Nepalese Voice May 2014 - Issue 12 by Nepalese Voice

Nepalese Voice Australia

linking Australia to Nepal ----------------------------------------------------

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Vol 02 | Issue 12 | May 2014 | www.nepalesevoice.com.au

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My Language My Pride Nepali acquisitions inaugurated in Moreland City Library

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46 | COVER STORY

Nepalese Voice

October 2013 | May 2014

Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community Editorial

Contents

Labour Day: Labouring for change

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! The 125th International Labour Day was observed on 1st of May. The day comes once every year to mark our innate sense of fairness and equality, and our willingness to campaign for work liberalisation. It is the day we celebrate the winding back of the exploitation and oppressive working conditions. It is also a time for us to pay tribute to the efforts of the labour movement which brought the dignified By Ramjee Poudel and respectful working environment for us to enjoy at present.

It is a time when workers should be able to celebrate the consolidation their rights, ustralia had its 44th of general elecincreased wages and benefits, thimproved worktions on September 7 to the House ing conditions, and the general progress of the of representative and senate under labour movement. Unfortunately, even now, the Commonwealth of Australia Constitumost workers are forced to lament the absence tionof Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal any such gains. While workers globally and observing National International Liberal won May 58 and seats Day,22 thousands respectively making it 90sectors for Liberal National of workers of different are deprived Coalition giving 35basic seathuman advantage even from their rights.against In one hand, manyAustralian of the countries in Party. the world are the opponent Labor reluctant toleader ratify various of the Subsequently, of the conventions Liberal National International Labour Organization (ILO)inand Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn as UN and in another hand the for implementation a Prime minister of Australia next three of existing national and international laws in years. many countries is very poor.

Ramjee Poudel | Editor Email: editor@nepalesevoice.com.au

a mere holiday sans substantive discussions.

Whether they are the workers building World Cup stadium in Qatar or the Sherpas that lost their lives climbing Mount Everest last month, there are millions other example where the Nepalese workers’ rights are compromised for capital gain. Economic development being undertaken for its own sake rather than to improve the lives of common workers. Therefore, the plight of workers around the world by and large continues as they are still forced to work under appalling conditions with no freedom, equity, security and dignity.

Our Hidden Treasures, Our Pride | 8

Australian media covers a Nepali’s success story | 16

We hope that this year’s observation of the International Workers’ Day will change the course and strengthen workers to continue our struggle for a better world. We also hope international labour standards will ensure the growth of the global economy provides benefits to all. Level playing field for all the workers around the world is the need of the hour.

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Both major political parties made an attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates in their election campaign. Labor intended Nepalese New Year Program to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Finally, on the occasion of International LaYeti FC FFV State 5for lower concluded with new hopes & Kumar fromjoins Menzies in Melbourne In the history of Australian elections, bour Day, my thoughts are with those Nepali Division for 2014 | 34 Political parties, their affiliated organizations, house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber aspirations | 30 two major parties Australian Labor Party migrant workers who have lost their lives in trade unions and labour unions celebrate the in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four and The Liberal Coalition have dominated foreign countries during work. I would also day as a landmark for the establishment of South Asian origin candidates jostling for the lower house. Since the foundation of the like to extend my condolences to those who their rights. Speeches are made, marches were Disclaimer : the seat in parliament, three of them from got killed in last month’s Everest Avalanche. Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have done, but have we done enough to improve All the articles and photos published in Nepalese Voice are not necessarily endorsed by the Victoria. Green also had four candidates Hope your sacrifices will help us make better formed everyplace government this year was the work conditionsand for people around publisher. Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony AbbottAll copy rights reserved to Nepalese Voice. No materials are to be copied and environment for future generations to work for them, the mostphotographs prominent being no different. the world, the answer will be no. Even more reproduced without the consent of Nepalese Voice.running All the articles, information, in. Happy Labour Day. Alex from Batmanthat electorate from and advertising material published in Nepalese Voice areBhathal on the understanding the supplier so from Nepalese perspective. The continuous Melbourne’s North. South Asian origin stood up in the election “Heaven is blessed with perfect rest but the has obtained the necessary copyrights and grant permissions to Nepalese Voice to use them. Record Number of South loss of lives many NepaleseParties migrant workNumber ofof Political blessing of earth is toil. Best wishes on Labour Interestingly enough it lies is the newer and Any liability or misunderstanding arising from failure to obtain such permission entirely representing different political parties or as ers in Qatar is an evidence that International Asian and Subcontinent proliferated and exclusively with theof provider. The publisher does not known guarantee the qualities of products Day to all Nepalese around the world” Labour Day might have just been confined to lesser parties that had stronger presindependent for the seats both houses. candidates This election Voters got spoiled for services advertised in big Nepalese Voice. to ence of South Asian candidates representing This and number may not seem compared This year’s election remained quite signifchoices as the number of registered politithem. Newly registered Palmer United Party the wide range of political platforms across icant for Asian and Subcontinent community cal parties have more than doubled since had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Australia; but this certainly indicates the as we witnessed largest number of candidates the 2010 election, and is at a record high. Subcontinent origin candidates standing in increasing Subcontinent interests in mainfrom the region actively participating in Many termed the proliferation of parties a election. stream AustralianColumnists politics. Publisher : Nepali Voice Pty. Ltd. Contributors/ : Bishamthe Thakuri (Sydney) the election. A total of 26 candidates from triumph for democracy, and the other called Executive Editor : Ramjee Poudel Radhika A. Poudel it opportunistic individuals and groups Graphic Designer : parties wereRakesh Maharjan Nabin Pokhrel (UK) seeking publicity. More political this year’s Result Web Designer : Rupert Gurung Bhadra Sharma (Nepal) registered to contest the federal election than Community Liaison : Bom Yonzon KamalNational raj Chapagain(Norway) ever before, with the Australian Electoral Party NSW VIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT NT Won Last Election Commission approving the most: applica- Tara Gaire Marketing/Distribution Sushil Pandey Australian Labor Party 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 tionsAdelaide since party registration was: introducedHem Khanal (0401 572 176) Representative Nepalese Voice welcomes Community notices, newsletters, free write ups Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 73 in 1984. As the entry criteria made Darwin Representative : too easy Basudev Marahattha (0420 800 432) and feedback including information about errors and suggestions to 24 more parties registered with Australian 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 58 44 Nepal Representative : RajendraLiberal Upacharak (Nepal Editor) 23 Electoral Commission than Federal election editor@nepalesevoice.com.au Advisors : Dr. RajuLiberal Adhikari National Party 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 2010. Dr. Jagadish Timsina Office: 28-32 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000 The Nationals 7 2 0 Chefs 0 lead 0 the0 way 0 in 0 9 7 With some interesting names and getting (Sydney) Postal Address: G.P.O. 5466, Melbourne, VIC 3001 manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Rishi Acharya Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0Australian 0 0 PR 0| pg 34 1 1 1 Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Austral-Dr. Anupam Pokhrel Contact Number: 0449 913 133 The Greens 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 ian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted Palmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the BubIndependent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 blers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party Australia. Amongst the new entrants the Palmer United Party and the Katter’s Australian party left its entry mark in Australian politics with one seat each in their hand. And while 54 registered political parties may be a record high, given the two-party system and the rarity of minority governments, it’s still low when compared with some other countries.

Not yet determined

TOTAL

150

DECLARED

two party count nationally Party / Coalition

Votes

Percentage %

Swing %

Australian Labor Party

5,069,128

46.63

-3.57

Liberal/National Coalition

5,802,835

53.37

+3.57

(Although the Australian government has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.)

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CoverSTORY story 66 | COVER

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community

Nepali Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! acquisitions inaugurated in Moreland City Library By Ramjee Poudel

section of the library. As an inaugural

Number of Political Parties collection, five hundred books, periodicals, DVDs and local Nepalese newsproliferated

This have election Voters gotavailable spoiled for papers been made for choices as The the number of registered lending. initiative comes as politia result cal have more than doubled since of aparties year long perseverance of Nepalese the 2010 election, and is at and a record high. Association of Victoria some comMany termed the proliferation of parties a munity individuals, particularly Soltriumph for democracy, and the other called angture’s Raju Shakya and local literary it opportunistic individuals and groups Anupam Sayar. More political parties were seeking publicity. Today’s inaugural program was than registered to contest the federal election attended by individuals and the repever before, with the Australian Electoral Commission most applicaresentativesapproving of variousthe community tions since party As registration was introduced organisations. a chief guest, the in 1984. As the entry criteria made too Mayor, Councillor of Moreland cityeasy 24 more parties registered with Australian council Lambros Tapinos congratulated Electoral Commission than Federal election Nepali community on this important 2010. milestone and said the council is proud With some interesting names and of the library facilities and what it offers manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle to its residents and is always looking Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, AustralforSports ways to expand the ian Party, Bulletthem Trainto fortailor Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics andcommushooters needs of growing multicultural and Fishers Partyhis took part. Some even voted nities. During speech, Mr Tapinos for Party, Coke in theto BubalsoAustralian revealedSex a prospective plan forge blers party, Help Marijuana Kathmandu as end a sister city ofProhibition Moreland. party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party He said “it’s on agenda and we are in Australia. Amongst the new entrants the talks with the relevant agencies to form a Palmer United Party and the Katter’s Australsister cityleftpartnership with Kathmandu ian party its entry mark in Australian Municipality”. politics with one seat each in their hand. Chinwhile Tan,54Chair of Victorian MultiAnd registered political parties may be a record high, given the two-party cultural Council praised Moreland system and the for rarity of minority governCity Council acting vigilantly on ments, it’s stillthe lowneed whenofcompared identifying growingwith Nepsome countries. aleseother population around the area. He

stressed “this symbolizes, the library is for people from all backgrounds and an initiative such as this reinforces our social cohesiveness.” “I would love to see

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Photo: Mila Creations a Turkish boy pick up a Nepali book”, ies in modern world as a unique source Mr Tan added. of information. As the chief guest of the program, The program was also attended by Honorary Consul General of Nepal to the President of Nepalese Association Victoria Mr Chandra Yonzon acknowlof Victoria Mr. Sudhir Shakya, former edged Moreland City Council for their President Mr. Bom Yonzon and the initiative and thanked everyone that has representatives of Didi Bahini Samaj Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott played a part to reach “Nepali Collection” to the fruition. He also expressed South Asian origin stood up in the election Record Number of South his gratitude to Bhutanese Community representing different political parties or as Asian Subcontinent membersand for their unparalleled supindependent for the seats of both houses. candidates port along the process. Mr Yonzon also This number may not seem big compared to This year’s remained quite signiftouched uponelection the importance of librarthe wide range of political platforms across

icant for Asian and Subcontinent community as we witnessed largest number of candidates from the region actively participating in the election. A total of 26 candidates from

Australia; but this certainly indicates the increasing Subcontinent interests in mainstream Australian politics.

Party

NSW VIC

Australian Labor Party

Liberal/National Coalition

Photo: Mila Creations

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next oreland city council hasthree years. introduced Nepali acquisiIn the history of Australian elections, tions in its library at Coburg two major parties Australian Labor Party attributing to the corresponding needs and The Liberal Coalition have dominated of the rapidly populathe lower house.growing Since theNepali foundation of the tion around the area . A program Liberal Party in 1944, these two groupswas have held onevery 15th government of April at Coburg formed and this Library year was no to different. officially mark the opening of Nepali

this year’s Result

Liberal

Both major political parties made an attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates in their election campaign. Labor intended Victoria, Dr Sabitra Kafle and Kusum to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Pokhrel. Nepalese nationals occupy over Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower one percent of total population Morehouse and Bhupinder Kumar frominChibber land city council and the Nepali collecin NSW for senate. Liberal however had four tion atAsian Coburg Library is expected be South origin candidates jostlingtofor instrumental in keeping them connected the seat in parliament, three of them from Victoria. also had candidates to NepaliGreen language andfour literature. running for them, the most prominent being Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from Melbourne’s North. Interestingly enough it is the newer and lesser known parties that had stronger presence of South Asian candidates representing them. Newly registered Palmer United Party had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Subcontinent origin candidates standing in the election.

QLD

TAS ACT

National

Won Last Election

Liberal National was Party A program

0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 held on 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 at Coburg Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 Library to officially mark the opening of Nepali The Greens 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 section of the library. As Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 an inaugural collection, Palmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 five hundred books, peIndependent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 riodicals, DVDs and local Not yet determined 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Nepalese newspapers TOTAL 48 37 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 have been made availaDECLARED 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ble for lending. The initiative comes as a result of two party count nationally a year long perseverance Party / Coalition Association Votes Percentage % Swing % of Nepalese of Victoria and some Australian Labor Party 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 community individuals, Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 particularly Solangture’s (Although the Australian government has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the Raju Shakya and local proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) literary Anupam Sayar. The 15thNationals of April

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Nepalese Voice Australia

cover COVERstory STORY | 77

May 2014 | October 2013

Locals elated:

We can give it a go! With the establishment of Nepali section in the library, we feel that our attempt of more than a year has finally come to fruition. We conceived this idea when we started “Sahitya Sangeet Jamghat” over a year ago. We have already been running “Mobile Library” during our monthly literature gathering at the Coburg library. However, having permanent Despite increasing South aAsian representaNepali section within the tion in mainstream Australian council politics, no library give us Nepali haswill yet risen up better to this accessibilchallenge. As of books. So community we will playinaAustralia, very theity fastest growing it would have been see someone constructive roletimely in thetodevelopment from into the andthe thecommunity promotionadvancing of the Nepali mainstream section inpolitical Coburgplatform library. to voice our concerns to a government I would like to see level. the library “We are relatively new in compared include books on religion, litera- to other South Asian Community, most of our ture, history, geography and so on. population is a first generation migrants That way we will have better library and has survival as the first priority however We shouldawareness now takeand this weexperience. don’t lack intelligence, processto ascompete an example and follow education and integrate intosuit in rest ofpolitics. the state accommodate Australian It istonow the need of hour scattered Nepali population. that someone begins chipping it away” says a This step is also significant for community leader. A political science studentglobal from Latrobe Nepali authors in getting University says “the awareness of political exposure. People wanting to do participation is directly related to Nepali the history some research on Nepal and of cultures migration. Lack of benefit familiarity with the will also from this. political system would translate into lack Most importantly, new generations of participation.” In our case, we have hundreds of Nepali community now has a focal point for Nepali language and literature.

of Nepalese who have made noteworthy achievements in businesses and academia, many hold extensive backgrounds and distin“Sahitya Sangeet Jamghat” guished careers, we have produced hundreds will play a constructive role of affluent personalities but we are lagging political participation. in its development” That said, off late we are starting to see many Nepalese youths showing promises -Anupam Sayar leading the community. that is a stepof Local Literary and theAnd Co-ordinator closer for us to be able to capitalise on Sahitya Sangeet Jamghat the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. We can do this and all we need to do is to give it a go. Unlike in the US where many Nepalese have gained clout in mainstream politics, such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for congress in 2012 election, we are still to have the privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in Australia. As a community we are hungry for the real leadership. Hopefully the day comes sooner than it looks.

Being a person that is very passionate about Nepali literature, this is the proudest moment for me. We live in Australia and there is always a risk that our future generation forget our language and culture. It’s quite appreciable for us that the Moreland City Council recognised Nepali language and agreed to have Nepali language in the library. I have several Nepali books and I can’t wait to donate it to the library.

Despite the fact that online reading is slowly taking over the traditional books, I still think conventional way of book reading still has a long way to go. The charm of borrowing a book from library is special. So I hope that many Nepalese living around the area will visit the Coburg library for books. I want to thank people that worked so hard to make this possible. Looking forward to borrowing my first book.

“It’s the proudest moment for

“Conventional book reading way to go ”

-Parbati Pahari, Poet/Author

-Binod Ghimire, Local Literary

Dr AliNepalese Khan - Liberal from left) during his election in(second Victoria.” still hascampaign a long

South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election Candidate

Party

Position

Electorate

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

Alex Bhathal

Greens

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Dinesh Jayasuriya

Greens

HOR

Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

promises leading the community.

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Menzies

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Scullin

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Wills

Gurminder Sekhon

Greens

Senate

Binoy Kampmark

Wikileaks Party

Senate

And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. We can do this and all we need to do is to give it a go.

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feature STORY 86 | COVER

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Our Hidden Treasures, Nepalese community Our Pride

Record number of South Asian candidates International Labour’s Day Special Time for us to give it a go! By Ramjee Poudel

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history Anjana Regmiof Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

mean women in other kinds of workomen’s participation in the places from factory floors to the Federal labour market is significantgovernment are not worthy of reportly changing compared with age. For this article I am simply sharing yesteryears. A combination of changes success stories of our hidden treasures in gender roles, access to justice, equal in Australia, in their own words, hence opportunities for education, and freeplease stay with me. dom of mobility is setting platform and Out of total population of 27.47M creating opportunities for our women in Nepal, total adult literacy rate is 57.2 to excel in both personal and profes(65.7 per cent of females) but only 80.4 sional lives. The International Labour per cent have joined the labour force Day in itself is a day of recognition and (UN Human Development Report, acknowledges those who contribute to 2013). GDP per capita average annual the overall prosperity and well-being of growth rate of Nepal from 1990-2012 is an individual, family, community and a 2.3 per cent. Population below internanation. Thus, participation of women in the labour market should not to be taken tional poverty line of US$ 1.25 per day (%) 2007-2011 is 24.8. Simply interpretfor granted either. What defines “work” ing these figures show women are no and which activities should be paid to longer subordinate to men; however, reflect women’s contribution in GDP is debatable. On the same note, it’s time we facts compared to figures do not always reflect positive changes in many developbow our head respectfully for full time ing nations. In Nepal, women are rarely homemakers, as I cannot dare discount Recently elected Prime Minister Australia Mrrecognised Tony Abbott as a primary breadwinner their efforts in weaving a socialoffabric. in many families, improvements on However, this article is solely focusing South Asianoforigin stood up in theto election Record Number of South the status women continues be a on women’s participation in the labour representing different political parties or as market. Having said that, it also does not battle. In Australia, irrespective of work Asian and Subcontinent

candidates

This year’s election remained quite signife, my (Bishnu Singh) icant for Asian andhusband Subcontinent community and largest I, arrived in Australia in as we witnessed number of candidates 2009actively on a student visa; with from the region participating in lots the election.and A total of 26 candidates from of dreams in search of opportunities,

independent for the seats of both houses. This number may not seem big compared to the wide range of political platforms across Australia; but this certainly indicates the increasing Subcontinent interests in mainstream Australian politics.

place reforms and Flexi-working hours, women’s participation in many areas is still less pronounced. Therefore, what interests me the most is to hear what it’s like to cross the ocean to achieve one’s dream, coming from one of the world’s most underdeveloped countries? that since 1945 the Research A totalshows of 26 candidates most from non-English speaking South Asianbackground origin women who have migrated to Australstood up in the election. ia have come as dependents of men as wives, daughters and mothers. This is due to the Australian government’s immigration and policies Both majorprograms political parties made anto attempt toentry inculcate Southwith Asianappropriate candidates assisting of males in their election campaign. Labor intended skills. In the context of Nepalese, mito capitalise on voters by recruiting gration of skilled women was lowManoj to nil Kumar frompossibly Menzies due in Melbourne lower back then, to the lowforlevel house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber of education. Today, this is changing. in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four Saying marketable, skillful and qualified South Asian origin candidates jostling for women toparliament, enter the labour is the seat in three ofmarket them from not lacking may nothad befour an exaggeration. Victoria. Green also candidates In sayingforthis I asked a few women to running them, the most prominent being Alex Bhathal from Batmaninelectorate describe their journeys Australiafrom and Melbourne’s what are theNorth. three things they advise to Interestingly enough is thepositions? newer and others aspiring to be inittheir lesser known parties that had stronger presence of South Asian candidates representing them. Newly Palmer UnitedofParty fter registered completing Bachelor had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Dentistry from India and workSubcontinent origin candidates standing in ing as a full-fledged dentist in the election.

Nepal, my journey in Australia began but left our daughter (Shuvani) back in Newith a marriage and I started from pal. The fear of upfront tuition fees, work scratch. Balancing newly married life this year’s Result limitations, so called culture and lifestyle and attempting a registration exam Party NSW toVIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT NT National LastofElection got the best of us, but we both promised (known toWon be one the toughest board Australian Labor Partytogether. Luckily 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55exams) kept 72me on my toes. As the achieve our destination we both got our dream jobs in the same Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 90saying goes, 73I had to sacrifice, give up company and gathered wealth of expericomfort and convenience to achieve the Liberal 23 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 58 44 ence. Within two years, while on a student goal. Successfully completing my clinical Liberal Nationalour Party 0 - Af-0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22ADC examination 21 visa, we launched family venture came with a big price; The Nationals 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 family of three separated to fordable Shipping Pty Ltd. Highly ambimy beautiful tious as it may sound, we had NO tangible Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 live in two1different cities in Australia, assets; only IDEAS and STRENGTH and in Nepal. ADC clinical The Greens 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 and son (Aarav) 1 nothing more. Nonetheless, we nailed on examination was a mammoth. However, Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 marketing strategies. there was no giving up. Palmer United Party 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Life has turned around, today,0 I am 0 My husband, Suman Adhikari is a Dr Sarita Adhikari, 0 I 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 blessing of4my life, whose faith and belief aIndependent home based business woman, and BDS (India) occasionally visit our office that is0 run 0 Not yet determined 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 has helped- me enjoy work-life balance. Dentist, Village Dental by my husband. Fortunately, there is no skilled migrant, I’d say: TOTAL 48 37 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 For aspiring Clinic and Aboriginal looking back. plan, define and seriously consider DECLARED 0 0 0 0 Services 0 0 0 0 0 Medical Therefore, for aspiring students, I your professional goals- you may need suggest to: perseverance to bypass hurdles two party count è è concentrate on your nationally studies first set goals - goals may only be achieved that/ Coalition is what you are here for in the when you have hope and believe that you Party Votes Percentage % Swing % first place can accomplish it and Australian Labor Party 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 èè develop a sense of purpose, so identido not give up - keep trying, even Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 fy your personal strengths when there seems to be no help at all èè have faith and workgovernment hard – transi(Although the Australian has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the tion as arepresentation new student migrant can be proportional and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) tough

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feature COVER STORY | 79

May 2014 | October 2013

n 2009, I arrived as a permanent resident in Australia with my small family (husband- Prabin Sharma and son- Utsav Sharma). Subsequently, I commenced a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering at University of Technology Sydney (UTS) with the Australian Post Graduate Award. My four year tenure as a PhD student here gave me plenty of opportunities to explore academia; which was a roller coaster ride, but amazingly there are 6 publicaof Nepalese have made academic noteworthypeer tions on anwho international achievements in businesses and academia, reviewed journals. Meanwhile, we were many hold extensive backgrounds and distinblessed with our daughter (2002) and I guished careers, we have produced hundreds willingly a 6 months break. During of affluenttook personalities but we are lagging all these years my husband has been my political participation. biggest who me Thatstrength said, off late wehas are supported starting to see at every stage, youths his faith and confidence many Nepalese showing promises leading the made community. AndI am that today. is a stepI in me has me who closer formy us to be able to on and express gratitude tocapitalise my parents thelaws democratic platform provided by our in who arrived here for a support. adoptedforward country,Ithe great nation Australia. Going aim to achieve an exWe can do this and all we need to do is to cellence in teaching and research. As an give it a go. earlyUnlike career mymany suggestions inacademic, the US where Nepalese for aspiring academics are to: politics, have gained clout in mainstream è è always believe in yourself, never such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for conyour competencies gressdoubt in 2012 election, we are still to have the privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in è è overseas academic and professional Australia. As a community arerole, hungry qualifications plays a we great so for the real Hopefully day comes takeleadership. pride in sharing thethe information sooner than it looks. be optimistic and hit the ground

Happy mother’s day

We can give it a go! Vol 02 | Issue 12 | May 2014 | www.nepalesevoice.com.au

Nepalese Voice Australia

linking Australia to Nepal ----------------------------------------------------

COMPLIMENTRY COPY

Despite increasing South Asian representation in mainstream Australian politics, no Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As the fastest growing community in Australia, it would have been timely to see someone from the community advancing into the mainstream political platform to voice our concerns to a government level. Dr Bandita Mainali “We are relatively new in compared to Bhusal, PhD (UTS) most of our other South Asian Community, Lecturer, Latrobe population is a first generation migrants and has survival as first priority University intheFaculty ofhowever weCivil don’t lack intelligence, awareness and Engineering education to compete and integrate into Australian politics. It is now the need of hour that someone begins chipping it away” says a community leader. A political science student from Latrobe University says “the awareness of political participation is directly related to the history of migration. Lack of familiarity with the political system would translate into lack of participation.” In our case, we have hundreds

Dr Ali Khan - Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign

Listening to their stories, I agree and accept there several other factors that may be limiting our participation in a labour market. Nonetheless, I found beauty in telling the untold stories of our modest, humble and silent highfliers who are making us proud of the achievements in their world; women whose journey was not a cake walk, yet never gave up.

South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election “Ladies, if you identify yourself with any of the above then please contact me, I’d love to cover your story.” Candidate

Party

Position

Electorate

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

Alex Bhathal

Greens

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Initial - Registration Course for Overseas Registered Nurses IRON Dinesh Jayasuriya Greens HOR Gorton

promises leading the community.

1349 already graduated with us

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on the democratic platform provided by our adopted

ææAre you a registered nurseScullin in your country? country, the great nation Australia. Liberal HOR We can do this and all we need to Shilpa Hegde HOR Wills enroll in the ææDo youLiberal have an AHPRA letter to do is to give it a go. Gurminder Sekhon Greens Senate bridging program? Binoy Kampmark Wikileaks Party Senate Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Menzies

Jag Chuga

Then ETEA is the college for you. ETEA will assist you to complete the IRON program (If you have IELTS of 7in all bands or OET B in all bands)

Enroll NOW! At a special price! ALL students will be eligible for SPONSORSHIP, TRAINEESHIP OR CONTINUED STUDIES CRICOS Code (vic) 02925E, RTO number - 5089

We have intakes every month for IRON program for 2014.

ETEA Students no longer need to return home Many employers from Hospitals, agencies, Nursing Homes are recruiting ETEA students

Don’t miss the opportunity and for more information, E-mail: Lakshmi at lakshmii@etea.edu.au inclusion, integration & collaboration through media...

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ASTROLOGY 6 | COVER STORY 10

Nepalese Voice

October 2013 | May 2014

Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community Horoscope May 2014

Aries

You will socialize more this month. As the negative battles begin to fizzle out, you are faced with some big career decisions. You are also in the mood for hanging out with local people and you could find some great opportunities for bargain hunting and business dealings. Average month for love and relationships.

able to take on more leadership roles, network with colleagues, and sell your ideas to various groups of people. You are finally being heard and can take advantage of the situation.

Virgo

Much of the drama of the last couple of months is fading away and you are finally able to focus on the things that matter. Your career and finances are benefitting from all of your hard work and effort. And you have some excellent social energy happening within your local community that allows you to have some fun and mingle with good friends.

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towards achieving your financial and professional goals, so you do not mind too much. During the second half of the month, you start focusing on a romantic, social, or professional partnership. Eventually, the two of you launch a new project together or create a new partnership.

We would like to thank our readers for the love and acceptance shown towards us. During this journey we have tried to ensure every Nepali household in Australia have an access to our publication. Further strengthen our commitment to deliver the best community news, views and reviews, we have opened up a subscription facility for you.

Capricorn

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! Libra Aquarius Taurus

Health complications likely to occur. This is not the time for loaning money to friends or engaging in group or Internet based financial transactions, but job related earnings should be strong and moving in a positive direction.

By Ramjee Poudel Gemini

You have spent a lot of time in recent months thinking about what others think and what they want from ustralia hadcontemplating its 44th general elec-want, you. You’ve also been what you the House tions September 7th to what brings youon happiness, and what creates peace of ofare representative mind. You ready to make and somesenate changesunder in your the Commonwealth of Australia Constitulife starting with yourself.

tion Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and NationalCancer Liberal won 58 and 22 seats much of drama of the National last few respectively So making it the 90 for Liberal months begun against to drop Coalition giving 35 has seatalready advantage away.opponent You are ready for a more compassionate, the Australian Labor Party. spiritual, intuitive, and forgiving attitude, National but you Subsequently, leader of the Liberal are butting heads with your own or someone else’s Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as beliefs about cultural, religious, legal, political, and/ a Prime minister of Australia for next three or academia. years. In the history Leoof Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party As most of the recent professional and The Liberal Coalition have dominated dramas are fading away, you are now the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

Most of the drama from the last few months has fizzled out and that leaves you with even more time to focus on professional and financial goals and achievements. You are ready to go on vacation, relocate to another city, begin attending college classes, or in some other way to broaden your horizons and open your mind to new ways of thinking.

Scorpio

One of the hardest things for Scorpios to deal with is infidelity and trust issues. Unfortunately, this month, you are dealing with suspicions. You could simply be seeing trouble where none exists. The good news is that during the final days of the month, you get an opportunity to launch a new relationship.

Sagittarius

You have some mild work related stress during the first half of the month, but you are able to work

The month starts out really rough. Just about everyone you know is ticked off about something. The good news is that things are rapidly turning around during the second half of the month and you are entering into some very productive and smart business energy.

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Your home life or someone in your private life is clashing with your professional goals, but they are also helping you to find solutions to the various professional issues you have been dealing with over the last few months. So, maybe a parent, roommate, or close family member is complaining about how much of your time and energy all of the drama at work is taking from your ability to focus on home and the family.

Annual A total of 26 candidates Subscription: $50 from South Asian origin stood up in the election. Half Yearly Subscription: $30

Pisces

As all of the battles between your finances, playtime, and social life fizzle out, you should find that your finances are beginning to improve and you are ready to spend time focusing on your home, roommates, parents, a home-based business, home-improvements, and/or private life. You are ready to make a fresh start in this area of your life.

Both major political parties made an attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates Email us on in their election campaign. Labor intended to editor@nepalesevoice. capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Kumar from Menzies Melbourne for lower com.au or callin us house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber on 0449913133 in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four South Asian origin candidates jostling for the seat in parliament, three of them from Victoria. Green also had four candidates running for them, the most prominent being Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from Melbourne’s North. Interestingly enough it is the newer and lesser known parties that had stronger presence of South Asian candidates representing them. Newly registered Palmer United Party had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Subcontinent origin candidates standing in the election.

Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott

Record Number of South Asian and Subcontinent candidates

This year’s election remained quite significant for Asian and Subcontinent community as we witnessed largest number of candidates from the region actively participating in the election. A total of 26 candidates from

South Asian origin stood up in the election representing different political parties or as independent for the seats of both houses. This number may not seem big compared to the wide range of political platforms across Australia; but this certainly indicates the increasing Subcontinent interests in mainstream Australian politics.

this year’s Result Party

NSW VIC

QLD

TAS ACT

National

Won Last Election

Australian Labor Party

Liberal/National Coalition

Liberal

Liberal National Party

The Nationals

Country Liberals (NT)

The Greens

Katter’s Australian Party

Palmer United Party

Independent

Not yet determined

TOTAL

150

DECLARED

two party count nationally Party / Coalition

Votes

Percentage %

Swing %

Australian Labor Party

5,069,128

46.63

-3.57

Liberal/National Coalition

5,802,835

53.37

+3.57

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May 2014 | October 2013

COVER STORY | 11 7

We can give it a go! Despite increasing South Asian representation in mainstream Australian politics, no Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As the fastest growing community in Australia, it would have been timely to see someone from the community advancing into the mainstream political platform to voice our concerns to a government level. “We are relatively new in compared to other South Asian Community, most of our population is a first generation migrants and has survival as the first priority however we don’t lack intelligence, awareness and education to compete and integrate into Australian politics. It is now the need of hour that someone begins chipping it away” says a community leader. A political science student from Latrobe University says “the awareness of political participation is directly related to the history of migration. Lack of familiarity with the political system would translate into lack of participation.” In our case, we have hundreds

of Nepalese who have made noteworthy achievements in businesses and academia, many hold extensive backgrounds and distinguished careers, we have produced hundreds of affluent personalities but we are lagging political participation. That said, off late we are starting to see many Nepalese youths showing promises leading the community. And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. We can do this and all we need to do is to give it a go. Unlike in the US where many Nepalese have gained clout in mainstream politics, such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for congress in 2012 election, we are still to have the privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in Australia. As a community we are hungry for the real leadership. Hopefully the day comes sooner than it looks.

Dr Ali Khan - Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign

South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election Candidate

Party

Position

Electorate

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

Alex Bhathal

Greens

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Dinesh Jayasuriya

Greens

HOR

Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

promises leading the community.

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Menzies

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Scullin

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Wills

Gurminder Sekhon

Greens

Senate

Binoy Kampmark

Wikileaks Party

Senate

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6 | COVER STORYNEWS 12 community

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community South Asian Community Link Group( SACLG) AGM held, Dr Raju Adhikari Vice President

The South Asian Community Link Group held its Annual general meeting on 30th March in Melbourne and set its agendas and goals for the next two years. The meeting also elected new executive team. According to which, President Mr. Angpal Singh LLB ; Vice President Dr Raju Adhikari; Secretary Dr Manjula O’Connor; Assistant Secretary Mr Parsu Sharma Luta ;Treasurer Mr Satinder Chawla; Executive members Mr. Deepak Vinayak; Mr. Farukh Huseein; Mr. Ross Pelligra; Cr Chandran Bhamunusinghe have been elected. The committee is formed to represent the spirit of SACLG and multiculturalism of Australia. SACLG was founded in May 2010 with the aims and objectives of bringing the members of South Asian countries or SAARC regions as a group to advocate issues relating to Poudel migrants of the South Asian or SAARC countries which include India, NeBy Ramjee pal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan , and Australia is invited as the host country . SACLG primary is to enhance ustralia had itsaims 44th general elec- harmony and peace in multicultural Australia by bringing together migrants from different countries th tions on September 7 to the House SACLG aims to promote understanding of South Asian cultures in the broader of representative and senate under Australian community. Each Member the Commonwealth of Australia Constitu- of the Executive represents their country and tion Act,the 1900. In thisstrength election, of Liberal brings cultural their community to the table. and SACLG National supports Liberal won 58 and seats other key22organizations work in promoting support services for respectively making it 90 for Liberal National migrants from South Asia.

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! Nepali helpdesk launched in Adelaide

Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

Nepali Help Line Desk has been set up in Adelaide, Australia to provide required informations to new Nepali migrants in the state. The desk has come into operation with the support of Nepali Consulate office to SA, Non-Resident Nepali Association South Australia and Nepal Adelaide.com. The Help Line Desk aims to provide necessary supports to Nepalese who arrive Adelaide in the course of employment and studies. The idea of the help desk was conceived due to series of events where Nepali new comers to

Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott

Record Number of South Asian and Subcontinent candidates

A total of 26 Australia are found to candidates have been fallen from South Asian origin victim of informations shortage. The Help up Linein team all Nepastood theurges election. lese to contact it for any kind of support and counseling they need. The Desk especially offers Nepali major parties made anjob newBoth comers anpolitical assistance in finding attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates and accommodation. Contact no for the in their election campaign. Labor intended help desk : to on voters by recruiting Manoj Telcapitalise : +61 (08) 833 000 06 Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower Fax : +61 (08) 836 348 03 house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber Email: in NSWadelaide@nepal-consulate.net.au for senate. Liberal however had four Tel : 0406684569, 0424671528 South Asian origin candidates jostling for E-mail : nepaladelaide@gmail.com the seat in parliament, three of them from Victoria. Green also had four candidates running for them, the most prominent being Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from Melbourne’s North. Interestingly enough it is the newer and lesser known parties that had stronger presence of South Asian candidates representing them. Newly registered Palmer United Party had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Subcontinent origin candidates standing in the election.

This election Voters got spoiled for This year’s election remained quite signifchoices as the number of registered politiicant for Asian and Subcontinent community cal parties have more than doubled since as we witnessed largest number of candidates the 2010 election, and is at a record high. from the region actively participating in Many termed the proliferation of parties a the election. A total of 26 candidates from triumph for democracy, and the other called it opportunistic individuals and groups seeking publicity. More political parties were this year’s Result registered to contest the federal election than ever before, with the Australian Electoral Party NSW VIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT NT National Won Last Election Commission approving the most applicaAustralian Labor Party 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 tions since party registration was introduced Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 73 in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Liberal 23 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 58 44 Electoral Commission than Federal election Liberal National Party 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 2010. The Nationals 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 Mental 0 0 workshop 0 0 was 0held in 1Sydney’s 1 south Rockdale 1 health on 30th March as an Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, AustralThe Greens 0 1 effort 0 to impart 0 0 0 information 0 0 about 1 mental health 1 necessary issues to Nepalese comian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, members. No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 munity 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 The workshop mainly focused on0minimizing the mental health problems seen and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted Palmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubin Nepalese adults. It also dwelt on identifying mental health issues and providing Independent 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 4 blers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition necessary counselling to1 address the 0problems. party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party Not yet determined 0 0 0South East 0 0 0 0 0 0 Local Health District, St. George Community Mental Health and Australia. Amongst the new entrants the Public Link (ANPL) organized the TOTAL 48 37 Nepal 30 Australia 15 11 5 2 2jointly150 - program. Palmer United Party and the Katter’s AustralDECLARED 0 0 Arna 0 Rathgen 0 from 0 St. 0George 0 Community 0 0Mental Health - and registered nurse ian party left its entry mark in Australian Srijana Tuladhar imparted basic information about mental health to the participants. politics with one seat each in their hand. More than a dozen representatives of Nepali community organizations attended the And while 54 registered political parties two party count nationally workshop facilitated by ANPL chairman Bharat Nepal. may Non be a record high, given the two-party Residential Nepalese Association Australia and NSW State Party / Coalition Votespatron MoA Indra Percentage % Swing %Mahendra Oli, commuNRN Ban , NRN Australia chairman system and theCommittee rarity of minority governCouncil is organising a charity walk “Walk for Nepal” to ments, it’s still lowfor when with “Pathivara nity leader Dr. Narayan Pradhan, Napit, Dinesh Pokharel, Hari Australian Labor Party Shradd5,069,128 46.63 Ramji Bista, Shree -3.57 raise fund thecompared elderly home Jestha Nagarik someashram” other countries. Lamichanne, Samim Anabar, Chura Belwase, Sharun Tamrakar, journalist Arjunmathat is being built in eastern Nepal. The program also aims Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57

Mental health workshop for Nepalese in Sydney

Meaningful walkathon

ni Paudel were also present at the event. The meeting also suggested that the similar to enhance community harmony and promote multiculturalism in (Although the Australian government has been based two-party system, for the Senate, theparts upperofhouse – has type on of workshop be organised in other Sydney tothe reach out to broader Australia. An approximate ten kilometres circuit will start from Cooks proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) Nepali communities across the state. Park Dolls Point at 8:00 Am on 25th of May.

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community NEWS | 13 COVER STORY 7

May 2014 | October 2013

Two Nepali origin students receive Victorian International School Students hall of fame

We can give it a go! N Despite increasing South Asian representation in mainstream Australian politics, no Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As the fastest growing community in Australia, it would have been timely to see someone from the community advancing into the mainstream political platform to voice our concerns to a government level. “We are relatively new in compared to other South Asian Community, most of our population is a first generation migrants and has survival as the first priority however we don’t lack intelligence, awareness and education to compete and integrate into Australian politics. It is now the need of hour that someone begins chipping it away” says a community leader. A political science student from Latrobe University says “the awareness of political participation is directly related to the history of migration. Lack of familiarity with the political system would translate into lack of participation.” In our case, we have hundreds

of Nepalese who have made noteworthy achievements in businesses and academia, many hold extensive backgrounds and distinguished careers, we have produced hundreds of affluent personalities but we are lagging political participation. That said, off late we are starting to see many Nepalese youths showing promises leading the community. And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. We can do this and all we need to do is to give it a go. ãã Rashi Unlike inSingh the US where many Nepalese Brunswick have gained cloutSecondary in mainstreamCollege politics, – Year 12 Global Citizenship Award such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for congress in 2012 election, we are still to have the privilege of voting for a Nepali á áTsering Thinley Lamacandidate in Australia. As a community we are hungry for Ivanhoe Grammar School – the real leadership. Hopefully the day comes Year 12it Community Engagement sooner than looks.

epali origin student Rashi Singh and Tshering Thinley Lama were handed Victorian International School Student awards today at Parliament House. Rashi from Brunswick Secondary was given Year 12 Global Citizenship Award, likewise Tshering from Ivanhoe Grammer was conferred with Year 12 Community Engagement Award. Representing Minister for Education Martin Dixon, Member for Bentleigh, Elizabeth Miller presented certificates to 19 winners and runners-up of the second annual Victorian International School Student Awards. On the occasion, Ms Miller said the students, including 11 from China and four from Vietnam, represented the hard work of approximately 6,000 international students in Victorian schools. “The academic results and leadership skills of these all-rounders clearly demonstrate how much we have to gain from welcoming international students to our schools,” Ms Miller said. Winners were chosen from a competitive field of nominees put forward by school principals.

Mr Dixon congratulated the overall winners:

ææ Zeqing (Amy) Ji Balwyn High School – International School Student of the Year Ambassador Award, Year 12 Academic Excellence Award; Award ææKhan Rashi Singh Dr Ali - Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign Brunswick Secondary College – Year 12 Global Citizenship Award; South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election ææ Tuan Anh Tran Westall Secondary College – Year 12 Student Leadership Award; Candidate Party Position Electorate ææ Tsering Thinley Lama – Year 12 Community Engagement Dr Ali Khan Liberal HOR Calwell Ivanhoe Grammar School...off late we are starting to see Award; Alex Bhathal Greens HOR Batman many Nepalese youths showing ææ Giang To Dinesh Jayasuriya Greens HOR Gorton Highvale Secondary College – Year 12 Arts Achievement Award; promises leading the community. Jatinder Singh Palmer United HOR Holtææ Xiaoyun (Jane) Yang And that is a step closer for us to be Avtar Singh Palmer United Association of Northern HOR Isaacs St Catherine’s School – Year 11 Academic Excellence Award; asudevGill Marahatta, Darwin: Nepalese Territory hostable to capitalise on the democratic ed a discourse on “Positive Way of Living Life” in Darwin Nihal Sharma Liberal HOR Community Arts Lalorææ Dongqi Yang platform provided and by our adopted Wantirna College – Year 11 Student Leadership Community Building last Sunday. The event also correlated with Buddha Day. Manoj Kumar Labor HOR Menzies Engagement Award; and country, the great nation Australia. On the occasion, Buddhist monk Bhante Aloke delivered a discourse on life’s Jag Chuga based on Buddhism. Liberal HORscripture “Sutra Scullin philosophy He referred to sacred Buddhist ææ Lingya Zhang We can do this and all we need to Pitaka” and said compassion and kindness are what makes us human, the supreme Shilpa Hegde Liberal HOR Wills Koonung Secondary College – Year 11 Sports Achievement beings. Monk Bhante orated how to repress our urges from the wrong doings in life. Award do is to give it a go. Gurminder Sekhon Greens Senate To conclude the session he satisfied the questions raised by the participants within Binoy Kampmark Wikileaks Party Senate similar topics. Bhante Aloke became a monk at the age of twelve. Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, he resided in Sri Lanka for fourteen years and studied Pali, Sanskrit, English and Sinhala “By bringing cultural and linguistic diversity into our classrooms, international languages eventually graduating from University of Colombo in International Relations. students are helping to build the language and global citizenship skills of their VictoThe event was a second consecutive event organised by the NANT, after a mega rian peers,” Mr Dixon said. Nepali New Year event. Prominent personalities from Nepali communities such as “As an educational and economic destination of choice, Victoria’s international MoA Indra ban, Ira Koirala, Daman Koirala and Ishwor Bajracharya were present at students are active members of their adopted communities, and many choose to stay the program. on in Victoria to study at our world-class universities and create meaningful careers

Nepalese Association of Northern Territory holds “Art of Living” discourse

in Victorian businesses.” International students can choose from over 100 specifically-accredited secondary schools, each with different specialist programs and facilities. In 2013, international student enrolments in government schools increased by 6.4 per cent and in 2014 numbers are forecast to rise by a further 5 per cent.

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6 | COVER STORYNEWS 14 community

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for longest live broadcast Nepalese community on Buddha Day Record number of South Asian candidates Nepali Sanchar Radio to set the record of

N Time for us to give it a go! By Ramjee Poudel

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

This election Voters got spoiled for choices as the number of registered political parties have more than doubled since the 2010 election, and is at a record high. Many termed the proliferation of parties a triumph for democracy, and the other called it opportunistic individuals and groups seeking publicity. More political parties were registered to contest the federal election than ever before, with the Australian Electoral Commission approving the most applications since party registration was introduced in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Electoral Commission than Federal election 2010. With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters and Fishers Party Nepalese took part. Forum Some even voted verseas Victoria for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubheld its general assembly on 27 blers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition April 2014. party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party The assembly has elected 15-member Australia. Amongst the new aentrants the executive committee the chair of Palmer United Party andunder the Katter’s AustralMahendra Five more members of ian party leftKarki. its entry mark in Australian the committee toinbetheir nominated. . politics with one are seatyet each hand. while 54elected registered political parties TheAnd assembly Kiran Paudel as may a record high, givenPaudel the two-party vice be chairman, Madhav as secresystem and the rarity of minority governtary, Dinesh Adhikari as Sub-secretary ments, it’s Upreti still lowaswhen compared withorand Om Treasurer of the some other countries.

epali Sanchar Radio Australia is setting a record in community radio history by broadcasting 25 hours nonstop live programs on the occasion of 2558 Buddha Day. The Melbourne based Nepali community radio is raising a bar for itself by breaking its own record of 24hrs broadcast from last year. With the program, the radio aims to correct the widespread misconceptions about Buddha‘s birth place Lumbini. Various political party leaders from Nepal, diplomats, scholars, journalist, artistes and some foreign guests are expected to participate the 25hours marathon broadcast. The program is also supported by almost a dozen radio stations from Nepal. According to the radio, the program will begin at 13th of May midnight till 15th of May 1 AM. Melbourne based Lumbini Kapilvastu Global co-ordinator Mr. Ram Kumar Shrestha has coordinated many prominent personalities from Nepal to take part in this imporRecently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott tant milestone in Nepali radio’s history. Former PM Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, NC South stood up in the election Record Number of South leaderAsian Deeporigin Kumar Upadhyaya, former representing different political or as minister Hridayash Tripathi,parties Nepalese Asian and Subcontinent independent for the seats of both houses. ambassador to Europian Union Ram candidates This number may not seem big compared to Mani Pokharel, Nepali ambassador This year’s election remained quite signifthe wide range of political platforms across icant for Asian and Subcontinent community to Francebut Mohan Krishnaindicates Shrestha, Australia; this certainly the as we witnessed largest number of candidates CPNUMLSubcontinent leader, Tanka Karki,inFormer increasing interests mainfrom the region actively participating in NepaliAustralian ambassador to Korea Kamal stream politics. the election. A total of 26 candidates from Prasad Koirala, former Nepali ambassador to Japan, Prof Dr Bishnu Hari Nepal have agreed to participate in the this year’s Result program via telecommunications. Party NSW VIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT NT Pramod K. Soni, Director of Nepali Australian Labor Party 18 19 Sanchar 6 3 5 run 1the program. 2 1 Radio will Liberal/National Coalition

Liberal

Liberal National Party

The Nationals

Country Liberals (NT)

The Greens

Katter’s Australian Party

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

NRN Australia raising fund Both major political parties made an attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates for elderly in their election campaign. Labor intended to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj home in Nepal Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber Australia has intensified its four in NRN NSW for senate. Liberal however had fund raising campaign to build South Asian origin candidates jostlingan for in Eastern theelderly seat in home parliament, three ofNepal them of from Victoria. GreenVarious also had programs four candidates Biratnagar. are running them, the Australia most prominent being being for held across to collect Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from fund for the project “PATHIVARA Melbourne’s JESTHA North. NAGARIK SHRADDHA Interestingly enough it is the newer and ASHRAM”. lesser known parties that had stronger presIn Victoria, a fund raising dinner ence of South Asian candidates representing th is being held on 30 May . Coordithem. Newly registered Palmer United Party andthe NRN VictoriaParty member hadnator, nine and WikiLeakes had two Mr Krishna Neupane said standing “our Subcontinent origin candidates in thesource election. of inspiration, our elderly

parents and grandparents who loved us unconditionally and involved in building our future career wholeheartedly, deserve the same support, National Won Last Election care, love and affection. If we get to 55 72 do something for them in return 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 our life will 73 be more meaningful.” NRNA 0 12 6 3 0 0 58 44 Australia and Biratnagar Sub-Metropolis had reached an 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 agreement to build an elderly home 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 in ward number 11 of Biratna0 0 0 0 0 1 1 gar municipality. 1 Home. NRNA 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Australia1 President Mahendra Oli 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 and Chief 0 and Executive Office at Sub-Metropolis have signed the deal Khanal, Dron as0others0 1 0 Panta 0 as well 0 1 0 on 10 January. extended their greetings 0 0 0 1 and put 0 their 0 2 4 The building will be incepted at views about the future prospect and the 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 the land -provided by the Sub-Mepossibilities of the organisation. 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 tropolis.-According to the agreeand water supply 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ment, electricity will be provided by the Sub- Metropolis whereas NRNA Australia will take all responsibilities of estabVotes Percentage % Swing % lishing the building and operating 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 home. Modern recreathe elderly tional+3.57 centre, library, garden and 5,802,835 53.37 animal husbandry farm will also be based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper established house – has the in the premises..

ONF Victoria elects new executive body

ganization. Likewise, the committee also elected Drona Panta, Prabhat Paudel, Arun Shrestha, Rajendra Khanal and Dipesh Adhikari as members. The assembly was chaired by Mahendra

Karki. Jagadish PalmerDr. United PartyTimsina who 0is also 0 the advisor of the Committee, was Independent 0 the 1 chief guest at the program. Not yet determined 0 0 Overseas Nepalese Forum Australia first TOTAL 48 37 vice chairman DECLARED 0 0 and Victoria Coordinator Ram Ranabhat, NDFcount nationally two party Australia former Party / Coalition vice chairman Australian Labor Party Sindhu DhungaLiberal/National na, seniors Kiran Coalition Paudel, Madan (Although the Australian government has been Dhungel, Laxmi proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) Nath Adhikari, Rajendra

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6 | COVER STORYNEWS 16 community

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Australian Nepalese community media covers Record number of South Asian a Nepali’s Time for us to give it a go!

Bharat Pokharel becomes only a third Nepali to advocate in Australian candidates apex court Sydney based Bharat Pokharel has become only the third Nepali to have been eligible to advocate in the supreme court of Australia as a solicitor. His Master’s Degree in Australian Law earned him such academic acclamation making him only a third Nepali after Dr Samsher Singh Thapa and Bunu Gautam. Pokharel earned the degree from A total of 26 candidates University of Technology, Sydney. With fromtheSouth origin receiving degree,Asian he is eligible to

success story

By Ramjee Poudel

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, In thisQueensland’s election, Liberal ar1900. Northern media and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats Cairns Post has covered a story respectively making it 90 for Liberal National of a Nepali student Som Tamang, Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against who despite adversities received the opponentall Australian Labor Party. his graduation from James Cook University Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National recently. TheTony coverage has talked aboutsworn Tamang’ Coalition, Abbott has been ins as from being a child in Nepal apersonal Prime journey minister of Australia forslave next three years. to achieving Australian degree in Media design. In history Australian elections, Mrthe Tamang hasofsaid to Nepalese Voice that two major parties Australian Labor Party he was humbled by the gesture of cairnspost. and “Former The Liberal Coalition have dominated Nepalese child slave gains the lower house. Since the foundation of the university degree from JCU in Cairns” Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have NOevery education was harder come formed government and this year by was than that of Som Tamang, who donned no different.

trencher cap, academic gown and satin

hood last week to realise a 20 year dream Number of Political Parties and create a piece of Nepalese history. proliferated

Forced out of school age 10forto This election Voters gotat spoiled help support his family, the former child choices as the number of registered politislave, street hawker and doubled buffalo herder cal parties have more than since the 2010 election, and is at a record high. beamed as he was awarded a Bachelor Many termed the proliferation of parties of Creative Industries (Media Design)a at triumph for democracy, andannual the other called James Cook University’s graduait opportunistic individuals and groups tion in Cairns. seeking publicity. More political parties were In doing so, he became the first perregistered to contest the federal election than son village of BataseElectoral to graduever from before,his with the Australian ate from university. Commission approving the most applications since party registration was introduced in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Electoral Commission than Federal election 2010. With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, rijantax Pyakurel, Biratnagar No Carbon Climate from Sceptics and shooters and Fishers Party took part. Some permaeven voted discarded his Australian for Australian Sex Party,toCoke in thetoBubnent residency go back Nepal blers party,up Help end Marijuana Prohibition and take farming. Srijan gave up party, Smokers Right Party or hard Piratesix Party something that he worked years Australia. Amongst the new entrants the for, starting his own farmland in TankePalmer United Party and the Katter’s Australshowri, heinhas no regrets. ian partyBiratnagar left its entrybut mark Australian Far from his accounting degree that he politics with one seat each in their hand. acquired from University of Southern And while 54 registered political parties Queensland, hehigh, nowgiven toilsthe himself into may be a record two-party system and the goat rarityand of minority governfish-keeping, cow farming. ments, stillin low when compared with Heit’s lived Australia for six years, some other countries. got married, got his degree but his nat-

“One person from a disadvantaged background who achieves higher education is likely not only to reap the benefits of that for themselves, but it will be transformational for generations to come for their community.” - JCU Vice-Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding

stood up in the election.

three children of his own. He said he felt Had he followed the path expectliberated after his decades-long academed by his parents, he would have been ic journey. married by 14, a grandfather in his 20s, “It’s like I could breathe — a feeling and trapped in the cycle of poverty most of freeness and achieving something I Nepalese know. Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott never dreamt of,” he said. Instead, he arrived in Australia at 18, JCU Vice-Chancellor Professor resurrected his education through TAFE South Asian origin stood up in the election Record of toSouth Sandra Harding said Som’s story gave and finallyNumber gained entry James Cook representing different political parties or as Asian and Subcontinent her “goose bumps” and his achievement University at 25. independent for the seats of both houses. candidates would impact hisnot family “My dream of wanting to go to uniThis number may seem for big generations. compared to Thisdied year’swhen election remained signif“It brings to mind the transformaversity I was about quite 14. That’s the wide range of political platforms across icant Asian my and life Subcontinent tional power of education, ” Prof Harding whenfor I knew had to becommunity about Australia; but this certainly indicates the as we witnessed largest number of candidates increasing in mainsaid. “OneSubcontinent person frominterests a disadvansupporting my family and letting them from the region actively participating in stream Australian politics. taged background who achieves higher learn about the world,” says Som. the election. A total of 26 candidates from The 30-year-old has since founded a education is likely not only to reap the communities living in Australia for his charity to educate Nepalese children — benefits of that for themselves, but it will social engagements. He is the current this year’s Result Friends of Himalayan Children — has be transformational for generations to secretary and former treasurer of NRNA established two business and nowNSW has VIC come for their Australia. Before exceling into law he Party QLD WA community. SA TAS ACT NT National Won Last Election was an accounting professional. PokharAustralian Labor Party 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 el now also holds an unique portfolio of Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 73 becoming a first Nepali to have become Liberal 23 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 58a solicitor 44 as well as Accounting practiLiberal National Party 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22tioner at the 21 same time. The Nationals 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 He currently 7 runs a business firm Pokharel and Associates that provides Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 counseling services in accounting and The Greens 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 migration.1 ture, thatAustralian too in Nepal where there Katter’s Party 0 is no 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 Pokharel was 0 born in Jakhe of Dolkha adequate infrastructures, resources and in 2033 BS. His family Palmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 district of Nepal 0 government policy for people like Srijan. migrated to Lalbandi of Sarlahi district Independent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 He said “ I wanted to give something when he was one year old then later Not yet determined 0 was 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 back to my country and agriculture shifted to Kathmandu when he was 8. TOTAL 48 37 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 my choice cause I wanted to challenge He passed -SLC from Bhanubhakta Methe traditional thought that it’s only DECLARED 0 for 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 morial Secondary School, Kathmandu in illiterates”. in 2049 BS. He has invested Rs 20 million in the He arrived Australia in 1996 after comtwo party count nationally farming so far where he sees enormous pleting I.Sc. from Kathmandu UniverParty / Coalition Votes Percentage % Swing % potentials in the days ahead. He has sity. Australian Labor 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 already started to Party get returns from fish Nepali communities in Australia has keeping in less than eight months since Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 expressed happiness in Pokharel’s he began. “I am planning to increase achievents. Many believe his is the story (Although the Australian government has abeen based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the investment, ” he said. Pyakurel is now of self belief andsince dedication proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets 1984.) that will proud Nepali farmer that employees six inspire many in the community. locals.

Forget Australian PR, farming in Nepal is more satisfying for Srijan

ural pull was to go back and do something in his own country. An international degree-holder searched a career in a ‘less-revered’ profession like agricul-

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Nepalese Voice Australia

May 2014 | October 2013

community NEWS | 17 COVER STORY 7

Con couple dupes 120 Nepalese by promising job in Australia

We can give it a go!

ore than 120 Nepali nationals have been duped by three fraudsters including two Despite increasing South Asian representaNepalese. They pocketed large amounts tion in mainstream Australian politics, no by promising the victims, in an As Nepali has yet risen up to thisjobs challenge. Australian cruise.community in Australia, the fastest growing The Economic Offences it would have been timely to seeWing someone (EOW) the city police is currently from the of community advancing into the inmainstream the political platformTo to make voice our vestigating the matter. their concerns to a government level. con look genuine, the accused had taken “We are relatively new in comparedmall to an office space in a posh Bhandup other South Asian Community, most of our on rent and had even sent the victims for

execution took place in Mumbai. The suspects against whom the First Information Report (FIR) has been regof Nepalese who have made noteworthy istered have been identified as PK Singh, achievements in businesses and academia, Yuvraj Adhikari and Nirmala Adhikari. many hold extensive backgrounds and distinAccording to EOW sources, the hundreds Adhikaguished careers, we have produced ri masterminded thelagging entire of couple affluent has personalities but we are fraud. couple had placed a bogus political“The participation. That said, offinlate we arenewspaper starting to see advertisement a local in many Nepalese youths showing promises Nepal wherein they had claimed that leading the community. And thatlucrative is a step they would provide jobs with closer for us to be able to capitalise on salary in a reputed and international population is a first generation migrants the democratic platform provided by our cruise company and the posting would adopted country, the great nation Australia. and has survival as the first priority however be in Australia, ” said anneed EOW We can do this and all we to officer, do is to we don’t lackaspirants intelligence, awareness and The job were told requesting give it a go. anonymity. education to compete and integrate into that their flight willthetake He added thatUSafter reading Unlike in the where manythe Nepalese Australian politics. It is now need of hour when the victims contacted the Bhanrepresentative of the couple in Mumbai. off on April 9 and two dayssays a advertisement many people gotpolitics, attracted that someone begins chipping it away” have gained clout in mainstream dup-based office of the company they Singh had rented an office in a posh mall community leader. such as Darshan RauniyaarAdhikari who ran couple. for conbefore that they would be towards it and contacted were shocked to find it locked. in Bhandup where victims contacted gress in 2012 election, we are still to have the A political science student from Latrobe The officer said that the couple told given visas. However, when The officer said that neither Adhikahim, police said. University says “the awareness of political privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in the victims that they would be sent for the victims contacted the ri nor Singh could be contacted after The victims were given bogus docAustralia. As a community we are hungry for participation is directly related to the history a short marine training in Kolkata and Bhandup-based office with of the of migration. Lack of familiarity the the real leadership. Hopefully the day comes which they lodged police complaint. uments of the cruise company and over they would have to board flight from company political systemthey wouldwere translateshocked into lack of sooner than it looks. Rs1.50 crore were taken by the accused According to senior police inspector Mumbai to Australia once the money Dr Ali Khan - Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign participation. In our case, we have hundreds to find it ”locked. from 120 victims in cash. The transacPrashant Marde from Bhandup police transaction and documentation is over. tion had taken place in March. The job station, they have registered a case of In the month of February, the victims aspirants were told that their flight will cheating and forgery in this regard and were sent for training in Kolkata and marine training in Kolkata. The unique take off on April 9 and two days before have transferred the case to EOW for South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election then they were asked to get in touch factor in this case is that although the that they would be given visas. However, further investigation. with one PK Singh, an alleged company conspiracy was hatched in Nepal, the Candidate

Party

Position

Electorate

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

Alex Bhathal

Greens

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Dinesh Jayasuriya

Greens

HOR

Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

promises leading the community.

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Menzies

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Scullin

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Wills

Gurminder Sekhon

Greens

Senate

Binoy Kampmark

Wikileaks Party

Senate

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6 | COVER STORY 18 ENTERTAINMENT

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community

Rajesh Hamal to celebrate his 50th in Australia

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! By Ramjee Poudel

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

Subin Limbu becomes

Miss Nepal-2014

ubin Limbu has won the Miss Nepal 2014 title in the finale held at Kathmandu on May 2, 2014. Subin was one of the 19 contestants eying the Miss Nepal title this year. 23-years-old Subin is 5 feet and 8 inches tall. Student of BBA, Subin was the first runner up of Miss Mongol 2010. After winning Miss Nepal title, Subin has also received a gift prize of Rs. 100,000 and will represent Nepal in Miss World 2014. Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott The Miss Nepal First Runner up title went to Prinsha Shrestha and the South Asian originupstood in the election Record Number of South Second Runner titleup went to Sonie representing different political parties or as Rajbhandari. Prinsha who will Asian and Subcontinent independent for the seats of both houses. represent Nepal in Miss Earth 2014 candidates This number may not seem big compared to received a cash prize of Rs. 65,000. This year’s election remained quite signifthe wide range of political platforms across icant for Asian and Subcontinent community Sonie wasbut awarded Rs. 40,000 cashthe Australia; this certainly indicates as we witnessed largest number of candidates prize and Subcontinent she will represent Nepal in increasing interests in mainfrom the region actively participating in Miss 2014. streamInternational Australian politics.

This election Voters got spoiled for choices as the number of registered political parties have more than doubled since the 2010 election, and is at a record high. Many termed the proliferation of parties a the election. A total of 26 candidates from triumph for democracy, and the other called it opportunistic individuals and groups seeking publicity. More political parties were this year’s Result registered to contest the federal election than ever before, with the Australian Electoral Party NSW Commission approving the most applicaAustralian Labor Party 18 tions since party registration was introduced Liberal/National Coalition 30 in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Liberal 23 Electoral Commission than Federal election Liberal National Party 0 2010. The Nationals 7 With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Country Liberals (NT) 0 Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, AustralThe Greens 0 ian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters Katter’s Australian Party 0 and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted Palmer United Party 0 for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the BubIndependent 0 blers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party Not yet determined 0 Australia. Amongst the new entrants the TOTAL 48 Palmer United Nepal’ Party and the Katter’s Austral‘Brotherhood a newly opened event organizing company is releasing Movie DECLARED 0 ian party its entry mark Australian “Ritu” in left Melbourne in 27 in May Tuesday 6.30 pm in Cinema nova. politics with onetoseat in theirthe hand. According theeach organiser, Melbourne screening aims to raise fund for the And while 54 registered political parties two countfornationally campaign initiated originally by Sagarmatha Cricket Clubparty and Solangture the Nepali may be a record high, given the two-party Cricket team that had performed exceptionally wellParty in recent T20 Cricket World Cup. / Coalition system and the rarity of minority govern‘Support Movie-Support Nepali Cricket’ will be the slogan of the event. ments, it’s stillNepali low when compared with Australian Labor Party According Sudeep Neupane from the organising team, ‘Brotherhood Nepal’ wants some other to countries. to help develop Nepali cricket with this event byLiberal/National raising fund thatCoalition might potentially

Other title winners include:

<< Sitoshna Ban – Miss Photogenic << Lakpa Wongmo Tamang – Miss VIC QLD Talent WA SA TAS ACT NT < < Com19 6Prinsha3 Shrestha 5 – Miss 1 2 1 plexion 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 << Rashmi Adhikari – Miss Beautiful 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 Hair

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin Superstar Nepali Rajesh Hamal is stood up actor in the election.

going to celebrate his fifteeth birth day in Australia. A special program is being organised by Nepali touch Australia in Sydney to mark his parties big 50thmade . Other Both major political an attempt to inculcate South Asian artistes such as Anju Panta andcandidates Rajesh in theirRai election campaign. Labor intended Payal will also perform their hits. to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Evergreen actor Hamal will be fifty Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower on 9th of June. However some believe he house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber is long past his fiftees. in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four The program be heldjostling at Marana South Asian origin will candidates for Auditorium, Hurstville onof8ththem of June. the seat in parliament, three from Nepalese Sydney are candidates desperately Victoria. Greeninalso had four waiting to see whether Hamal will bring running for them, the most prominent being Alex‘going Bhathal electorate from his to from bride’Batman Madhu Bhattarai Melbourne’s North. along with him for his special 50th birthInterestingly enough it is the newer and day bash. lesser known parties that had stronger presence of South Asian candidates representing them. Newly registered Palmer United Party had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Subcontinent origin candidates standing in the election.

‘Nai Nabhannu La-2’ cashing it in big time National

Won Last Election

Nepali movie Nai Navannu la-2 has got 55 72 the extraordinary box office response. 90The film has 73cashed in big time as the 58movie went44house full in most of the 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22cinema halls 21 in Nepal and overseas. In Melbourne 2 Top 0 5 in0 Miss0 Nepal 0 were: 0 0 9 7the movie has two scheduled screening on 3rd and 8th of May. The 0 << 0Subin Limbu 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 prequel of this movie was also one the < < Prinsha Shrestha 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 highest grosser 1 in Nepali cinema history. << Sonie Rajbhandari 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 The Melbourne 0 screening right of the << Aastha Pokharel movie has secured by Mr Sun Joshi from 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Smart Access Australia. According to 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 Joshi, he has few different schemes on 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 offer to accommodate maximum num37 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 ber of Nepalese living in Victoria into 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 the movie show. Nai Na Bhannu La -2 is directed by Bikash Acharya and produced by Australia based producer Dinesh Pokharel. Votes Percentage % Swing % Child artists Anubhav Regmi and 5,069,128 46.63 Sugyani-3.57 Bhattrai are the highlight of the film Nai+3.57 Nabhannu La 2. Similarly actress 5,802,835 53.37 Priyanka karki, Suraj Singh Thakuri, Jibecome an encouragement for cricketing aspirants from Nepal. (Although the Australian government has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the wan Luitel, Saroj Khanal, Barsha Siwakoti, The event is sponsored by AECC Australia.proportional Ticket booking is open now and tick-transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets representation and single since 1984.) Sohit Manandhar and Sitaram Kattel are et price is $20.The organiser urges all to book the ticket asap to avoid disappointment featured in other roles. on the last minute.

‘Ritu’ for charity

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inclusion, integration & collaboration through media...

Nepalese Voice Australia

May 2014 | October 2013

community NEWS | 19 COVER STORY 7

Amitabh Bachchan launches Indian Film Festival in Melbourne

We can give it a go!

Despite increasing South Asian representation in mainstream Australian politics, no ollywood of this the challenge. millen- As Nepali has yet risenstar up to nium Mr Amitabh Bachchan the fastest growing community in Australia, it wouldlaunched have beenIndian timely to see Festival someone Film from the community into the in Melbourne on !stadvancing of May. Innovation mainstream political platform to voiceMr our Minister Louise Asher welcomed concerns to a government level. Amitabh Bachchan to Victoria for the “We are relatively new in compared to official opening of the 2014 Indian Film other South Asian Community, most of our Festival of isMelbourne (IFFM). population a first generation migrants Thanking Victorian government for and has survival as the first priority however recognising Indian art and culture in we don’t lack intelligence, awareness and the form of cinema, Mr and Bachchan said education to compete integrate into“I Australian politics. is now the needand of hour am delighted to beIt in Melbourne it’s that someone begins chipping it away” says great to see our cinema connecting twoa community leader. cultures and human values”. A politicalAsher sciencecongratulated student from Latrobe Minister the University says “the awareness of political IFFM organisers for securing Mr Bachparticipation is directly related to the history chan to openLack the of third annualwith Festival. of migration. familiarity the “The Victorian Coalition Governpolitical system would translate into lack of ment is proud becase, againwesupporting participation. ” Intoour have hundreds

“It’s an absolute honour to have Mr Bachchan here as our very special guest, just one year after he opened the Cannes Film Festival with his Great Gatsby co-star, Leonardo DiCaprio.” Innovation Minister Louise Asher

Akshaya Kumar in Nepal

Popular Bolywood actor Akshay vibrant film industry, including Mr Kumar landed in Nepal on 2nd Bachchan who will be presented with May for a shooting of his new film. the inaugural IFFM ‘International He will be in Nepal for more than Screen Icon’ award. a week for his new movie directed After consulting with Melbourne’s by director Niraj Pandey. Although Indian community, the festival has inthe name of the movie is not made troduced an exciting new section called public yet, this movie is expected to New feature sixleft) films Dr AliVoices, Khan -which Liberalwill (second from during his election campaign be a big budget action movie with this exciting celebration of Indian film from first-time filmmakers. Hollywood action Director Bar Reas part of our ongoing commitment to This year’s IFFM program features: faeli. Action Director Bar Refaeli has enhancing our two-way relationship over 40 films; Australian premieres South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election already made his name in the movie with India,” Ms Asher said. (more than half the program); films industry with big and successful “It’s an absolute honour to have Mr in 20 languages (more than half the Candidate Party Position Electorate movies like Die Hard-4.0, District Bachchan here as our very special guest, program include languages other than counterpart for Dr Ali Khan Liberal HOR Calwell just one year after he opened the Cannes Hindi); and five free screenings at Feder...off lateB etc. weHis arefemale starting to see the movie, Actress Taapsee Pannu is Film coation Square. AlexFestival Bhathal with his Great Gatsby Greens HOR Batman many Nepalese youths showing already in Kathmandu since 30th of star, Leonardo DiCaprio.” A selection of India’s top creative Dinesh Jayasuriya Greens Gorton ans and visitorsHOR to our city to make the April and already in shootpromises leading theinvolved community. “I strongly encourage all Melburnitalent – including the director and promost of this extraordinary display of ing of the movie. Taapsee Pannu is a Jatinder Singh Palmer United HOR Holt ducer of Pakistan’s highest grossing film And that is aIndian step actress closerwho forjust usmade to be Indian cinema over the coming 11 days.” South of all time Waar – will host an industry Avtar Singh Gill Palmer United HOR Isaacs The 2014 IFFM program commenced an entry in Bollywood through on the democratic master class and Q and A sessions. able to capitalise Nihal Sharma Liberal HOR Central with Mr Lalor at HOYTS Melbourne David Dhawan’s movie Chasme The Telstra Bollywood Dance Complatform provided by our adopted Bachchan introducing the Australian preBadoor few years before. According Manoj Kumar Labor HOR Menzies petition in Federation Square will be miere of the fully restored 3D version of country, the great nation Australia. to the production team of the movie judged by Malaika Arora Khan, a judge Jag Chuga Liberal HOR Scullin one of India’s most iconic films, Sholay 3D. the next shooting destination of the on the highly popular TV show India’s We can do this and all we need to Shilpa Hegde Liberal HOR features a diverse Wills The 11-day festival movie would be in Istanbul, Turkey. Got Talent, while the Western Union program of film,Senate dance, and master classes is to give a go. The it movie shoot in Nepal is exGurminder Sekhon Greens -short film competition will continuedo to with some of sub-continent’s most influenpected to expose Nepal to the world Binoy Kampmark Wikileaks Partytial film makers Senate -showcase emerging filmmakers.Nepali and screen practitioners. and definitely increase the tourism movie “Pailaharu” will also be screened A new awards program will recogindustry of Nepal. at the festival. nise outstanding members of India’s

The awesome 3 in Melbourne

Mila Creations creating a stir in event management Front

After an awesome response to Sangeetik Jatra-2, S-Events and Multimedia is bringing Astha Tamang Maskey, Albatross and Rohit Shakya for a show called Awesome -3. The musical trio, that is hugely popular amongst Nepali youth will rock Melbourne on 18th of May. According to the organiser tickets are already on sale.

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creati ns

Back

Newly established event management company in Melbourne, Mila Creations, has successfully organised the screening of movie “Raghav”. The screening was attended by the hall capacity crowd in cinema Nova on 29th of April. Mila Creations is a team of promising youth that are already creating quite a buzz in event management fraternity. Their creative ways to promote events were shown through in their first venture itself. “We are really excited with the response we got for our first project. We now plan to go more seriously into event management. We are already working on our next venture, which is likely to be a musical concert” said Panish Manadhar from Mila Creations. Mila Creations was previously known for its photography and Videography. The company recently stepped into event management.

Phone: 0449 913 133 | Email: editor@nepalesevoice.com.au | www.nepalesevoice.com.au

6 | COVER STORY 20 migration

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community Cooks and s r e s s e r d r i a H

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! By Ramjee Poudel

A back to Skilled Migration ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National outhTony Australian State Government Coalition, Abbott has been sworn in as recently announced that 18 high a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. demanding occupations including Cooks and Hairdressers are back into In the history of Australian elections, two major Australian Labor Party the list ofparties their SNOL (State Nomiand TheOccupation Liberal Coalition nation List).have Thisdominated means the lower house. Since the foundation of the Cooks and Hairdressers with a positive Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have full skill assessment and IELTS 6.0 in formed every government and this year was each band might be eligible for Skilled no different.

in South Australia

Nominated visas such as subclass 190 (Permanent) and 489 (Temporary). Number of Political Parties Several years ago, Cooks and proliferated Hairdressers were removed from SOL This election Voters got spoiled for (SkilledasOccupation List). Thesepolitioccuchoices the number of registered pations remained in the CSOL (Consolical parties have more than doubled since dated Skilled Occupation List), therefore the 2010 election, and is at a record high.

Many termed the proliferation of parties a triumph for democracy, and the other called it opportunistic individuals and groups seeking publicity. More political parties were registered to contest the federal election than ever before, with the Australian Electoral Commission approving the most applications since party registration was introduced in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Electoral Commission than Federal election 2010. With some interesting Migration agent Ms Xiaonames Yingand Wu manifesto, parties like Fishing Lifestyle also known as Amy Wu hasand been jailed Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australfor fraud. She was based in Sydney’s ian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, Chinatown and pleaded guilty to forging No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters immigration documents and Fishers Party took part. and Somedefrauding even voted her clients, who were seeking for Australian Sex Party, Coke in assistance the Bubwith party, visa applications, in order to obtain blers Help end Marijuana Prohibition more Smokers than $80Right 000.Party or Pirate Party party, Australia. Amongst the new entrants The Federal Government said the that Palmer United andmigration the Katter’sagent Australthe jailing of aParty former ian left its entry mark in aAustralian for party immigration fraud sent strong mespolitics with one seat each in their hand.and sage to the industry that fraudulent And while 54 registered political parties illegal behaviour will not be tolerated. may be a record high, given the two-party Sheand wasthe sentenced today ingovernthe system rarity of minority Downing Centre District Court to ments, it’s still low when compared with 21 months’ imprisonment, with five some other countries.

years and work over 35 hours per week people still can apply for 457 visa and/ for 52 weeks. or ENS or RSMS. Currently SA, NT and When Cooks and Hairdressers were TAS governments are nominating both removed from the State Sponsorship lists occupations for subclasses in Australia. several years ago, it was devastating for inUnfortunately, Nominated pathways ternational students studying these trades. requires full skill assessment, thereEducation providers in the vocationfore people who holds provisional skill al educational sector were also hit hard assessment or skill assessment for 457 is Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mrby Tony theAbbott changes. But now there is some not eligible for this pathway. good news. Those people who holds subclass The mostorigin recent news has 489 is allowed to remain in Australia South Asian stood upisinthat the SA election Record Number of South added Cooks and SA to the State Nomimaximum 4 years. Within 4 years, if representing different political parties or as Asian and Subcontinent independent for theLists. seats This of both nated Occupation willhouses. be most they meet the requirements, they can candidates This number seem bigthat compared apply foryear’s subclass 887remained which isquite permabeneficial tomay pastnot students, have a to This election signifthe wide range of political platforms been nent for resident visa.Subcontinent Basically, they need to full skills assessment, but have notacross icant Asian and community Australia; but this certainly indicates the able to get state sponsorship. remain in the Sponsored State least 2 as we witnessed largest number of at candidates from the region actively participating in the election. A total of 26 candidates from

increasing Subcontinent interests in mainstream Australian politics.

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Financial documents from any banks acceptable: Australian Court

Australian Federal Circuit Court has termed the Australian Immigration’s rule to accept financial documents this year’s Result from only two Nepali banks Nabil Party NSW VIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT NT National Last Election and SBI,Won unlawful. This comes as the Australian Labor Party 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 latest development 72 on Australian decision to halt the Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 Immigration’s 73 of two thousand Liberal 23 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 58 visa application 44 Nepalese students saying the finanLiberal National Party 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 cial documents submitted by them The Nationals 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 prisonment with five were fraudulent. months’ minimum term Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 this, Nepalese students Before (to be served concurwere required to provide financial The Greens 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 rently) for two charges documents from the designated Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 under the NSW Crimes banks as part of their visa applicaPalmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Act of dishonestly tion to Australia. After the court’s Independent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 decision,4 restriction on the matter obtaining a financial advantage. Not yet determined 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 has lifted. - Any financial institutions, The court also made as long as TOTAL 48 37 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 - they are registered, will a reparation order in relation to the be able to provide loan documents DECLARED 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 People wishing to 0find 0 Commonwealth charges of $13 405 and to students from now on. Howev$18 935 to the respective victims and a er, granting a visa will still remain out whether an individtwo party order count nationally compensation relating to the state Immigration’s prerogative. ual is registered as a charges of $31 550 and $10 000 for her The decision Party / Coalition Votes Percentage % Swing %comes after Australia migration agent can do victims. based Solicitor Dr. Shamser Thapa Australian Labor Party -3.57 so5,069,128 by visiting the 46.63 Office Any individual who provides immifiled a case in April last year against Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 the MARA’s website at gration assistance in Australia must be the Australian Immigration policy registeredthe as aAustralian migration agent withhas the this–regard. (Although government been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper in house has the www.mara.gov.au. proportional and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) Office of therepresentation Migration Agents Registration Authority.

Sydney migration agent jailed for fraud

months to be served, in relation to two Commonwealth charges of using false documents to obtain benefit She also received 18 months’ im-

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6 | COVER STORY 22 diaspora

Nepalese Voice

October 2013 | May 2014

Australia

Nepalese doing time in Thai Jail Election-Lesson for seek royal pardon

Nepalese community

A Record number of South Asian candidates joint team from the Nepali embassy in Thailand and the Non-Resident Nepalis Association in Thailand (NRNA-Thailand) has learnt about the condition of Nepalis serving jail terms in Thai prisons. The team comprising Charge d´Affaires at the embassy Dor Nath Aryal, NRNA-Thailand President Khagendra Raj Dhakal and embassy official Hari By Ramjee Poudel Bahadur Thapa has learnt about the condition of Nepalis doing time in Thai prisons. ustralia to hadDhakal, its 44th the general elecAccording prisonth totake the the House tions on September ers requested the embassy7to ofto representative senatefor under initiative seek a royaland pardon them thethat Commonwealth Constituso they would of beAustralia able to return to a tion Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal normal life back in Nepal. and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats Altogether 70 Nepalis are serving jail respectively making it 90 for Liberal National terms in various team Coalition giving 35Thai seat prisons. advantageThe against held meetings with Nepalis inmates the opponent Australian Labor Party. at Bang Kwang leader Central and theNational Central Subsequently, of Jail the Liberal Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as Women´s Jail in Thailand on Saturday.

While 21 Nepalis males are in Bang Kwang, nine women are doing time in the Central Women´s Jail. Other Nepalis are in Klong Prem Prision and Chiang Mai Prison. Most of them were arrested on charges of drug smuggling. According to Dhakal, the inmates whom the joint team met on Saturday requested them to take the initiative to let them serve their remaining jail terms in Nepal itself. They complained that they were facing difficulties due to lack of knowledge of the Thai language. Altogether 24 countries have reached an agreement with Thailand under which their nationals in Thai prisons can serve the rest of their terms in their own respective countries. Nepalis in Thai prisons can also be taken to Nepal to serve their remaining jail terms once Nepal inks a similar agreement with Thailand.

Dhakal of NRNA-Thailand said most Nepalis in Thai jails seemed to be innocent and illiterate people who had been used by those involved in smuggling

illegal drugs. He said there is a need to organize awareness programs to prevent innocent Nepalis being arrested under such circumstances.

Time for us to give it a go!

a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Both major political parties made an attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates in their election campaign. Labor intended to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four South Asian origin candidates jostling for the seat in parliament, three of them from Victoria. Green also had four candidates Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott running for them, the most prominent being Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from Melbourne’s North. South Asian origin stood up in the election Record Number of South enough it is the newer andin representing different political parties or as Nepal America Welfare Association is all set to Interestingly organize a grand Nepalese Festival Asian and Subcontinent lesser known parties that had stronger presindependent for the seats of both houses. America in May with a theme ‘step globally with Nepalese products’. candidates ence of South Asian candidates representing This number may not seem big compared to The festival is going to be held from 24 to 26 May. This year’s election remained quite signifthem. Newly registered Palmer United Party the wide range of political platforms across icant for Asian and Subcontinent community Nepalbut government, Ministry of the Commerce, Ministry oftwo nine and WikiLeakes Party had Australia; this certainlyMinistry indicates of theFinance,had as we witnessed largest number of candidates Foreign Affairs and Tourism Trade Promotion Centre, FNCCI, Subcontinent origin candidates standing in increasing Subcontinent interestsMinistry in main- including from the region actively participating in Industrial Association, the election.Nepal Domestic and Small stream Australian politics. Nepal Chamber of Commerce, the election. A total of 26 candidates from Entrepreneur Association, Nepal Handicraft Association, Nepal Pashmina Associa-

Grand Nepalese Festival to NRNA to provide aid to family of Everest avalanche be held in US to promote bilateral trade victims

Number of Political Parties Non-Resident Nepali Association proliferated

International Coordination Council This election Voters got spoiled for (NRNAICC) President Shesh Ghale has choices as the number of registered political parties have thanRsdoubled since announced to more provide 1 million to the election, and is at a record high. the2010 families of Everest avalanche victims. Many termed the proliferation parties a Mid last month sixteen highofaltitudes triumph for democracy, the other Nepali guides died andand three otherscalled it opportunistic individuals and groups went missing in an deadly avalanche in seeking publicity. More political parties were the Mt Everest. Six others were injured registered to contest the federal election than in the incident. ever before, with the Australian Electoral Releasing a statement, NRNA President Commission approving the most applicaGhalesince alsoparty expressed a condolence to tions registration was introduced in As theofentry criteriaHe made too easy the1984. families deceased. urged the 24 more parties with Australian government toregistered pay adequate attention Electoral Commission than Federal for avoiding such disaster in the election future. 2010. With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubblers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party Australia. Amongst the new entrants the Palmer United Party and the Katter’s Australian party left its entry mark in Australian politics with one seat each in their hand. And while 54 registered political parties may be a record high, given the two-party system and the rarity of minority governments, it’s still low when compared with some other countries.

Liberal National Party

tion and other will take part at the festival. In the festival, the trade associations will display their products in various stalls. The festival will give opportunity to Nepali and American entrepreneurs to join NSW VIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT NT National Won Last Election hands for business 18 19 6The festival 3 55 72 is5going1 to be2held on1 the occasion of Republic Day of Nepal and US 30 16 Memorial 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 73 hotel in Dallas city of Texas, Day. The program will be held at DFW airport 18 formed to manage the festival 23 14 the0 organizer 12 said. 6 Different 3 0 committees 0 58have been 44 so as to make it a grand success. 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21

The Nationals

Country Liberals (NT)

The Greens

Katter’s Australian Party

Palmer United Party

Independent

Not yet determined

TOTAL

150

DECLARED

this year’s Result Party Australian Labor Party Liberal/National Coalition Liberal

two party count nationally Party / Coalition

Votes

Percentage %

Swing %

Australian Labor Party

5,069,128

46.63

-3.57

Liberal/National Coalition

5,802,835

53.37

+3.57

www.nepalesevoice.com.au | Email: editor@nepalesevoice.com.au | Phone: 0449 913 133

inclusion, integration & collaboration through media...

Nepalese Voice Australia

May 2014 | October 2013

diaspora COVER STORY | 23 7

Nepali academicians at Oxford University participated in ‘Nepal Study Days’

We can give it a go!

and budding researchDespite stablished increasing South Asian representaers and academicians relatedno to tion in mainstream Australian politics, Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. Nepal or Nepali cultural worldAs the fastest growing community in Australia, have gathered in the world-renowned it would have been timely to see Oxford University, UK. Theysomeone assembled from thepart community advancing the to take in the 12th Nepalinto Study mainstream political platform to voice our Days and share their recent researches concerns to a government level. on April 24-25. “We are relatively new in compared to Nepal is an annual other SouthStudy AsianDays Community, most of our conference to Nepal organized population isrelated a first generation migrants by andthe hasBritain-Nepal survival as the Academic first priorityCouncil however we don’t lack intelligence, and (BNAC). Eight of the 12awareness Nepal Study education compete and integrate Days weretoorganized only for oneinto day Australian politics. It isthe nowgrowing the neednumof hour but in order to meet that someone begins chipping it away” says a ber of participants, since 2009 it now community leader. runs for one extra day. A political science student from Latrobe Aboutsays 60 academics andofresearchUniversity “the awareness political ers attended the program. 20 participation is directly relatedOverall to the history selected papers themes, namely: of migration. Lackon of7familiarity with the Ghurkhas, Capital and Labour, political system would translate intoGender, lack of participation. ” In our case, weTourism, have hundreds Nature and Environment,

Health andwho Diaspora, werenoteworthy presented of Nepalese have made and discussedinfor two days. achievements businesses and academia, many hold extensive backgrounds andpardistinEngland, Scotland and Wales, guished careers, we have produced hundreds ticipants from Denmark, Vienna, Nepal, of affluent personalities but we and are lagging The Netherlands, Germany Norway political participation. are taking part in the program. That said, off late we are starting to see Nepal Study Days is organized in many Nepalese youths showing promises different thethat UKis and this leading theUniversities community. in And a step year. The program is hosted in Oxford closer for us to be able to capitalise on with the support of School of Anthrothe democratic platform provided by our pology Museum Ethnography and adopted and country, the great nation Australia. We can doCollege. this and all weconveners need to do of is to All Souls The this give it aprogram go. year’s in Oxford were Professor Unlike in theDr USKrishna where many Nepalese David Gellner, Adhikari have gained clout in mainstream politics, and Dr Sondra Hausner. The BNAC was such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for conestablished on 23 May 2000 at a large gress in 2012 election, we are still to have the meeting at voting the School of Oriental andin privilege of for a Nepali candidate African Studies in London of British Australia. As a community we are hungry for academics and researchers in the real leadership. Hopefully interested the day comes various aspects of Nepal. sooner than it looks. The objective of the Council is to

Nepal Study Days is an annual conference related to Nepal organized by the Britain-Nepal Academic Council (BNAC). Eight of the 12 Nepal Study Days promote academic and scholarly links were organized only between Britain and Nepal through, infor one day but in order ter alia, collaborative research, exchange to meet the growing programmes and organization of annual number of participants, lectures, and seminars on areas of musince 2009 it now runs for tual interest to both British and Nepali extra day. Dr Ali Khanand - Liberal (second from left) during hisone election campaign academics researchers.

South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election

Nepali scientist involved in groundbreaking physics research in the US Candidate

Party

Position

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Alex Bhathal

Greens

Dinesh Jayasuriya

Nepali woman bags American award Electorate Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Greens

HOR

Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

promises leading the community.

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Gurminder Sekhon

Greens

Senate

Nepali Dr Yadav Pandit has Binoy scientist Kampmark Wikileaks Party Senate Pandit is involved in a been a part of the groundbreaking physics research with other research team in the US. Pandit is top scientists of the world involved in a physics research with to find how the subatomic other top scientists of the world to find particles that filled the how the subatomic particles that filled early universe transformed the early universe transformed into the into the ordinary matter of ordinary matter of the world. the world. Pandit, a son of average Nepali family from Pyuthan district has been working to find the landslide change in basic science. Pandit is working with a team of world scientists at the Brookhaven National Laboratory in the US. After completing his SLC from a government school, he did M.Sc. in Physics from Tribhuvan University in 1996. He was was also active in student politics and social work in Nepal. Then he earned Master’s degree in Physics from the Kent State University in the USA. He completed Ph.D. in experimental nuclear physics from the Brookhaven important discovery in nuclear physics National University in 2012. after the discovery of Higgs boson also Earlier, Pandit and his team’s discovnamed as God’s particle. ery has been regarded as the third most

inclusion, integration & collaboration through media...

And that is a step closer for us to be

An American University has awarded a Isaacs able to capitalise on the democratic Nepali woman for her contribution on Lalor women’s empowerment on peace andplatform provided by our adopted Menzies democracy. Shova Shrestha, chairperson of country, the great nation Australia. Scullin Women for Peace and Democracy, a We Ne- can do this and all we need to Wills pali nongovernmental organization has do is to give it a go. been honored by a prestigious American award, Arthur E-Hugas Carrier Achievement. America-based San Diageo University has conferred the award amid a program last week. Shrestha has been supporting the programs on women, politics and peace run by the university for a long time. She has been working in Chitwan, Makawanpur and Sarlahi districts on the same issues. Speaking at the award distribution program, Shrestha said her organization has been working for increasing women’s participation in socio-political sectors by Shova Shrestha, building their capacity. chairperson of Women for David Barth, Executive Director of Peace and Democracy, a Canada-based Charity World Accord Nepali nongovernmental that has been assisting financially and technically to the organization extended organization has been views about the program and rewarded honored by a prestigious Shrestha. American award,

Arthur E-Hugas Carrier Achievement.

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6 | COVER STORY 24 article

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Meeting food security Election-Lesson for is the topmost priority for South Nepalese community Asia and Sub-saharan Africa Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go!

of major food crops grown in south Asia and cated to that region so that research could months. On the third day, delegates visited Sub-saharan Africa. attempt to close the gap between Yp and the “Africa Rising” project site in Amhara Every crop variety has its genetic Ya. In contrast, if there is low Yg of rice in region located about 150 km from Addis and climatic yield potential (Yp) while in another region then perhaps funds could be Ababa. This project is funded by USAID By Ramjee Poudel farmers’ field the yield of the same variety allocated for research to increase Ypitself or for research on sustainable intensification (called actual yield, Ya) is much lower than the country could allocate the resources for in west, east and southern Africa and in its Yp. The difference between Yp and Ya is research to close Yg of other crops in that Ethiopian highlands. While we visited some yield gap (Yg) which is large and is variable region. However, many other factors need to representative crop trials and irrigation areustralia had its 44th general elecacross the districts or regions within a counth tions on September 7 to the House try or across the countries. While genetic of representative and senate under A total of 26 candidates Yp can be derived from well-managed field the Commonwealth of Australia Constitufrom South Asian origin experiments the climatic Yp is estimated tion Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal stood up in the election. from crop growth simulation models only. and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats The challenge for agricultural scientists respectively making it 90 for Liberal National and researchers is to identify the causes of Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against yield gaps of crop varieties and develop and the opponent Australian Labor Party. Both major political parties made an implement intervention strategies to close Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates the gaps. Once the yield gaps are closed Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as in their election campaign. Labor intended farmers yields, productionand income will aDr. Prime minister of Australia for next three Jagadish Timsina to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj be increased and food security of poor years. Honorary Principal Fellow, University Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower countries will be improved. This requires In the history of Australian elections, of Melbourne and Consultant to Global house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber specific analysis and specific research and two major parties Australian Labor Party Yield Gap Atlas (GYGA) initiative in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four policy agenda for specific countries, says and The Liberal Coalition have dominated South Asian origin candidates jostling for the lower house. Since the foundation of the Dr. Jagadish Timsina, the seat in parliament, three of them from Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have Honorary Principal Fellow, Victoria. Green also had four candidates formed every government and this year was Universityelected of Melbourne Recently Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott cientists from national agricultural running for them, the most prominent being no different. and Consultant to GYGA research systems, consortium group Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from initiative, who was one of of international agricultural research Melbourne’s North. South Asian origin stood up in the election Record Number of South the delegates representing Number of Political Parties (CGIAR) centres, and from global projects Interestingly enough it is the newer and representing different political parties or as Bangladesh, Nepaland Asian and Subcontinent proliferated related to food security and climate change lesser known parties that had stronger presindependent for the seats of both houses. Australia and delivered a candidates Votersfrom got spoiled for fromThis overelection 15 countries South Asia, ence of South Asian candidates representing This number may not seem big compared to paper during the intensive This year’s election remained quite signifchoices as theAfrica, number of registered politiSub-saharan USA, Netherlands and them. Newly registered Palmer United Party the wide range of political platforms across 2-days icant for(25-26 AsianMarch) and Subcontinent community cal partiesmet have more than doubled since Australia and discussed about the food had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Australia; but this certainly indicates the workshop at ILRI (Internaas we witnessed largest number of candidates the 2010issues election, and isAsia at aand record high. security in South Sub-saharan Subcontinent origin candidates standing in increasing Subcontinent interests in maintionalthe Livestock Research from region actively participating in Many the proliferation parties a by Africa.termed This international event,oforganized the election. stream Australian politics. Institute) campus the election. A totalinofAddis 26 candidates from triumph forYield democracy, and the other called the Global Gap Atlas (GYGA) initiative Ababa, Ethiopia, followed it opportunistic and groups supported by Billindividuals and Melinda Gates Foundaby one day (27 March) field seeking publicity. More political parties were tion, USA and commissioned by University this year’sthe Result visit to examine crops registered to contest the federal election than of Nebraska-Lincoln, Wageningen University and cropping systems in ever before, the Australian Electoral Party NSW from VIC national QLD agricultural WA SA research TAS ACT NTconsortium Nationalgroup Won Election agriculScientists systems, of Last international Research andwith ICRISAT (international Crop farmers’ fields in Amhara Commission approving the most applicaResearch Institute for Semi-arid Tropics)-Kentural research (CGIAR) centres, and from global projects related to food security and climate change Australian Labor Party 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 region of Ethiopia. tions since party registration wasfor introduced ya, aims to develop global atlases yield from over 15 countries from South Asia, Sub-saharan Africa, USA, Netherlands and Australia met Liberal/National 30 16 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 73 in 1984. As the gap entry criteria too easy Delegates fromCoalition the potential, yield and water made productivity gap and discussed about the food security issues in South Asia and Sub-saharan Africa. 24 more parties registered with Australian participating countries preLiberal 23 14 0 12 6 3 0 0 58 44 Electoral Commission than Federal election sented the Yp and Yg results Liberal National Party 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 2010. from their countries. Since The Nationals 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 Most countries of South Asia With some interesting names and be considered. crop variety Yp is determined by climatic as and interacted with participating farmers manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle and extension workers in the project, I was and Sub-saharan Africa have a problem of factors but Ya is a result of biophysical and Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australparticularly amazed by the excellent road increasing population growth rate every socio-economic factors, the results from The Greens 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 ian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, network across the country, decent airport year with great challenge of feeding their various participating countries required No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 and airport services, and beautiful natural population.0Thus the information on Yg quite a bit of discussion and clarifications. and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted At the end of intensive with Palmer United Party 2 days of deliber0 0 landscape 1 0 mountains 0 0 and hills 0 that0 1 and its analysis 0 will be extremely useful to for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubations and discussions, delegates agreed Ethiopia has, says Dr. Timsina. If Ethiopia address the food security issues and meet Independent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 blers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition on outcomes and achievements so far and can construct such nice wider roads and food demand of these countries. Such yield party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party Not yet determined 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 maintain them adequately in mountains and developed a work plan for the next 12 gap analyses- and atlases will be highly Australia. Amongst the new entrants the useful for agricultural researchers and TOTAL 48 37 hills30why not 15Nepal11can do 5 the same 2 in its 2 150 Palmer United Party and the Katter’s Australmountains and hills, Dr. Timsina keeps on extension workers in Nepal as a benchmark DECLARED 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 The GYGA initiative started 2 years ian party left its entry mark in Australian thinking… for prioritizing the research and extension politics with one seat each in their hand. ago and aims to finalise the atlases by The GYGA initiative started 2 years ago agenda and targeting the research sites and And while 54 registered politicalMarch parties 2015. two party count nationally and aims to finalise the atlases by March developing extension strategies, and will be Once these atlases will be may be a record high, given the two-party 2015. Votes Once these atlases will bePercentage % prepared useful for policy makers for allocating funds prepared they will be useful for policy Party / Coalition Swing % system and the rarity of minority governthey will be useful for policy makers of to specific regions for research and extenmakers ofAustralian variousLabor countries ments, it’s still low when compared with Party to allocate 5,069,128 various countries to allocate the46.63 funds for sion and-3.57 for expansion of areas under crops some other countries. the funds Liberal/National for researchCoalition and extension of 5,802,835 +3.57 research and extension of crop 53.37 commodof interest. These all will be necessary to crop commodities to various zones and ities to various zones and regions of those close the yield gaps of various crops, address Australian government has been based on two-party system, for theisSenate, house – hasissues the and meet food demand regions of(Although those the countries. countries. For example, if there high Ygthe upper food security proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since of the country, says Dr. 1984.) Timsina. of rice in a region then funds could be allo-

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May 2014 | October 2013

interview COVER STORY | 25 7

personality of the month

We can give it a go! Madhu Marasini Senior Nepalese government official and Australia Awards alumnus

Despite increasing South Asian representation in mainstream Australian politics, no Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As the fastest growing community in Australia, it would have been timely to see someone from the community advancing into the mainstream political platform to voice our concerns to a government level. “We are relatively new in compared to n 2004, Nepali citizen and Australia other South Asian Community, most of our Awardsisscholar Madhu Marasini, population a first generation migrants graduated from Naand has survival as thethe Australian first priority however tional University (ANU) with a Maswe don’t lack intelligence, awareness and ters of International andintegrate Development education to compete and into Australian politics. It is now need ofishour Economics. A decade later,theMadhu that begins chippingInternational it away” says a nowsomeone Chief/Joint Secretary community leader. Economic Cooperation Coordination A political science student from Latrobe Division of the Ministry of Finance in University says “the awareness of political Nepal, leading the direction of foreign participation is directly related to the history aidmigration. to finance development projects of Lack of familiarity with the in Nepal’s prioritised sectors. He lack also of political system would translate into continues to promote the benefits of participation.” In our case, we have hundreds

Nepal’s infrastructure has room friendly. After finishing my Masters at to grow. Building infrastructures of ANU I gained a promotion to the joint power and roads are critically important. secretary level of the Government. That Economic growth cannot be achieved, is just one step behind becoming a Secand employment cannot be generated, retary of the Government of Nepal. without the availability of electricity and What kind of friendships and road connection. Nepal should focus on professional connections have utilising its abundant water resources to produce electricity and boost export. you maintained since your reTourism is another sector, where we turn to Nepal, and how have have the comparative advantages too. these benefited you? Similarly, as over 70% of the populaI am in constant touch with friends tion still live in farming communities, from other countries who have been enhancing agricultural productivity and Dr Ali Khan - Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign promoting commercialisation of agricul- working in the ministries of finances, the Australia Awards and, in his role foreign affairs and other multilateral and ture is another critical priority. as a high-achieving alumnus, recently bilateral development organisations such participated in the selection of 39 Nepali Thinking back to your time as as Asian Development Bank, the World South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election Australia Awardees for the 2014 intake. Bank and DFAT. We exchange views an Australia Awardee, what The benefits of Australian Governfrom time to time on the issues related did you gain from your expeCandidate Party Position Electorate ment scholarships in supporting the to economic and social development in rience in Australia? development Dr Ali Khan priorities of countries Liberal HOR Calwell our respective countries and the glob...off late we are starting to at see from their own home. This will not only I gained self-confidence, an underthrough educational opportunities al level too. I have also been maintaining help enhance aid transparency but also Alex Bhathal HOR Batman standing of multicultural values andmany Nepalese youths showing have been acknowledged by MrGreens Marregular contact with some of my profesassists in augmenting aid effectiveness. expanded my contacts and networks. I asini, who has said that, “the Australia Dinesh Jayasuriya Greens HOR Gorton sors from ANU. Their emails encourage Nepal’s AMP now has become an exempromises leading the community. have been able to apply the knowledge Awards have changed my thinking and me to take challenges and apply new plary tool. Many aid recipient countries Jatinder Singh Palmer United HOR Holt and skills that I had learned at ANUAnd that improved my confidence level. This knowledge into my work. is a step closer for us to be have been visiting Nepal to learn from to my job. The teachers were superbly opportunity too. I United Avtar Singh was Gill an eye openerPalmer HOR Isaacs Source: Australia Awards our experience. able to capitalise on the democratic helpful, and the Aussie people were very hope future scholarships to Nepal will Likewise, when Nihal Sharma Liberal HORI was working for the Lalor help create a good pool of talent in Neplatform provided by our adopted Inland Revenue Department, I worked Manoj Labor HOR Menzies pal, andKumar develop people who can really to introduce the Value Added Tax (VAT) country, the great nation Australia. contribute to the economic development Jag Chuga Liberal Scullin system in NepalHOR for the first time. I am of this country.” Following on from this happy to see that now the VAT is one We can do this and all we need to Shilpa Hegde Liberal HOR Wills comment, Mr Marasini was kind enough of the major sources of revenue for the toGurminder spend some time answeringGreens questions do is to give it a go. Sekhon Government ofSenate Nepal. The VAT system, related to his time as an awardee, which as well as my work establishing the Binoy Kampmark Wikileaks Party Senate are shared below. Anti-Money Laundering Department, has paved a stronger way for tax reform What are the achievements in Nepal.

you are most proud of so far?

I have institutionalised the Aid Management Platform (AMP) in the Ministry of Finance, which is now a public portal on aid data in Nepal. Today, anyone living in any corner of the world can access Nepal’s aid information

What do you think are the main development priorities for Nepal, and what changes would you like to see in Nepal in the next decade?

Nepal Festival 2014 Logo unveiled Sankalpa’s design wins competition as well as hearts A logo of Nepal festival 2014 Australia has been unveiled. Melbourne based photographer/designer Sankalpa Luitel’s design has been selected as the winning logo for the upcoming festival. NRN Australia had conducted the logo competition with the cash prize of hundred dollars for the winner. After the team consultation Sankalpa’s design that amalgamates Nepali flag, Nepali national anthem, Lord Buddha and Mount Everest artistically, not only won the competition but also a lot of admirations. Nepal festival which is scheduled for November this year in Melbourne and other states is expected to promote Nepal‘s culture and tourism in Australia.

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October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community T

Nsw and Victorian Governments unite to oppose change to federal racial vilification laws

he NSW and Victorian Governments has announced they had lodged formal submissions opposing changes to the protections against racial vilification contained in the Federal Racial Discrimination Act 1975. Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship Matthew Guy and NSW Minister for Citizenship and Communities Victor Dominello said: By Ramjee Poudel “We consider it vital that the Commonwealth does not weaken protections in place against racial vilification.” “The proposed changes threaten ustralia had its 44th general elec-the House tions on September 7th to the social cohesion and well-being of not representative and senate under just ourofstates’ culturally and religiously the Commonwealth of Australia diverse communities, but alsoConstituthe wider tion Act, 1900. In this election, Australian community. “We Liberal support the and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats protections currently in place under the respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Federal Racial and Coalition giving Discrimination 35 seat advantageAct against emphasise the practical and symbolic the opponent Australian Labor Party. importance of theseofprotections – parSubsequently, leader the Liberal National ticularly for our Aboriginal, Coalition, Tony Abbott has beenmulticultursworn in as

al and multi-faith communities. “Successive NSW and Victorian Governments have worked hard to foster socially inclusive and cohesive communities. “This is the basis for the Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 2010 and Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001 and the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. “Unlike the Commonwealth laws, the NSW and Victorian statutes also include criminal prohibitions for serious racial vilification.” “Vilification on the grounds of race or religion is always wrong and we should never allow it to sanctioned, whether intentionally or otherwise.” The Federal Government’s Exposure Draft on the Freedom of Speech (Repeal of s.18C) Bill 2014 was released on 25 March and public submissions closed on 30th of April.

Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship Matthew Guy and NSW Minister for Citizenship and Communities Victor Dominello said: “We consider it vital that the Commonwealth does not weaken protections in place against racial vilification.”

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go!

AFL launches the inaugural AFL NESB Focus Groups

Number of Political Parties proliferated

By:This Darpan Mittal election Voters got spoiled for choices as the number of registered political parties have more than doubled since n 29 April 2014, the AFL the 2010 election, and is at a record high. launched the inaugural AFL a Many termed the proliferation of parties NESB Focus Groups. The triumph for democracy, and the otherfirst called ofopportunistic three sessions in 2014 was conductit individuals and groups ed in Melbourne at AFL Headquarters seeking publicity. More political parties were registered to contest federal election than and, attended by 25the key multiculturever before, withleaders the Australian Electoral al community from African, Commission approving the mostEastern applicaChinese, Indian and Middle tions since party registration was introduced backgrounds. in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy AFL Head of Diversity Jason Mifsud 24 more parties registered with Australian said the AFL NESB Focus Groups have Electoral Commission than Federal election been formed to ensure cultural insights 2010. are With captured peoplenames of non-Engsomefrom interesting and lish speaking backgrounds the manifesto, parties like Fishing to andenrich Lifestyle Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubblers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party Australia. Amongst the new entrants the Palmer United Party and the Katter’s Australian party left its entry mark in Australian politics with one seat each in their hand. And while 54 registered political parties may be a record high, given the two-party system and the rarity of minority governments, it’s still low when compared with some other countries.

Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott

Record Number of South Asian and Subcontinent candidates

This year’s election remained quite significant for Asian and Subcontinent community future plans oflargest the Australia AFL as we witnessed number Post of candidates Multicultural program. from the region actively participating in “We believe that thecandidates AFL Focus the election. A total of 26 from

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Group is pivotal to the growth of our diversity and international programs this year’s Result and we would like to thank all members interestingWon inputs regarding NSW QLD WAspeaking SA backgrounds TAS ACT are NT National Last Election what the ofParty the group for contributing their time VIC non-English engaged by the AFL to provide input young migrants feel about AFL. and ideas toLabor enrich and develop our Australian Party 18 pro-19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 into targeted multicultural strategies. grams and to ensure a positive outcome Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 This 22will ensure 12 6 any 3 plans0 and 1 90 73 that for participants and the community. Liberal 23 14 investments 0 12 are informed 6 3 by appropriate 0 0 58 44 “The first session was very well “It is important that cultural insights and expertise. ” Liberaland National Party 0 dis-0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 attended we had some fantastic people from noncussions and exciting ideas put forward. The Nationals 7 2 0The targeted 0 0priority 0 NESB 0 commu0 9 7 nities include: African, Chinese, Indian English speaking “It is important that people from Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 and Middle Eastern. backgrounds are The Greens 0 1 0 Prominent 0 0 0 of Victori0 0 1 1 members engaged by the Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 an Indian 1 0community 0 0 as0Vinay 0 1 0 such Sharma (Chair – Indian Executive Club, AFL 0to provide Palmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 Rashi Kapoor – Miss India Melbourne input Independent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 into targeted 2013, Dr Manjula O’Connor (ACHRH), Not yet determined 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 multicultural Manpreet Singh Kaur (SBS Punjabi), TOTAL 48 37 Savita 30 Soni15(SBS Hindi) 11 5and few 2 others 2 150 strategies. This DECLARED 0 0 also0 attended 0 the 0inaugural 0 0 0 0 session and will ensure that provided cultural insights on behalf of any plans and Indian community. two party count nationally investments Also present at the session was AFL’s Party / Coalition Votes Percentage % Multicultural Programs Coordinator – areSwing % informed by Australian Labor Party 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 Mr Kashif Bouns. After appointment of appropriate cultural Kashif in the AFL, the exposure of AFL Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 insights and has considerably improved in Victoria’s (Although the Australian government has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the multicultural communities. expertise.” proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) Rashi was the youngest member of the Focus Group, and provided some

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Australia

fAShIoN community & eNteRtAINmeNt news | 19 27 COVER STORY 7

'Love you' Bhim Niroula Nepal’s answer to PSY Gangnam Style

ANPL organising Mental health workshop in Melbourne

NINFA to hold debate contest in Australia

We can give it a go!

Australia Nepal Public Link is organising a workshop “Understanding Mental Illness Nepalese Indigenous Nationalities Forum Australia (NINFA) is set to organize a and supporting people and family members with Mental Illness workshop” to addebate contest in Australia. dress the mental health issues especially in the community seniors. The theme of the contest is ‘how to make Australia a non-partial, strong and The workshop in Melbourne is being co-ordinated by ANPL executive member amiable multicultural society’. Mr Nirajan Gauli. Issuing a statement Mr Gauli has said that mental health issues are The competition will be held on 25th may at Senior Citizen Center of 66 Prices often stigmatised in Nepalese community and cultural context. It’s about time that Highway Canterbury. Nepali origin people over 16 will participate in the contest, we acknowledge it. organizerare said. many Any aspirants cando register obody knewitofand UKembrace based Nepali Love him, hate him, and there who so their names for the competition paying banker Bhim Niraula, of Nepalesecommunity who have made noteworthy Despite increasing South Asianbefore representaThis introductory workshop is20aimed at Nepalese leaders in order AU$ 10 by 16 May. inand equal measure asand they engage in a puerile war of October, even though he hadofcouple achievements in businesses and academia, tion in mainstream Australian politics, no to provide better understanding mental illness also strengthen the skills NINFA chairman Ganesh Tamang said the debate contest has been organizing of albums his belt up andtohis YouTube Nepali hastoyet this challenge. As hold extensive backgrounds andmedia, distinwords on social butanyou can’t ignore him. knowledge ofrisen participants to offer chansupport tomany people, friends and family members with association of Community Relation, Canterbury City Council, Metro Migranel had 590 community videos. Those guished careers, we have produced hundreds the already fastest growing in videos Australia, tion Resource Centre and CDO. with mental health concerns.

barely managed more thanto100 each. But it would have been timely seehits someone his belly-jiggling songadvancing and danceinto buffoonery from the community the called Sunday morning love you with mainstream political platform to voicethe our Aztec ruins the Sphinxlevel. as the backdrop concerns to and a government led to an are overnight change fortunes and “We relatively new in compared to propelled Bhim to internet stardom. other South Asian Community, most of our Love him, and there are many population is ahate firsthim, generation migrants who in equal they engage and do hassosurvival asmeasure the first as priority however in puerile war of words on social media, weadon’t lack intelligence, awareness and The program is integrate but you can’t him. lyricsinto like, education to ignore compete andWith scheduled tois be held “Lady you are attractive, attractive, ” which Australian politics. It now the need of hour on Sunday 25 May the composed himself, it is says harda that48-year-old someone begins chipping it away” not to hum from the tune1once community leader. 2014 pmyou tohave survived the (somewhat) embarrassing routine. political studentdance from Latrobe 4A pm at science Nepalese Besides whosays wouldn’t want to love their University “the awareness of political Consulate office - level significant other everyday of thetoweek, well participation is directly related the history 7, 28-32 Elizabeth Street except for Saturday that is? of migration. Lack of familiarity with the Melbourne. Sunday morning is rapidly nearing political system would translate into lack of 600,000 unique views as fans participation. ” In our case, wefrom haveacross hundreds RSVP by to 20seemay, the globe throng Bhim’s2014 signature to on (Nirajan Gauli - and tweet moves YouTube and like, share, zealously. Buzzfeed.com, 0424399883) or an American site South origin candidates that tracksAsian viral content throughout the at info@anpl.org.au

Mental health workshop in Melbourne

of affluent personalities but we are lagging says those he approached were too busy. Afpolitical participation. ter filming his dance steps in a green room, That said, off late we are starting to see the studio hired a local model and filmed her many Nepalese youths showing promises walking around a park over a couple of days. leading the community. And that is a step Bhim never met her. closer for us to be able to capitalise on The online sensation, however, seems very the democratic platform provided by our practical and has modest ambitions. “You can’t adopted country, the great nation Australia. live on music alone in Nepal. I am in this for perWe can do this and all we need to do is to sonal reasons and I make these videos because I give it a go. don’t want to stop writing music,” he says. Unlike in the US where many Nepalese Originally from Dhankuta, Bhim has have gained clout in mainstream politics, been living in Reading for the last seven years such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for conwith his family. He already has two albums gressfeatured in 2012 election, to offering have the web, the videowe onare its still blogs, Creation and Pratyek Raat to his name and privilege of voting foraatempting Nepali candidate international viewers invitationin is planning on releasing a third soon, which Australia. As a community are hungry for to Bhim’s wacky moves. Hiswe supporters have he will name Sunday morning. And after the real leadership. Hopefully day to comes even labelled the song Nepal’s the answer the raging success of his latest song, Bhim soonernonsensical than it looks. other hits like Why This Kolaveri ‘how make Australia a non-partial, strong plans to sing in to English more often to attract Dr Ali Khan -and Liberalamiable (second from left) during his election campaign Di and Gangnam Style. multicultural society’. international viewers. For the singer cum song-writer, however, The competition will be held on 25th may at Senior Citizen Center of 66 Regardless of whether Sunday morning this was no joke. Bhim spent £2,000 making PricestoHighway Canterbury. manages out ‘hit’ other viral videos Nepali includ- origin people over 16 will participate the music video and £300 on recording. He the contest, organizer Any aspirants can register their names for ingin One Pound Fish from which itsaid. is much from Victoria 2013 Federal Election initially wanted toin feature a Nepali girl, but the paying AU$ 10 by 16 May. inspired, Bhim Niraula hascompetition arrived.

Candidate

Party

Position

Electorate

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

Alex Bhathal

Greens

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Dinesh Jayasuriya

Greens

HOR

Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

promises leading the community.

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Wills

Senate

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Nepalese Voice

October 2013 | May 2014

Cheapest Airfares Election-Lesson

Australia

for Nepalese community Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! By Ramjee Poudel

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

EVEREST VIEW TA-0033139

Travel & Tours

Discover Nepal, Discover Yourself Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott

Record Number of South Asian and Subcontinent candidates

Cargo & Courier Services

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Money Transfer

this year’s Result Party

NSW VIC

QLD

TAS ACT

National

Won Last Election

Australian Labor Party

Liberal/National Coalition

Liberal

Liberal National Party

The Nationals

Country Liberals (NT)

The Greens

Katter’s Australian Party

Palmer United Party

Independent

Not yet determined

TOTAL

150

DECLARED

Coming Soon To Serve You two party count nationally Party / Coalition

Votes

Percentage %

Swing %

Australian Labor Party

5,069,128

46.63

-3.57

Liberal/National Coalition

5,802,835

53.37

+3.57

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of Nepalese who have made noteworthy Despite increasing South Asian representaachievements in businesses and academia, tion in mainstream Australian politics, no Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As many hold extensive backgrounds and distinguished careers, we have produced hundreds the fastest growing community in Australia, of affluent personalities but we are lagging it would have been timely to see someone from the community advancing into the political participation. That said, off late we are starting to see mainstream political platform to voice our many Nepalese youths showing promises concerns to a government level. “We are relatively new in compared to leading the community. And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on other South Asian Community, most of our population is a first generation migrants the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. and has survival as the first priority however We can do this and all we need to do is to we don’t lack intelligence, awareness and give it a go. education to compete and integrate into Unlike in the US where many Nepalese Australian politics. It is now the need of hour that someone begins chipping it away” says a have gained clout in mainstream politics, community leader. such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for congress in 2012 election, we are still to have the A political science student from Latrobe University says “the awareness of political privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in Australia. As a community we are hungry for participation is directly related to the history of migration. Lack of familiarity with the the real leadership. Hopefully the day comes political system would translate into lack of sooner than it looks. 147 WESTBOURNE GROVE, participation.” In our case, we have hundreds

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6 | COVER STORY 30 festivity

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Nepalese New Year Program Election-Lesson for concluded with new hopes & aspirations Nepalese community

N Record number of South Asian candidates epalese Association of Victoria (NAV) organised the New Year 2071: Meet & Greet program in Melbourne on Sunday 27th of April 2014 to celebrate Nepalese New Year 2071. The program was an opportunity to exchange New Year greetings with the Nepalese Community and the leaders & members of other communities and By Ramjee Poudel organisations and to meet the new NAV team to the community. The program was attended by the guests Chairman Victoria ustralia hadofitsthe 44th general Multielecthe House on September 7th toMr. culturaltions Commission (VMC) Chin of representative and senate under Tan, Assistant Commissioner of Victoria the Commonwealth Australia ConstituPolice Mr. AndrewofCrisp, Superintend tion Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal Mr Mick Hermans, President of the Non and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats Resident Nepalese Association (NRNA) respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Mr. Sheshgiving Ghale CEO of AusCoalition 35and seat the advantage against tralian Vietnamese Women Association the opponent Australian Labor Party. (AVWA) Msleader Cam Nguyen. TheNational past Subsequently, of the Liberal presidentsTony of NAV and leaders Coalition, Abbott hasthe been swornofinthe as avarious Prime minister of Australia for next three ethnic Nepalese communities years. were among the special guests.

NAV President Mr. Sudhir Shakya presented the programs and activities of NAV for 2014. He also announced the appointment of NAV advisors to assist the Executive Committee. In his presentation he pledged that all events and activities that will be organised by the NAV team will be driven by an objective to maintain social harmony in the community through collaboration, inclusiveness and engagement.

Time for us to give it a go!

In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Number of Political Parties proliferated

This election Voters got spoiled for choices as the number of registered political parties have more than doubled since the 2010 election, and is at a record high. Many termed the proliferation of parties a triumph for democracy, and the other called it opportunistic individuals and groups seeking publicity. More political parties were registered to contest the federal election than ever before, with the Australian Electoral Commission approving the most applications since party registration was introduced in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Electoral Commission than Federal election 2010. With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubblers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokersthe Right Party or the Pirate Party Opening program, two Australia. Amongst the new entrants the young children, Breejanaa & Biraj, read Palmer United Party and the Katter’s Australout the New Year felicitation greetings ian party left its entry mark in Australian in Nepalese andseat English behalf of politics with one each inontheir hand. the And NAV.while President Mr. Sudhir Shakya 54 registered political parties welcomed all the guests the New Year may be a record high, giventothe two-party program for their system andand the thanks rarity ofeveryone minority governments, it’s stilltolow compared with attendance thewhen program which is the some other countries. first official event organised by the new

committee. “Your participation is an encouragement for us and it gives us an enormous confidence in our objective and effort to maintain a united, col-

A total of 26 candidates from South Asian origin stood up in the election.

Both major political parties made an

attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates laborative and harmonious Nepalese in their election campaign. Labor intended community in Victoria”, he said. to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Speaking at the occasion Chief guest Kumar from Menzies in Melbourne for lower Chairman of the house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber Victoria Multiin NSW for senate. Liberal however had four cultural ComSouth Asian origin candidatesin jostling for in association with NAV and other comof NAV (from 2011‐2014) recognition mission (VMC) the seat insupport parliament, of them from munity organisations, will live up to its of their and three involvement in the Victoria. Green also had four candidates Mr. Chin Tan Enrich Culture‐Enrich Life and committee. Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mrtheme Tony Abbott running for the most prominent being commended welcomed everyone to get behind this Duringthem, the program, executive ComAlex Bhathal from Batman electorate from on the commitgrand community festival. mittee Member Mrs. Kusum Pokharel Melbourne’s North. South Asian origin stood up in the election Record Number ofment South and the In the program the new Executive delivered New Year Messages from the Interestingly enough it is the newer and representing different political parties or as Asian and Subcontinent openness of the Committee Members of NAV were Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal Mr. lesser known parties that had stronger presindependent for the seats of both houses. candidates introduced to the to Prakash ManAsian Singh, Nepalese Ambasence of South candidates representing This numberformally may not seem big compared This year’s election remained quite signifCommunity. NAV President sadorNewly to Australia HisPalmer Excellency them. registered UnitedMr. Party the wide range of political platforms across icant for Asian and Subcontinent community had nineKumar and theNepal WikiLeakes Party had two Australia; butMr. thisSudhir certainly indicates the Shakya presented Rudra and the Honorary as we witnessed largest number of candidates Subcontinent origin standing Mr. in increasing Subcontinent interests in mainthe programs and activities Consul General ofcandidates Nepal to Victoria from the region actively participating in the election. stream Australian politics. of NAV for 2014. He also Chandra Yonzon. NAV Vice President the election. A total of 26 candidates from announced the appointment Surendra Sedai presented Certificate of of NAV advisors to assist the Appreciation to the sponsors of the New this year’s Result Executive Committee. In his Year program which included Kandel presentation he pledged Consultant, Nepal Party NSW VIC QLD WA SA TAS ACT that NT National Won LastDining ElectionRoom, Valley all events and activities that Spices, Sunrise Indian Restaurant, Australian Labor Party 18 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 will be organised by the NAV DarkAnzyl Boutique and SK Nepali Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 22 12 6 90 73 team will be3driven0 by an1 Translation. The program concluded Liberal 23 14 0 12 6 to 3maintain 0 social 0 58with the vote 44 of thanks by Executive objective Liberal National Party 0 0 22 0harmony 0 in 0the community 0 0 22Committee21Member Mr Sunil Bhandari incluThe Nationals 7 2 0 0through 0 collaboration, 0 0 0 9 who thanked 7 all the guests, participants, siveness and engagement. sponsors, volunteers and the media for Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 NAV honoured all its Past making this program a success. The Greens 0 1 0 0Presidents 0 0 their0 leader0 1 1 and Greet program was for NAV Meet Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 1 0ship and 0 contribution 0 0 in the 0 1 a special occasion 0 for the Nepalese Palmer United Party 0 0 1 0Association 0 0by presenting 0 0a 1 community 0 to welcome New Year 2071 SimIndependent 0 1 0 0Token0of Appreciation. 1 0 0 2 together, with 4 renewed hopes and aspiilarly Mr. Andrew Crisp of rations. The program was attended by Not yet determined 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Nepalese community to embrace0and 0 Victoria Police, accompanied by imme151 people. TOTAL the multiculturism and 48 30 Past 15 11 5 2 2 150 promote diver- 37 diate sity in this state. President of the 0Non 0 President DECLARED 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Resident Nepalese Association (NRNA) Mr. Bom Mr. Shesh Ghalecount congratulated NAV and Yonzon, two party nationally expressed his great pleasure to see Nepgave away Partycommunity / Coalition organisations bringing Votes Percentage % Swing % alese Certificate Australian LaborinParty 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 professionalism their activities and of Appreorganising programs. He also highlight Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 ciation that the Nepal Festival 2014, which is to the (Although the Australian has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the being organised by the government Victorian State outgoing proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) Coordination Committee of NRNA committee Australia on 1& 2nd of November 2014 members

www.nepalesevoice.com.au | Email: editor@nepalesevoice.com.au | Phone: 0449 913 133

inclusion, integration & collaboration through media...

Nepalese Voice Australia

May 2014 | October 2013

festivity COVER STORY | 31 7

happy new year 2071

We can give it a go! of Nepalese who have made noteworthy Despite increasing South Asian representaachievements in businesses and academia, tion in mainstream Australian politics, no Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As many hold extensive backgrounds and distinguished careers, we have produced hundreds the fastest growing community in Australia, of affluent personalities but we are lagging it would have been timely to see someone from the community advancing into the political participation. That said, off late we are starting to see mainstream political platform to voice our many Nepalese youths showing promises concerns to a government level. “We are relatively new in compared to leading the community. And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on other South Asian Community, most of our population is a first generation migrants the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. and has survival as the first priority however We can do this and all we need to do is to we don’t lack intelligence, awareness and give it a go. education to compete and integrate into Unlike in the US where many Nepalese Australian politics. It is now the need of hour ‘Nepal Day’ has been celebrated in New promote tourismpolitics, of Nepal that someone begins chipping it away” says aZealand have With gainedto clout in mainstream community leader. through introducing Nepali arts and culture.such as Darshan Rauniyaar who ran for congressby in Nepali 2012 election, are still have the A political science student from Latrobe formed New Zealand Nepal, an organization peoplewe living in to New ZeaUniversity says “the awareness of political privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in land celebrated Nepali day on the occasion of New Year 2071. Australia. Assaid a community are hungry participation is directly related to the history Santosh Bhandari, chairperson of the organization, the event we aimed to pro-for of migration. Lack of familiarity with the the real leadership. Hopefully the day comes mote Nepal and its culture. More than 500 people participated at the function where political system would translate into lack of sooner than it looks. they also received the famous tourist destinations of Nepal. participation. ” In ourinformation case, we haveabout hundreds

‘Nepal Day’ held in New Zealand

Nepalese living in Perth celebrate Nepali New Year 2071

A cultural and musical program was held in Perth, Australia to welcome Nepali New Year 2071. Dr Ali Khan - living Liberalin(second from left) during hisYear election campaign Nepalese Perth welcomed the New swinging in music and exchangRepresentatives of New Zealand government, political party leaders and repreing New Year greetings among each other. sentatives of Nepali community were present at the function. Nepali Association of Western Australia organized the program in association Nepali cultural dance and music were performed and several stalls were set up to with South Asian origin and candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election Gorkha Television, Everest Nepalese Restura, Gorkhas Nepalese Restura, Himali display Nepali handicraft Nepali cuisine. Gorkha Restura and Lottery West. The program was supported by New Zealand government , Nepal Tourism Board The program was held at Vasto Club Hall of Balkata city. Candidate Party Position Electorate and Nepali embassy to New Zealand. A number of Australian dignitaries were also present at the event. They applauded Dr Ali Khan Liberal HOR Calwell ...offaslate we areof starting toand seeMount Nepal and its people remembering Nepal the country Lord Buddha Alex Bhathal Greens HOR Batman Everest. many Nepalese youths showing Football and cricket players associated with Australian Asian Association and NeDinesh Jayasuriya Greens HOR Gorton promises leading community. pali students who recently received PhD degree from variousthe Australian universities Jatinder Singh Palmer United HOR Holt were also been honoured at the program. And that is a step closer for us to be

SBS Radio celebrates Nepali New Year Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Menzies

Multilingual Nepali New Year 2071 with Nepalese community Jag Chuga radio SBS celebrated Liberal HOR in Sydney. Shilpa Hegde Liberal HOR Representatives of Nepali community, Radio officials, director as well as other Gurminder Sekhon Greens Senate staffs celebrated Nepali New Year organizing a special program. Nepali cultural dances, music including Lakhe Naach, Jhakri Naach as well as other Binoy Kampmark Wikileaks Party Senate performance were the main attraction of the program. Nepali program host Rajeev Aryal of SBS radio hosted the program. Indra Ban, Dr, Narayan Pradhan from Nepali community, Non-Resident NRN ICC spokesperson Mana KC including Shree Napit, Bishnu Hamal and media personalities Bhimsen Sapkota, Sujit Sigdel, Rishi Aacharya were present at the program. Similarly, Mandy Wicks, director of the SBS Radio, and Audette Exel, executive director said that the radio has increased programs targeting Nepalese people as the population of Nepali community is on the rise in Australia. SBS radio has been broadcasting various Nepali programs for a while now.

inclusion, integration & collaboration through media...

Scullin Wills -

able to capitalise on the democratic platform provided by our adopted country, the great nation Australia. We can do this and all we need to do is to give it a go.

Phone: 0449 913 133 | Email: editor@nepalesevoice.com.au | www.nepalesevoice.com.au

6 | COVER STORY 32 lifestyle

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson Persistence Paysfor Nepalese community W e all have set certain goals for ourselves in life. In the process of achieving those goals sometimes the going gets so tough that one might just want to take the easiest route and say ‘quits.’ However, remember, persistence is the key to success. We all have our bad hair days. And there are days, when we just feel like not doing anything and probably call it quits. But is there a way to beat this feeling of losing By RamjeeinPoudel purpose life? It’s time to look at life differently and change the situation.

Getting out of your comfort zone

We are all creatures of habits and we feel comfortable that way. But to live life and face its challenges, one needs to come out of the comfort zone. To push your creative boundaries, you need to challenge yourself and do some ‘out of the box’ thinking. If you can accept that things will get tough and life will not be always a cakewalk, then you will push yourself to do things out of your comfort zone.

Persistence the key

There are times you might just want to take the easiest route and say ‘quits.’ However, remember, persistent is the winning button you have to press consistently to reach your goal. As said Winston Churchill , “If you have an important point to make, don’t try to be subtle or clever. Use a pile driver. Hit the point once. Then come back and hit it again. Then hit it a third time - a tremendous whack.” Stay true to your goals and keep on trying.

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go!

ustralia had its 44th general elections on September 7th to the House of representative and senate under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, 1900. In this election, Liberal and National Liberal won 58 and 22 seats respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against the opponent Australian Labor Party. Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as a Prime minister of Australia for next three years. In the history of Australian elections, two major parties Australian Labor Party and The Liberal Coalition have dominated the lower house. Since the foundation of the Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have formed every government and this year was no different.

Be Happy

Life is not always rosy but then as they say, you are not the only one who is having a tough ride. So, look beyond temporary setbacks. Count your blessings. And celebrate life and spread happiness around you. And remember, even if you are having a tough time, the solution lies in being pro-active.

Recently elected Prime Minister of Australia Mr Tony Abbott

Men in ‘healthy’ countries Record Number of South Asian and Subcontinent have eyes for beauty! candidates

Number of Political Parties proliferated

This election Voters got spoiled for choices as the number of registered political parties have more than doubled since the 2010 election, and is at a record ll the pretty women out high. there, if Many termed the proliferation of a wooing a man is whatparties is in your triumph for democracy, and the other called mind, move on to a country it opportunistic individuals and groups where conditions are not that harsh as seeking publicity. More political parties were feminine to charm sweeps menelection living in registered contest the federal than countries with ‘healthy’ conditions. ever before, with the Australian Electoral A study has foundthe that men living in Commission approving most applicaunhealthy conditions are less tions since party registration wasattracted introduced in the entry made too easy to 1984. prettyAsfaces thancriteria their counterparts 24 moreinparties registered with Australian living healthy conditions. Electoral Commission thanliving Federal For example, a man in election Nepal 2010. or Nigeria finds a woman with large With some interesting names and eyes, full lips and a soft jaw not as manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle appealing as a Enthusiast Party, AustralParties, Motoring man in Japan ian Sports Party,orBullet Train for Australia, Australia No Carbonmay tax Climate Sceptics and shooters findFishers her. Party took part. Some even voted and for Australian “In harshSex Party, Coke in the Bubblers party, Help conditions, menend Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party may have a betAustralia. Amongst the new entrants the ter chance of faPalmer United Party and the Katter’s Australthering children ian party left its entry mark in Australian who survive if seat each in their hand. politics with one theyAnd mate with while 54 registered political parties a woman who high, given the two-party may be a record can hold system andon the rarity of minority governments, it’s still”low when compared with to resources, some other countries. said Urszula

Marcinkowska, a doctoral candidate at University of Turku

This year’s election remained quite significant for Asian and Subcontinent community as witnessed of candidates in we Finland. “It largest might number pay off for men in from the region actively participating in hard conditions to develop a preference the election. A total of 26 candidates from

for women who are not very highly feminine, because feminine women are this year’s Result perceived to be less socially dominant,” Marcinkowska was quoted as saying. Party NSW For the study, researchers recruited Australian Labor Party 18 1,972 heterosexual men online from Liberal/National Coalition 28 countries and presented them30 with photos of women altered to look 23 more Liberal or Liberal less feminine. National Party 0 The study appeared in the journal The Nationals 7 Biology Letters.

- By Bisham Thakuri

We all have our bad hair days. And there are days, when we of just feel like A total 26 candidates South Asian origin notfrom doing anything and stood up in the election. probably call it quits. But is there a way to beat this feeling of losing Both major political parties made an purpose in life? It’scandidates time attempt to inculcate South Asian in their election campaign. Labor intended to look at life differently to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj Kumar Menzies the in Melbourne for lower and from change situation. house and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber in NSW for senate. Liberal however had four South Asian origin candidates jostling for the seat in parliament, three of them from Victoria. Green also had four candidates running for them, the most prominent being Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from Melbourne’s North. Interestingly enough it is the newer and lesser known parties that had stronger presence of South Asian candidates representing them. Newly registered Palmer United Party had nine and the WikiLeakes Party had two Subcontinent origin candidates standing in the election.

Obsessed with selfies? You might need help

South Asian origin stood up in the election representing different political parties or as independent for the seats of both houses. This number may not seem big compared to the wide range of political platforms across Australia; but this certainly indicates the e see peo- interests in mainincreasing Subcontinent ple taking stream Australian politics.

selfies everywhere nowadays. Its kind of a someone VIC fashion QLD forWA SA TAS ACT NT National Won Last Election to have clicked at 19 6 3 5 1 2 1 55 72 themselves randomly 16 . A 22 12 6 3 0 1 90 73 study has shown 14 that0 obsession 12 with 6 3 0 0 58 44 selfies might be re0 22 0 0 0 0 0 22 21 lated to one’s medical 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 7 condition. Taking Country Liberals (NT) 0 0 lots0of selfies 0 is not 0 0 0 1 1 1 The Greens 0 1 an addiction 0 0 but a0 0 0 0 1 1 of Katter’s Australian Party 0 0 symptom 1 0 Body0 0 0 0 1 “Taking0 selfies is not an addiction - it Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), psycholoPalmer United Party 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 is a BDD symptom 0 that involves checkgists warn. ” Veale was quoted Independent 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 ing one’s appearance, 4 “Two out of three of all the patients Not yet determined 0 0 who 0 come0to see 0me with 0 Body 0 Dys-0 0 as saying in - a Sunday Mirror report. Selfie fans with BDD can spend TOTAL 48 37 morphic 30 15 11(BDD) 5 since 2 the rise 2 150 Disorder hours trying to take pictures that do DECLARED 0 0 of camera 0 0phones0have 0a compulsion 0 0to 0 not show any - defects or flaws in their repeatedly take and post selfies on social appearance, which they are very aware media sites,” explained David Veale, a two party count nationally of but which might be unnoticeable to consultant psychiatrist at The Priory others. Swing % Party / Coalition Votes Percentage % Hospital, London. Often, people who take selfies take Australian Labor Party 46.63 -3.57 In5,069,128 a first such study, experts have several photographs until they find their linked selfies with mental illness and Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 best angle or pose, but picking out small have suggested that people regularly details can make (Although the Australian government has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the people very self-consearching for the perfect angle from scious about thesince tiniest of ‘flaws’, the proportional representation and single transferable vote system in use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets 1984.) which to portray themselves could in report added. some cases be ill.

www.nepalesevoice.com.au | Email: editor@nepalesevoice.com.au | Phone: 0449 913 133

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Nepalese Voice

relationship COVER STORY | 33 7

May 2014 | October 2013

Growing LIVE-IN RELATIoNSHIPS in Nepalese youngsters Australia

Impress your Mother-in-law this Mothers Day

We can give it a go!

other in-laws are mostly ive in relationships are still a taboo in If you can’t be overtly perceived as monster-in-law. of Nepalese who have made noteworthy Despitetogetherness increasing South Asian representaour society. In Nepal, it’s still very rare But there are things you can achievements in businesses and academia, tion in mainstream Australian politics, no that we see a man and a woman living nice, then at least be do to have your mother-in-law become Nepali has yet risen up to this challenge. As many hold extensive backgrounds and distintogether before they are legally or religiously polite. Don’t overrule athemom. are some simpleinsteps that guished careers, we have produced hundreds fastestHere growing community Australia, married. But once the Nepalese youngsters what she has to say. can helphave youbeen develop a great of affluent personalities but we are lagging it would timely to see rapport someone head overseas the story overturns. from the political participation. with her.community advancing into the Living together conventionally is Also, don’t get into an That said, off late we are starting to see mainstream platform voice our Studypolitical her: Ask your to husband about love. But in Australia many Nepali argument or debate with many Nepalese youths showing promises concerns to a government level. youngsters are following this path for various for the issues that she may be touchy Nepalese “We are relatively new in compared to leading the community. And that is aVoice step her during isyour first other reasons than just love. If someone a student, about. You may not know about family congratulates closer for us to be able to capitalise on other South Asian Community, most of our It seems, money is a big factor when Bhupendra finding an apt place to live feuds and other such issues so don’t give meeting. population is a first generation migrants the democratic platform provided our Bhandaribyand it comes to living together, and most is a herculean task. Which is your opinion before allhowever the adopted country, the greatSamjhana nation Australia. and has survival as theyou firstknow priority couples are of the opinion that they share true; as often landlords do details. Also, get to know what she likes. We can do this and all we Bhandari need to dofrom is to we don’t lack intelligence, awareness and the expenses that are mutually incurred. not want to take the risk of tasmania for If she loves serials then give it a go. education to ‘Sasu-Buhari’ compete and integrate into Especially for the fact that our youngsters are entering new mom-in-law, don’t wash the dirty linen renting the house to singles so Unlike in the US where many Nepalese Australian politics. is nowit. the try and talk to herItabout It need may of behour the first generation migrants here; it would conjugal life. in public. When you are attending a going couple sometimes work that ice-breaker someone begins it away” says a have gained clout in mainstream politics, the thatchipping may lead to a great make their life much easier if they can find community leader. suchLet as Darshan who ran for confamily eventyoungsters. make sure that you don’t for our go ofRauniyaar competition: Accept Keeptoin touch: To make sure relationship with her. someone share the financial burdens. gressfact in 2012 election, weisare still totohave the A political science student from Latrobe pass snide remarks or discuss you differThat way nobody is carrying all the liabilities the that a mother bound be that you communicate well with your Gifts are always good: Won’t privilege of voting for a Nepali candidate in University says “the awareness of political ences in public. entirely. Share love if you can but definitely possessive about her son. So, don’t try mom-in-law call her at frequent interyou love it ifisguests come to to your Australia. As a community we are hungry for participation directly related the house history a hectic every day of duties. shareDon’t the bills. Treat your spouse well in and tellleadership. her how toHopefully cook forthe him. vals. wait for her to call you. She with a gift inLack his/her hand. Similarly, of migration. of familiarity with the the real dayEven comes Especially for girls, many of them are If someone is a student, finding an apt front oftothem: are obviously if your husband prefers your cooking to will appreciate the fact that you keep in you mother-in-law appreciate your political system wouldwill translate into lack of sooner than it looks. choosing embraceParents this to avoid parental place to live is a herculean task. Which very possessive about their kids, and the hers, don’t point it out to her. Give her touch over the phone even when you Dr Ali Khan Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign love for her a great deal more if you take participation. ” In our case, we have hundreds scrutiny and also to stay safe from other is true; as often landlords do not want to ♥ Women around the world are more likely to fall in love with partners with best way to earn their respect is to treat compliments about her culinary skills can’t be around. trouble maker guys. To be able to tell your some gifts for her education, every now wealth, and then. take the risk of renting the house to singles ambition, respect, status, a sense of humour, and who are parents that you are with someone would their child well. and even take recipes from her. A little advice: Regardless ofour Dress If you areWomen out to imso Seek going couple sometimes work for tallerwell: than they are. also prefer distinctive cheekbones and a strong give them aover lot of relief flattery doesn’t hurt,ovulation, does it? women Dont do, about justyour wellbeing. whether or not you plan to take it, take youngsters. jawbone, which are linked to testosterone levels. During press, don’t go dressed in clothes that are South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election And for girls it’s a formula of “ Be with one, The sense of security is another big factor Besigns polite: If you can’t be overttheir advice. Your spouse’s parents will become even more of testosterone. relax: The most important thing is to not ironed and hair that’s notinterested brushed in men with clear of hundreds”. It certainly saves them that youngsters are travelling this length of nice, part thenofatthe least be polite. be glad to feel that they still have some not get too nervous, your mother-in-law is properly. Andinskimpy clothes are a strictin thelyvisual ♥ Men love show more activity brain, while Don’t women Candidate Party Position Electorate from lots of unnecessary hassles. live-in relationship. Away from what shegoverns has to say. Also, don’t influence on their child’s life. parents and in love show moredo activity in the part overrule of the brain that memory. bound to be as nervous about meeting you. no-no. Similarly, it would you good Whatever the reason is for youngsters to home, anyone would feel more at ease if...off late we Dr Ali Khan Liberal HOR Calwell are starting see Scientists speculate that men have toget size upan a argument woman visually to see if her into or debate with Secondly, to forgive andto forget. This Present a united front: Even to not reveal the tattoo on your spine embrace learn the live in relationship, its always there is someone that they can call a family. she can bear babies, while women have to remember aspects of man’s during your first meeting. Alex Bhathal Greens HOR Batman simple rule will make your life a lot easier. ifInyou have certain issues with your during your first meeting. good if it does end up in marriage otherwise health and in sickness at least there ismany Nepalese youths showing

Love Facts:

behaviour to determine if he would be an adequate provider. Dinesh Jayasuriya Greens HOR

someone that they can go back home to after Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

DAtinG & MAtRiMonY

Lalor

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Gurminder Sekhon

Greens

Senate

Binoy Kampmark

Wikileaks Party

Senate

remains as a learning curve.

promises leading the community. And that is a step closer for us to be able to capitalise on the democratic

platform provided by our adopted s a h e country, the great nation Australia. e Voic Scullin Nepales here w t n e m g d a se We can do this and all we need to Wills starte ou find a y lp e h l il we w life or even a do is to give it a go. te a d m a dre partner. Menzies

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6 | COVER STORY 34 SPORTS

October 2013 | May 2014

Nepalese Voice Australia

Election-Lesson for Nepalese community 2014 NAV Badminton Tournament concluded successfully

NAV 3rd Volleyball Tournament on 11th May Nepalese Association of Victoria [NAV] is organising the 3rd Annual NAV Volleyball Tournament in association with The Himalayan Club at Darebin Stadium, Reservoir. NAV Volleyball Tournament is annual event where the Nepalese clubs and their members show their extraordinary volleyball skills and their sportsmanship in their games. Clubs from Melbourne and regional Victoria as well as interstate clubs are participating in this tournament.

Record number of South Asian candidates Time for us to give it a go! The 4th Annual By Ramjee PoudelVictorian Badminton tournament hosted by the Nepalese Association of Victoria in collaboration with Eastern Warriors concluded with ustralia had its 44th general elecgrand success. two‐day to the House tions on The September 7th Badminton tournament, organizedand with the purpose of representative senate under of encouraging youth to play sports and the Commonwealth of Australia Constituto bring together theelection, Nepalese commution Act, 1900. In this Liberal and Liberal won 58 South and 22 Sports seats nity,National was held at Vermont respectively making it 90 for Liberal National Link. Coalition giving 35 seat advantage against The tournament held on 12th and the Party. 13thopponent of AprilAustralian this year Labor had Singles, Subsequently, leader of the Liberal National Doubles and Mixed Doubles disciplines. Coalition, Tony Abbott has been sworn in as competition over 70 aThe Prime minister ofhad Australia for enthusiastic next three participants over 40 and under 14 years years. of age. In history Men’s singles category Gum In the of Australian elections, Gurung theAustralian Men’s Singles two majorwon parties LaborFinal Partyafter and The Liberal Coalition have dominated a neck‐to‐neck competition with the the lower house. Since the foundation of In the defending champion Jiwan Gurung. Liberal Party in 1944, these two groups have the Over 40 Men’s Single Sunil Bhandari formed and this year was won theevery finalgovernment agains Suman Shrestha. In no different. the Women’s Singles category first position was held by Ayesha Pokharel. In the Number of Political Parties women’s double, sisters Arya and Ayesha proliferated Pokharel took the honours. The full reThis election Voters got spoiled for sults of the tournament is listed below: choices as the number of registered politiTournament Coordinator Mrsince Jog cal parties have more than doubled

the 2010 election, and is at a record high. Many termed the proliferation of parties a triumph for democracy, and the other called it opportunistic individuals and groups seeking publicity. More political parties were registered to contest the federal election than ever before, with the Australian Electoral Commission approving the most applications since party registration was introduced in 1984. As the entry criteria made too easy 24 more parties registered with Australian Electoral Commission than Federal election 2010. With some interesting names and manifesto, parties like Fishing and Lifestyle Parties, Motoring Enthusiast Party, Australian Sports Party, Bullet Train for Australia, No Carbon tax Climate Sceptics and shooters and Fishers Party took part. Some even voted for Australian Sex Party, Coke in the Bubblers party, Help end Marijuana Prohibition party, Smokers Right Party or Pirate Party eti FC has joined STATE 5 Division Australia. Amongst the new entrants the at Football Federation Victoria (FFV) PalmerState United Party and the Katter’s body for national FootballAustralFederian party left its(FFA) entryfor mark Australian ation Australia 2014inseason. State 5 politics withlevel oneofseat each in their is the entry Professional Levelhand. Football And while 54 registered in Victoria & Australia, whichpolitical consist ofparties NPL, may a record high,league givenhas theproduced two-party State be 1,2,3,4 & 5. This system and the of minority governmany world classrarity players in Australia and all ments, it’s upon. still low when compared with eye are set State 5 FFV is the perfect some other countries.the talents, potential platform to showcase that we Nepalese are itching to demonstrate. The league kicked off on Saturday, 29 March 2014 and will go till end of Sepetember and finals in October. Last year Yeti was promoted

Date: Sunday, 11th May 2014 Venue: Darebin Stadium, 857 Plenty Road, Reservoir Time: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm

Position Category Player ■■

1st Men’s Over 40 Singles Sunil Bhandari 2nd Men’s O40 Singles Suman Shrestha 3rd Men’s O40 Singles Narendra Shrestha

■■

1st Men’s Over 40 Doubles Madhu Pokhrel + Jog Limbu 2nd Men’s O40 Doubles Jitendra Shrestha + Narendra Shrestha 3rd Men’s O40 Doubles Suman Shrestha + Gajendra Shrestha

■■

1st Men’s Under 40 Singles Gam Gurung 2nd Men’s U40 Singles Jiwan Gurung 3rd Men’s U40 Singles Bigyan Kandel

■■

1st Men’s Under 40 Doubles Gam Gurung + Jiwan Gurung 2nd Men’s U40 Doubles Bigyan Kandel + Suva Pokharel 3rd Men’s U40 Doubles Mukesh Pokhrel + Fom Thapa Magar

■■

1st Ladies’ Singles Aarya Pokhrel 2nd Ladies’ Singles Cammy Vohra 3rd Ladies’ Singles Jyotika Hada

Eight Aussie A total of 26 candidates players taking part in from South Asian origin Mt Everest Taekwondo stood up in the election. Championship

■■ 1st Ladies’ Doubles Aarya Pokhrel +Ayesha Pokhrel 2nd Ladies’ Doubles Nira Basnet + Amrita Gurung 3rd Ladies’ Doubles Nila Limbu + Jyotika Hada Recently elected Prime MinisterMadhu of Australia Mr Tony Abbott ■■ 1st Mixed Doubles Pokhrel + Aarya Pokhrel 2nd Mixed Doubles Jog Limbu + Ayesha Pokhrel 3rd Mixed Doubles Mukesh PokhrelSouth + Cammy Asian Vohra origin stood up in the election

Record Number of South ■■ 1st Children’s Singles (Under 12) representing Ayesha Pokhrel different political parties or as Asian and Subcontinent 2nd Children’s Singles (Under 12) Rowan Koirala independent for the seats of both houses. candidates 3rd Children’s Singles (Under 12) Shreezan Bhandari This number may not seem big compared to

This year’s election remained quite significant for Asian and Subcontinent community Limbu informed thatnumber the main aim of as we witnessed largest of candidates fromtournament the region actively participatingas in well the was socialization thepromotion election. A total of 26 candidates as of healthy life and tofrom unify

the wide range of political platforms across Australia; but this certainly indicates the NAV President Sudhir Shakya. increasing Subcontinent interests in mainNAV its gratitude streamextends Australian politics. to the suburb

coordinator, sponsors and audience for Nepalese people through a medium of their support and encouragement to the competitive sport. Event Manager Madorganizing team and the participants. this year’s Result hu Pokharel shared that the intention NAV proudly announces forthcomNSW VIC WA SA TAS ACT NT ofParty the organizing team was to involve ing QLD Interstate Sports Tournament in Australian Labor Partyin sports and 18 to 19 Melbourne 6 3in December 5 1 2014,2 which1 Nepalese community identify us as a part of multicultural include12Table6Tennis, Liberal/National Coalition 30 16 will22 3 Golf, 0 Badmin1 Victoria. ton and Tennis. Nepalese Association Liberal 23 14 0 12 6 3 0 0of ‘This year’s phenomenal involvement Victoria expects this event to be equally Liberal National Party 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 from our community has immensely en- successful with good number of particiThe Nationals 7 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 couraged the organizing team’ expressed pants from all over Victoria. Country Liberals (NT)

The Greens

Katter’s Australian Party

Yeti FC joins FFV State 5 Division for 2014 Palmer United Party 0 -Looking to get more players onboardIndependent 0

The second edition of the Mt Everest International Open Taekwondo ChamBoth major political pionship has begun inparties Nepalmade froman 3rd of attempt to inculcate South Asian candidates May. in their election campaign. Labor intended A total of 147 players – 84 male to capitalise on voters by recruiting Manoj and 63from female – from nations for willlower Kumar Menzies in 10 Melbourne participate in the three-day championhouse and Bhupinder Kumar from Chibber ships. fieldhowever two teams in NSWThe for hosts senate.will Liberal had in four NepalAsian ‘A’ and Nepal ‘B’ withjostling 44 players South origin candidates for the seat part in parliament, threewhich of them taking in the event hasfrom been Victoria. Green also had four candidates sanctioned by Asian Taekwondo Union running foredition. them, the most prominent being from this Alex Bhathal from Batman electorate from 40 payers from India, 12 from MaMelbourne’s North. laysia, 16 from Bangladesh, eight from Interestingly enough it is the newer and Australia, one fromthat Brunei, four from lesser known parties had stronger presPakistan, twoAsian fromcandidates Hong Kong, 12 from ence of South representing Bhutan and registered 10 from Sri Lanka haveParty regthem. Newly Palmer United istered entries for theParty championhad ninetheir and the WikiLeakes had two Subcontinent origin standing in ships that offers 16candidates gold medals — eight the election. each in men and women’s sections.

Lumbini CC defends Pacific National Last Election CollegeWon Tournament 55Lumbini Cricket 72 Club has defended

90the title of 73 the one-day Pacific College

being organized by 58Cricket Tournament 44

Australia-Nepalese Australia Associa21 tion for the last five months. 9 7 Lumbini Cricket Club defended the 1 title defeating 1 Western United in the 1 match played 1 in Oban. Western United 1 set a target0of 61 runs batting loosing toss. Lumbini Cricket Club met the 1 0 target in 13 overs. 2 4 Bhattarai of Lumbini Club Dipendra 0 won the title - of man of the match.

yet determined 0YETI FC 0 is currently 0 0 0 Players 0 toNot Premier League in Amateur division0and 0 looking for between 16-35 for State 5 in both Seniors and managed to finish mid-table. Yeti had privilege TOTAL 48 37 30 15 11 5 2 2 150 to take part in SAFAL CUP 2013, Professional Reserves side which is played every SaturDECLARED 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Nepalese Tournament in Pokhara, Nepal and day between 1pm to 5pm. There will be two played 2 friendlies with Nepal Army Club and training sessions on Monday and Wednesday twoPolice party count nationally Armed Force, which consisted Nepal in Reservoir and Coached & Trained by professionals with over 30 years of experience in National players such as Bharat Khawas, Tanka Party / Coalition Votes Percentage % Swing % Basnet, Raju Tamang & Rajendra Rawal. Professional Football. Australian Labor Party 5,069,128 46.63 -3.57 The club has stated that the opportunity Yeti FC has always believed in creating safe environment for the players, members and is also open to players currently playing for Liberal/National Coalition 5,802,835 53.37 +3.57 audience. FFV is the only place where players other Nepalese club who do not play in FFV. (Although the Australian government has been based on two-party system, for the Senate, the upper house – has the However, to avoid misunderstandings between are fully insured during club games, training, proportional and single vote system use since 1949, with optional group voting tickets since 1984.) and functionsrepresentation and even cover certain parttransferable of different clubs, ainwritten permission is sought loss of income. from the club. Courtesy:Yeti Fc

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Nepalese Voice Australia

May 2014 | October 2013

COVER STORY | 35 7

Dr Ali Khan - Liberal (second from left) during his election campaign

South Asian origin candidates from Victoria in 2013 Federal Election Candidate

Party

Position

Electorate

Dr Ali Khan

Liberal

HOR

Calwell

...off late we are starting to see

Alex Bhathal

Greens

HOR

Batman

many Nepalese youths showing

Dinesh Jayasuriya

Greens

HOR

Gorton

Jatinder Singh

Palmer United

HOR

Holt

promises leading the community.

Avtar Singh Gill

Palmer United

HOR

Isaacs

Nihal Sharma

Liberal

HOR

Lalor

Manoj Kumar

Labor

HOR

Menzies

Jag Chuga

Liberal

HOR

Scullin

Shilpa Hegde

Liberal

HOR

Wills

Gurminder Sekhon

Greens

Senate

Binoy Kampmark

Wikileaks Party

Senate

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