NAVIGATION

FOSKBG | Mandela Day | Tree Planting in St Kilda Botanical Gardens to honour Nelson Mandela | Saturday 16 July 2016 | 10.00am

[Edited extract from public address]

Participate in Mandela Day by coming along to witness the planting in honour of Nelson Mandela.

Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an impact. The Mandela Day campaign message is: “Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We’re asking you to start with 67 minutes. We would be honoured if such a day can serve to bring together people around the world to fight poverty and promote peace, reconciliation and cultural diversity.”

The planting is a Cape Chestnut (Latin: Calodendron Capense) by the South African Deputy High Commissioner.

Where: St Kilda Botanic Gardens. The planting will take place on the Dickens Street side of the Gardens, between the centre gates and the corner of Tennyson Street.

MORE:
Friends of St Kilda Botanical Gardens
FaceBook: https://facebook.com/FOSKBG/

BCV & ICM | Youth Workshop: Global Citizenship and You, Embracing Earth's Challenge | Sunday 30 July 2016 | 10am-5pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Collectively transforming ourselves, our communities, and our civilization towards a future of our highest shared possibilities

The great work of our time is to carry out the transition from the current period where humans are a destructive presence on Earth to one where human presence is mutually beneficial to planet and entire community of life. A mutually enhancing human/earth relationship.

Young people (ages 15 to 30) from all faith backgrounds are welcome to participate in a workshop of interactive sessions, building on who we need to be and what we need to do at this momentous time in human history. The workshop aims to inspire and equip participants to engage in effective collective action in the world.

More about the Speaker: Venerable Chang Ji comes to us with experience in teaching the tenets of contemplative action to young adults worldwide and has led many youth leadership workshops and meditation retreats to this effect. She has been a facilitator in programs for young leaders in conflict and post-conflict areas from Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan and Cambodia, and works to spread awareness of Spiritual Environmentalism as taught by her teacher, the late Most Venerable Master Sheng Yen to young people all over the world.

Inclusions: Vegetarian lunch and refreshment provided. If you have special dietary requirements please inform us.

Bookings: Online through EventBrite

MORE:
Linda Marett Tel 0403 041 961

A colloboration between Buddhist Council of Victoria, Interfaith Centre of Melbourne, Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association (Melbourne), Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association (USA) and the State Government of Victoria

VMC | NOMINATIONS OPEN | Victoria's Multicultural Awards for Excellence 2016 | Closes 5pm, Sunday 31 July 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

Help Answer Who are Victoria's 2016 Diversity Heroes?

Do you know an inspiring individual or organisation that has demonstrated extraordinary passion and commitment in promoting cultural diversity in Victoria?

Presented by the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Victoria's Multicultural Awards for Excellence shine a spotlight on people and organisations who are making a difference.

From media to early childhood education, leadership to business, Local Government to community harmony, from the efforts of newly arrived migrants and refugees to improvements in relations between police and communities - there are many ways in which these Diversity Heroes are making outstanding contributions to our multicultural community.

Victoria's Multicultural Awards for Excellence 2016 will acknowledge achievements across 11 categories, including two new categories - the Youth Award and the Award for Community Innovation.

Nominations Close: Time to celebrate our Diversity Heroes - find out more and submit your nominations before 5pm on Sunday 31 July 2016.

MORE:
Victorian Multicultural Commission
Phone: (03) 9651 0655
Email: rsvpvmc@vmc.vic.gov.au
Website: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au

UNAAV | NOMINATIONS OPEN | Media Peace Awards 2016 | Closes 5pm, 2 Sept 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

A National Justice and Humanitarian Awards Program

Nominations are now being sought of journalists and producers whose work promotes awareness of social justice and humanitarian issues.

MORE:
United Nations Association of Australia (Victoria)
Website: unaavictoria.org.au
Email: awards@unaavictoria.org.au
Tel: (03) 9620 3955

JCMA | OPEN LETTER | Sharing Remorse, Promoting Anti-Hate Speech and Denouncing Violence is a Collective Responsibility | 11 July 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

To Our Muslim Sisters And Brothers

We watched with sadness and horror the tragic events of the last days of Ramadan and can’t imagine how difficult they were for you.

We know that there is wide consensus that these terrorist attacks are largely political and that Islam is being distorted and manipulated for political and ideological purposes.

The victims, the families and friends of the victims, are all in our prayers.

In Australia, we heard with pain the divisive and hurtful comments of Pauline Hanson about Islam and Muslims.

Know that we share in your sorrow and distress and that we stand with you in the struggle for love and compassion.  May they overcome bigotry and hatred and violence.

May the blessings of peace, Shalom, Salam speedily grace our planet.

Rabbi Ralph Genende
President JCMA on behalf of JCMA

MORE:
Jewish Christian Muslim Association of Australia (JCMA)
Ginette Everest, Executive Officer
Usual Office Attendance: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays
Address: 383 Albert St., East Melbourne Vic 3002  
Tel: (03) 9287 5590
Email: executiveofficer@jcma.org.au
Website: http://www.jcma.org.au
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jcmaoz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jcmaonline

JCMA relies on the goodwill of volunteers and the generosity of our donors.
Donations are tax deductible. Please go to JCMA Donation to make a donation.

PWR | A Shared Expression of Sorrow and Distress | 6 July 2016

[Edited extract from public address]
To Our Muslim Sisters and Brothers,

Those of us who are not Muslims cannot imagine how devastating the tragic events of the last days of Ramadan have been for you.

We know that there is wide consensus that these terrorist attacks are largely based in politics and that Islam is being used in distorted ways and manipulated for political purposes.

The victims, the families and friends of the victims, are all in our prayers.

Know that we share in your sorrow and distress and that we stand with you in the struggle for compassion overcoming hate and mercy bringing an end to violence.

May the blessings of peace come to our earth.

In Peace,
Larry Greenfield
Executive Director

MORE:
Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions
70 East Lake Street, Suite 205, Chicago, IL 60601 USA
Tel: 312-629-2990
Website: https://parliamentofreligions.org/

KIN | Colours of Harmony | Art Exhibition Launch | Wednesday 10 August 2016 | 6.30-8pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Launching a collected vision of what sharing harmony makes

Where: St Nicholas Gallery, 9 Bear St, Mordialloc

Cost: Free entry. All welcome.

Bookings: RSVP essential. Contact organiser on preferred method below.

MORE:
Elisabetta Robechhi
Email: elisabetta.robecchi@kingston.vic.gov.au
Tel: (03) 9581 4783

Enabled by City of Kingston


ARRCC/G | Faith perspectives on Climate Change: Muslim perspectives | Sunday 17 July 2016 | 5.30-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Get involved in Greenfaith Update/Planning, enjoy a shared Vegetarian meal and hear a Muslim perspective on environmental responsibility.

Interested participants are welcome to come from 5.30pm or join us later in the program.

Where: Library, Borderlands, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn, VIC

Speaker: Redha Ameur, National Centre of Excellence for Islamic studies, University of Melbourne.

Programmed Agenda:
5.30-6pm GreenFaith/ARRCC planning and update
6-6.30pm Vegetarian dinner to share (please bring a dish. Oven available, food must be strictly vegetarian and not contain alcohol)
6.30-7.30pm Talk on Muslim perspectives on Environmental Responsibility followed by questions and discussion.

MORE:
Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARRCC) / Greenfaith
Email: info@greenfaithaustralia.org
Website: www.arrcc.org.au

GEIFN | MIXING | Media | July 2016

WORDS
Approx 5 min reads

Intro
Stephanie Bunbury shares an exemplar of fearless aging, engaging life and colloborative exploration when "Juliette Binoche talks about new film The Wait and reveals the upside of ageing" via The Brisbane Times
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/entertainment/movies/juliette-binoche-talks-about-new-film-the-wait-and-reveals-the-upside-of-ageing-20160620-gpnb2y.html

Andrew Riemer reviews a past work updated and translated for a modern audience in "Review: Svetlana Alexievich's Secondhand Time tells of Soviet life from Stalin to Putin" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/entertainment/books/review-svetlana-alexievichs-secondhand-time-tells-of-soviet-life-from-stalin-to-putin-20160526-gp4jct.html

Maureen Mathews answers a reader's question about lost ideals, love, and reawakening evidence-based trust that underwrites all experience in "About Last Night: Is love really possible?" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://smh.com.au/lifestyle/life/family-relationships-and-sex/m18aboutlastnight-20160610-gpgoac.html


Intra
Tony Wright reviews a new book tracing origins, purpose and practicality of "Bush dances to polling booths: Mechanics' Institutes' role in democracy" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://smh.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2016/bush-dances-to-polling-booths-mechanics-institutes-role-in-democracy-20160616-gpkqq6.html

Cynthia Karena explores how customizing technology improves individual lives for a greater community benefit, revealing how "3D printing lets the disabled take control" via The Canberra Times
http://canberratimes.com.au/technology/technology-news/3d-printing-lets-the-disabled-take-control-20160614-gpih8g.html

Michael Gordon writes of an ambassador with a track record of community building, recognition and visionary as "Indigenous leader Tanya Hosch named as AFL's head of diversity" via The Canberra Times
http://canberratimes.com.au/afl/afl-news/indigenous-leader-tanya-hosch-named-as-afls-head-of-diversity-20160622-gpowan.html


Inter
Emily Langer salutes the life of Fritz Stern who as a "Refugee historian explored the fragility of freedom" via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/comment/obituaries/refugee-historian-explored-the-fragility-of-freedom-20160602-gpaeha.html

Brian Johnston shares an insider's view of an ancient site with historical lessons of clashing civilizations and class divisions "Shore excursion with Silversea: A guided tour of Ephesus, Turkey" via Traveller.com.au
http://www.traveller.com.au/time-travelling-in-turkey-gpla73

Robyn Whitaker shares her experience, spirituality and understanding to argue "Treatment of asylum seekers is a moral issue" via The Age
http://theage.com.au/comment/treatment-of-asylum-seekers-is-a-moral-issue-20160622-gpp1cn.html


Multi
Miki Perkins explores a managed housing example of how the NDIS is benefitting individuals with interconnectedness, revealing "A housing problem solved is a pleasure shared" via The Canberra Times
http://canberratimes.com.au/victoria/a-housing-problem-solved-is-a-pleasure-shared-20160613-gphri1

Mark Mulligan compares different world economies and suggests "Demographics a challenge to global growth" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://smh.com.au/business/markets/demographics-a-challenge-to-global-growth-20160531-gp8aoh.html

Deborah Zion reviews one author's journey to collect revealing deep insight borne from lived-experience in "Chasing Asylum review: Eva Orner's account of making her refugee documentary" via The Canberra Times
http://canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/books/chasing-asylum-review-eva-orners-account-of-making-her-refugee-documentary-20160526-gp4mm1.html


All
Jim Bright explores the value of mercy in business "In business, mercy promotes learning, creativity and innovation" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/business/workplace-relations/in-business-mercy-promotes-learning-creativity-and-innovation-20160606-gpd2ch

Andrew Stephens reviews the results of Ben Quilty and Richard Flannagan's colloborative approach "'I feel like I owe that little child' Ben Quilty on his journey among refugees" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://smh.com.au/entertainment/i-feel-like-i-owe-that-little-child-ben-quilty-on-his-journey-among-refugees-20160526-gonp1v.html

Paulyne Pogorelske shares an exploration on love, self, other, education reflecting "Faith: Lessons in love" via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/victoria/faith-lessons-in-love-20160601-gp93gm.html


Togather
Ebony Bowden reports public response to Ryan Griffen's skillful efforts to combat ignorance, racism and lack of positive role-modeling as "ABC's Indigenous hero series Cleverman wins plaudits both at home and abroad after 'superb' premiere" via The Canberra Times
http://canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/tv-and-radio/drama/abcs-indigenous-hero-series-cleverman-wins-plaudits-both-at-home-and-abroad-after-superb-premiere-20160603-gpaiua.html

Bridie Smith explores an underground scientific experiment with global reach and cosmic implications as "Hunt for dark matter sends scientists underground in a Victorian goldmine" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://smh.com.au/technology/sci-tech/scientists-hope-to-strike-gold-in-global-hunt-for-dark-matter--at-the-bottom-of-a-stawell-mine-20160609-gpf14p

Evelyn Heard discusses the connection between knowing, being known and reflective community with "Faith: Connection is key to our humanity" via The Age
http://theage.com.au/comment/the-age-letters/faith-connection-is-key-to-our-humanity-20160624-gproq5.html


Nobly
Christine Long explores advantages of colloborative philanthropy, networked approach and collective decision making, revealing "How giving clubs are changing the face of philanthropy" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/money/tax/how-giving-clubs-are-changing-the-face-of-philanthropy-20160620-gpn1y9.html

Andrew Stephens shares an enlightened approach to building civic pride illuminating a uniting vision of a more equitable future as "Victoria's smallest towns think big with $350k in artistic transformations" via The Canberra Times
http://canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/victorias-smallest-towns-think-big-with-350k-in-artistic-transformations-20160602-gp4ym0.html

Andrew Stephens opins on space, new frontiers, meaningful purpose and a United vision of a shared future and "50 years later, why we cling on to the continuing enterprise of Star Trek" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://smh.com.au/entertainment/50-years-later-why-we-cling-on-to-the-continuing-enterprise-of-star-trek-20160618-gpmi5q.html?


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TED TALKS
Approx 20min presentations

Markham Nolan: How to separate fact and fiction online

Bobby Ghosh: Why global jihad is losing

Maz Jobrani: A Saudi, an Indian and an Iranian walk into a Qatari bar …

Pankaj Ghemawat: Actually, the world isn't flat

Candy Chang: Before I die I want to...



-----------------------------
GUEST SINGS
Approx 5 min presentation

Rockmelons featuring Deni Hines - That Word (L.O.V.E.)
http://youtu.be/kxLaCgL7Iig


-----------------------------
STREET JIVES
Approx 2 min presentation

Sesame Street's Elmo with Lupita Nyong'o - Skin
http://youtu.be/xIC2hHECZ6Y


-----------------------------
HISTORY SHOWS
Approx 4 min presentation

Gina Cooke - The true story of 'true'
http://youtu.be/VYFE3tYUdJU

KHT | Carved Out of Life: The next generation | 23 July - 2 October 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

An exhibition showcasing the fine art and tradition of emu egg carving.

Artists: Esther Kirby, Jenny Singh, Adrian Morgan and sons, Lucy Williams-Connolly and Talgium Edwards

Curated by Clinton Nain

Where: Level 1 Gallery, Yarra Building, Federation Square

MORE:
Koorie Heritage Trust
Cnr Swanston St and Flinders St, Federation Square, Melbourne Victoria 3000
Naomi Velaphi - Public Programs Coordinator
Tel: 8662 6336
Email: info@koorieheritagetrust.com
Internet: http://www.koorieheritagetrust.com

JCCV | REPORT | Inaugural Iftar Dinner | Sunday 19 June 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

Building Bridges, Joining Journeys and Standing Together

The Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV) co-hosted its first Iftar Dinner with the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) attended by 80 community and faith leaders from the Jewish, Muslim and Christian communities. Iftar dinners are traditionally held by Muslims to break the fast during Ramadan.

“This is the first Iftar dinner for many attending.  It has provided an opportunity for us to learn about each other’s faiths, and build relationships across our communities. Next year, we hope to hold a similar dinner based around a Jewish festival ”
Ms Jennifer Huppert, JCCV President

Frank McGuire MP, Member for Broadmeadows, representing the Hon Robin Scott, Minister for Multicultural Affairs said “we are all Australians”, and spoke against religious intolerance, and stressed the importance of working together and having the freedom to practice one’s religion.

David Southwick MP, member for Caulfield, representing Inga Peulich, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, spoke about the multi-party support for multiculturalism in Victoria, and how the state was leading the way in building effective relationships across communities.

The main discussion on the evening revolved around the Joint Journey to Jerusalem where eleven faith leaders, Jewish, Muslim and Christian visited Israel on a rigorous inter-faith learning program, organised by the Jewish Christian Muslim Association (JCMA). Leaders of the program, including the Rev Ian Smith and Ashok Jacob Executive Director and President of the Victorian Council of Churches, Mohamed Mohideen Vice President of the ICV and Rabbi Ralph Genende President of the JCMA presented on the evening. They spoke about their personal journeys, religious experience, friendships made and the sometimes difficult political debates undertaken.

Bayram Aktepe, President of the ICV, spoke about the importance of standing up for the other, regardless of race or religion.  He stated that “an attack on a Muslim is an attack on a Jew. An attack on a Jew, is an attack on a Muslim. No Muslim should be afraid of supporting the Jewish community.”

Thankyou to the Victorian Government for funding the event under its Community Harmony grants program.

MORE:
The Jewish Community Council of Victoria
Anat Aloni
Email: Anat.Aloni@jccv.org.au
Tel: 9272 5566
Beth Weizmann Community Centre
Caulfield South, Victoria 3162, Australia

In collaboration with the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV)

JCCV | REPORT | CEO Sleepout | 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

As part of the 2016 Vinnies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sleepout, over 1400 CEOs experienced for one night what over 105,000 people experience every night. 

Their commitment has increased the profile of homelessness and the community generous support has raised crucial funds for Vinnies homeless services.

Participants included David Marlow, JCCV Executive Director, David Southwick MP, Member for Caulfield, HE Linda Dessau, Governor of Victoria, Tony Howard, retired County Court Judge and Linda’s husband, Vedran Drakulic, CEO of Gandel Philanthropy.

This year’s CEO Sleepout was again organised by Vinnies and held on a very cold Melbourne night outside the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, raising over $600,000 for homeless services.

MORE:
The Jewish Community Council of Victoria
Anat Aloni
Email: Anat.Aloni@jccv.org.au
Tel: 9272 5566
Beth Weizmann Community Centre
Caulfield South, Victoria 3162, Australia

JCCV | Annual Jewish and Catholic Friendship Dinner | Sunday 17 July 2016 | 7pm for 7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

A panel discussion on “Valuing our Identity in Australian Society” and Annual Dinner for Jewish and Catholic Communities of Melbourne

Cost: $50.00 for 2 course buffet Kosher Meal including drinks

Bookings: online via Trybooking on www.trybooking.com/LUXC

Where: Catholic Leadership Centre, Corner Victoria Parade and Hoddle Street, East Melbourne, VIC 3002. Enter the Centre from Victoria Parade, and follow the walkway next to St John’s Church through to the Courtyard and enter from the south side of the Dining Room.

MORE:
David Schütz
Ecumenical and Interfaith Commission
Tel: 03 9926 5708
Mobile: 0400 978 938
or
The Jewish Community Council of Victoria
Anat Aloni
Email: Anat.Aloni@jccv.org.au
Tel: 9272 5566
Beth Weizmann Community Centre
Caulfield South, Victoria 3162, Australia

REPORT | PPMN | A Port Phillip Journey into Friendship | Sunday 19 June 2016 | 1.30-6.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

A friendship bus trip connecting, tasting and sharing delights in a tour of Port Phillip’s places of worship. 

An afternoon of stories, songs, and sharing - celebrating difference and diversity while savouring common connections. All were warmly welcomed.

About 120 people assembled to be treated to a diverse range of presentation and styles. Due to the high popularity of the event, the program was extended by 30mins both ends to accommodate increased journeying between sites. 

Each port of call had interesting talks about the place, special features of the hosting tradition and a feature presentation that left the audience wanting more.

Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Balaclava
The Anglican offering had inspiring words about Interfaith and organ music presentation to lift the spirits. 

St. Nicholas Russian Catholic Church, East St Kilda
Russian Catholic followed with the historical role of the tradition opposing Nazism, mesmerizing Latin duets, and introduction to symbolism in religious icons.

Hare Krishna Temple, Albert Park
The Hare Krishna Temple had stimulating introduction and a dance performance enthralling the mass.

St Kilda Shule Synagogue, St Kilda
The Shule and Synagogue offered a discussion about this particular tradition, historical attributes of the place, demonstration how a service is offered and performances by men's choir.

Supper and Socialisation
Retiring to the next-door hall, the hungry and thirsty relished in supper and casual conversation. Initial feedback is that the whole day was very well received by participants, respective hosts and Organisers in this journey into friendship.

On behalf of Buddhist Council Victoria Interfaith (bINTER) and Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN), thankyou to Victorian Multicultural Foundation through Port Phillip Multifaith Network for event funding, collaboration and experience. A memorable presentation, skilful programming, food and collective pride, received with gratitude.

MORE:
Port Phillip Multifaith Network
Ciaran McCormack
Tel: 9209 6385

REPORT | SKMI | St Kilda Multicultural IFTAR 2016 | Saturday 18 June 2016 | 5-7pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Neighbours coming together to share occasion, demystify and build bridges of friendship to overcome perceptions of separateness.  

An attentive audience received key note presentations by:
  • Imam Mohsin Mohammed (Muslim Community)
  • Serge Thomann (Deputy Mayor, City of Port Phillip)
  • Avraham Schwarz (Jewish Community)
  • Coralie Ling (Uniting Church Community) and 
  • Carey Rohrlach (Buddhist Community).
Guests were treated to warm personable and official welcomes, discussion, interaction and explanations behind Ramadan, fasting and Iftar (breaking fast). Mosque tours, a wonderful array of catering from hosts and Asylum Seeker Resource Centre Catering. Invited speakers from Jewish, Christian and Buddhist traditions spoke about fasting and rituals.

Ramadan is the annual month of fasting. Siyaam in Arabic means "to abstain". In Islam, having first made the intention to fast, it means abstaining from things that breaks the Fast from dawn until sunset. The fast is prescribed so that practitioners may become pious. Some aspects are obligatory and others recommended. Iftar is the symbolic breaking of fast every night during Ramadan. Eid marks the end of Ramadan, usually in feast, coming together in festivity.

MORE: 
St Kilda Multicultural IFTAR
Imam Mohsin Mohammed
Email mohsin_cse@yahoo.com


In collaboration with City of Port Phillip through Port Phillip Multifaith Network's Journey into Friendship | Sunday 19 June 2016

PPLS | TALKING | St Kilda and Boroondara Kew Cemeteries: Sculpture, beauty and history | Saturday 16 July 2016 | 10am-12.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

St Kilda Cemetery (established 1851) and Boroondara Kew Cemetery (established 1858) are both fine examples of the Victorian garden cemetery movement. 

Elizabeth Hore, Vice-President, Friends of St Kilda Cemetery, will provide an illuminating talk on these magnificent cemeteries and their residents.

Where: Emerald Hill Library & Heritage Centre, 195 Bank Street, South Melbourne

Cost: free

Bookings: essential, Email art&heritage@portphillip.vic.gov.au or call on Tel 9209 631

MORE:
Port Phillip Library Service
Tel 9209 6416
Heritage Centre on Tel 9209 631
Email: art&heritage@portphillip.vic.gov.au
Website: heritage.portphillip.vic.gov.au


CHARM | A Touch of Africa | Saturday 6 August 2016 | 6.30-11.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Spice up your winter night and energise your senses, dance to the exotic and energising beats of music from Africa & the island of Mauritius

A community celebration showcasing cultural heritage, floor show of traditional dances, music & sharing of traditional finger foods.

All welcome with spirit of friendship. Join us for a taste of our rich & diverse cultural heritage & strengthen community links, together we can make a difference.

Where: St. Paul Apostle Community Hall, 9 William Hovell Drive, Endeavour Hills

Cost: $30 per person (plus online booking fee/credit card fee/GST). Ticket includes one reserved seat, shared finger food sampling and entertainment. BYO drinks, cups/glasses and nibbles.

Bookings: Online EventBrite

MORE: 
Cultural Historical Association of Rodriguans & Mauritians in Vic Inc (C.H.A.R.M Vic
Email: secretary@charm.org.au or Tel: 0403 206 735
Website: www.charm.org.au
in collaboration with the 
Nigerian Society of Victoria Inc
Website www.nigeriansociety.org.au

A City of Casey Winter Arts Festival 2016 Event

KHT | NAIDOC Week in the City | Saturday 2-Friday 8 July 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

NAIDOC Week is a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. 

An opportunity to recognise the contributions of Indigenous Australians in various fields. Activities take place across the nation during NAIDOC Week in the first full week of July.

Weaving Residency with the Victorian Aboriginal Weaving Collective | Wednesday 6, Thursday 7 & Friday 8 July | 10am - 4pm daily

Pop by the Fed Square campfire Leempeeyt Weeyn’ this NAIDOC week to see the weavers from the Victorian Aboriginal Weaving Collective, Donna Blackall (Yorta Yorta), Glenda Nicholls (Waddi Waddi, Yorta Yorta and Ngarrindjeri) and Marilyne Nicholls (Watti Watti, Barrapa Barrapa, Dja Dja Wrung, Yorta Yorta and Ngarrindjeri) explore the creative aspects of their practice.

Working together, the weavers will create a woven sculpture across three days in residence around the campfire, responding to the 2016 Light in Winter theme Fire and Ice. Watch the progression of their sculpture and learn more about the cultural importance and contemporary applications of their craft.

This event has been generously sponsored by KPMG.

Cost: FREE
Where: Fed Square Campfire

Arika Waulu Workshop for Kids | Thursday 7 July | 11.30am-1.30pm or 2.30-4.30pm

Just in time for the NAIDOC march, join artist Arika Waulu and create a banner during sharing in the ethos of Lisa Bellear’s activism and community spirit. In a family friendly workshop with Arika Waulu you will contribute to a large banner and make your own banner and collage using a range of materials inspired by the work of Bellear.

Arika Waulu is a sovereign multimedia experimentalist and activator, she uses video, moving and still images that are predominately displayed as projection installation.

Cost: FREE
Suitable: for all ages – children must be accompanied by an adult
Where: Level 3, Yarra Building, Federation Square,
Bookings: essential through TryBooking BOOK HERE

NAIDOC March | Melbourne | Friday 8 July | 10.30 for 11.45am-2pm

The 2016 NAIDOC March is starting at 10.30am with a pre-march festival: feed and refreshments, make banners, get the kids’ faces painted, and get prepared for the march. Opportunities to purchase a limited edition NAIDOC T-shirt for $5.

Where: Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) on Nicholson Street, Fitzroy. We expect to finish at Federation Square at 2pm.

We will depart from VAHS, walk down Nicholson Street onto Spring Street, turn down Bourke Street and then onto Swanston Street finishing up at Fed Square.

The stops will be as follows:
-- Fig Tree on top of Gertrude Street
-- Pastor Sir Doug and Lady Nicholls statute
-- Parliament House
-- Corner of Bourke & Swanston
-- Flinders & Swanston Street
-- After the March there is the Post March Concert at Fed Square. Bring the kids!

This year we’re welcoming all people, councils, organisations and businesses to come and march with us.

After the March at the Koorie Heritage Trust | Friday 8 July | 2pm - 4pm

Come visit us after the NAIDOC march on Friday and check out our program for the afternoon:

Wood Burning demonstrations with Mick Harding
Artist Mick Harding (Taungurung) will share his wood burning craft demonstrating techniques and design development of Victoria’s unique symbolism.

Free Cultural Tours | run every 30 mins from 2pm - 4pm
Join our Koorie cultural educators for free tours of the Koorie Heritage Trust.

Cost: FREE
Where: Level 1, Yarra Building, Federation Square

Close to You: The Lisa Bellear Picture Show | until 17th July | Daily 10am - 4pm

Now in it’s final weeks the current exhibition showcases Lisa’s (Minjungbul/ Goernpil/ Noonuccal/ Kanak) varied interests as an Indigenous activist, photographer, broadcaster, poet, feminist, academic and performer who was widely admired inside and outside the Australian Indigenous community.

One of the many moments Lisa captures is NAIDOC week and the march with striking images from the late nineties and early two thousands.

Cost: FREE
Where: Level 1, Yarra Building, Federation Square


MORE:
Koorie Heritage Trust
Levels 1 & 3, Yarra Building, Federation Square
Melbourne VIC 3000
T 03 8662 6300
E info@koorieheritagetrust.com
www.koorieheritagetrust.com.au

TSF | Winter Appeal | 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

Help tackle poverty, one student at a time.

In Victoria, The Smith Family needs to raise to help 2,175 children in need. Providing access to vital support and out of school learning programs to catch up, keep up and fit in.

MORE:
The Smith Family
Donate 1800 024 069
Website thesmithfamily.com.au

CMFN | What happens to us after we die? | Thursday 18 August 2016 | 7-9pm

[Edited extract from public address]

An interfaith panel discussion sharing views on after-life.

Speakers from different faiths will present their religion's teachings and offer an opportunity for audience members to ask questions.

  • Christianity
  • Islam
  • Buddhism
  • Sikhism
  • Hinduism

Where: Room 7, City of Casey Civic Centre, Magid Drive, Narre Warren

Cost: Free. Your participation is valuable and welcome.

MORE:
The Casey Multi-Faith Network
Secretary
Email: caseymultifaith@gmail.com
Website: www.caseymultifaith.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/caseymultifaith

AMES | REPORT | Heartlands Screens Films from Refugee Youth | June 2016

[Edited extract from public address]

Stories from Refugee Youth: bringing together ten young people from refugee backgrounds to tell their individual stories through the medium of film as part of The Heartlands 2016 Arts Project.

The young storytellers shared their view from a wide range of countries including Somalia, Burma, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, and Syria.

Each story highlights passions, hopes, dreams, reflections and unique journeys which together form a series of engaging and emotionally connected short films.

The organisers of Heartlands say the project aims to give a cinematic insight into some of the communities who have found a safe haven in Australia in recent year. Transcending cultural barriers, the project reveals the challenges, success and everyday lives of people who make up Melbourne’s refugee communities.

In each of the films the young people tell stories about their lives and their peoples, while celebrating a sense of togetherness in their shared circumstance as refugees.

Currently, the world is witnessing the largest refugee crisis in history with the number of displaced people around the globe now more than 60 million – a greater number than at the end of World War II.

Young filmmaker Abdul Ibrahim, who fled the civil war in Somalia as a small child, said “Heartlands is a fantastic opportunity for me to share the story of my community – its achievements and its challenges – with a wide audience.”

Heartlands 2016 launched at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) on Wednesday 8 June 2016. The films began screening at Footscray Community Arts Centre from Friday 17 June 2016, screened at ACMI on Tuesday 21 June 2016, and will tour Victoria until the end of August 2016.

Find out more about other screening times and locations at the AMES Australia website.

MORE:
AMES Australia
Tel: 13 26 37
Website: www.ames.net.au

Part of an AMES Australia arts project, the film exhibition is held in the lead up to Refugee Week 2016 and will screen at cinemas across Victoria.