do with Heart Disease, Skin Cancer, Weight and Diabetes, Mental Health, Lungs disease (including Asthma) and the most common cancers in Australia - Breast, Bowel and Prostate.

We are looking for Brisbane and South East Queensland based participants to be part of the studio audience at least one day between the 14th – 17th November 2013.

Please choose the episode/s you wish to attend!

How To Apply: Applicants can email info@wildfury.com.au or call 07 3891 7717 to register their interest. Applicants need to include: 1. Name(s) of people attending 2. Their age(s) 3. Contact number for each attendee 4. The episode(s) you wish to attend Recording Dates 14th November (evening): Mental Health Test: Complete a questionnaire on arrival to studio.

15th November (evening): Heart Test: Blood Pressure check on arrival to studio.

16th November (morning): Lungs Test: Lung function/blow test on arrival to studio.

16th November (afternoon): Weight and Diabetes Test: Waist measurement and questionnaire on arrival to studio.

17th November (morning): Skin Cancer Test: Simple face skin assessment 17th November (afternoon): Breast, Bowel and Prostate Cancer Test: Complete a questionnaire on arrival to studio.

Brisbane Indian Times November Issue Booking Deadline 28 October Email: admin@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3356 0102

Better planning outcomes for local councils LOCAL councils will now have a simpler planning scheme to work with following the release of the Queensland Planning Provisions version 3.0 on 28 October, 2013.

Delivering a new framework for councils to use to develop their local planning schemes is just one of many planning reforms the Newman Government has introduced to cut red-tape and deliver better planning.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the Queensland Planning Provisions version 3.0. was the result of extensive consultation with local governments and key industry groups.

“What we have now is a flexible and robust framework to assist local governments when preparing planning schemes that is standardised across the state,” Mr Seeney said.

“First and foremost the Queensland Planning Provisions 3.0. (QPP) has provided a standard, clearly drafted template for councils to use when they are preparing their local planning schemes.

“The QPP also allows local government the flexibility to address planning matters specific to their individual local government area and includes provisions for those local governments currently undergoing deamalgamation.”

The release of the QPP means local governments preparing their planning schemes now have simpler planning tools and certainty in the standard template.

A copy of the QPP is available at www.dsdip.qld.gov.au/statewideplanning/queensland-planningprovisions.html Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 19

Diwali, Diwali and Diwali!

MACKAY regional council held its Diwali celebration on 27th October as part of their Global Grooves program. For a second year in a row they hired Brisbane Babas Band for the grand finale just before their grand fireworks display. The day long program attracted a large number of people this year. The organises have found a solutions to the band and dancers on stage problem, they actually have two stages side by side with the sound guy in the middle, one stage for live bands and other for dancers, problem solved. The event also features a march for peace in which all multicultural communities took part.

TAMIL Association of Queensland held their annual Festival of Lights dinner function at City Hall the first Diwali dinner function held at City Hall after renovations.

As per previous years, the turnout was impressive, and included, Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale, Police Commissioner Ian Stewart, assistant Multicultural minister Robert Cavaluci, GOPIO Queensland President Shyam

Das, Senator Claire Moore, Councillor Angela Owen Taylor, Frea Ostapovicth, Jane Prentice, Honorary Counsel for India in Queensland Mrs Archana Singh, People of Australia Ambassadors Umesh Chandra and Sgt Jim Bellos and many more.

The event was once again a sold out event even though it was hosted on the actual Diwali night, traditionally Indian Families like to stay home with their families on the actual Diwali night for the special once a year prayers.

A truly multicultural audience was present and the much anticipated celebrity dance did take place; this is when the entire officially invited guests are called up on to the stage to take part in the Indian dance. Delightful and varied cultural items were staged to entertain the guests.

Vegetarian and non vegetarian was provided in a buffet style. Bombay Bliss provided the sweets after the event and Baskin Robins supplied the ice Cream.

The fireworks display was just amazing. Brisbane Babas Band set the pace up from the very first song and once the crowd got going there was no stopping, the enthusiast fans showered money on the artists’ and kept asking for more numbers. In the true country sprit the organisers really looked after the Band who got a royal treatment. Dev Nijjar lead singer said, “it is such a pleasure performing for organiser who give you the due respect, at some places we don’t even get as much a thank you, on the contrary they feel they are doing us a favour.”

Dev Nijjar has just released his new Album “Punjab”.

The main raffle ticket was by Singapore Airlines, return air Ticket to India arranged through Target Travel and Tours.

APSQ - Diwali River Cruise

SHREE Laxmi Narayan Mandir celebrated their Diwali function on Sunday 27th October; Sergeant Jim Bellos was the chief guest at the celebration. The celebration included bhajans by Divya Jyothi Jagrathi Sansthan and other local artists like Sulagna Basu. The function began with Havan ceremony officiated by Pundit Harihar Courtesy Jitendra Deo Shastri. Sansaar Sharma welcomed everyone to the event and spoke on Diwali. The President APSQ event coordinator was Mrs Lila Pratap who held the program in the dinner area of the temple. Laxmi Narayan Temple now has a new committee. The new resident Pundit THIS festive season the Sabha is Pundit Harihar Shastri, the program was broadcasted live on Brisvaani. decided to celebrate in a different way, cruising the beauBanyo District Community tiful Brisbane River, looking Group in association with through our wonderful Multicultural Development Brisbane City.

Association and Brisbane City The glittering light encomCouncil celebrated Diwali on passing the river was a mag3rd November at Banyo nificent sight, as if someone Grandstand. The event includ- has lit “Diya” around the ed Beppo the clown, Giddah, place. The theme for the bhangra, Bollywood dances evening was Diwali. and other cultural items.

While Diwali is known as the This free event attracted a “festival of lights”, the most good crowd, the main organis- significant meaning is - the er was Devinder Bains and his awareness of the inner light. team.

Diwali is about the triumph of 20 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

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

The vegetarian food was served on board, starting with delicious entrée and then meal concluded with dessert, being

traditional sweets and fruits.

The patrons enjoyed the music and onboard activities of Antakshri, and Karaoke.

The talent was seen amongst the guests and members as they actively took part, it was a pleasure to see people enjoying this festive season with classic Hindi songs, and poems.

On behalf of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland Inc (APSQ), I extend my heartiest thanks and appreciation to patronage of our members and friends. Their support had made the evening fruitful, and enjoyable.

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Pravasi Global Summit 2013 Nedumbassery, Kochin, India ANGAMALY Ayalkoottam is an organization based in Brisbane, Queensland Australia, Established in 2010. The organisation consists of members form Angamally, Nedumbassery and its suburbs, greater Cochin area and Trissur District. It was started with a vision to share common values and the cultural heritage of Kerala among the wider Australian community and other Nationalities.

Angamaly Ayalkoottam organize regular Socio-Cultural programmes. The organisation have likeminded organisations - Anagamaly Sallapam - Nedumbassery Sangamam operating all around the Globe. Pravasi Global Summit is initiated by their Global Net Work.”

This year Angamaly Ayalkoottam have planned to organize a

“Global Pravasi Conference” in Nedumbassery, very near to the Kochi International Airport. The Conference will be attended by 600 to 700 delegates, from Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Italy, UK, Canada, USA, Thailand, Africa and Middle East. We have embarked on a mission to help Non resident Indians to understand their cultural values and share it among the local communities they live in, so that Indian values can be understood and cherished among the different groups of people we interact on a day to day basis Over the years it should be recognised as Non Resident Indians are being looked upon as Money churning machines and retrograded as secondary individuals in our Mother land. Non Resident

Indians should understand the fact we have been Pivotal force in the Economic development of India.

It is the Reparations that NRIs contribute as Foreign Money that helps the Indian Economy to balance trade in the global markets. It should be noted that in 2012-13 NRI’S contributed nearly $45 Billion foreign exchange to the Indian Economy. NRI’S would like to contribute more for the development of our country but would like the Political and admin establishments to contribute a little for NRIs well being as well through simple policies.

The uniqueness of this Global Conference is that the participants will be Delegates of Indians living across the globe ,their family members and friends who live in Kerala, invited Elected Members from Panchayaths, Municipalites, Assembly and Parliamentary Constituencies, Leaders of the Prominent Political Parties

,Cultural and Spiritual leaders An online petition will be submitted to the Prime Minister about the key issues faced by Pravasi Indians with Copies to the Central leaders of the prominent political parties so this can be part discussion during the upcoming Indian Parliamentary Elections.

The issues that we are going to highlight are: • Provide Toll Free Numbers at VFS facilities Worldwide. • Voting rights for Non resident Indians holding OCI cards, at their respective Indian Missions. • Dual Citizenship to OCI card holders in Countries where it is accepted. • Issue Adhar card to OCI card Holders.

• Moratorium on OCI and PIO card fees of at least the coming five years.

In order to bring all these issues in the public domain we are organizing a Pravasi Global Sangamam, at the Airlink Castle hotel, Athani, Nedumbassery on 29th December

2013. The conference will begin at 2.30pm and Conclude at 11pm.

The Conference has two sessions, the plenary will hold the Public meeting in which all the pertinent issues facing Non Resident Indian Communities will be highlighted and debated. The second session will host entertainment with Dinner.

As organisers of the conference Angamaly Ayalkoottam solicit all the NRI participation through your eminent presence and also by being part of the online petition that this global network going to submit to the Government of India. The Link for On Line petition will be available on our website soon.

For more details please contact the following Conveners Shaji Thekanath - 0401 352 044, Stephen Jose - 0431 768 744, or email pravasiglobalsummit@gmail.com.

Funding boost for scientists and innovators THE Newman Government will inject $8.75 million into Queensland’s research sector to boost innovation and retain the state’s brightest minds.

Science and Innovation Minister Ian Walker announced on 30 October the funding commitment as part of a new initiative, the Accelerate Queensland Science and Innovation Program.

Mr Walker said the Newman Government was committed to collaborating with the innovation industry to turn great ideas into great opportunities.

The following funding is available as part of the Accelerate Queensland Science and Innovation Program: • $3 million Accelerate Fellowships program that focuses on the development of early to mid-career fellowships • $4.25 million Accelerate Partnerships program that focuses on collaborative science and research projects • Up to $1.5 million in Accelerate Ideas to assist collaborations between researchers and industry to demonstrate the commercial viability of new ideas Sisters Dr Cheryl McCarthy, 30, and Dr Alison McCarthy, 28, mechatronic research engineers at the University of Southern Queensland welcomed the Accelerate Fellowships program funding.

The sisters are developing a technology using strategic reconnaissance drones that detect pests, disease and weeds in agricultural crops from the air.

Dr Cheryl McCarthy said there was limited access to traditional fellowship programs and the new funding programs would be vital to delivering new technology.

“I’m thrilled the Newman Government has recognised how important it is to support new and early career researchers working at the cutting edge,” Dr McCarthy said.

The funding program is part of the Science and Innovation Action Plan (SIAP) – an overarching blueprint to support science and innovation in Queensland.

Included in the SIAP is an innovations solution program to promote stronger links between government and innovative Queensland businesses and researchers.

An online directory has been developed to provide information on science expertise across Queensland, including our research precincts to help increase investment and collaboration.

A digital library of case studies will also showcase local innovation success stories to the world.

The funding is in addition to the Newman Government’s commitment of $42 million towards the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine in North Queensland – Townsville, Cairns and the Torres Strait.

For more information on the Accelerate Queensland Science and Innovation Program and to download the Science and Innovation Action Plan and Investment Framework go to www.qld.gov.au/science Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 21

Business News Sundaram Business Services LTD. selects Pacnet to support Australia growth Pacnet delivers a secure and flexible enterprise-grade environment to global BPO services provider INDIA and AUSTRALIA, 15 October 2013—Media OutReach— Pacnet today announced that Sundaram Business Services LTD. (“SBS”), a global business process outsourcing (“BPO”) services provider in India, has chosen Pacnet to support its growth in Australia. SBS is integrating Pacnet services as part of a solution offering to provide back-office support systems to the financial services industry and enterprises in Australia.

SBS needed a trusted managed data services partner that had the capability to offer flexible data center and network services in Australia, along with a strong presence in India to provide round-the-clock services and technical support.

“Pacnet’s offerings give SBS the ability to expand into Australia combined with a strong presence in India, so that we can easily and quickly expand our business without huge capital expenditures,” said Renganathan Sundararajan, head of International Operations, Sundaram

Business Services. “Working with Pacnet helps us to quickly scale our business and to be responsive to our customer’s needs.”

Pacnet’s assets in Australia include data centers in Sydney and Melbourne with an extensive network footprint that is connected via sub-sea fiber cables to Asia-Pacific and the rest of the world. The company offers a complete portfolio of managed data services including colocation, MPLS, IP Transit, and private lines services.

“As one of the world’s leading financial systems and capital markets, Australia is an important market for outsourcing solutions providers,” said Sunanda Das, Managing Director for Pacnet India.

“With our extensive network of interconnected data centers and points of presence across the Asia-Pacific region, we are in a strategic position to help companies like Sundaram Business Services expand their businesses into Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific region.”

Financial fundamentals 1 DAY workshop Need help with money?? Do you understand Australian Banking??

In this workshop, participants will learn how to explore the problems and opportunities surrounding their money. The focus of the workshop is to provide up to date financial information when addressing income, debt, savings and spending habits.

The workshop is an introduction to understanding the concept of money and gives participants the confidence to shape their own goals and achieve a lifetime of sustainable financial results.

What is the aim of the Workshop?

The aim of this introductory workshop is for participants to learn how to utilise their income through: • Learning financial definitions and identifying benefits and risks in the marketplace • Being introduced to research techniques, the marketplace, credit reports and hardship strategies • Understanding how to protect their money

and apply savings in their investments; what to look out for and how to find the right option What is covered?

The purpose of money - do your spending habits reflect who you are?

• Assets versus liabilities • Needs versus wants • Loans • Credit history Systems and Budgeting - why following a budget can help you get rich.

• Saving, spending & investing and cash flow • Income versus expenditure • Debt management Hardship strategies - who can help when in need and what to do if you need help.

Cost: $528. (incl GST) Including Morning and Afternoon tea and Workshop Workbook.

Location: 17 Overend St East Brisbane 4169 Limited Seats, to find available dates, No Limits Finance 07 3877 1233 or

admin@nolimitsfinance.com

Springfield Rail tipped to lift property prices THE opening of the Springfield rail line is being tipped as a major catalyst for boosting property prices in surrounding areas.

The first service will depart on the expanded line on December 2.

Urbis property analyst Jon Rivera said structural uplift was a name given to the positive effect that masterplanned communities and nearby capital investment had on the surrounding areas.

Property values at The Springs, Augustine Heights, are predicted to strengthen with the opening of the Springfield rail line.

"The economic and social

benefits of urban renewal projects stretch beyond the designated precinct triggering redevelopment in neighbouring areas and opening up previously untapped opportunities," Mr Rivera said.

"With structural uplift there can be a marked jump in property values when the amenity of a masterplanned community reaches a degree where it improves the lifestyle quality of its residents and the desirability of a precinct.

"Contributors to structural uplift are retail, services, open space and public transport."

22 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

Open for business...

Remox opens 8th Branch in Darwin CBD th

th

emox opened its 8 Branch on 14 R of October 2013 in CBD Darwin, NT. Mitchell Centre is the most popular

Shopping Centres at the most happening Mitchell Street. In order to pave way to the convenience of travellers and render them the same suburban quality affordable service, Remox acquired this prestigious trading space.

Northern Territory Minister for Transport,

Infrastructure, Multicultural, Senior and Young Territorians had kindly pronounced this milestone venture open. Also present were Mr Gokula Chandran, who is a senior State Government Employee, an aboriginal researcher and supporter, he runs a clinic of his own exclusive for aboriginals, our staff members of NT, well-wishers.

Remox is opening a CBD Brisbane branch in Myers Centre, Queens Street Mall by end of November 2013.

Translating tax with the ATO Commissioner Courtesy of Sudesh Aggarwal THE Commissioner of Taxation, Chris Jordan, met with representatives of nonEnglish speaking background communities in Sydney on 29 October.

The forum is held each year to ensure the ATO’s programs, information and services are accessible to Australians of different linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

Commissioner Jordan said that the forum was also a chance to connect with the community to learn about on-the-ground issues.

“The forum is about listening to people from multicultural communities to under-

stand how they ATO can help them meet their tax and super obligations,” said Mr Jordan.

Participants at both the Sydney and Melbourne forums discussed their tax experiences with the Commissioner and senior staff and took the opportunity to learn more about what the ATO offers.

The ATO has a range of tailored in-language information available, including our ‘Tax in Australia’ and ‘Your business and tax’ DVDs, bilingual ATO advisers and Tax Help volunteers, and multi-lingual translations of key ATO communications, products and services on www.ato.gov.au

Council calls on entrepreneurial multicultural citizens LORD Mayor Graham Quirk is encouraging residents from multicultural backgrounds to apply for the Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Business Scholarship program, to develop their business management and entrepreneurial skills.

The Lord Mayor said the program’s goal was to ultimately assist recipient’s kickstart or expand their business.

“Since 2008, the Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Business Scholarship program has delivered 125 scholarship placements enabling participants to gain certificate to degree level qualifications,” Cr Quirk said.

“In addition to business

training and education opportunities offered through the scholarship program, recipients receive individual mentoring to further assist grow their ideas.”

Cr Quirk said Council partners with education providers, such as the QUT Business School, Southbank Institute of Technology, Career Employment Australia Inc. and Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE– Small Business Solutions, in order to deliver the opportunity to successful applicants.

Cr Quirk said Brisbane contained an extremely multicultural community, with a quarter of Brisbane’s population born overseas and more than 17 per cent

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of households speaking a language other than English at home.

“A lot of these migrants encounter challenges while positioning themselves in society and the economic landscape of the city,” Cr Quirk said.

“This project helps ensure our multicultural residents are equipped with the skills they need to manage a viable business.

“Many of our past scholarship recipients have begun a business, improved their business operations or made a contribution to the growth of Brisbane’s economy, which is a true testimony to the success of the program.

“By fostering the ambition and entrepreneurial spirit of people from multicultural

backgrounds, we ensure that we present a city of inclusivity and opportunity.”

To be eligible for the program, applicants must be from a migrant or refugee background, be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, reside in the Brisbane City Council local Government region and preferably speak a language other than English.

Applications for the Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Business Scholarship program close 19 November, 2013.

To register your interest, email Council’s Multicultural Team at multiculturalunit@brisbane. qld.gov.au or phone Council on (07) 3403 8888.

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Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 23

Who, What, Where, When

• Above & Right: Baldev & Shushma Sharma held Shri Satya Narayan Katha at their Parkinson residence on 19 October with family & friends. Pooja was officiated by Acharya Dr Krishna Murthy Bhatt. Photo courtesy Denis Sharma.

• Ravneel Deo and Soneel Deo with Aspley State High School Principal Mrs Miller at awards function.

• Karva Chauth was celebrated at Shree Vishnu Maya mandir on the 20th of October

• Dev & Raweena’s Raval celebrated their birthday with family and friends at Hamilton on 30 October.

• Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association Youth Wing Launch, read full report on page 10.

• President of GOPIO, Queensland Chapter, Mr Shyam Das presents to the Premier of Queensland, Hon. Campbell Newman on the occasion of the Reception by the Premier for the Indian Community a Statue of Mahatma Gandhi as a token of appreciation for the support the Premier and his government has given to the Indian Community and GOPIO, Queensland Chapter.

24 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 25

Who, What, Where, When

• Members of The AWGP Brisbane branch have mobilised the organising committee of 2014 Ashwamedh Yug to be held in Brisbane during Easter 2014, April 18th, 19, and 20th .

• Sales Manager of Malaysian Airlines Mr Brian Egan presenting the trophy for Highest Achievement Award for 2012-13 to Shyam Das of Target Travel and Tours.

• Shree Sanatan Dharam Hindu Association of Queensland Diwali celebrations, pictured VIP guests and attendees.

• Above: Hindu Mandir Association, Burbank Temple celebrating Diwali.

• Left: Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir foundation day, Pundit Tripatiji recites the mantra’s with the devotees.

• Brisbane City Council Diwali celebrations, Shen Flindel centre and Josheph Abhey Nand with two students.

26 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

• Performers at FICQ Diwali celebrations at King George Square. www.indiantimes.com.au

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 27

Viewpoint....

DIWALI is the abbreviation of the Sanskrit word “Deepavali”- Deepa meaning light and Avali, meaning a row. It means a row of lights and indeed illumination forms its main attraction. It symbolises that ageold culture of India which teaches us to vanquish ignorance that subdues humanity and to drive away darkness that engulfs the light of knowledge. Diwali, the festival of lights, even today in this modern world, projects the rich and glorious past and teaches us to uphold the true values of life.

Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad. India.

“ Today Diwali has become a truly Global celebration, with a record number of celebrations throughout Australia; what does Diwali mean to you in the modern age.”

EVOLUTION of the modern lifestyle have left many focussing predominantly on the superficial aspects of Diwali. Elders really should explain the significance of the noble intents and contents of the rituals. Eventually removing the ignorance that clouds the true light of knowledge within oneselfpreserving the zeal of the spirit of the festival of light.

Heena Mohanlal

DIWALI was a day when the whole family got together and would congregate at our house and spend the day. I remember the bouts of dumb charades that use to keep us rolling with laughter at these family get-togethers. With the passage of time, we let the child in us die. We don’t find the time or the inclination to do the things that we used to love doing as a kid. As the responsibilities mount, these small pleasures get left behind. That is probably why festivals aren’t FESTIVALS anymore. They have become just another day to bide by.

Uma

DIWALI is the festival to celebrate five ceremonious occasions that would keep us connected to our roots of culture, spiritualism and religion. Diwali enlightens the inner self and not only the artificialities around - it is a time to let the light of God reach one’s soul and share the same essence with one’s family and friends. The significant number of Diwali celebrations around the country epitomises the true Australian spirit of Multiculturalism.

Varad Raval

DIWALI in the last decades was about celebrations with crackers, sweets and fun with families. Now it’s just another day where some follow the traditions while some don’t have the time in the hustle bustle to do anything. The essence of true festivities is evading with time yet it is making a significant impact in other nationalities who celebrate with more zeal. Australia welcoming diversities should recognise some major festivities as a holiday for people to be able enjoy and feel like home away from home.

Kritika Bansal

Celebrate our Bris-Asia culture

Diwali and Govardhana Puja Submitted by Sundar Gopal Das DIWALI, the festival of lights, is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. It falls in the very auspicious month of Kartika. Diwali is a contraction of ‘Deepavali’ meaning an array of lights, signifying victory of good over evil or brightness over darkness.

For many, Diwali signifies the return of Lord Ramachandra, with mother Sitadevi and Lakshmana after a 14 year exile and a war vanquishing the demon king Ravana.

The citizens of Ayodhya illuminated the kingdom with lamps and bursting firecrackers welcoming their beloved Lord Ramachandra back to Ayodhya ending a period of sadness due to His absence.

During this time, the residents of Vrndavana also worshipped Govardhan Hill and Sri Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill. Indra, the king of the demigods, had become very proud of his power to bestow rain. To crush his pride, Lord Krishna convinced the residents of Vrndavana that Govardhan Hill, and not Indra, was the maintainer of residents of Vrndavana.

“Being forest dwellers, we always live in the forest and on the hills. Therefore may a sacrifice for the pleasure of the cows, the brahmanas and Govardhana Hill begin! With all the paraphernalia collected for worshiping Indra, let this sacrifice be performed instead.”

One of the legends has it that Hanumanji was carrying Govardhan Hill to be used for making the bridge to Lanka. However the bridge was already constructed as Hanumanji was carrying Govardhan and Hanumanji placed Govardhan Hill in Vrndavana assuring that he will be able to serve Lord Krishna when Lord Krishna appears in Dvapara Yuga.

Srimad Bhagavatam has described Govardhan Hill as greatest of all devotees of Lord Hari “This Govardhana Hill is the best of all those who are known as haridasa because he is feeling great jubilation from the touch of the lotus feet of Krsna and Balarama. With great respect Govardhana is worshipping Them by providing all Their necessities such as caves, fruits, flowers, and water for Their pleasure, and for the pleasure of Their cowherd friends, cows, and calves.”

So all the paraphernalia that was intended to worship Indra was now used to worship Govardhan Hill. This inflamed Indra even more and in order to destroy Vrndavana, and he poured heavy rains for seven continuous days and nights. However Sri Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill and used it as an umbrella to protect all the residents of Vrndavana.

When Indra realised that he was not able to destroy Vrndavana and the Lord Krishna had protected them, he came and asked forgiveness from Lord Krishna and named Lord Krishna as “Govinda” as one who gives pleasure to the cows and the residents of Vrndavana.

To honour this pastime, many people will be doing Govardhan puja the day after Diwali and also many will circumambulate Govardhan Hill during this time.

Govardhan Hill is also known as “sarva abhista pradhata” one who fulfils all desires.

So we are praying to Govardhan Hill that he may also fulfil our desire of being engaged in the service of the Lord.

From Brisbane Bhakti Yoga Centre team – we wish everyone a Happy Diwali and may the beauty of the festival of lights, bring a world of joy, happiness and contentment to all.

28 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

LORD Mayor Graham Quirk is encouraging residents to celebrate Brisbane’s Asian connections during the BrisAsia Festival from Friday, 31 January to Saturday, 1 March 2014.

The Lord Mayor said the BrisAsia Festival was about expanding Brisbane’s business opportunities, creating stronger cultural linkages and strengthening the city’s ties to Asian countries.

“As a new world city and gateway to the Asia Pacific, Brisbane hopes to create solid connections and foster friendships with our local Asian communities, to strengthen our city’s global ties and business and cultural exchange with Asia,” Cr Quirk said.

“The Bris-Asia festival will attract overseas talent, build global connections and contribute to the development of Brisbane as a vibrant and creative city.”

Cr Quirk said there would be something for

everyone at this festival with the full list of events, dates and times to be released in January 2014.

“This festival aims to develop Brisbane’s unique identity by broadening residents understanding of our culture and communities through arts and creative cultural programming.

“Residents can look forward to experiencing traditional arts and culture through the work of local artists of Asian heritage, and engaging with local Asian businesses, communities and international students.”

Chinese New Year at Chinatown Mall, Fortitude Valley, will be a big part of the celebrations.

For more information about Council’s BrisAsia Festival events, contact Council on 3403 8888 or visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/BrisAsiaFestival.

Council celebrates National Recycling Week BRISBANE City Council is celebrating National Recycling Week with the launch of a range of new products and initiatives in Reddacliff Place.

Council and the Waste and Recycling Industry of Queensland will team-up to host a public recycling event on Tuesday, 12 November where a range of local waste businesses will display innovative products and helpful information for residents.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk (pictured) said the event provided residents with a valuable opportunity to improve their recycling habits at home.

“Residents who attend will be able to find out about kerbside, E-waste, mobile phone, organic, metal and timber recycling through a range of helpful kiosks,” Cr Quirk said.

“Displays will feature exhibits such as a car that has been compacted and shredded, an E-waste display showing the recyclable components of a computer and a Council green waste truck demonstrating showing what the green waste is turned into after collection.

“We’ll also have a visual representation of the waste created by the average household in one year on display, which will be pre-

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sented through the use of more than 100 wheelie bins.”

In addition to the displays and information, residents will be able to pick up a copy of the revised Brisbane’s Best Recycling Guide for Households.

Cr Quirk said the guide aimed to give residents a broad understanding of the impact of recycling in addition to helpful hints and tips.

“Last year Brisbane residents recycled 92,515 tonnes of glass, plastic, paper, cardboard and metal through their yellow-lidded recycling bin,” he said.

“But even though residents are recycling more than ever before, 25 per cent of recyclable materials are still disposed of incorrectly in the general waste bin each year – equivalent to 100,000 tonnes.

“The new recycling guide aims to empower residents to better understand how recycling works so we can further improve recycling rates.”

To find out more about Council’s National Recycling Week activities and how to obtain a copy of Brisbane’s Best Recycling Guide for Households, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on 07 3403 8888.

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Viewpoint....

DIWALI is both an entrenched and important part of our modern Queensland society. As well as a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil, it also underlines the right of and richness in the celebration of our religious and cultural diversity as part of one Australia.

David Forde - President Lions Club of Kuraby

“ Today Diwali has become a truly Global celebration, with a record number of celebrations throughout Australia; what does Diwali mean to you in the modern age.”

DIWALI transcends all boundaries, commemorating the victory of good over evil. To gain benefit we should celebrate it by understanding the spiritual significance of all 4 days. This means to intensify our spiritual practice by chanting God’s Name, reducing evil traits within us and imbibing the divinity present in the atmosphere.

Mrs Shweta Clarke

DIWALI -the festival of lights, is awareness of inner light and righteousness in a person. The Vedas are still prevalent, and it underpins our Cultural heritage in this Modern Age. We all want to be honorable persons and help each other in this Multicultural society of Australia.

Jitendra Deo J.P. (Qual) President APSQ Inc.

“DIWALI has truly become a cultural integration icon & a tool in western world. Whilst staunch Hindus regard Diwali as a totally vegetarian & religious event, many celebrate otherwise, as is the tradition in some parts of India. Theme still remains ‘Love over Hate’; ‘Good over Evil’; ‘Light over Darkness’.

Sarat Maharaj

DIWALI means a great way to connect with my friends & their families. Apart from that, it is a great opportunity to connect with Indian diaspora, meeting new people and sharing our thoughts. May this year bring happiness and joy in your life. Wishing Happy Diwali to all of you!!

Gagandeep Bassi

Meeting Point.... Manju Jehu!

We welcome comments from our readers on the View Point and Meeting Point, you may wish to write to “Letters to the Editor”. If you wish to take part in View Point please ontact our office and we will contact you for future topics. From this month we have increased the View Point word count to 100 as opposed to 50 to allow ample response / opinion to be viewed. For submissions or enquiries email admin@indiantimes.com.au or call 07 3352 0102.

IN this November issue we have the pleasure of introducing to you, Manju Jehu, the one and only, one who does not really need any introduction, as a lot of us probably already know her, through her recipes to riches fame on television and many other mediums. Let’s see how from “Dilwalo ki Delhi” she ended up in “Brijwasi ke Brisbane”.

It is quite an extraordinary story, take a beautiful, young and outward thinking Delhi girl and introduce her to a charming Aussie boy, and the magic had to happen. As it would happen in any Bollywood movie John was a good friend of Manju’s brother, with whom he had been studying in England, so they initially met in the magical seventies, 1971 to be exact. It wasn’t until 1978 that the couple decided get married, obviously some hurdles had to be overcome, but where there is a will there is a way. They got married on 14th September 1978and headed to Australia on 25th September 1978.

When she came to Australia, it was a culture shock even to someone, as outward thinking as Manju. She hailed from a joint family where she enjoyed a pampered life. In India well to do families have servants for household chores, this provides employment to the needy and frees with family from mundane tasks giving them ample time to concentrate on education Music Arts, Theatre etc.

Now she had to learn cooking which was a very big challenge for her especially in those days when internet was not around. She used her photographic memory to remember how food looked like and smelt like back home to make the same. Being from a strict vegetarian family she had difficulty in finding enough vegetarian food options. She went through a cultural shock due to lifestyle differences, independent families, bland food and not having many people of Indian Origin around. But being a good sport and ready to accept challenges she overcame these challenges. Little did she know that one day these acquired skills would make her famous?

Focus on future is what she believes in. Past had made a significant difference in her life. Learning from experience and moving on with courage and determination is her mantra. When she first came she thought Indian food would be just something she can relish back home. There were times when she dreamt about the delicious delicacies as they weren’t available.

A life changing moment occurred when she met a lady and cooked some home cooked meals; the lady tried some of Manju’s experiments and really relished it. She had never cooked meat in her life until she met John. She gradually adapted the non-vegetarian cooking with all the minute details she had observed while her mother in-law used to cook at home without even tasting.

Her life had evolved around Samosas since 1982 just when she saw some Samosa looking snacks available in a health food store. She rushed home to try making some samosas using flaky pastry (very unusual) which was quite good.

Thereafter her samosas were famous among the crickets who visited Australia and among Bollywood stars, singers and dignitaries. Gradually she made her way to make some amazing Samosas which are now tasted across the whole of Australia. Greg Chappell famous cricketer is a great fan of Manju’s Samosas and he has been an inspirational motivator for Manju.

Previously she had been hosting a TV show – Manju’s Curry in a hurry. She gets many emails and newsletter but reads or responds. One day as she was about to delete an email, she noticed the word “RECIPE” assuming someone is asking for a recipe. All she could think of was Samosa, so she wrote about Samosa and sent it. She could not believe herself when she received a call to say that she was Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

selected for a TV show called Recipe to riches!!

Although it was a long contemplation process with friends and family’s encouragement she finally agreed to be a part of Recipes to Riches and really thanks each and every person who has played a significant role in her journey. She believes in God and says it was God’s wish that had made it happen. The process was quite involved as you can imagine and getting to the winner in ones segment was quite an achievement.

How did your recipe evolve?

Experience is the best master; coupled with effort it always produces success. For her, food is all about perfection. Her first go at Samosas was with flaky pastry available at Woolworths which is very unusual to be used for frying. She then tried to use normal flour which she had no idea on how to knead the dough. She later discovered that a food processor could be used to knead. The filling had to be amazing which she has enhanced with the availability of raw materials now. According to her Samosa’s taste is more enhanced with the different kinds of chutneys (sauces) she makes tamarind, mint, and yogurt are one of the few to mention.

She feels like it was Fairy-tale experience. Indian spices have always been a key ingredient to the recipe proving a heavenly spicy flavour.

She has been in Brisbane for 35 years and has provided constant inspirational coaching to many people to succeed in life. She has been working in community radio for last 26 years, initially as broadcaster and then as a Convenor, when she started in Radio it was much harder to master the art, as those were the days of reel to reel tapes, lps and later on cassettes and MDs. www.indiantimes.com.au

Mastering art of recording on the reel to reel tapes, cueing up the songs on an lp to start without the initial drag were very challenging as well, editing became much easier with the introduction of the mini disks. Today with computers recording and editing has become a breeze putting together a show does take as much effort and skill, hats of to all those who mastered those art in those days.

Incidentally Manju introduced Umesh Chandra to radio, Umesh had come to the radio station to give an interview on Brisbane Indian Times Multicultural Community Awards and rest is history.

Apart from Radio, Manju has been very active within the Indian and Multicultural community. She is very well known to many people, she has many very high profile brothers like Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale, past Queensland Premier Beattie, whom she had tied the “rahki” at a ceremony in Parliament house. She has assisted many community associations with their functions and she has assisted many commercial event promoters with their events, Associated in many Indian and charitable organisations.

She is well known to all politicians and an inspiration for many and is a Trendsetter in the young minds.

She has been awarded many titles and designations such as Honorary Ambassador of City of IPSWICH for INDIA. Manju is a determined individual with a strong will power and if she sets her mind to something she will eventually do it and one should not cross her path.

Manju is married to John and together they have two lovely children and two adorable grandchildren.

The grand Finale of Recipes to Riches with the announcement of the overall winner will take place this month, wishing her all the best.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 29

ARYA PRATINIDHI SABHA OF QLD INC

Travelling the Highway

The Identity of Arya Samaj Jitendra Deo President

IDENTITY is the essence of something in being in existence. The name - word of the thing or person or community is the language correspondence of that identity. If the thing is lost, the identity is lost. And if the identity is lost, the thing itself too is lost. A character in Shakespeare says: If some one steals my purse or my property, he steals nothing and I lose nothing. But if some one steals away my name, he robs me of something which enriches him not but makes me poor indeed therefore when we pray we self-examine what we have lost and what we have gained. If the balance sheet is positive, we are alive, if not, we are on oxygen.

What is the reality correspondence of Arya Samaj? What did the founder expect of the Arya Samaj in thought, word and deed, in terms of the individual, the society, the nation, and humanity?

Swami Dayananda in his writings writes Vedic Sanskrit through, the medium of Hindi which he called Arya Bhasha. The term Arya Samaj consists of two words: Arya and Samaj.

What does he means by Arya? Not a race, not member of a caste or class, but a person, any person, of highest nature (shreshtha), character and conduct, religiously pious, dedicated to dharma, seriously motivated and dedicated positively, a pursuant of truth and knowledge, honest in thought, word and deed. People of this nature, character and conduct are, in Vedic terms, inheritors of the earth because they sustain the life and environment on earth.

Parameshwar says in Rigveda 4.26.2: I gave (gifted) the earth to the “Aryas” noble cultured humanity, I bring the rain, flowing rivers, rolling oceans and showers of light and energy for people who give in charity, and in consequence, saints, divines and sagely people who live and love to give are blest with the light divine.

Such dedicated people anywhere on earth from any community are dedicated to the progress of knowledge, righteousness, peace and happiness of the world. They are knowledgeable, self-fulfilled, divinely blest, because they live Dharma, truth and universal values o life.

Say Rigveda (9.63.5): Indram vardhanto apturah, Krinvanto Vishvam Aryam.

They (Aryas, Somas) advance fast and vibrant at top speed, glorifying life and the Creator, making the world noble, reducing and eliminating the causes of suffering, forces, of negativity, uncreatively, selfishness, exploitation, fear and terror.

Such are the Aryas: dynamic, enlightened, creative, constructive, in the direction of positive progress, peace and happiness of all (niyam 6 & 9).

The meaning the word Samaj is ‘a united, integrated, harmonious, living and vibrant community, it self moving and moving and advancing all others to a life of peace and comprehensive all round progress, physically, mentally, culturally and spiritually, for the individual and society as a whole.’

The ideal of such a creative advancing community is revealed in the Sangathan Sukta of Rigveda (10.191). 2 Adapted from article by - Dr. Tulsi Ram Sharma Please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 33454716 for information on activities of Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland or log on: www.aryasamajqueensland.com

From chaos to hope EACH year our BIT Correspondent Pete Lane Rai and his wife Dot visit India to have a holiday, and to also see family and friends. As well they do some voluntary work where they teach personal development for Christian families and youth. This year they spent their time in Bangalore and in Hyderabad where the North West monsoon caused chaos on the roads for a few days.

Chaos on the roads was not the only problem; it was also in many lives. For they met Indians facing the same problems we have in Australia: difficulties in marriage and the family, those confused about the meaning of life. Like the young people and adults struggling with the temptations of drinking and having sex. In their programme with adults, there were some very good discussions about how to bring the taboo subject of sex education to children and teenagers.

Some of their programmes were with young single people and so after classes Pete and Dot spent time exercising or walking with their students to get to know them personally. Some of them were orphans who didn’t know their parents, or others

had been rejected by their step mother when the father remarried.

Yet just as the chaos on the roads ended when the rains stopped, it was wonderful to hear how the chaos in the lives of their students had ended.

For they had overcome previous bad habits of drugs and immorality when they decided to follow the Lord Jesus Christ and at last found a meaning and purpose in life.

One young girl Shanti, 23, from Bangalore told Dot how she had lived in a sexual relationship with a young man who told her that he loved her. Yet eight months after, she had to have five abortions...she has left him! Other young men from Manipur and Bangalore told Pete how previously drugs had wrecked their life and relationship with their families. Since they had given up drugs, and were now following Jesus their lives had hope and purpose. Their relationship with their parents and family was now great so they planned to return to their homes and communities to create awareness for the dangers of drink and immorality and share about a better way of life.

May they be successful?

Jai Hind!

BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES DEADLINES

DECEMER 13 ISSUE! Ad Bookings & Editorial Submissions - 29 November 13

JANUARY 14 ISSUE! Ad Bookings & Editorial Submissions - 3 January 14 Email admin@indiantimes.com.au 30 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

Pastor Joseph Dass DEAR reader it is with great joy we bring to you the word of God. There are many people who settle down where they are and stop growing. Restricting themselves to rise and reach their full potential is not because there is no more room for growth, no one to encourage them, but because they have had some disappointments. In occasions like been criticised or things did not turn out the way they wanted. Hence, they get easily offended, get upset and too afraid to try again. We have to realise that every success comes with some struggle, there is pain and hardship, and people can be against you saying you are not talented enough, not gifted and haven’t got what it takes. But if you are smart you won’t let these things stop you from where you going, i.e. your destiny.

They’re not talking of you they are speaking for themselves.

Scriptures tell us that all things will work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. That means you are already destined for success and victory and the things happening around you are not happening to you but for you, to thrust you where God wants you to be. You have to realise that

some people cannot handle your increase, you growing too fast, moving too quickly.

God’s favour is on your life.

While it is easy to get offended and get engaged in trying to explain to everyone and straighten them we have to understand that these very things can hold us back from moving forward. Exodus 14v14 reminds us that God will fight for you and you are to stand still. Most of the things we get engaged in are not good for us, but when we stand still, taking the position of peace, forgiving and blessing others and knowing what to ignore, we are letting God handle the people and the situations. This is a highway formula for increase.

When Saul was crowned the first king of Israel, Prophet Samuel explained to all the people the behaviour of royalty and sent them away. Saul went back home and most of his friends celebrated with him but some could not handle his success, they were jealous and criticised him. Yet Saul held his peace. You have to understand that you cannot let others hold you back from where you are heading. Small minded people won’t celebrate your success, they make you look bad and gossip about you, that’s when you need to put on a big smile, look happy giving a clear message that you are no longer travelling the by way but you are travelling the highway.

Friend your future is too bright and destiny too great to let something or someone hold you back.

God bless you Ps Joseph Dass

Compatibility – a Spiritual Perspective RECENT statistics show that about 50% of the marriages in the US end up in divorce.

It’s an alarming problem reflecting the type of lives we lead today. So why is the divorce rate rising? Have broken homes, crippled relationships become more socially acceptable? Are couples no more compatible? What happened to the sacred institution called marriage? We are aware that when two individuals come together there are bound to be frustrating experiences; one needs to accept one another’s peccadilloes, counter differences, give in more to the relationship than one takes away from it etc. Counselling does help to some extent.

However, despite this for some when the actual moment arrives to implement the directives, they are aghast with how they vent criticism leading to conflict, unnerving silence and eventually the relationship goes beyond repair.

When we conjure the idea of marriage, we take maximum care before taking the plunge. It means the whole world to us; our complete being revolves around the person we may marry. When a man and woman come together in marriage, they are often consumed by the feeling that they have chosen each other; however the truth as per the spiritual science is that marriage is a 100% predestined event and most of our behaviour is governed by the spiritual factor of destiny.

This means that we have the highest giveand-take account with our spouse and we come together as man and wife to settle an outstanding give and take account. For example if we have done positive deeds in previous lifetimes then it amounts to merits and if negative deeds then we incur sin. So, based on merits from previous births, we experience happiness, compatibility and togetherness and vice-versa. For the most part, our behaviour is deeply coloured by the deep rooted impressions in our sub-conscious mind. Destiny and the give-and-take account are reflected in the way we live our lives and heavily influence the choices that we make.

Destiny governs our relationships without us being consciously aware of it. This can be a positive or negative give and take.

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Thus, at the surface what appears to be bad behaviour between the couple is actually a negative account being nullified. Due to the current era of Kaliyug which is the time of strife, sadly, people have increasingly negative give and take as opposed to positive.

And with more bad behaviour we find ourselves getting further entrenched in it.

Regular spiritual practice is the only way out of this vicious circle. Through spiritual practice we are able to overcome destiny and improve the quality of our life. For example, we often wonder why did my husband behave badly with me or why did I sacrifice for someone who has left me jilted? When we understand the spiritual science, we begin to accept situations and are more equipped psychologically and spiritually to handle the relationship.

When two average people come together, then over a period of time there are many misgivings and the doldrums of marriage begin. However, when two individuals perform spiritual practice, they work on their ego and personality defects and then in every situation they become more introverted and contemplate about where they went wrong and how to rectify themselves. Thus, many conflicts are avoided and there is a congenial atmosphere. Many qualities also develop such as humility, respecting the other person etc. which forms the foundation for an affable relationship.

Chanting God’s Name gives the spiritual strength, positivity to surge on. Normally, when we just apply psychological aid for any problem, troubles begin to reappear.

However, when psychological measures are complemented with spiritual measures then the effect is long lasting. Thus, together with counselling we should also go for spiritual practice which will make us much more compatible.

Please read our website about how to begin your spiritual journey.

For more information on compatibility please visit - http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/articles/id/spiritualresearch/ spiritualscience/relationships Compiler: Mrs Shweta Clarke Email: shweta.memories@gmail.com Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

The Kaaba “And now verily We shall make you turn (in prayer) toward a Qibla which is dear to you.

So turn your face toward the Inviolable Place of Worship (the Kaaba of Makkah)” (Al Baqarah 2:144) Courtesy Ml. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi THE Quran commands the Muslims to face the sacred precincts in Makkah during prayer which is a fundamental tenet in slam. The legend of this purely Islamic development of a sacred stone structure dates back to the sending of Hadhrat Adam (alayhis salaam) from Paradise onto earth at Makkah. It has been reported by Al-tabari that Hadhrat Jibraeel (alayhis salaam) flapped his wings to uncover a foundation laid in the seventh fold of the earth. Angels paved this foundation with stones and Hazrat Adam went round this structure following the example of the Angels.

Therefore it stands to reason that Allah Ta’ala contemplated and designated the Ka’aba before the creation of the earth. It is said that the Kaaba is a prototype of Baitul Mamoor, a house in the seventh Heaven situated immediately over the Kaaba.

The Kaaba with respect to the inhabited parts of the world is like the centre of a circle with respect to the circle itself. All regions face the Kaaba, surrounding it as a circle surrounds its centre; and each region faces a particular part of the Kaaba.

Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) adopted the Kaaba as a physical focus in prayer as well for other acts of worship such as burial of the dead, recitation of the Qur’an, announcing the call of prayer, the ritual slaughter of animals, etc. Thus, Muslims have been spiritually and physically oriented towards the Kaaba and the holy city of Makkah in their daily lives.

Circumambulation of The Kaaba ‘Tawaf’ or circumambulation (the ritual encircling of the Kaaba) starts from the Hajar Aswad - the Black Stone. The circumambulator, if possible, may kiss the stone or may direct his hand towards it saying, “In the name of Allah, Allah is great.” He must circle the Kaaba seven times with the Kaaba to his left (in anticlockwise direction).

On examination, it will be found that the entire universe which is in constant circular or elliptical rotation, is in actual fact moving in the pattern as the Tawaf. The electrons of an atom revolve around its nucleus in the same manner as making Tawaf, in an anti-clockwise direction. The ovum, prior to fertilisation actually taking place, surrounded by sperms, turns remarkably in anti-clockwise direction, thereby resembling the Tawaf. Considering the globe as a whole, it could be found that the earth has two movements. It rotates on its own axis in 24 hours causing day and night. The various seasons of the year are due to the earth’s simultaneous revolution around the sun in 365 days. It is really astonishing to note that the earth, in both these movements, rotates anti-clockwise. The entire universe from the atom to the galaxies is in constant circular rotation like a circumambulator who encircles the Kaaba in the anti-clockwise direction. All objects in the universe, atoms, moon, stars, electrical current, galaxies, etc. are rotating in the same way. Moreover, the angles encircle the heavenly Baitul Ma’mur in an ever-lasting Tawaf. In the same way, the Kaaba in Makkah is never free from circumambulators. “Know that the world has come to an end when no soul will circlembulate the holy Kaaba.”

“Do Muslims Really Worship the Kaaba?”

This was one question, among others, propounded by certain non-Muslim student groups at a university rally not very long ago. This kind of obnoxious thinking and behaviour is the direct result of vilifying and being abusive towards other religions. Islam, known by many a western thinker as the ‘champion religion’ condemns the idea of disgracing and mocking any religion, but rather promotes the idea of showing respect. How else would the world see good in a religion so perfect as Islam. Our aim in this world should be to convey the magnificent teachings of Islam with love and honour, so that the word of Allah Ta’ala reaches the four corners of the world.

Do Muslims worship the Kaaba by merely prostrating towards it?

1. It is a known fact to Muslims that we don’t worship the Kaaba but only worship Allah Ta’ala and Him alone. There is sufficient evidence to substantiate our stand and belief. Categorically, we explicitly deny worshipping the Kaaba nor the structure of the Kaaba.

Hence, no worshipper (in his right frame of mind) can deny the thing he or she worships. In other words, Muslims deny worshipping the Kaaba and it is not a symbol of worship. The Kaaba is only a direction of worship.

2. When performing Salaat, even if the thought of facing towards the Kaaba is absent from the mind too, the salaat is valid. However, many Musallies that enter the masjid and begin performing salaat without having the faintest idea that they are facing the direction of the Kaaba, still have their salaat intact. Had we been worshipping the Kaaba, then it would have been a prerequisite condition to first intend facing the Kaaba before beginning any salaat.

3. If at any time the structure of the Kaaba is destroyed then too, it will be compulsory to perform salaat facing the direction of the Kaaba . Therefore, we can say without a shadow of doubt that Muslims do not worship its stone structure, otherwise by its destruction Salaat would immediately come to a temporary stop.

4. If a person decides to perform salaat on the roof of the Kaaba, the Salaat will be valid. Therefore had we worshipped the Kaaba then Salaat performed above it would be incorrect; because firstly, the thing worshipped must appear in front and secondly, it is utterly disrespectful and disgraceful to the thing worshipped by standing on top of it. Imagine anyone standing above their Creator and Maker of this universe.

In addition, Ulema further discusses other related matters on the same subject - the Kaaba. Did you ask yourself at any time, ‘Why do we face one direction, and not many directions?’

Imagine if there was no one direction to face then everyone would have faced all directions which may have caused dissent and disunity in the heart of the Muslims. Therefore it was essential to provide a com-

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mon direction for the Muslims throughout the world.

Why do we face toward the Kaaba in particular and not any other selected direction?

No one has the right to ask such a question. However, Allah Ta’ala is omniscient and He alone knows toward which direction His Noor (light) descends.

Whichever direction this light is greatest, we are directed to face.

How do we know the Noor of Allah descends toward the direction of the Kaaba? Only those who possess eyes may be able to get a glimpse of that Noor descending onto the Kaaba. Therefore, Salaat may be read above the Kaaba structure, because in actual fact, it is the Noor of Allah Ta’ala that we face in prayers and definitely not any object or likewise.

The Jurist have commented that the Kaaba, although seen to a certain height, reaches up to the heavens and right down to the earth’s bottom.

Furthermore, the secret in facing toward the direction of the Kaaba is the spirit of worship (Ibaadat), and contentment and serenity of the heart. Without this contentment there exist no spirit (rooh), which is the reason we are instructed to focus our sight on the place of prostration in Salaat so that we may be able to concentrate with heart and soul entirely.

After the Hajj—what now?

By Ml. M. Nawaaz Ashrafi ALL Praise is due to Almighty Allah, Sovereign of the universe and choicest blessings on our illustrious Master, Nabi Muhammad (pbuh), the absolute final of all divine emissaries.

Allah says in the Glorious Qur’an; “I have not created Jinn and Mankind except for my worship.”

It is also stated in a Hadith Qudsi, that the Lord Almighty declares; “I was a hidden treasure, and I wanted to become known. So I created the creation, for my glorification.”

Oh Muslims, taking cognizance of these divine statements, we ask. Is mankind on course in terms of this noble objective? Looking at global events, one finds Muslims in disarray, facing persecution which started with the commencement of the Prophetic mission, and perpetuated against Muslims in Bosnia, Kashmir, Palestine, Afghanistan, Iraq etc. It seems as if our education system and institutions have failed us.

Hooliganism and gangsterism are rife on schools.

Alcohol and drugs are the order of the day and a great number of Muslim youth are trapped in the demonic cult of Satanism. Hence, we can see the local, national and international scene of the Muslim world gives a gloomy picture of despair. No; there is indeed hope.

Great hope for the future. Great hope for us to rid the world from the misery of godlessness, into the light of Godliness.

Let us start with thanking our beloved Creator for having afforded us the wonderful opportunity to have stood on the mighty plains of Arafah with approximately 3 million fellow pilgrims. Remember, beloved Hujaaj, that you have been crowned as ambassadors to convey the message of Arafah, but most importantly, to live your Hajj. The completion of this great Hajj ushers in the new Islamic year of Muharram 1435 A.H. New Year for a Muslim does not involve vulgarity obscenity and vanity. We are not clowns and coons to dance in public, like slaves to the tunes of their slave masters. Nay, New Year signifies a new and fresh beginning. It is an opportunity for us to recommit ourselves to the purpose of our creation, and fulfilling our Amanat (trust) as Allah has decreed for us.

“You (Muslims) are the best community, selected for the guidance of mankind. You order with the good and prevent from evil, and you have faith in Allah.” (AlQur’an).

It is this bounden duty of Da’wah, which we have neglected for so long, which resulted in the mess we find ourselves in.

Oh Muslims, don’t you see that everything revolves around Da’wah ? Look at the organized Da’wah campaigns of Satan’s dens of vice and sin through their gambling casinos, club houses, shabeens and drug outlets. Now the world is groping in spiritual darkness. Where is that great Muslim Ummah who brought glory and civilization and led the world out of the dark ages?

Islam is the perfect Deen based on unity. We are an ummah united in our worship of One Allah, one Qur’an, one Kaa’bah as our qiblah under the one flag of our illustrious Master, Nabi Muhammad (pbuh).

The rampant malady which grips this Ummah today is because; a) Mutual love has departed from our hearts, while hatred and animosity dominate the scene. b) Harmony is ousted, while disharmony has entrenched itself. c) Self righteous attitudes among us, that my perspective of an issue is the ultimate perspective, and my view must rule supreme.

We need to realize that it is this kind of immaturity and mediocre level of intellectual intolerance which curbs our progress and prolonging our intellectual and political impotency.

We therefore need to evaluate ourselves in the light of the Islamic value system which finds distinct expression for its promotion in its demand for human welfare and inner/ inter-religious harmony.

It is our religious duty to elect a strong and competent leadership, under whose guidance we need to convey the uncorrupted message of Tauheed.

Let us make a strong resolution, as we enter this new year, that we will live and propagate the message of Arafat. Positive change starts with our individual selves and within our homes and immediate environments. In conclusion, let’s remind ourselves of the last advise of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh),

from the plains of Arafah.

“I leave behind two mighty things. Whosoever adheres to them, will never go astray. It is the Book of Allah (Al-Qur’an) and my Sunnah.

May Allah bless us all and grant us success and prosperity for the new year ahead, Ameen.

Muharram Ul Haraam —Our New Year – What is the Ashurah?

Karbala – A Lesson For Mankind -“The tyrant dies and his rule ends, the martyr dies and his rule begins.” — Soren Kierkegard The straight path or the right path is always the most difficult one to travel but one that rewards the most, and so we are told when young. This battle of good versus the evil is an age old phenomenon. Every religion has some story or the other to show us the ‘right’ path from the ‘wrong’ one. Hinduism celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura (among other stories) as Diwali, Christians remember the crucification of Jesus Christ as a supreme sacrifice in the way of God, and so do Muslims observe Muharram (the month in which the tragedy of Karbala took place) to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Imam Husain, the grandson of the Prophet [PBUH].

“Think not of those who are slain in Allah’s way as dead. Nay, they live, finding their sustenance in the presence of their Lord.”—Surah Aal-e-Imran (Chapter 3), Verse 169 The tragedy of Karbala took place some 49 years after the demise of Prophet Muhammad [PBUH] in 61 Hijri (AD 680).

The Events Leading Up To Karbala The Muslim Caliphate briefly came to Imam Hasan (elder grandson of the Prophet [PBUH]) after the martyrdom of Ali bin Abi Talib (son-in-law of the Prophet [PBUH] and the Fourth Caliph of Islam). Sensing a possible split in the Muslim empire Hasan entered into a peace treaty with Amir Mu’awiyah, the son of Abu Sufyan and father of Yazid.

“Hasan agreed to relinquish all authority to Mu’awiyah in exchange for an agreement not to harm any of the supporters of Ali, and to govern by the book of God and the examples of the Prophet. This he would do by letter and by word, explaining to the congregation in the Kufa mosque that he had ceded his right to rule ‘for the best interest of the community and for the sake of sparing blood’. Mu’awiyah acknowledged that ‘the reign would belong to Hasan after him’ (though this would soon be quietly forgotten) and that to avoid all future strife the next Caliph was to be decided by a formal council.”

All the first four Caliphs had first been acclaimed by the people of Medina but this right and duty had now been brushed aside in favour of the courtiers at Damascus. The solemn pledge to hold a ’shura’ was broken. None of the previous Caliphs had thought to impose their own sons on the community, and had looked beyond the narrow loyalties of a family, towards their brother in faith. When Mu’awiyah died, Yazid was acclaimed as the Caliph. It marked the decisive emergence of dynastic monarchy triumphing over the religion of God. The moment Yazid came to power he started demanding the oath of allegiance (bay’ah) from everyone using unfair means. Paying allegiance was an old Arab practice which was carried out in important matters such as that of rulership and authority. Those who were ruled, and specially the well known among them, would give their hand in allegiance, agreement and obedience to their king or the one in authority and in this way would show their whole-hearted support for his actions without any opposition to him. The approach of Yazid was proof enough of the kind of Muslim he was. He showed complete disregard for the tenets of Islam. *Ibne Aseer (A renowned historian Allamah Ali bin Abil Karam more famous as Ibne Aseer Jazari) in his Tareekhe Kamil has this to say for Yazid, “Yazid was notorious and well known for his love of numerous musical instruments, passion for hunting and play with young boys, dogs, monkeys, etc. Every morning he rose still drunk. His monkeys and young boys wore gold caps. If a monkey died, he spent a considerable time in mourning it.”

“Traditions inform us that Yazeed loved worldly vices, would drink, listen to music, kept the company of boys with no facial hair, played drums, kept dogs, making frogs, bears and monkeys fight. Every morning he used be intoxicated and use to bind monkey with the saddle of a horse and make the horse run.”

—Al Bidayah Wal Nihayah, Ibn Kathir Yazid’s message was delivered to Imam Husain as well but he said a firm no. Acknowledging Yazid’s authority by the Prophet’s [PBUH] grandson at this point would have meant confirmation of his evil deeds and Caliphate. For Yazid, Husain’s seal of approval was the one most needed. *Abul Hasan Ali bin Husain Mas’oodi in his Muroojuz Zahab wa ma’adinul Jawahir reported, “Whoever accepted the slavery of Yazid by swearing fealty at his hands was spared, otherwise he was subjugated. Thus the meaning of allegiance to Yazid was not merely the acceptance of a new caliph, but it meant to sell one’s Religion and faith in slavery to a tyrant.”

The Kufans urged Imam Husain in Medina to ride north and lead them against the usurpation of the Islamic world by Yazid, and to reclaim his rightful place as the head of the Muslim nation. Husain, encouraged by the chief men of Medina, decided to respond and rode out of the oasis to assume the leadership of the true army of Islam. But not a soul left the garrison city to join him on the desert trail. The Kufans too would betray him! When Husain settled at a land devoid of water or vegetation named Karbala (‘Karb’ in Arabic means grief and ‘bala’ is for trials) he had just 72 loyal soldiers with him.

Battle For Truth The battle of Karbala finds great similarity with the

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one at Badr – Islam’s first battle. It was the holy Prophet [PBUH] at Badr who fought with 313 diehard supporters against a formidable army of some 1000 men. That day against all odds the small group won a decisive victory, and paved the way for a future Muslim empire. 56 years later it was his grandson with just 72 loyal men, who fought against an impossible opposition of several thousands to save Islam from the clutches of tyranny.

Karbala was a battle of truth against falsehood, humanity against villainy, righteousness against evil, justice against corruption. The much loved grandson of the Prophet [PBUH] stood in the scorching heat of Karbala along with his companions, devoid of water but determined. His loved ones, including his six month old son, fell martyr one after the other. In spite of this he repeatedly invited the other party towards righteousness and forbade them from evil and immorality, but it all fell on deaf ears. When the time arrived for him to march ahead all alone, he did it in a fashion which was reminiscent of his illustrious father Hazrat Ali.ra One of those who fought the battle of Karbala against him says, “I have never seen a person bereaved of his sons, menfolk and his companions more Lion-hearted than him. The foot soldiers were scattering to his right and left like goats when a wolf come upon them.” — –Ibne Aseer, Tareekh Kamil Husain fell in the desert of Karbala on that fateful Friday, the 10th of Moharram 61H. Worse was to follow. The bodies of the martyrs including the Imam were not only refused a proper burial but were trampled under the horses’ hooves and were left for the birds. The Kufan army looted the belongings of Husain. Imam’s family including his women-folk and tender children were humiliated and taken captives after burning down their camps. The women were paraded with uncovered heads. It wasn’t Islam!

“If Hussain fought to quench his worldly desires, then I do not understand why his sisters, wives and children accompanied him. It stands to reason therefore that he sacrificed purely for Islam.” —Charles Dickens The severed heads of the martyrs including Husain were raised on spears. How Yazid played with Husain’s head and the emotions of Imam’s family is a well documented fact. Karbala to this day remains a heart-wrenching story of exemplary courage and bravery to uphold the real principles of Islam.

“In a distant age and climate, the tragic scene of the death of Husain will awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader.”—Edward Gibbon Lessons From Karbala Karbala stands for courage, self-sacrifice, integrity, honesty, vision, and bravery beyond words. It symbolises all that is pure and true. Karbala teaches us that real battles are always fought in the minds and not on ground. Yazid was powerful and yet he lost the battle for truth.

“I learned from Hussain how to be wronged and be a winner.” —Mahatma Gandhi Also, being in the majority need not necessarily make you right.

“The best lesson which we get from the tragedy of Karbala is that Hussain and his companions were the rigid believers of God. They illustrated that numerical superiority does not count when it comes to truth and falsehood. The victory of Hussain despite his minority marvels me! —Thomas Carlyle As the old adage goes, “Nothing lasts for ever.”

Husain and his followers made sure that their martyrdom gave a fatal blow to Yazid’s oppressive rule.

Karbala haunted Yazid till his eventual death two years later.

“Imam Husayn uprooted despotism forever till the Day of Resurrection. He watered the dry garden of freedom with the surging wave of his blood, and indeed he awakened the sleeping Muslim nation.

Husayn weltered in blood and dust for the sake of truth. Verily he, therefore, became the bed-rock (foundation) of the Muslim creed; la ilaha illa Allah (There is no god but Allah).”—Sir Muhammad Iqbal It also teaches us to be patient and stand up against any form of wrong treatment. We curse Yazid and his army for their inhuman treatment of people, yet the cruel treatment of captives by the so called jihadis meets little protest. Muslims must recognize and protest against the savagery of inhuman treatment at all times, no matter who does it and where it takes place.

“If a man kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, to abide therein (For ever): And the wrath and the curse of Allah are upon him, and a dreadful penalty is prepared for him.”— Surah AnNisa (Chapter 4), Verse 93 The best homage that we can pay to the great tragedy is to do some soul-searching. Do we have the right to be called the followers of the Prophet [PBUH]? Have we really understood the message of Imam Husain?

Are the tears for Husain drawn merely by the scenes of mere butchery? Would we ever stand up to the false narrations of the events at Karbala by some maulanas to generate excessive grief? Was Karbala a political war or a struggle for true faith? Are we ready to shed aside our differences and respect each others’ view during our religious discourses during Moharram?

And when we finally have all the answers then we would understand the real message of Karbala.

“Shah ast Hussain, Badshah ast Hussain, Deen ast Hussain, Deen e Panah ast Hussain, Sar dad, na dad dast, dar dast-e-yazeed, Haqaa key binaey La ila ast Hussain” “It’s Hussain the Prince, it’s Hussain the king, He is Faith, and Faith’s Defender most daring, He preferred death to Yazid’s allegiance, With his blood, Islam has verily been living.”

—Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti Happy New Year - from the Islamic Society of Algester, we pray that everybody has good health and prosperity and that there will be peace for all.

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 31

Health Beauty Wellbeing

By Thilliar Varnakulasingham ABOUT 347 million people worldwide have diabetes. More than 80% of diabetes deaths occur in low and middle income countries, according to the World Health Organization.

The World Health Organization projects that diabetes will be the 7th leading cause of death in 2030.

Asia now accounts for 60% of the global diabetic population. In China, the prevalence of diabetes rose from 1% in 1980 to 10% in 2008. Besides this, 15.5% of the adult population are diagnosed as pre-diabetics.

India accounts for the largest number of people (50.8 million) suffering from diabetes in the world, followed by China and the United States, according to figures released by the International Diabetic Federation in 2009.

India continues to be the “diabetic” capital of the world. The reasons given are many, including family history, obesity, physical inactivity, sedentary living, insulin resistance, urbanization and stress.

In Africa, it has been projected that diabetes prevalence will increase by 83% between 2010 and 2030. The biggest rise has been attributed to decreased physical activity, increased caloric intake, urbanization and nutrition transitions as a result of adopting Westernized lifestyles, in addition to life expectancy and decreased infant mortality on the African continent.

The genetic and evolutionary consequences of differences in food geography have also been suggested as causes for the obesity and diabetes epidemics.

It has been hypothesized that the genetic makeup of the Native American Pima Indians, Australian Aborigines, and the Pacific Islanders allows fat accumulation in plentiful times to serve as a reservoir during famine and migration.

In the past, people with diabetes were advised to reduce carbohydrates. But now we know that they should eat a diet that is high in complex carbohydrates. Your dietitian or nutritionist will advise you on your personal need for carbohydrates.

Not long ago, doctors used to give a long list of do’s and don’ts, telling patients what to eat and what to avoid. New evidence has significantly altered the one-size –fits for all patients.

Many drugs have been developed from compounds present in herbs, including drugs used for treating diabetes such as Metformin, which was developed from Galega officinalis. It should be emphasized that herbal preparations should be used under medical supervision as complimentary rather than an alternative therapy with a view to stabilizing, reducing or eliminating medication requirements. You must check with your doctor before adding any herb to your diet to rule out potential interactions with any medication you are taking.

To sum up, if you are a diabetic, you must switch to low- GI carbohydrates. You must look for foods with a glycemic index of 55 or less. You must eat at least two serves of

whole grains daily. You must get active for at least 150 minutes each week. If you lose even a little weight, it can make a big difference.

Herbs such as bitter melon (Momordica charantia), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graceum), goat’s rue (Galela officinalis), Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestra) and garlic (Allium sativum) have anti-diabetic properties, with the ability to lower blood glucose levels.

The World Health Organization asserts that healthy diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a normal body weight and avoiding tobacco use can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

There are two major forms of diabetes-type 1 and type 2 diabetes. A third type of diabetes is gestational diabetes.

Some studies have indicated that individuals with diabetes are at much greater risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia than are non-diabetics.

Individuals with an “apple” body shape are at greater risk for diabetes than those with “peer” body shapes. Individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to complications of flu and pneumonia and are six times more likely to be hospitalized for these problems than non diabetics.

Experts report that diabetes decreases life expectancy by five to ten years. Men have a higher risk of death from diabetes than women.

Cardiovascular disease is responsible for between 50% and 80% of deaths in people with diabetes. Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, amputation and kidney failure.

A Harvard study showed that eating one serving of cooked oatmeal two to four times a week was linked to a 16% reduction in the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. One serving five or six times a week was linked to a 30% reduction in risk.

Overweight individuals are more prone to develop diabetes because more fat requires more insulin. Smoking can increase diabetes risk by constructing blood vessels and raising blood pressure.

In women, diabetes impacts estrogen levels, menstrual and ovulation cycles and sexual desire.

The warning signs of diabetes are frequent urination, unusual thirst, extreme hunger, unusual weight loss, fatigue, irritability, blurred vision and cuts and bruises that are slow to heal.

Kids with diabetes can eat a certain amount of sugary food as part of a balanced diet, but they need to control the total amount of carbohydrates they eat. All kids and adults should avoid excessive consumption of foods that provide little nutritional value.

Insulin does not cure diabetes. Taking insulin helps manage diabetes. Tablets or pills taken for diabetes are not a form of insulin. They help the body make more insulin or use the insulin it makes more effectively.

Kids with diabetes should exercise because exercise offers many benefits to kids.

Presently there is no cure for diabetes.

Until there is a cure for diabetes, you must do your best to manage your diabetes.

The World Health Organization highlights the urgency of addressing diabetes and its dire consequences. Without action 388 million people globally will die from chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease in the next decade.

References: World Health OrganizationFact Sheet No 312 Updated March 2013 Health Promotion and Education- Volume 51 Issue 4, July 2013

Enjoy life...

Take control.....

Stop HIV/AIDS DECEMBER 1 is World AIDS Day, and this year’s theme is “Enjoy life, take control, stop HIV/AIDS”. December 1 was marked as the first World AIDS Day in 1988 by the World Health Organisation in an effort to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS issue in the world. Although there have been significant achievements against this serious health problem globally and nationally, we still have a long way to go.

Currently there are 33 million people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. India has become the third-most affected country with 2.4 million in 2008, just after South Africa and Nigeria. In Australia, we can see increasing HIV infections across most states, including Queensland.

HIV/AIDS can affect people from all walks of life, regardless of people’s backgrounds. Lack of knowledge and correct information has created fear, discrimination, and stigma. People are less likely to have a HIV test if not aware of risk factors.

As HIV can be transmitted by unsafe sex, blood-to-blood, and mother-to-baby, we

From fat to fabulous - Really!

By Heena Mohanlal SO what’s happened, you cannot squeeze into your favourite pair of jeans. You just about managed to do up the hooks for your sexy sari blouse but then realised you can barely breathe….. Is this experience sounding a bit too familiar? Well I assure you, you are not the only one!

There are millions of women around the world who are desperately having an uphill struggle to tone jiggly thighs and sagging butts. It’s about time we stop blaming our dryer for shrinking our perfectly fitted outfits and do something about it for once and for all!

It’s no rocket science - fad diets are not God sent and certainly don’t work miracles contrary to claims made by marketing gurus. Frankly, in order for any weight loss program to be successful, it needs to be customised to the individual in consideration with their lifestyle, age, health and fitness status and of course time allowance!

I would love to share my favourite few tips:1) Keep a food diary with quantity - Yes I know, but it’s an effective way of knowing why you can’t shed those extra kilos, regardless of your low fat diet.

2) Be a smart shopper - Obviously what you are doing at the moment is not working so choose food wisely. Filling up the trolley with cakes, pastries and ice cream never really helps. If you buy it then you’ll eat it!

3) Choose healthy fats - Swap bad fats

Training for rural nurses QUEENSLAND Health is investing in improving the knowledge and skills of nurses in rural and remote areas.

Last financial year the department provided almost $2 million to support training of 101 nurses throughout regional Queensland.

Ensuring rural and remote nurses had appropriate support and learning opportunities was essential to good health in those areas.

About one-third of registered nurses delivering frontline services in rural and remote areas are 55 years and older and are likely to retire within the next 5–10 years.

To offset this expected retirement peak, Queensland Health has made employing and supporting a structured learning pathway for first year of practice nurses into rural and remote areas a priority.

32 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

should make sure to use condoms and water based lubricant, especially with casual partners or new partners. If we visit other countries, including India, we should avoid unsafe sex and be aware of blood-to-blood transmission, such as using unsterile medical and dental equipments, unsterile tattooing and body piercing tools as well as not sharing needles and syringes in any situation. If you think you are at risk or have been exposed to HIV you need to take responsibility by having a free and confidential HIV test at local Sexual Health Clinics and Family Planning Queensland. You can also see your GP. You can only enjoy life if you can take control your life. Remember many people who have been infected with HIV don’t have any symptoms and can transmit the virus to other people without knowing it.

You can show your support on 1 December by buying a red ribbon or donate on line at www.aidstrust.org.au.

The funds raised will be used for HIV prevention and support for people living with HIV/AIDS.

This is essential to ensure ongoing quality and accessible care for these communities.

Nurses who benefitted from the funding included: • 25 in the South West HHS • 18 in the Central West HHS • 17 in the North West HHS • 15 in the Mackay HHS • 13 in the Central Queensland HHS • 8 in Townsville HHS • 4 in the Torres Strait-Northern Peninsula HHS • 1 in Cairns and Hinterland HHS. www.indiantimes.com.au

with healthy ones like nuts, seeds, olive oil, oily fish etc. There is no need to obsess over every gram of fat...it will only leave you frustrated.

4) Its thirst not hunger - Often people end up tucking in calorie rich nibbles when in reality the body is craving water!

5) Stop eating when you are satisfied You’ll feel full eating ten whole cucumbers but you certainly won’t be satisfied. It’s wiser to satisfy hunger with a variety of flavours, colours and textures.

6) Never skip meals - Skipping breakfast in particular is a major deterrent to losing weight. Moreover, it deprives the body off adequate essential nutrients.

7) Be realistic - Deprivation never works!

- If you deny yourself treats, you are more inclined to give up all together. An occasional portion of your favourite dessert is not a criminal act! Just beware of the portion size though!

8) Enjoy the flavours - It’s not a boot camp. Having food solely for its nutritional value is not enough. Enjoy the flavours and textures of the food, its more gratifying.

9) Size does matter - The larger the portion, the larger the calorie content!

10) A healthy diet - It’s vital to have a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables to support you in your mission!

Most importantly, it’s crucial to have a positive attitude towards your body. To actually love it and not curse it... The great news is that you could turn things around! With a bit of determination and vigilance, I truly believe anyone and everyone is capable of achieving astounding results!

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Health Beauty Wellbeing Cosmetics that can harm Good looking your skin hair for this festive season

HEY GIRLS, Hair is a Heena (Mehandi) very important part of the Heena, also called human body, it plays an Mehandi in India is important role in creating an herb. You can get Nimisha Modi the personality of a per- Hetvi Hair it in shops in the & Beauty - 04 123 500 13 son. If you are eager to form of dry powder make your hair good called Heena powlooking soft and silky, need not worry, here der. Now take the adequate amount of are a few simple and easy to follow home Heena powder add remedies to get good looking soft and silky some normal hair. water to it, stir it Apple, Aloe-Vera and Honey to make a soft Take one big size apple. Slice the apple into paste. Now apply pieces and put it in blender, blend it finely the paste on your and put the paste in a bowl. Add 2 tablescalp, around spoons of Aloe-Vera gel (if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find roots of the hair Aloe-Vera gel you can take Aloe-Vera leafs and on full length, and blend it with apple slices) add 2 tabletie your hair back, spoons of honey to it, stir it to mix all leave it up for at together. If the paste is too hard to use, you least for 60 minutes. Next, rinse your hair can add limited normal water to it. Spread with good quality shampoo. It is a tradithe mixture on your scalp and all around tional method of conditioning hair in India. roots of the hair with the fingers and the The properties of Heena powder gives a rest of the paste on your hair, this mixture soothing effect to your scalp, natural shine has a pleasant smell. Keep it for 30 minutes on hair and a golden colour look on white and rinse your hair with plain water. All and grey hair. Heena also works as a very ingredients used are natural, the properties good conditioner to repair damaged hair. of apple prevent hair loss, dandruff and You can also add some dark tea serum to itching scalps. Aloe-Vera has the anti-aging the Heena paste, if you desire to get a dark property which adds volume to hair and shade in place of golden colour. strengthens roots of the hair. Honey is an Massaging your Scalp excellent moisturizer conditioner. Repeat Regular massaging this process at least once a week to get good of your scalp with oil looking soft and silky hair. gives shine and life Mustard oil to your hair; it At night before strengthens the roots going to bed you can of your hair and apply mustard oil to thickens it if they are your scalp, around weak.

You can roots of the hair and choose any of muson full length, tie tard oil, olive oil or almond oil for your regyour hair rounded to ular massaging. Almond oil is said to be back.

Leave it more effective to strengthen the roots to overnight, so that the mustard oil is nicely prevent hair fall and make them healthy soaked in your scalp, roots and hair. At good looking soft and silky hair. morning rinse your hair with good quality I hope you will benefit using these tips. shampoo. The properties of mustard oil Wishing you all Happy Diwali and strengthen roots of the hair, maintains Prosperous New Year. Take care and will moister in your hair, keep it good looking see you next month. soft and silky.

Nimisha: 0412 350 013

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Sobiya N. Moghul, Health Me Up November 1, TOI VARIOUS cosmetics and skin care products are widely available in stores and salons.

With these products it is easier for women (and men) to achieve a healthy, smooth and beautiful skin. However, even though these products are effective, not all of these are safe.

Cosmetics are supposed to help women look beautiful, but these products are often so full of harmful synthetic chemicals that they could leave you with unsightly skin conditions. Yes, most makeup products and cosmetics are terribly harsh on your skin and numerous studies report that they are carcinogenic. Moreover, cosmetics and makeup can inhibit your skin from breathing and can harbour bacteria and help external impurities causing skin problems.

So...we give you a list of some cosmetic and makeup products that can cause significant harm to your skin and body - the list is by no means complete; it is just the tip of the iceberg!

Lipstick - Lipstick dries the moisture out your lips; whereas, lip balms are better.Therefore, if you want bright colour lips use lip-balm first then put lipstick on top. Some lipsticks and lip- glosses contain oils and chemicals that can damage your lips rather than help them look beautiful.

Lead is sometimes found in harmful amounts in red lipsticks. Health problems associated with lead ingestion are brain damage and behavior abnormalities Many of lead's side effects are irreversible.

Mineral Oil found in lipsticks acts like a second nonporous skin, blocking the real skin's pores, and can interfere with skin cell development and proper functioning.

Moisturisers - It is a fact that, sun damage and pollution ruin your skin so it is good to wear a 'good' moisturiser to block the UV sunrays and harmful pollutants away from your face.

Nonetheless, moisturisers and creams that contain mineral oil and paraffin have been shown clinically to damage the skin barrier and increase moisture loss from the skin.

Virtually all the popular cosmetic moisturizers and emollients sold by skin care companies contain high concentrations of detergents and detergent-like chemicals that damage the skin and degrade the skin's natural protective function. The frequent use of moisturisers by most of us (in order to obtain a smooth radiant and young-looking skin), results in the body absorbing and assimilating the harmful synthetic chemical ingredients of these products that can damage the skin, exacerbating skin problems instead of enhancing the skin's beauty and health.

The solution is to purchase products that contain vegetable oils. Particularly oils high

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in gamma linoleic acid that effectively suppresses inflammation.A good moisturiser should be made of water, hydrosols, plant oils, and emulsifiers. Using natural products, you can maintain the beauty of your face for longer.

Kajal - Kajal and Surma are traditional Indian cosmetic preparations used to makeup beautiful eyes. However, kajal can have numerous adverse effects on the eyes; for example, development of chemical, toxic and infective conjunctivitis, uveitis, glaucoma, dry eye and conjunctival discoloration.

Hence, it is best to avoid use of kajal and surma or any makeup that goes inside the eye. No eye makeup should be used during any eye infection, injury, surgery, etc.

Furthermore, the tissue around the eyes dries out as you get older; rendering the eye shadow as the worst offender!

Nail polish - You must be wearing a lot of heavy, darkand shimmering nail polish on your nails, because you love to decorate your nails and get that glamorous look.

Nevertheless, you must be wondering if it will ruin your skin and nails in any way. The answer is - if you use harsh colours like red or black, also if you wear it every day - all the time, then YES they'll be ruined. Dark polishes could stain your nails and turn them yellow. Furthermore, when your nail polish has acetone it means that it is more likely to weaken and damage your nail strength because it is a harsh chemical.

Talcum powder - The chemical ingredients in talcum powder, like silicates talc is not only a potent carcinogen, it also causes allergies and infection in lungs. Talc absorbs moisture and so we use talcum powder to avoid perspiration. But this causes much damage to our skin. Talc particles are asbestos like, capable of moving through the reproductive system. They get embedded on the lining of the ovary, if applied in large excess. This finally results to ovarian cancer.

Bleach creams - Skin bleaching is popular with darker-skinned people to obtain a fairer and even skin tone. Hydroquinone cream, the most common type of skin bleach can result in undesirable effects and significant skin damage. Hydroquinone is a fairly caustic substance with known adverse effects on the skin including redness, peeling, a rash, dryness and burning where you've applied the cream. Strong chemical bleach breaks down the oils that are supposed to keep your skin soft and supple and prevent formation of wrinkles.

On the other hand, whitening can actually be healthy for your skin provided the skin lightening and brightening products contain natural ingredients; such as, organic herbal extracts and essential oils.

Read more Personal Health, Diet & Fitness stories on www.healthmeup.com

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 - 33

Aghoris of India From Dhaval Vyas Ahmedabad, India What kind of feelings does the word cannibalism arouse?

Well most of us would get disgusted, but there are people who follow cannibalism in India & elsewhere even now.

This article is just to throw the light on the life of these people. Some readers may not like it, but here I have just tried to picture this Aghori path in words. Views expressed here are not of my own.

INDIA land of oldest society, oldest civilization, but all this time in the Indian history there was a sect dedicated to Shiva was involved in cannibalism and other very crude animal behavior. The aghori oraghouri sect has its origin in ancient Vedic system, even though these people don’t follow the main stream Vedic system but the root is the same.

The word aghori in Sanskrit means non terrifying, ‘a’‘ghori’ most of the Hindi speaking people would have heard the phrase ghor kaliyug, ghor paap, etc.. it is the same ghor, theoretically these people don’t attach themselves to anything mortal. They do things which a common man finds to be terrifying, so they overcome this terror by going through it, since they do it regularly it is a common thing for them.

In Hinduism, “there is no evil, everything is emanated from‘Brahman’, so how could anything in this universe be impure”? This is the kind of philosophy the aghori babas follow. According to them anything in this universe is the manifestation of god itself, so everything is as pure as god and is god like, so abandoning anything is like abandoning god itself.

The aghori mainly worship lord Shiva, according to the sect every human is a ‘shava’(dead body) with emotions and they should try to become ‘Shiva’ by denying the human pleasures and involving in the aghori rituals.

It is believed that the aghori is a human symbol of lord Shiva himself. The aghori lives in cemetery (shmashana), the living place for lord Shiva, this is the representation that the final abode for everyone is the cemetery. And many of the aghoris roam around naked, representing the true humans and their detachment from this world of mortals who live in the world of illusion. By this they transcend beyond human feelings of love, hatred, jealousy, pride etc..

There are many aghoris walking the streets of

Astrology

northern India with kapala (skull cup). These aghoris eat anything, when I said anything, it really mean anything.

As the ascetic advance in his search, he attains many siddhis. Slowly they gain control over the environment. They seem to possess powers to cause a rain or to stop one. This is disturbing but this is true, even though they possess this kind of powers they will not use it, for the basic rule of aghori itself is to deny human pleasure so the change in climate is an event which should happen on its own.

Whatever the ascetic says happens, I have met people who have had direct relation with the ascetic, and I cannot question the veracity of the datas. It is also said that when he curses someone, every wish of the person comes true.

There have been many aghoris in the past. Some of them being Dattatreya, Kinaram, Tailanga swamy, Aghoreshwar Mahaprabhu Baba Bhagwan Ram. The Aghoris are one of the principal Indian traditions and the most extreme and fascinating form of the Tantra.

Dattatreya, a divinity that includes the Trimurti Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, are considered to be the founder of this school.

The sanskrit term Aghora is the combination among two words and has various meanings: A is a negation; Ghora is the obscurity of the ignorance, but it also means intense, deep; Aghora therefore means Light, absence of obscurity, awareness, but it also symbolizes a style of life where a person of the Aghori tradition doesn’t have intense or deep feelings, it doesn’t make difference among the various feelings, seems to be indifferent to the various stories of the life.

It is said that Aghoris drink alcohol, smoke ganja, [ a sort of drug ], eat meat , they use a human skull as a bowl, they wander among the funeral pyres, meditate at night and don’t have any sex inhibition. This path seems to be detached completely from hinduist philosophies and it deceives the true nature of this little known reality in the Indian sadhus (ascetics) panorama. The ritual practices of the Aghori are symbols of their non-dualistic beliefs. The corpse upon which they meditate is a symbol of their own body and transcendence of the lower self and realization of the Supreme Self.

They are also known for their knowledge of magic arts; many people believe they own magic powers and it is not difficult to hear histories of miraculous recoveries. Among the people, the word Aghori always arouses a mixture

between respect and suspect; anyway they also have many devotees among the various religions present in India.

Together with an Aghori you can easily find Hindus, Sikhs, Muslims, Jains, Christians or other.

In reality when we are together with these sadhus, seems to be in front of a mystical crazy person, The Fool of the tarots, all the rational thoughts seem to fade away for leaving place to an intense spiritual experience, over every duality.

The death’s theme, so recurrent among the Aghoris, constantly remembers us our mortality but it is also a challenge to transcend the duality between life and death. Breaking every mental scheme, going over every taboo makes aware of the illusion of this world and becomes a path toward the liberation (moksha), the realization of itself with the absolute one. Also the conventional Hindu distinction among pure and impure for the Aghoris is an illusion.

The Aghori practice is a tantric dimension of Hinduism.

Tantra is a science of personality, meta-psychology, methods of exploring the mind, and development of perception.

According to Tantra, ill are those who are condemned to live with limited personality. Only those who step out of time, space, and causality, can live in harmony with the universe and achieve immortality.

An individual that practices tantra may not necessarily succeed in achieving immortality, but can accumulate enough energy to gain special powers. He can then use them to accelerate spiritual evolution or even to achieve bad things.

But then he would just get stuck deeper in the cause-andeffect circle.

Because of this sensitivity, tantra has been kept as a special secret known only within circles of enlightened Hindus. All that a true tantric would ever say to a curious person are a few ritual questions he asks himself at the end of each day. “Have I lived? Have I loved? Have I laughed?”

Vimanalanda, the only Aghori that tried to bring tantric knowledge closer to the western mind, explained it like this: “Have I lived - Have I used each moment of the day to grow, to learn and to develop? Have I loved - have I made other people aware of the love that I have in my heart, and relieved them from burden of doubt and non believing? Have I laughed - Have I noticed the funny side of each, even the most painful experience? If I have, then I have lived each moment in its entirety - that is the only true description of Aghori.”

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Aries - March 21 - April 20 Ganesha foresees a hectic month ahead for you and you shall be busy executing a number of tasks. This may entail hard work; however, relaxation is also essential, and you shall get it in adequate amount. As far as finances are concerned, your expenses are likely to shoot up.

Hence, you may have to rework your investments.

On the professional front, your relations with colleagues may be strained. It would be best to overlook their shortcomings. Due to your busy schedule, your health may get adversely affected, so try to avoid over-straining yourself. In family matters, you should follow the guidance of your elders.

Nothing much is expected on the romantic front.

Those who are contemplating starting a new business venture should exercise extreme caution, be realistic in all their assessments, and if possible, postpone plans for a more opportune time.

Cancer - June 22 - July 22 Your mind is likely to be in overdrive this month, teeming with novel ideas and plans.

However, keep your zest in check, as you may feel dejected if things don't turn out as per your expectations. Circumstances shall warrant that you be emotionally independent, for you need to make quick decisions, foresees Ganesha.

Financially, you may be in a tight spot, but avoid taking loans. On the professional front, your workload shall increase, but you shall deal with it effectively. Due to the effect of a retrograde Jupiter, you may be under false hopes, so be careful of it. The time is good for those involved in real estate business. As the month draws to a close, your social and professional standing shall get a boost.

However, be careful of people with ulterior motives, for they are just seeking an opportunity to use your social standing and clout.

Taurus - April 21 - May 22 You may feel the burden of pending tasks as soon as the month begins, predicts Ganesha.

Even though things are still under control, you don't approve of keeping any task pending, and hence you shall make all the efforts to clear them. In the realm of relationships, married couples are advised to avoid arguments. Single may have the chance to get closer to someone, however, it may be too early to propose. Professionals will make a positive impact in the lives of their colleagues. You shall be in an optimistic and a positive frame of mind. Avoid being too rigid in your approach, as it may be counterproductive for your creativity. You should desist from indulging in any speculative activities. Maintaining a balanced attitude by being objective towards worldly affairs and in tune with your spiritual side shall help you to gain peace of mind.

Leo - July 23 - August 22 Domestic affairs are likely to be in the limelight this month. Consequently, you may sideline your professional responsibilities, but don't avoid them altogether. Ganesha advises you to be careful of certain contentious issues affecting your relationship with your parents. Try to be balanced and calm in your approach, and don't let arguments get out of control. Engaging in introspection shall help you realise the mistake you may have made, and you shall make every effort to rectify them. As far as your work is concerned, your high confidence levels shall help you deal with any eventuality effectively, however, you need to maintain clarity of thought. Regarding your finances, some benefits are likely to brighten your prospects.

Also, your income is all set to increase. But you need to save a considerable amount of money to secure your future, so deal carefully with your finances. Personal life will go on as usual.

Gemini - May 23 - Jun 21 This month, your emphasis should be on following a healthy lifestyle. In order to function at an optimum level, maintaining sound health is of prime importance.

Hence, keep yourself away from vices. As far as romance is concerned, be patient, and don't propose yet, as the time is not auspicious, says Ganesha. Also, try to keep your emotions in check.

In your professional life, things may get tough.

Avoid patting your own back and let your work speak for itself. You may be on the lookout for another job that gives you more freedom to perform as per your potential. Certain bitter experiences may cause you a lot of pain, however, you shall not take things lying down. The support of your near and dear ones shall keep you going. Financially, you have to be careful about your expenditure, and keep it under tight control.

Virgo - August 23 - October 22 Communication shall be the buzzword as the month begins. You shall utilise your managerial skills effectively to run things in a smooth fashion, both in the office and at home. This shall give you lots of satisfaction on a job well done, as well as please your family members. While keeping yourself firmly rooted in reality is desirable, you may also dream to achieve greater heights. Also, you may initiate efforts to turn your dreams into reality, which shall require a herculean effort from your side. Your abundant reserves of energy may make you restless, so you need to channelise it in some constructive activities like sports or meditation. As the month ends, you may become over-confident and rash in your approach. You need to moderate your actions so that people don't shun you, and value your com-

panionship. There may be some conflicts brimming inside you, but Ganesha says they will pass.

Libra - September 23 - October 22 With too much going on around you, you shall feel a bit confused, but if you concentrate your efforts on the most important things, you shall be able to accomplish much this month, foretells Ganesha. At times you may feel your focus waning, but with determination you can stick to your agenda. The stars are in your favour now, says Ganesha, so a promotion or increment may be in the pipeline for professionals. For businessmen, turnover and profits are likely to increase, so financially you shall be comfortable. Though you may not be able to spend quality time with your family, you will find that your social standing is increasing. If you have travel plans chalked out, be very alert on the outings as there are chances of something untoward happening. On the romantic front, you will feel inclined to confide open-heartedly in your sweetheart.

Scorpio - October 23 - November 21 Though you shall have enough time at your disposal this month, some amount of restlessness may make you rush through your tasks, but Ganesha warns you that this can lead to mistakes, so try to stay calm and handle things with a cool mind. The one thing you need to be very careful about is not getting drawn into gossiping or professional politics. You may become aware of people saying unpalatable things about you behind your back, but Ganesha advises you to simply disregard them. At no cost should you get embroiled in them, as they shall only drag you away from your goals. On the personal front, you may be in a bit of a domineering mood this month, but with such an attitude you will not be able to earn the respect of your near and dear ones. If you want respect, you have to respect others first.

be hunky dory.

Capricorn - December 23 - January 30 This shall be quite a satisfactory month for you on the professional front. You will put your heart into your work, and both your colleagues and your bosses will appreciate it, predicts Ganesha. You will share a good rapport with everyone around you. However, if you happen to be the leader of your team, Ganesha advises you to be more considerate and let your team members function as per their inclinations. As long as they are working sincerely, don't try to impose your ideas on them. In business, the winds are likely to blow in your favour, but you may have to work hard to make the best of the opportunities that come your way – or you may have to go out of your way to grab the opportunities that are already existing in the market. On the personal front, you need to socialise, and re-establish connection with long-forgotten friends.

Aquarius - January 21 - February 19 You may feel very uncomfortable in your job this month, owing the the negative vibes you may be getting from some of your co-workers, and if you feel that the situation is beyond salvage, then Ganesha advises you to start looking out for a new job. Be patient, though, as another job may not be readily forthcoming. Just shoot out your applications and then wait patiently for the response. If you happen to be a businessman, remember that this is not an auspicious phase to start a new partnership venture. Take stock of the money you have invested, and pay up all the money you may have borrowed from others. You will have to tighten your purse strings, and avoid any unnecessary expenses, or your bank balance may deplete. In your personal life, you are likely to meet someone with whom you will get on like a house on fire.

Pisces - February 20 - March 20 There will be times this month when the stars are unlikely to favour you, and at such times you may feel that certain things are bit tricky. Ganesha advises you to exercise due caution while dealing with such situations, and especially be very careful of not hurting anyone in word or deed. However, there will also be times when things will be going in your favour. Just remember not to get too elated with the positive developments, or too depressed with the negative developments. These phases keep alternating, like day and night, so try to maintain your equanimity in both kinds of situations. You also need to understand who are your well-wishers and who are your illwishers, because this is a thing that you generally tend to ignore. While it is all very well to treat everyone alike, being aware of who your antagoDisclaimer: This is only a guide and is not directed towards any particular individual and the writer shall not be responsible for anything to do with the article content. nists are will only work in your favour.

34 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

Sagittarius - November 22 - December 22 This month you are likely to face an extra dose of difficulties on all fronts, but don't get disheartened, as Ganesha says that you are not the only one with problems. Everyone has their own fair share of trouble, so take heart and face things confidently. However, to overcome the monotony of your day-to-day life, think out of the box to come up with new ways of carrying out your responsibilities. At first, people may not appreciate your new way of functioning, but by and by they shall get used to it, and even see merit in it. On the financial front, you may come across an opportunity to make some extra cash on the side, but if you think it will involve compromising on your values, shun it. Instead, make efforts at saving more money and investing it judiciously. Back home, things will

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Real Estate News

Courses and training....

Vacancy rates tight but sales increasing

THE Real Estate Institute of Queensland provides various training courses. Some are targeted to those seeking a new career or simply wish to join the exciting world of Real Estate professionals.

Other courses are to help those already in the profession keep improving and growing. We have various delivery options for you and feel our courses deliver the best outcome for those participating.

WHY USE REIQ FOR TRAINING The REIQ is the peak professional association for real estate in Queensland and is the largest and highest quality real estate training provider in the state.

With a state-wide network of training facilities, REIQ can offer convenient access to contact training in most regional centres as well as flexible delivery through distance

FIR ST

RE LE AS E

AT the end of September this year, the divide in rental market conditions between the resource and non-resource regions of Queensland continued, according to the latest Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) data.

The latest REIQ residential rental vacancy rate survey results showed demand within South East Queensland remaining strong, with most markets posting a 2.5 per cent or less rate of vacancy. A vacancy rate of 3 per cent is generally considered to indicate equilibrium of supply and demand for rental property within a particular area.

Meanwhile the areas of Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton and Townsville, where the resources sector plays an important role in local economies, continued to exhibit relatively weak rental market conditions with vacancy rates of 3.5 per cent and above recorded.

Toowoomba again recorded the tightest major rental market in the State with a vacancy rate of 1.3 per cent.

REIQ CEO Anton Kardash said while the rental market remained strong for investors it may experience some reduction in demand from tenants in the months ahead as the Queensland sales market begins to hit its long-awaited stride.

“Over recent months there have been more and more reports in the media about the Australian property market being back in full swing. Indeed, some pundits have used the ‘b-word’ to describe the current sales market, especially in Sydney and Melbourne,” REIQ CEO Anton Kardash said.

“While I can’t speak with any level of authority on the markets of our southern capitals, I do know that Queensland’s property market as a whole is undergoing a more steady sales recovery but we are starting to see some very positive results.

“What is interesting to note is the flow-on effect this is appearing to have on our rental market with responses to our September survey clearly showing an increase in investor activity here, especially in the southeast.

“Additional comments indicate the departure of some tenants and investors from the rental market into the sales market however it is too early to tell if this is a trend which will increase significantly as the months roll on.”

In Brisbane, the vacancy rate lifted to 2.3 per cent as at the end of September. The inner city area recorded a vacancy rate of 2.4 per cent, representing a notable change from levels recorded over the past nine months.

This was due to a number of influences including less international student demand and an influx of new properties into the rental market over the quarter.

Rental conditions in the Gold Coast continue to tighten over 2013, now recorded at 2.2 per cent as at the end of September. One REIQ accredited agent noted that due to the improvement in the sales market, they had seen an increase in the occurrence of investors selling their rental properties.

The vacancy rate for the Sunshine Coast region has been declining over the past year and now sits at 1.3 cent as at the end of September.

Unlike the other major regions in central and northern Queensland, the rental market in Cairns remains at tight levels, having recorded a vacancy rate of 1.6 per cent at the end of September. REIQ accredited agents noted that rental demand is mostly for houses, although there are mostly units available.

The Cairns rental pool is said to be shrinking not only due to the ongoing lack of new residential construction in the region, but because of many properties being sold to owner occupiers.

education and online study. As the professional body, the REIQ is totally committed to excellence in real estate training and all its programs are regularly updated to ensure they meet current legislative requirements and best practice standards.

REIQ training is highly regarded in the profession for being delivered by highly experienced trainers, providing students with the best possible foundation for their exciting and rewarding new career in real estate.

To read all about what REIQ can offer please visit http://issuu.com/thereiq/docs/reiqtraining or look around our site www.reiq.com for more exciting training opportunities.

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Property investors are only human...

By Shannon Molloy - RIEQ Insider

INTERESTING new research about the emotional drivers behind property purchases cements the undeniable reality that investors are just like everyone else – sometimes susceptible to thoughts that go against their better judgment.

“I reckon another $10,000 will get this bad boy across the line,” the agent smiled, smoothing down his slick suit and nudging his Montblanc pen closer towards me. “Just write the new offer amount there and initial it and I reckon it’ll be yours by the end of the night.”

I was sitting in the apartment in question – an oversized, unrenovated gem in an art deco masterpiece that’s fairly iconic in Brisbane. It had so much potential. I could just picture all the things I’d do with a major renovation.

Mostly, I could see myself living there and telling people I lived there. I simply had to have it.

And that’s how I found myself in a silly position where I should have known better – desperate, determined and willing to pay just about anything for this property. To cut a long story short, the deal fell through.

Despite offering more and more on four

occasions, the stubborn sellers still felt they should get more despite a very flat market.

Even though I didn’t get it, I learnt a very valuable lesson on reflection. It’s one many of us discover, it seems.

Research commissioned by the Commonwealth Bank probed the psychology of buying a property and found the majority of people, whether they be homebuyer or investor, are prone to being driven by emotion on occasion.

Psychologist Dr Tim Sharp analysed the habits and attitudes of more than 1,000 buyers and found things as subtle and subjective as ‘the vibe’ of a house can force a decision to buy. Others are inspired to put pen to contract paper according to how they think the property reflects their personality.

Interestingly, most probably don’t realise they’re doing it. Three quarters of respondents reckoned they made property purchase decisions based on rational factors, yet 59 per cent also admitted they were influenced by “the feel of the property” or an “instant attraction” to it.

Sharp says it’s easy to sympathise when you consider the process involved with buying a property investment or a home.

It’s trawling thousands of advertisements online, it’s researching individual suburbs

REIQ elects new board of directors THE Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has elected its new Board of Directors, who will take office from 1 January 2014.

Existing directors Jonathan Blocksidge of Blocksidge & Ferguson Limited; Paul Curtain, principal of Place Estate Agents in Bulimba; Deborah Duffy of Taylor Jones Property in Cairns; and Robert Honeycombe, principal of Bees Nees City

Realty in South Brisbane were all re-elected for another two year-term.

REIQ chairman Pamela Bennett said the return of all of the existing directors who had re-nominated for the board was a reflection that the Institute was heading in the right direction.

After 14 years on the REIQ Board of Directors - including more than four years as its chairman and 18 months as the president of the Real

or properties, then going to dozens of open for inspections and, in a hot market, making offers, being gazumped or shot down and missing out.

At the very least, it’s several weeks of painful and exhausting work that sometimes comes to no avail. More commonly, it’s many months of your life devoted to finding a property. No wonder our clear thought processes can become a little cloudy.

So it’s not overly surprising this research also identified how little we like auctions.

In fact, it found 56 per cent of homebuyers and investors would much prefer to buy via private treaty, which they consider to be less stressful. First homebuyers are more likely than the average to make an offer direct to a private seller and avoid the auction process all together.

“Most buyers (55 per cent) who choose to negotiate directly with a seller do so because they believe they can get a better deal,” the research report says. And another half of respondents believe they’re less likely to make an emotional decision at an auction.

“When we start to look for a property, we have a very clear objective,” Sharp explains.

“For example, it’s needing to get a bigger

house to make room for a new member of the family. But as we go through the different stages of looking for the perfect property, we start to become emotionally connected to different drivers, such as imaging how great it would be to entertain friends and family in this room or how much the kids would love the garden.

“All of this starts to influence the types of properties we become attached to and removes us further from our original objective and, more importantly, in some cases our budget.”

Even the best laid plans can go off course when there’s pressure, stress and emotion involved, so it’s important to constantly reassess your original goals, how they fit in with your strategy and, if need be, take a breather.

Keeping cool is absolutely worth it in the long run. That apartment I came very close to buying, driven purely by emotion, went to market again recently and sold for a smidge less than my final offer to the seller way back when, and it looked exactly the same as it did six years ago.

Shannon Molloy is the deputy editor of Australian Property Investor magazine, www.apimagazine.com.au

Estate Institute of Australia - Ms Bennett opted to stand down to allow a renewal process to take place. The new chairman will be elected next month.

The REIQ Board welcomes two new directors with the election of two former presidents of the Institute. Ray Milton and Mark Brimble will rejoin the Institute’s Board of Directors from 2014.

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Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc – Ved Prachaar by Dr Satish Prakash – 8-10 November - Please come and listen to eminent Prachaarak from USA, and accompanied by Brisbane’s well known Musicians Dr Vijay Prahalad and Table artist Dheeraj Shrestha. For timings and venues please contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit www.aryasamajqueensland.com ----------------------------------------GOPIO 2013 Regional Convention & Women’s Conference - 9 November Venue is Sapphire Function Centre in Blacktown, Sydney. Diaspora Conference, Women’s Conference, reception / dinner.

PUBLIC EVENT - ALL WELCOME. For more information or to register contact Umesh Chandra, GOPIO International Coordinator (Oceania) on 0421 388 465 or email ceo@chantex.com.au ----------------------------------------Queensland Telugu Christian Fellowship – Michael Vijaykumar is coming to Brisbane and will be sharing his testimony – 9 November - 5pm at Church @ the GABBA, 34 Trafalger Street, Wooloongabba. RSVP by 6 Nov (if attending) to brisbanetcf@gmail.com ----------------------------------------Malayalee Association of Qld. Inc presents MAQ BRISBANE INDIAN OPEN - 9 November - at Calamvale Community College sports centre, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale. For more information contact Krishnan Menon 0413 111 181, Dennis Manohar 0402 658 420 ----------------------------------------Bala Samskar Kendra Qld - Balautsav 9 November - An evening of Dance, drams, showcasing Hindu Dharma and celebrating Swami Vivekananda’s 150th Birth Anniversary celebrations by students of Bala Samskar Kendra. 5.45pm for 6pm start at Sunny Bank State High School, Gager Street, Sunny Bank. For more information and ticket prices contact bskqld@live.com.au or call Krrishna 0411 776 509, Priya 0406 730 411 ----------------------------------------Queensland Sangam - Bollywood Dance - 9 November - 6.30pm-11.30pm at Macgregor State School, 370 McCullough Street, Macgregor. Live DJs and lots of entertainment. For more information contact Arvind 0419 256 205 or Ravi 0403 143 984 ----------------------------------------Jvala Charitable and Cultural Society – formal launching of Society – 9 November, 5.30pm at Mary Immaculate Hall, Annerley. We request the pleasure of your presence at the formal launching of Jvala Charitable and Cultural Society. On

Qualified Experienced Hairdresser Required for a busy salon located in Mount Isa, Queensland. Relocation and sponsorship opportunities for the right candidate. Email: dye.with.style.mtisa@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------Hairdresser & beautician required for salon on Southside, must have qualifications / experience. For more details please contact 0432 614 653

NOV 13 / DEC 13 the stage: Bharathanattyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, Oppana, Thiruvathira, margamkali, semi-classical dance and more. Family dinner served to all our guests, Jvala members at a reasonable rate.

In order to avoid any wastage of food we request you RSVP at jvalaustralia@gmail.com or phone 0401 544 741 / 0469 176 003 ----------------------------------------Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Vazhipaattuu Mandram, Brisbane Bajan - 10 November - 5pm-7pm at 1 Lalina Street, Cnr of River Hills Road & Lalina Street, Middle Park. For more information contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483, Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064.

----------------------------------------Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir – Govardhan/Annapurna Puja – 10 November – 4pm onwards at 86 Scott Lane, North Maclean. Everyone is invited to please come and join in this auspicious occasion. Everyone can provide a sweet dish for bhog. Bhajan, pravachan, abhishek, bhog and aarti, etc. 56 kinds of dishes will be provided. Food will be served as well. For more information visit www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au ----------------------------------------Indian Senior Citizen Association – Notice of AGM – 10 November – 2pm at Sunnybank Shopping Town, BCC Meeting Room, Corner of Mains and Compton Road, Sunnybank.

----------------------------------------GOPIO QLD Dinner Reception for Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs - 13 November - GOPIO in Association with Federation of Indian Communities Queensland (FICQ) & other community organisations cordially invite you and your guests to the Gala Dinner with Chief Guest Honorable Vayalar Ravi - India’s Union Minister, Overseas Indian Affairs. Official function 6pm, dinner 7pm. Venue: QUT, Room 360, Y Block, Gardens Point Campus, George Street, Brisbane. Please register by November 8, 2013. For more information or to become a sponsor please contact Shyam Das 0412 031 301 / Dr Prasad 0434 072 608 ----------------------------------------BRISBANE – WE NEED YOU FOR A UNIQUE AUDIENCE! 14-17 November 2013 – Save Your Life Tonight is a new program for ABC1 that will explore the major health issues affecting Australians today. Please refer to page 19 for details.

----------------------------------------Multicultural Community Centre Technicolour Multicultural Festival - 16 November - 10am-5pm 23 Foster St, Newmarket, Diverciti Centre. Be a part of

40 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

PUBLIC NOTICE INDIAN SENIOR CITIZEN ASSOCIATION INC. Notice of Annual General Meeting This is to advise that the Annual General Meeting of the Indian Senior Citizen Association Inc. will be held on Sunday 10 November 2013 at Sunnybank Shopping Town BCC Meeting Room, corner of Mains and Compton Road, Sunnybank Hills.

The meeting will commence at 2:00pm.

Nomination forms are available from the secretary. Nominations and motions if any should reach the secretary, at least 14 days before the AGM. You will need to be a financial member to stand for an official position.

AGENDA:

the grand opening for our 1. Welcome/call to order new community centre 2. Record apologies and learn about all the 3. President’s Report wonderful things the 4. Adoption of last AGM Minutes Multicultural Community 5. Matters Arising from minutes centre does. FREE entry 6. Adoption of Financial Report great day for the family, 7. Matters Arising from Financial report food, celebrity guests, 8. Correspondence 9. President to dissolve committee stalls, live performances, 10. Appointment of Interim Chairperson raffles. For questions or 11. Election of Office Bearers for ten positions queries please email 12. Appointment of Honorary Auditor festival@mccbrisbane.org 13 General Business or call 07 3257 1868 14. Close. or visit www.mccbrisbane.org Secretary, Shakuntla Mohan ------------------------------20 September 2013 Ipswich Ramayan Mandali – Ramayan cultural and community facilitators in Sri Sampuran – 16 November - from Lanka. The annual event aims to create a 6.30pm 7 Weinholt Crescent, Gailes. space for dialogue, exchange and experiDinner will be provided. For more inforence sharing that can support more conmation contact Anen 0421 131 474, Pt. nected and effective community building Suresh 0417 600 854 by creative practitioners. For more infor----------------------------------------mation email info@fermentcollaborate.org Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir – Tulsi or phone 07 3102 3991 / 0413 057 138 Vivah – 17 November – 4pm onwards at ----------------------------------------86 Scott Lane, North Maclean. Everyone Gayatri Pariwar (Brisbane, Australia) is invited to please come and join in this presents for the first time in Brisbane auspicious occasion. Bhagwan Shaligram and Mata Tulasi Viva will be performed by ASHWAMEDH GAYATRI MAHA YAGNA - Prayer for World Peace and Vedic ritual. Agni phera, etc. Marriage Harmony - 18, 19 & 20 April 2014 - in song by famous singer. Vivah will be perthe presence of Shraddeya Dr Pranav formed under the guidance of our dharma Pandya and Shraddeya Shailbala Pandya, Guru Poojya Pandit Tripathis Ji. Food will Head AWGP. 8.45am to 7pm at Mt. be served as well. For more information Gravatt Showgrounds, 1644 Logan Road, visit www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au Mt Gravatt. Program includes cultural ----------------------------------------items, exhibition, interactive thought proArya Pratinidhi Sabha of Qld Inc – voking seminars, yoga and meditation, 201 Vedic Yaj (Havan)– 17 November Kund Yagna. To participate in the 201 10am-12pm at Finnish Hall, 62 Newhnam Kund Yagna or for further information Road, Mount Gravatt. For more informacontact Tirat Achal 0407 620 663 / Ashok tion contact Jitendra Deo 3263 1914 or Kumar 0411 698 972 / Salik Ram Sharma Hari Chand 3345 4716 or visit 3271 5407 or email www.aryasamajqueensland.com brisbaneaswamedh2014@gmail.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Australia - Cultural Festival of India - 23 & 24 The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural November - 1pm-9pm at Clairvaux Association - Gold Coast Bhajan Mackillop Collage, 28 Klumpp Road, monthly Bhajans held every third Friday Upper Mount Gravatt Qld 4122. Enjoy of the month starting at 7.15am at the savoury dishes in the food court, experiHelensvale Community Centre - 31 ence the Faith, Fearlessness and Discovery Rd, Helensvale. Activities Friendliness of a child yogi in a real life include Bhajan recitals, short educational film, Mystic India (in English), entertain presentations and free vegetarian dinner. kids with fun activities such as henna and All are cordially invited to attend. For furface painting...+ much more. For more ther information please contact information contact Kiran Patel 0433 889 Director/Religious Activities, Mr S 926, Dhirubhai Pala 0400 474 215 or Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or Suresh Patel 07 3299 2929 gchcan@gmail.com or visit ----------------------------------------www.goldcoasthindu.org Venesa Matram Symposium – 4- 8 December – The Venesa Matram Continued page 42 Symposium is a networking, skill building and collaboration supporting event for arts,

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Swaminarayan Mandir Vasna Sanstha (SMVS)

9-91-1 from5.00 5.00p.m p.mtoto88p.m p.m 1-12-0 21 03 13Saturdayfrom Sant Pravachan Annakut Aarti Annakut Darshan..... including mahaprasad

23-11-2013 Saturday from 5.00 p.m to 7.30 p.m Divine speech of HH Swamishree Aarti..........including mahaprasad Venue: Salisbury State School, 250 Lillian Ave, Salisbury Contact: Ghanshyam Patel 0433 187 569 Prakesh Patel 0430 724 424 smvsbrisbane@gmail.com / www.smvs.org

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 41

What’s on....Associations / Places of Worship...

BRISBANE BELIEVERS FELLOWSHIP - Zillmere Community Hall, 54 Handsford Rd, Zillmere. Worship time: Every Sunday at 9.30am.

Activities: Holy Communion (First Sunday of the Month), Sunday school, Fasting Prayer, Youth Meeting, Bible Study and Ladies Meeting. Contact: Pastor John Thomas & Mary Thomas, Sanju P. (Secretary) Phone: 0402 551 220 / 0402 907 776 or 0422 815 782 / Email: maryhoney59@hotmail.com Brisbane Christian Assembly, Herston, QLD. - Saturday from 6pm to 9pm. We are praying and God has been doing miracles in many people’s life.

Contact Pastor Prakash Jacob 07 3162 5207 or 0413 347 562. 5/15 Aberleigh Road, Herston QLD 4006 Email: prakashjacob@yahoo.com / Ph: 07-31625207, 0413 347 562 Brisbane Malayalee Association For information contact Secretary Rajni Nair on 0431 299 376 or President Gigie George on 0432 510 045 brisbane.malayaleeassociation@ gmail.com / www.brisbanemalayalee.org Brisbane Multinational Church 757 Gympie Road Lawnton. Church service time is from 9.30am to 11.30am. Special times of prayer for the sick. We will be praying for people with all kinds of sicknesses, needs, spiritual problems etc. This will be followed by free lunch, service time 9.30am -12 noon. For more information please contact Pastor Joseph Dass on 0424 180 240 or Assistant Pastor Shrish Chand on 0450 612 304.

Brisbane Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) 2679 Logan Rd, Eight Mile Plains. www.brisbanesikhtemple.org.au.

Sunday Service 9am to 1pm.

Weekdays evening service 6pm to 7pm including meditation. Mr Baljit Singh Secretary (for all bookings enquiries) Ph: 0412 057 554, Email: secretary@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au. Gianni Kuldeep Singh Priest of Brisbane Sikh Temple (for all religious functions) Ph: 0422 705 936. priest@brisbanesikhtemple.org.au Burnie Brae, a Senior Citizen’s Centre in Chermside, meet on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. Please contact Sandra or Naomi on 07 36242141

Eben-Ezer Pentecostal Church, Brisbane – Sunday School, Prayer & Fasting, Youth meeting & worship (Malayalam) Contact: Pastor Mathew Tharian 07 3165 7617, 0431 413 482 or Eng. Victor George 07 3359 8946, 0413 069 477.

Ekta Women’s Group, meetings last Sunday of every month from 24pm. For further information contact President - Mrs Kushla Sahai 3344 4715, Vice President - Mrs Kusum Prasad 3209 5174.

Fiji Senior Citizens’ Satsang Association of Qld Inc -1 Kensington Place, Wishart 4122.

Monthly meetings held on th last Sunday of the month at 2pm.

Contact President Surendra Prasad OAM 3849 5435, Secretary Raymond Saran 3290 0653.

Forest Lake AOG Church - Hindi Service - Second Sunday of every month - commencing @ 4.30pm.

Cnr of Alpine Place & Forest Lake Boulevard Road. Contact Sudesh on 0401 519 541.

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

Hindu Mandir Association of Queensland - Shree Laxmi Narayan Mandir - 46 Daymar Street, Burbank Qld. Every Sunday 4pm to 6pm - Bhajan/Kirtan, Arati and Dinner is provided. Every 1st Sunday of month from 2-4pm Program by Brisbane Bhajan Group.

All welcome. www.laxminarayan.com.au For further information contact: Resident Priest 07 3216 8848, Rakesh Sharma 0411 289 202 Hindu Society of Queensland Inc. Gayatri Mandir (178 Lyndhurst Rd, Boondall). Gayatri Mandir opens every Sunday from 8am to 11am.

Mandir opens with Punditji. Weekly Programs & Mandir Openings: • Every Tuesday from 7pm Ramayan & Bhajan recitals • Every 2nd & 4th Friday from 7.00pm – Ramayan & Bhajan Recitals. • Open Every Sunday from 9.00am – 12.00pm For further information contact President Prakash Shandil 0408 876 414 Indian Church Service News - Every Sunday 9.30am 11.00am.

Southern Springs Community

WHATÊS ON!

Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - Every Sunday 4 to 6pm Bhajans, Kirtans, Prawachan by Pt Tripathi Ji followed by Maha Prasadam. 86 Scott Lane, North Mclean. www.shreevishnumayamandir.com.au ————————————— Brisbane Super Kings Cricket Club Inc Every Sunday – Currently we have a few more spots available. To join the club or for further information please contact Sathish 0433 922 733, Bala 0450 927 578 or Rajarajan 0431 433 889. Visit www.brisbanesuperkings.com or email sathish@brisbanesuperkings.com

Seminars - Public Talks / Courses / Retreats........

Migration Seminar - FREE - Every Thursday 4pm at NO BORDERS Migration Advocates Level 4/20 park Road, Milton Qld 4064 - Do you qualify for a work via or a permanent residence in Australia? Bring your CV, your qualifications and find out if you qualify and what’s the best option in your case. For registration Call 07 3876 4000...limited seats ————————————— Al-Mustapha Institute of Brisbane - Ilm-eDeen Courses, part-time available. For more information visit www.almustaphainstitute.org ————————————— Brisbane Tamil School Holland Park State School, Bapume Road, Holland Park. For more information on the School please contact President B. Saravanan – saranb@bigpond.com or visit www.brisbanetamilschool.org ————————————— 42 - BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

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

Church 59 Marshall Road, Rocklea.

Contact Ps. Sivanus Naidu (Senior Pastor) 3274 2542 or 0417 197 747 Indian Senior Citizen Association The Committee meetings are held 2nd Sunday of every alternate month from 2pm to 4pm or more often as the situations arise. For further information contact, President: Mr Bir Sahai 3344 4715 / 0411739045, Vice Presidents: Mr Ram Sumer 3349 7238, Mr NK Sharma 3711 4201.

International Congress of Fiji - for more information contact Sarat Maharaj 3263 2093 or 0407 111 709 or visit www.icfi.org.au International Multicultural Christian Fellowship - Worship & Word every Sunday at 9.30am to 11.30am followed by free sausage sizzle - everyone welcome. For full details of events contact Pastor Raj Singh 0407177117 or rajmavisforjesus @yahoo.com.au / www.elevatechurch.org.au Islamic Society of Gold Coast - Cnr Allied Drive & Olsen Avenue, Arundel. For more information visit www.goldcoastislam.com.au Islamic Society of Queensland hosts Zikre Mustapha programme Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. 2nd Saturday of the month at Rochedale Mosque - 2664 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains.

Dinner provided to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact Imam Ali on 0407 156 527, Asif Ali Khan on 0411 516 007.

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

52 Parkway Crescent Murrumba Downs Qld 4503.

Lourde Matha Malayalee Community Every month Malayalam Mass (Qrbana) in Brisbane. For more information about upcoming events. Contact Fr. Thomas Areekuzhy 4697 3177 youth coordinator. Siju Mathew 0432 192 558.

Malayalee Association of Qld – For a detailed list of upcoming events, contact the President C K

Oonnikrishnan Nair on 0416 927 100 or ckuknair_maq@hotmail.com E: maq@brisbanemalayalee.org or visit www.brisbanemalayalee.org.

Melmaruvathur Aadhiparasakthi Brisbane Mandram - For more information contact Sakthi Para 0438 778 483, Sakthi Jayanthan 0402 907 064 or Sakthi Kalyanasundaram 0411 165 067 Nexus Church - 151 Flockton Street, Everton Park Qld. For more information please call 07 3353 1377 or visit www.nexuschurch.com.au Public Zikre Mustapha programme - Program starts from Maghrib to Isha Prayers. Last Saturday of the month at Logan Mosque - 260 3rd Avenue, Kingston. Dinner provided free to all after Isha Namaz. For enquiries contact the chairman Mr Nawab Khan on 3209 4627 Queensland Fiji Football Association - QFFA - For more information visit facebook: QueenslandFijiFa or visit www.qffa.com.au Queensland Telugu Association For a list of upcoming events and membership information, please contact: Secretary, Mr Sai Gollapudi on 0409 907 934 or email saigollapudi@yahoo.com Sant Mat (Sant Baljit Singh) - Sant Mat is a practical path based on meditation on the inner Light and Sound, ethical values, service to others and love for all creation. For further information contact 1800 462 193 or visit www.santmat.net.au Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir - 86 Scotts Lane, North Maclean, Qld 4280. Our Dharam Guru Param Pujya Pundit Tripathi Ji resides at Shree Vishnu Maya Mandir. Daily opening Hours: 7-11am / 5-8pm.

Every Sunday: 4 to 6pm. Bhajans / Kirtan, prawachan, Prasadam and Maha Prasadam. For more information contact 0481 238 360 Sri Selva Vinayakar Koyil (Ganesha Temple) and Hindu Education Centre - 4915 – 4923 Mt Lindsay H’way South Maclean. Temple Opening Hours: 7:30am – 11:00am and 5:00pm – 8:30pm. Pooja times – Weekdays 9:00am and 7:30pm.

Weekends 9:00am and 6:00pm.

Contact President Vimal “Vic” Ratnam 0411 594 394, Temple Priest 07 5547 7302. For full list of upcoming events please visit

www.sriselvavinayakar.org St. Thomas Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church Brisbane Malayalam Holy Qurbono, Sunday School and other spiritual activities.

Holy Qurbono celebrated by Rev. Fr. Jigi Varghese at 2pm on the third Saturday of every month at St Mary’s & Joseph’s Coptic Orthodox Church, 2 Hamish Street Calamvale Qld 4116. For more information about upcoming events and activities please contact: Dr. Joy Pynadath 0431 631 397, Joy Mathew 0403 114 470.

The Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Association - Gold Coast Bhajan monthly Bhajans held every third Friday of the month starting at 7.15am at the Helensvale Community Centre - 31 Discovery Rd, Helensvale. For further information please contact Director/Religious Activities, Mr S Barataraj on 0417 588 839 or gchcan@gmail.com or visit www.goldcoasthindu.org.

TOUCH Group of families Program includes Bollywood dance, Sri Lankan dance, Saomoa cultural dance, fashion show, musical program. Anyone who would like to join can contact touch.families@gmail.com or call Sripathy & family 0432 768 607, Vijekumar & family 3823 4628.

Vaishnav Sangh of Qld. For more information email tvsoqld@hotmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/groups/tvsoq Varnam Cultural Society (Qld) Inc. For more information call Rajarajan 0431 433 889 / Ayyapann 0418 909 825 or email varnamqld@gmail.com What’s on is your Council guide to what is happening in Brisbane. www.brisbane.qld.gov.au> Women of Light Our purpose … is to equip women for Life, by providing opportunities for personal growth, believing that every women is valued as a role model to her family, her work, her church and her community. We meet Every alternate Thursday at 11.00am at 3, Montserrat Place, Forest Lake and Buckby St, Nundah. Contact – Mavis, 0418 745 179, 07 3879 973

NOV / DEC 13

Chinmaya Mission Australia – Family programs every Sunday morning at Holland Park State High School from 10am-11.45am.

Balahivar classes for children and teenagers and gita classes for adults are conducted under the guidance of spiritual teacher, Bramachari Gopal Chaitanya. Please visit www.chinmaya.com.au or email brisbane.info@chinmaya.com.au ————————————— Hindustani Language School conducts lessons in Hindustani language and Indian Culture every Saturday from 2pm to 4pm, at both its major centres at Calamvale Community Intermediate College, 11 Hamish Street, Calamvale and Boondall State School, Roscommon Rd, Boondall. Hindi is our mother tongue. Students of all ages wishing to learn: * Hindi Language *Indian Culture * Dance & Drama * Music * Leadership and Personal Development Contact: Secretary Jay Haripersad on 3243 7062 - Vice President Mul Chand on Mobile 0418 461 960 - or President Sarat Maharaj on 3263 2093 or Mobile 0407 111 709Lotus Ashram - Free yoga lessons every Friday at Sunnybank Primary School, Glendower Street, from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. Donations are welcome. For details, email ambashram@gmail.com ————————————— Thaai Tamil School – Tamil Classes – Conducted weekly at 2 locations – 1.

Sunnybank State High School, Cnr Boorman & Turton Streets, Sunnybank. Saturday 2.30pm5.30pm. 2. Centenary State High School, 1 Moolanda Street, Jindalee. Sunday 2.30pm5.30pm. Contact 0423 730 122, thaaitamilschool@gmail.com or visit www.thaaitamilschool.com www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

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THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 43

Bollywood & Entertainment I see the next SRK in my Kannada director Rajendra son AbRam: Shah Rukh Babu passes away KING KHAN, who is ruling the Bollywood industry, says he sees the next Shah Rukh Khan in his son AbRam. When asked who in the young set of actors has the capability to be the next Shah Rukh Khan, he said: "I see the next SRK in AbRam, but it will take time."

He said he has dedicated this year for small things and little happiness.

"Each year, we run after to achieve something big, may it be big films, awards ... I know it is all important and its been 22 years and I have decided to focus on small things. In the race of catching big things, we miss small things," SRK said.

"This year, I want to spend time with my children. I look forward to spending quality time with my children. They are growing older and getting busy in their own lives, so I am trying to get into it.

So, I have dedicated this year for small little happiness, " he added.

The actor who has achieved everything in life says on the professional front he has not achieved everything.

"On the professional front, I have not achieved everything. There is a long way to go. I try to get better with my each film and I will continue to do that till my last breath."

TOI

BANGALORE, 3 November, 2013: Noted Kannada film director and screenplay writer D Rajendra Babu died of heart attack, family sources said. He was 62.

"My father suffered a heart attack in our residence and we rushed him to M S Ramaiah Hospital. The doctors there declared him brought dead," Nakshatra, daughter of Babu, told reporters here. He is survived by wife and two daughters. Nakshatra said her father was suffering from low sugar and had not been keeping well. The director has directed over 50 films invarious genres, major being sentimental films.

He has written and directed numerous blockbuster films, though major of them are remakes.

Considered one of the most revered directors of Kannada film industry, Babu has also directed a few Telugu films and a

Malayalam film. He has also directed a Hindi film "Pyaar Karke Dekho" in 1987 with Govinda and Madakini playing the lead roles.

Condoling the death, Shivarajkumar, son of late Kannada film icon Rajkumar said Babu was the finest director and his death was a great loss for "Sandalwood". Ramya, actor-turned politician, said Babu was a very affectionate person and actors felt free in his company while shooting.

Actor-director Upendra said Babu's death was quite unexpected. "May his soul rest in peace", he said.

Some of Babu's notable works are " Nanu Nanna Hendathi" (1985), "Olavina Udugore" (1987), "Ramachaari" (1991), Ramarajyadalli Rakshasaru (1990), Halunda Thavaru (1994), "Appaji" (1996), "Diggajaru" (2000), "Amma" (2001), " Encounter Dayanayak" (2005) and "Bindaas" (2010).

Q & A with Bollywood's Superhero Hrithik Roshan....

1. You are undoubtedly one of the biggest stars in Bollywood obviously doesn’t come easy, where does your determination and passion stem from?

My family has been my biggest inspiration – they are my true role models and they continue to be. My parents through to my grandparents have seen and experienced all shades of life, the good, the bad, and always faced any situation God presented to them fearlessly together. We share a unified bond which I also instill in my own little family with my wife children.

2. 2013 sees the third instalment of Krrish, a franchise that you are renowned for, what can the audience expect?

I think the audiences are going to be in for a treat with Krrish – if you loved the first two films, you will adore this edition.

Krrish is our home production and it was like coming home. I did miss Krrish’s character.

3. What are your thoughts on Superhero movies created in Bollywood?

The Indian cinema industry is among the best in the world and has created movies of par excellence for years. Being our home production, Krrish 3 will master the superhero genre in Indian cinema and internationally. That is the vision with Krrish 3, to present a superhero entity that will appeal to all audiences globally, in the same zest and fervor that they appreciate other superhero films like Superman and Batman. I am very sure that regardless of the language Krrish 3 is shot in, the performance, narrative and overall content will help extend the film’s appreciate to audiences over and beyond the Indian market and global South Asian Diaspora.

We have already seen this happening with the phenomenal appreciation we received for the film’s trailer which set a benchmark, garnering more views than that of Hollywood film trailers like Thor and Avengers. We are very excited to see the audiences’ response.

4. People like Hrithik as a dancer, the dance seems to be missing in his movies these days, is it intentional?

Not at all! However clichéd this sounds, I guess the scripts I’ve currently been working on just haven’t demanded any breakthrough dance sequences. But never say never though! Krrish 3 does feature some notable iconic moves which will become synonymous of Krrish 3.

5. Filmmakers from Bollywood have tried to make superhero movies before and they haven’t been as successful, what are you doing that is so different?

I feel the Krrish franchise has worked as we have listened to the audience, not just in India but globally. We always aim to

deliver a film to them that we hope will appeal to their tastes and aspirations. I never like to operate with an insular mind-set. To produce a superhero film, one key factor to remember is that the focus should be on creating a connectivity between the narrative, the characters and the audience as the story of the superhero him the person. There is a hero in everyone. The focus should not be to make a superhero film that boasts style through special fx and never before seen technology but no substance. A balance needs to be met.

Also Krrish is really not about me. To make a film like this you need a team. An actor is nothing, he is a tool, he is the paint, but you need the painter to make it work. Our team is so strong on Krrish 3 and this is the key to our success. You cannot simply rely on the fame and popularity of an actor to make a film such as this.

6. With the huge amount of excitement generated from the trailer for Krrish 3 expectations are very high, how do you deal with that?

I am very ecstatic and truly humbled by the views the trailer has generated. For me I am glad that the expectations are high as when audience have high expectations it only pushes you to stretch yourself to do more for them. I enjoy a challenge and I think that Krrish 3 presented us with a lot of difficulties, but you only get out what you put into a film and I am very happy with the finished product.

7. Krrish 3 will be the third time that you have played the superhero, do you feel that you have many similarities to Krrish in real life?

A superhero is about values, not about the costume or the powers. A superhero is someone who never gives up and is in service to others. I think I have the right attitude to be a superhero, to try and come through for those that depend on me.

8. Some of the special effects that we saw in the trailer are truly breath-taking, how much time was devoted to making these sequences?

My father wanted to do all of the special effects in India, it is common in Indian cinema to outsource the special effects for a film to other countries, but my father and I believe that we have the talent in India and that we just need to give them the support and time they need to make a polished and believable finished product. The sequences that you have seen in the trailer are the

44 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

result of this and I think they look fantastic.

9.

We hear that Krrish 3 has several market firsts. Please elaborate.

Yes! We have initiated key brand extensions for Krrish 3 which is really going to help create a greater connect with audiences.

From animation, merchandise, digital and comics, we have a full breadth of products to deliver to audiences. We launched Kid Krrish recently, a series of 4 animated features being aired on Cartoon Network. Kid Krrish is the story of Krrish in his childhood who sets out on an adventure with his set of friends.

Kid Krrish along with adventure and action also imparts life lessons of friendship and loyalty. It is the first Indian film / character to be adapted in an animated form. It is also the largest television deal in the animation space. On the merchandise front, we have Krrish live Action which will have unique merchandise ranging from Krrish Masks, wrist bands to first of its kind Consumer Electronics like Walkie Talkies, Music accessories and RC toys (Flying Krrish). The way we have structured the deal is market first in India and will be a more sustainable merchandising programme with a more longer term mindset. We also have an extensive digital activation plan which will help our fan base be closer to the film and Krrish himself, more than ever before. I am also extremely excited about our forthcoming comic book series, Krrish: Menace of the Monkey Men, which will be released as a comic book magazine available in stores later this year.

10. We hear that Krrish 3’s filming schedule was pretty testing. Could you elaborate please?

Krrish 3, is one the most difficult films of my career. I play various characters. If I wanted victory again, I’ll have to go through the battle again. The finest steel must go through the hottest fire was my modular during the shoot. It Was Difficult Playing Many Roles In Krrish 3.

The script has been such that it challenged each and every character and department from the production to the creative.

11. What else would you do if you weren’t a Bollywood actor?

I cannot imagine doing anything else than being a profession that allows me to develop and expand my creativity. I know it sounds clichéd but I love what I do and I do what I love! It really is in my DNA and

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whatever my parents, grandparents, uncles achieved in this industry is an intrinsic part of my make-up. I have had the opportunity to live multiple lives in one lifetime and through the power of cinema did my small bit to touch a chord with the world and form an indescribable bond.

12. Being the superstar that you are, how difficult is it finding the right balance between your personal life and filming?

It can be extremely difficult being away from family when I’m at work, but I do try and see my family as much as I can as they mean a lot to me. I guess it’s crucial to prioritize time accordingly. It doesn’t matter how much time you spend with your family, it’s never really enough. But coming from a family where filmmaking runs through our veins, we do understand the pressures associated with work thus the understanding between us as family and for our work always helps us to strike that important balance.

13. Your body is obviously very important to you, as millions of women have probably noticed. Do you have any tips for our readers trying to fight off the Christmas weight?

I work out a lot and have a strict diet and exercise regime that I follow religiously.

Being fit isn’t just about being physically strong but also mentally. My fitness workout is a major release for me, in a way it’s my way of chilling out!

14. You have millions of fans the world over, whom are you the biggest fan of and why?

It’s going to be difficult to pinpoint a particular place. All the fans around the world have been so supportive and loving; I just can’t thank all my fans for the ongoing support.

15. Being at the top of the industry, how do you keep yourself so friendly and approachable?

I have always believed in being a good human first and foremost. My parents have brought me up with great morals and values; life is too short to create negative surroundings and feelings. Like they say ‘treat others how you’d like to be treated’.

Furthermore, the persona I have has only been created by my adoring fans – I am here in this industry and now presenting Krrish 3 only because of them.

16. What else can audiences look forward to seeing from you?

2013 was a busy year with Krrish 3 and the filming of Bang Bang with Katrina.

2014 is another year packed with lots of exciting projects including some other ventures outside of the film industry.

Sterling Media Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Bollywood & Entertainment Bollywood box office grim after six flops in a week

Image: The Stone with Three Eyes.

APSA launches 2013 Children’s Film Fund -

AS many as six films released on Friday 25 October, but none of them could excite the viewers at the box office. Mickey Virus, which marked the debut of actors Manish Paul and Elli Avram in Bollywood, was the most talked about movie among those that released Oct 25. But the buzz wasn’t sufficient to make the audiences catch the film.

Mickey Virus collected Rs.4.75 crore (early estimates) net in its opening weekend,” posted trade analyst Taran Adarsh on Twitter.

Directed by Saurabh Varma, the comedythriller has been made on a budget of Rs.11 crore, inclusive of publicity and advertising.

Other movies that hit the theatres were

Shekhar Ghosh’s Sooper Se Ooper starring Vir Das, Gulshan Grover, Deepak Dobriyal, Kirti Kulhari and Yashpal Sharma; director Babloo Seshadri's Wake Up India; Ishq Actually, which brought former TV actor Rajeev Khandelwal on the big screen once again; crime drama Bull Bulbul Bandook; and Amdavad Junction by director Apurv Bajpai.

“None of the movies performed well at the box office. The occupancy was extremely low. Average must have been only 10 percent. Weekdays were even worse. I don’t think they will be played next week. The slots will most likely be given to Krrish 3,” Puneet Sahay of Spice Cinemas told IANS. HT

Ranbir Kapoor excited releases first image for fund to work with Govinda supported feature film The Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) today opened the 2013 APSA Children‟s Film Fund for submissions. The fund, which offers two AU$20,000 grants annually, was established in 2011 by APSA and their Academy member Butch Jimenez‟s Manila-based 4 Boys Films.

As submissions open for their third year, APSA is also very pleased to release a „first look‟ image (above) from the 2011 APSA Children‟s Film Fund supported feature The Stone With Three Eyes by Chinese Tibetan filmmaker Songtaijia.

The fund aims to provide script development support to children‟s feature films that carry positive, life affirming messages specifically for and about children of Asia Pacific. The grants are exclusively offered to APSA Academy members with the intention of stimulating the development of their, and their Asia Pacific colleagues‟, feature film projects.

The APSA Academy comprises some 600 of the region‟s most respected filmmakers, growing by approximately 100 new members each year with the induction of APSA nominees, international jury and nominations council members.

This year‟s submissions close on Friday 15 November, offering 2013 APSA nominees (to be announced in early November) the opportunity to submit their new film projects for consideration. The successful grant recipients will be determined by a distinguished three-member panel with the winners announced at the 2013 APSA ceremony on 12 December in Brisbane, Australia.

4 Boys Films founder Butch Jimenez was inducted into the APSA Academy in its inaugural year as the producer of 2007 Best Children‟s Feature Film nominee The Bicycle. The fund was established in honour of his four sons: Miguel, Benjamin, Joaquin and Mateo.

“I‟ve always believed that children‟s films have a unique power to influence young

hearts and minds,” he said.

“My hope is that the partnership with APSA will encourage Asia Pacific‟s filmmakers to make more children‟s movies to bridge cultural divides and leave a positive mark on the next generation. It‟s exciting and rewarding to see the grant come of age as the first round of films near completion.”

Songtaijia was granted AU$20,000 in 2011 for The Stone With Three Eyes which is now nearing completion. The film is a moving tale of redemption and a quietly powerful contemplation on the Buddhist concepts of attachment and impermanence. It is the story of three generations of a Tibetan family whose relationships have been distorted by historical, ethical and cultural wounds as seen through the eyes of a little girl.

Songtaijia was inducted into the Academy in 2011 when he was nominated for Achievement in Cinematography for Old Dog. “My gratitude to the Asia Pacific Screen Awards for infusing new vigour and dreams into Asia Pacific children's films with sincerity,” he said.

Other Academy members to receive past APSA Children‟s Film Fund grants are renowned Indonesian director Garin Nugroho for The Seen and The Unseen, Indonesian producer/director Nan Achnas for Beautiful Shadows and New Zealand producer Ainsley Gardiner for The Song Jar. APSA is managed by economic development board Brisbane Marketing in a unique collaboration with Paris-based UNESCO and FIAPF-International Federation of Film Producers Associations.

The awards are the region‟s highest accolade in film, recognising and promoting the cinematic excellence and cultural diversity of the world‟s fastest growing film region: comprising 70 countries and areas, 4.5 billion people, and responsible for half of the world‟s film output.

A NEW film, Jagga Jasoos, will bring the 1990s popular star, Govinda, and current heartthrob, Ranbir Kapoor, together on screen for the first time. The two will play father and son in the detective drama.

“I am very excited about the film because we all have been influenced by Govinda as an actor and dancer. For me, him playing my step-father is really an exciting opportunity,” says Ranbir.

Jagga Jasoos also marks Ranbir’s foray into production.

Ask him whether he found the process challenging and he says, “I don’t have any pressure as a producer. I am working with Anurag Basu, and we have certain ideology about films. We are here to make a good and entertaining film,” says the actor whose last film, Besharam, fell flat at the box office.

This will be Ranbir’s second film with Basu post the success of Barfi! (2012). The film will also see Katrina Kaif in a lead role. The last time they were seen together on screen was in Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009).

HT

Vidya Balan, Farhan Akhtar unveil first trailer of Shaadi Ke Side Effects

ACTRESS Vidya Balan and actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar, who are sharing screen space for the first time, unveiled the first trailer of their film, Shaadi Ke Side Effects, on Monday 29 October. "It was wonderful to be part of the film and to work with Farhan. He is also a fellow Capricorn.

There are many Capricons in the film. I had a great time and I must say Farhan's comic timing is amazing," Vidya told reporters here during the trailer's launch.

Shaadi Ke Side Effects, a sequel to, Pyaar Ke Side Effects, presents the story of hus-

band and wife (played by Farhan and Vidya) and how they deal with life's complexities.

When Farhan, who is married to popular hair expert Adhuna, was asked whether he had ever lied to his off-screen wife, he said: "I would like to avoid your question. I think it's a philosophy which works for some people but, in personal life it doesn't work for me."

The movie, which will release Feb 14, is directed by Saket Chaudhary.

HT

'Gori Tere Pyaar Mein' first look revealed

DIRECTOR Punit Malhotra has revealed the two posters of his forthcoming movie "Gori Tere Pyaar Mein", starring Imran Khan and Kareena Kapoor.

Their attire and backdrop are a combination of city and rural lives.

Going by the look of the posters, it seems Imran is playing a city-based guy and Kareena is acting as a simple girl from village dressed in salwaar kameez.

In the first poster, Imran and Kareena are seen sitting opposite each other on a broken bridge as their eyes meet. The Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

poster goes well with the tagline of the movie "Only love can bridge the gap".

In the second poster, Imran is standing next to Kareena, with a clay pot on his head, while the actress is seen striking a pose next to him. The actors are standing on a bunch of hay and the background shows a bridge in a city.

Kareena's bright coloured clothes definitely get one's attention.

Punit, who has worked with Imran in "I Hate Luv Storys" will be working with Kareena for the first time.

He revealed the first look on Twitter and captioned the posters as: "With a lot of love and passion we've made a film..

Here's the first look ... Our first two posters."

The cast and crew of the movie recently finished shooting in Bhuj, Gujarat.

This is not the first time Kareena and Imran are sharing screen space. They were seen together in slice-of-life 2012 movie "Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu".

Produced by Dharma Productions, "Gori Tere Pyaar Mein" is set to release Nov 22. www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 45

Sports News

Vic Arora from India wins 6th Baisakhi Golf Open at Gold Coast, Australia

Courtesy Qld Indian Golf Federation

Closest to Pin was won by Mr Raj Kalsi and Mr Bhavneet Sohal both from Brisbane.

In the handicap format, Mr Bhavneet Sohal from Brisbane was Nett Winner while Mr Gurpal Sohal of Brisbane was declared Runner Up. Mr Rupinder Singh Sandhu of Brisbane, Dr. Harjinder Dhindsa of Canberra and Mr Sunny Grewal of Sydney were declared the Most Improved Players.

th

Baisakhi Golf Open championship 6 was organized by the Queensland Indian Golf Federation and Australian Punjabi Sports and Cultural Club (APSCC) at Mercure Gold Coast Resort and Palmer Colonial Golf Course at Gold Coast, Australia on 5th and 6th October, 2013.

The tournament was sponsored by King’s Institute of Management & Technology Brisbane, SinghCorp Brisbane, Caltex Erina, Black & White Cabs, Neighbourhood Tax Agents & Accountants Brisbane, Express Approvals Sydney, Yellow Cabs Brisbane and Runsmart Brisbane. The event was held over two days with social golf play on Saturday the 5th October followed by dinner and entertainment in the night. Participants consisted of members of both Indian and

Australian community. 61 Golfers from all over world participated in the event.

Mr Baltej Singh, CEO of King’s Institute of Management & Technology Brisbane, Mr Ricku Gill, Chairman of APSCC, Mr Teginder Dhaliwal, CEO of Futura Internet Services, Washington DC and Mr Manjeet

Batth from Chicago, released the tournament souvenir.

In the Stroke Play format, Vic Arora from Mumbai, India received the winning trophy (King’s Cup), while Mandeep Dhillon from Brisbane came 2nd. The Longest Drive was won by Mandeep Dhillon of Brisbane. The

In the end Mr Swinder Sandhu thanked the participants, sponsors and media partners (especially Pardes Express, The Punjab and Brisbane Indian Times) while Mr Baltej Singh presided over the award presentation ceremony & congratulated the organizing committee for successfully conducting the tournament.

Ned Flanders Cricket Club welcomes back Summer!

Matt Young

THE jacarandas are in bloom, the sunset is radiating those golden summer hues just that little bit later in the day and the men of the Ned Flanders Cricket Club are dusting off their cricket gear. It all adds up to the inescapable fact that summer is upon us. And everyone knows that when summer arrives, it means just one thing and that is that cricket is the talk of the nation. The cricket kit bags are being opened for the first time in six months and the pungent smell of stale sweat, leather, willow and perhaps just a whiff of mildew is wafting around homes all around Brisbane. Aging men are considering if perhaps this might just be their final cricketing summer and their wives and girlfriends are voting for a positive response to this vexing introspective question.

The proud men of the Ned Flanders Cricket Club have all answered this question with a resounding “we are not fading away just yet” and have started the 2013-14 season in great touch. In the first game of the summer, they faced The Flamingoes.

Most of last season’s team has been retained and the squad has been strengthened by the belated come back of Damian Cagney. A true cricketing journeyman, “Damo” has returned to our sunny shores from a ten year stint in South Korea. During his time there he found himself playing and then coaching and managing their national team. Of course as soon as he returned to Brisbane, his first priority was to reacquaint himself with the men in the baggy maroon caps and he soon found himself out at Riverview for our first game of the season.

Flamingoes batted first and accelerated nicely in their latter overs to make a respectable 8 for 180 from their allotted 35 overs. For the Neddies, megastar Brendan Dillon claimed four scalps, while Benny Field grabbed a pair of poles. Club icon Mickey Menagh also bowled well at the death to take a couple of handy wickets.

In reply, the Flanders lost a steady stream of wickets and 46 — THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

• Fresh from the Korean peninsula, Damian Cagney joins Mick Menagh to triumph for the Neddies!

found themselves teetering on the brink of oblivion at 7 for 104, before Benny Field (60) and Cagney combined for a vital 59 run 8th wicket partnership. After the quick loss of Field and Pearce, Cagney showed off the lessons he had learned on the Korean peninsula and with the batting bunny and stalwart number 11, Menagh, he added a nail biting 17 more runs for the 10th wicket partnership to drag the team over the line for their first ever one wicket victory in 17 years of cricket. His final majestic lofted cover drive to the white picket fence of Riverview Oval will permanently be etched in the memories of his very excited and grateful teammates.

The following weekend the Neddies took on St Paul’s, a team they had last met in last summer’s One Day Grand Final. On that occasion the Flanders had a comfortable win after bowling the competition new boys out for just 51. On this occasion, the Flanders continued their domination thanks to a sterling knock by Leo Yin, who made a brilliant 83. Ben Field (44 not out) and big “Chookie” McMurtrie (66 not out) also chimed in with some brutal www.indiantimes.com.au

hitting to allow the Flanders to post an imposing 5 for 246 from 35 overs. Then it was the turn of the Neddy bowlers to help the club out. Vasudevan and Harris bowled tight spells, before Derksen and Field put the screws on even tighter. Menagh again chipped in, but it was left to youngster Jon Pearce to take the spoils with some dazzling off spin. His 4 for 42 was the pick of the figures. The catching is worth mentioning. Steve Derksen took a majestic running one handed catch at long on to claim the final wicket. Earlier, Ryan Hocking took yet another screamer at first slip. His form in the slips last season was phenomenal and he has started this season in similar fashion.

This catch was taken high and to the right of where a second slip may have been as “Ryano” snaffled it with his giant right mitt.

Round Three saw the team have a bye and then Round Four pitted the Flanders against long term bitter rivals St Bart’s. St Bart’s had finished second behind the Neddies in last season’s A Grade 2 Day competition and after some handy recruiting from other clubs in the off season, had great ambitions aimed at toppling the maroon capped high flyers. Sadly for the challengers, the Flanders roared out of the blocks and dispatched the Bart’s bats for just 80. Adam Harris, the monolithic paceman, ripped through the top order to snare 3 for 31, before reliable Benny Field rampaged through the middle and lower orders to snaffle 4 for 23. He was on a hat-trick twice and was desperately unlucky on both occasions not to claim this unique honour. Leo Yin’s catching was gymnastic and freakish. I then had the privilege of opening the innings with Hocking who made a brutal 42 not put to seal the game in just the 17th over, leading the Flanders to an emphatic seven wicket triumph.

So after three matches the proud Flanders club remains undefeated and on track for their seventh straight Churches Cricket Association One Day title. Although the quality of the cricket is not quite up to that seen in the One Day series in India at present, the Neddies are certainly having a ball playing our own matches and they are all keeping a keen eye on proceedings from the IndiaAustralia series.

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

Sports News !

Nadi wins Queensland Fiji Football Association (QFFA) IDC Tournament C

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NADI was crowned the giants of & & % % % again % % % % % % % they % % % % % % % % Queensland Soccer once when % % IDC Soccer % %organised % won% the QFFA tournament on Sunday 27th October at Acacia Ridge. The four day tournament which commenced on Thursday 24th Girmit October comSoccer Tournament prised of seven local premier teams and five s D 21 masters teams who all fought $8000 for apool top money four – Winner $6000.00AUD finish to make it to the semi-finals on Referees – qualified R Football Brisbane Sunday.

Nadi and Suva looked11favourites to N be P in the grand final as both teams displayed some brilliant soccer.

50 minutes.

2x5 minutes Extra Time. Penalty Shoot out will Eight teams qualified for the semi-finals c the premier after three days of pool play. In 60 Minutes.

10x2 minutes Extra Time. Penalty Shoot out if no competition it was Labasa and Ba from r Pool B. In Pool A and Nadi and Suva from Thursday 21s the masters competition it was Lautoka, Nadroga, Ba and Labasa.

With top teams qualifying, skills, fitness and courage was paramount in the semi ! finals% as% the games % % picked % % up % %momentum % % % % % % % % % % knowing that % % %the losers % would % %get knocked % % % % % % % % % out %of the% tournament. % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % In the % Masters % % semi-finals Ba defeated Nadroga by 1-0 and booked their spot in the % finals who % after % Labasa % % % with % % a % 1 %all %draw % % % % % % % % beat masters kicks % Lautoka % % % %in penalty % % 4-2. %Year % 2013 % has% been % one % % % chalof% the most Meanwhile premier % division % % in the % % % % Labasa % % % % % % % % lenging years % for QFFA, starting with the % a dominant Suva side defeating overcame % them 1-0 and Nadi displayed quality against Grimit tournament in February, Organising %5-2. % % %Men % % % % % % the QCUP, % % % QFACT, % % %QBOG and % % QIDC. % Ba %defeating in Black made % % the % Grand % % Finals, % % % %15’s, % under % Decisions % % being % %at 1am % % during % % the Before under executive meetings, plans being developed % % % Under % %8’s soccer % took % % % with % % 10’s and place % over 75 players from BA, Lautoka, Labasa on how we achieve our goals for the year, % % taking % part. % % % % a great % % out- % how % % % how% to% advertise % to% attract% sponsors, and% Nadi This was % % Bto encourage % % #% "% %be said % 4% continues % % % %via %social % etc, it % can % / % that media come as% QFFA the % %%%% % % % % % % % % % 2013 % % will % % be % remembered % for many great kid’s% soccer. % Next year we would like to % tournaments and achievements. But it’s not organise a kids Tournament on its own, % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % work in% progress.

All kids who participated over yet. As you all may know that there is % % % % % % % % % in the junior competition were awarded gift a Pacific Cup tournament being played in ! bags from Go Natural. QFFA would like to Auckland on weekend of the 22nd of thank the following for their support November. Our Queensland team has been towards our Kids. invited and we accepted the invitation.

1. Go Natural Pty Ltd, for the awesome Queensland Fiji Football Association will bars and twisters be taking a team to NZ. 2. Snack Right, Mr Viran Kumar 3. Robins Foods, Mr Riaz If you would like to support in any way or 4. Office works Woolloongabba, Mr even travel with the team please contact our Howard Sutton and Reginald Yaqub senior vice president Mr Jitendra Prasad 5. SRS (QLD) Pty Ltd, Mr Nay Raniga 6. MAJANS Pty Ltd, Mr Dhirendra Raniga on 0402422777 or Mr Abi Sharma on This was followed by the Masters final 0435962545 between defending champions Ba and Moving forward it will be injustice if I do Labasa. Ba having majority of the possession and opportunities displayed good soc- not name the hard work executives of the cer but not good enough for the class QFFA. Labasa displayed, Labasa scored a classic President – Mr Aveen Singh goal which was enough to seal the victory. Vice Presidents In the premier’s Grand Finale, it was - Mr Jitendra Prasad Labasa taking on defending Champions - Mr Rajnish Padarath Nadi. Some soccer greats have come out - Mr Faiyum Khan and said that this was one of the best final - Mr Avinash Singh witnessed in a long time at a QFFA - Mr Vineet Raj Tournament. Nil all at first half was not a Secretary – Mr Abi Sharma usual score line for the Nadi team who usually score early. In the second half with Treasurer – Mr Irshad Ali both sides putting pressure it was the Nadi Mr Raynold Ali (Non-executive vice keep Jagrit Kumar Sinha who kept Nadi in President, Assisting the Secretary) the game with 3 quality saves. It was even- Mr Umesh Prasad (executive) On behalf of all the executives mentioned tually the golden son of Nadi Shoheel Khan who squeezed the ball pass the Labasa above, I would like to take this opportunity keeper to score the only goal of the Grand to thank all the clubs, their presidents, officials, players, supporters, parents who have Final. Nadi won 1-0.

Labasa can take a lot from this final and supported the kids during the kids games, tournament. Not just the Premiers and volunteers who have helped at the canteen Masters team but the entire club of Labasa especially the support from club Lautoka. were on display. With hundreds of support- Special thanks go to Mrs Shabnam Ali who ers, players, junior teams, parents Labasa tirelessly helped out all year round in the have started something which other teams canteen, with the kid’s soccer, awards and envy. Well done Team Labasa. gift bags for the kids. Our Media partners Some very talented players and teams were Brisbane Indian Times, Thank you Mr awarded at the tournament Umesh Chandra and Ms Trudi Tarres for all 1. Player of the Tournament – Qais Khan your support. Our Club Patron Mr Sadhu from Nadi (Who just turned 16 beginning Prasad, Thank you for being at every tourof the year) 2. Young talent of the Tournament – nament and at every game during the year.

Jayden Prasad from Suva (who also If I have missed acknowledging someone / anyone, thank you for all you help and supturned 15 during the year) 3. Fair Play – Sanjeev Henny (Sam) from port.

Suva 4. Man of the Match in the Grand final – All the best to the QLD team going to Pacific Cup. Jonathan Dylan Marraiya from Labasa 5. Keeper of the Tournament – Jayshneel Have a safe and lovely festive season. See you all in season 2014 Roy from Labasa 6. Fair Team – Labasa Vineet Raj

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102

• Nadi IDC Champions 2013.

Labasa IDC finalist 2013.

www.indiantimes.com.au

THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013 — 47

48 - THE BRISBANE INDIAN TIMES, November, 2013

www.indiantimes.com.au

Call Trudi on 07 3356 0102