VMC | CALL FOR RESPONSES | Workers in family violence sector census | CLOSES Friday 19 May 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

If your work intersect with family violence, have your say in this workforce census.

A Victorian Government census is in response to the Royal Commission into Family Violence - a census of all workforces that intersect with family violence.

Who: All who work in the family violence sector, as well as workers across health, education, justice, community and other sectors that respond to family violence are invited to have their say in a new census.

How: The census survey has now been extended and is available for completion until Friday 19 May 2017 at http://vicfvcensus.questionpro.com/

Why: The census will provide an evidence base for the development of the Victorian Government’s 10-Year Family Violence Industry Plan. The Industry Plan will provide a systematic approach to workforce planning and development, and will address issues of workforce capability, diversity of the workforce, health and wellbeing, remuneration and career pathways.

The migrant services workforce plays a vitally important role in preventing and responding to family violence. This is a landmark opportunity for our workforce to have a voice on the key issues affecting them, and to shape the Industry Plan. The survey is voluntary and it should take no longer than 20 minutes to complete.

The census is designed for everyone who plays a role in primary prevention and in responding to family violence. In addition to the crucial work done by the specialist family violence sector and primary prevention sector, workforces right across the health, education, justice and community sectors all intersect with family violence and primary prevention in unique ways, and this census will help us to understand this better.

Employers are encouraged to engage workforce or staff to consider completing the census, noting that participation in this project is voluntary and there will be no adverse consequences for not participating. Responses are confidential as between the participant and survey administrator.

For participants - participating in the workforce census may raise sensitive issues for those who have encountered family violence. Participating in the survey may also raise issues in relation to your, or your employee's role in preventing and responding to family violence.

Helplines and support services available for those affected by family violence

Further information relating to the workforce census and a range of Frequently Asked Questions can be found online

MORE:
Victorian Multicultural Commission
http://www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/
and
State Government Victoria
Workforce and Sector Readiness Branch
Department of Premier and Cabinet
Email: workforce.census@dpc.vic.gov.au

GEIFN | ANNUAL MEAL & FUNDRAISER | International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia | Wednesday 17 May 2017 | 6-8pm

One meal in a day of international recognition providing an opportunity for individuals, families and organisations to show support for and celebrate same sex attracted, bisexual, intersex and gender diverse people.
International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) a commemoration the World Health Organisation 1990 removing homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Day_Against_Homophobia,_Transphobia_and_Biphobia

IDAHOBIT strengthens visibility and voice of LGBTIQA+ parents, Rainbow families and their children by raising awareness of the diversity of families in our community.

This year the IDAHOBIT theme is families. The theme highlights the important role that families play in the well-being of LGBTIQA+ members and reinforcing need to respect existence/rights/contributions of LGBTIQA+ and Rainbow families.

Spread the word: promoting equal recognition and rights for families challenging the occurrence of discrimination is everybody's business.

Where: Aangan Restaurant, 559 Barkly St, West Footscray VIC 3012

Cost: Free. MEAL: included. Small group, Carey's buying (think yoga teacher budget), yes bring a bestie but know places limited. DRINKS: water and soft drink included. Alcoholic drinks individually purchased if desired. DONATIONS: towards usual charities accepted, ask for details.

Bookings: RSVP by Tuesday 16 May to Carey.
Enthusiasts can wear purple, wave a flag or be inclusive.

MORE:
Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN)
Global engagement in friendly neighborhoods
Caretaker Carey Rohrlach
Email: carey@caro.com.au
Website: www.gleneirainterfaith.org
Q. What is Interfaith?
A. Humanising 'the other'

This is GEIFN's Annual Celebration of Interconnectedness

Same Difference Equal

HIN | FORUM | Community Resilience | Thursday 18 May 2017 | 5.30-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Supporting Hume City to be a resilient community. The forum will enable community to share and explore ideas whilst learning new skills and strengths to cope and recover from problems and challenges.

Guest speakers from Darebin City Council, Darebin Interfaith Council and Kerala Hindu Society.

Where: Seminar Room 4, Hume Global Learning Centre - 1097 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows

Bookings: RSVP by 15 May 2017; Email: amandav@hume.vic.gov.au; Tel: 03 9205 2200

MORE:

The Hume Interfaith Network

Social Development Department

Hume City Council

Amanda Venda, Community Development Officer - Southern

Email: amandav@hume.vic.gov.au

Tel: 03 9205 2200

Website

VMC | EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | Regional Advisory Councils | CLOSES Friday 19 May 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

An opportunity to represent the voices of multicultural communities and promote Victoria’s diversity is now open. 

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) is seeking expressions of interest from community members, business, service providers and local government to become members of its Regional Advisory Councils in eight regions in Victoria.

The term of appointment is for a period of two years, 1 July 2017–30 June 2019.

Metropolitan regions
North and West Metropolitan, Eastern Metropolitan and Southern Metropolitan

Rural regions
Barwon South West, Grampians, Loddon Mallee, Hume and Gippsland

Regional Advisory Councils are integral to how VMC, as an independent Commission, continue to act as a primary conduit to government with, for, and on behalf of our multicultural communities across Victoria. Members are not only strong advocates for their communities, but can directly inform the Commission on matters of multicultural affairs, settlement,service delivery and citizenship issues, and assist in promoting the benefits of diversity in their local areas.​

The Victorian Multicultural Commission strongly encourages people from culturally, linguistically and religiously diverse backgrounds including refugees and asylum seekers, and people over the age of 16 to apply.

Interested applicants can find more information and application details by using contact details below.

MORE:
Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Website: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/regional-advisory-councils/about-rac
Tel:  (03) 7017 8147
Email rac@vmc.vic.gov.au

BMIN | TOUR | Places of Worship (in Bendigo) | Saturday 20 May 2017 | 9am-4pm

[Edited extract from public address]

As a part of spiritual exchange program with Bendigo Interfaith Network, all aboard the bus to visit Bendigo's The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, Vesak Festival of Light, and a guided tour of Sacred Heart Cathedral. 

Bus Pick-up points:

• Footscray: 9am Maribyrnong City Council, Corner Hyde and Napier streets, Footscray 
• Sunshine:  9.20am at Brimbank City Council, 6-18 Alexandra Ave, Sunshine 

Drop off at same locations: Sunshine at 4pm and Footscray at 4.30pm

Inclusions: Refreshments and vegetarian lunch at the Stupa will be included.

Cost: Free

Bookings: Places limited. Register online through EventBrite.

MORE: 
Brimbank and Maribyrnong Interfaith Network with the Bendigo Interfaith Network
Maribyrnong City Council
Petr Svoboda
Email: petr.svoboda@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
Tel: 03 9688 0200
Website: http://www.bmin.org.au

PPLS | AUTHOR TALK | Kelly Chandler: The Other Mother | Saturday 20 May 2017 | 11am-12pm

[Edited extract from public address]

For Kelly, meeting the right guy was pretty straightforward – becoming a ‘spare mum’ to his two sons was more daunting. Join author Kelly Chandler as she discusses her experiences and recent book.

It had taken long enough to get on with her own stepmum, and now Kelly suddenly found herself sharing responsibility for two mini-humans. Her party days gave way to early starts, jokes about farts, games of hide-and-seek, and delicate negotiations with her partner’s ex and a cast of many. When Kelly got pregnant, stitching together the patchwork quilt of their new tribe became even trickier.

One in five families in Australia are blended but stepparents – and stepmothers in particular – still struggle to find their place in the family portrait. In The Other Mother Kelly explores the personal and societal challenges of being The Other Mother, and how blended families rock her world.

Where: Emerald Hill Library & Heritage Centre

Bookings: Online through Eventbrite
Event booked out? Put your name down to be notified if a space becomes available. Just select ‘Add to Waitlist’ on the Eventbrite listing page.  You’ll need to do this for each person you want to add to the list.
Need to cancel? Please let us know if you can no longer make your booking. We get a lot of people on the waitlist who might miss out if you can’t come.

MORE:
Port Phillip Library Service
Friends of Emerald Hill Library
Tel: 9209 6655
Email: library@portphillip.vic.gov.au

WLE17A | PHOTO CONTEST | Wiki Loves Earth Australia | May 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Is your computer overflowing with Aussie National Parks, Bushland forever sites, maybe Marine Parks since your last trip? This is a great opportunity to give them a second life in this Wiki Loves Earth contest. 

Wiki Loves Earth 2017 Australia is a photo contest about protected natural areas, within areas in Australia.

Photos may have been taken at any time. The key criteria to be eligible for the contest are that they are to be uploaded to Wikimedia Commons in May 2017... and that they have been taken by you, of course! Images must be licensed under free licenses.

In addition to being seen by everyone, your pictures could be included in Wikipedia and contribute to the knowledge of Australia's natural beauty. Freely licensed photos collected through Wikipedia Loves Earth may also be reused elsewhere than in Wikipedia.

There is no minimum age to participate, and there is no participation fee. Besides WLE being a competition, it is first a fun activity, ideal for families. The competition also allows us to share our unique natural environment, while improving our photographic talents!

The contest was initiated and first held (as pilot) by Wikimedia Ukraine in 2013, and has been growing ever since with Australia joining in for the first time in 2017. It was ranked as the 2nd coolest project of Wikimedia Chapters at Wikimania 2012

Entry Conditions
The full WLE rules can be read at Wiki Loves Earth - rules. In short:

• two megapixel minimum image
• must be self-taken
• must be of a protected area (or its flora or fauna) in Australia
• must be appropriately described and categorised
• must be uploaded during 1–31 May 2017
• Note: please also remember to enable email from other users in your Preferences so that Organisers can contact entrants.

Australian section
All entries about Australia will be judged by a panel, with 10 images selected for submission to the International WLE judging in August. The 10 Australian winners will each receive A$100 and the entry selected as the best will also receive a canvas print of their entry.

MORE:
Wiki Loves Earth 2017
Wikimedia Australia
Website: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Commons:Wiki_Loves_Earth_2017_in_Australia#Australian_section

PPMN | COMMEMORATION | St Kilda Multicultural IFTAR 2017 | Sunday 4 June 2017 | 5-8pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Share in this multicultural occasion, greeting new neighbours in a celebration of friendliness. 

Invited speakers from various religious traditions will speak about fasting and rituals before we break fast together.

Iftar (Arabic: break-fast) takes place every night during Islamic month of RAMADHAN, following prayers. Iftar is more about fasting than feasting. The emphasis is on friendship, simplicity and regard for one’s neighbour. The food will be simple and ceremonial, with the occasion providing ample time for sharing, learning and reconnecting.

Considerations: Feel welcome to enter and exit respectfully if you are unable to attend the full duration.

Where: Bubup Nairm Family and Children’s Centre
99b Carlisle Street, St Kilda

Cost: Free. Donations will be collected at event for charity.

Bookings: RSVP by Wednesday 31 May
ASSIST on 03 9209 6777 or rsvp@portphillip.vic.gov.au
More information please contact ASSIST 03 9209 6777

MORE:
Port Phillip Multifaith Network
City of Port Phillip
Ewa Zysk, Acting Multicultural Liaison Officer, Access & Ageing
Post: Private Bag 3, St Kilda, VIC 3182
Tel: 9209 6385  M: 0421 582 732
Website: www.portphillip.vic.gov.au

JCMA | CALL FOR INTEREST | JCMA Winter Conference: Faith and Society | 2pm Sunday 6 August to 5pm Monday 7 August 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Exploring the interplay between Faith and Society, two all-embracing realms of our existence in the modern context of Australia today. 

Times of joint scripture study, prayer, hearing about the life experiences and faith journeys of others, and sharing our own particular interests. All of this will be around living together and sharing meals over a 30 hour period.

Organisers are currently compiling a detailed program.

Inclusions: Meals will be vegetarian and conform to Halal requirements. Strict Kosher food will be arranged for those who require it.

Accomodation: Retreat, Engagement and Overnight Stay. Spaces limited. St Paul’s provides 32 beds in double rooms. If single room accommodation is required, this will be provided at the Janssen Centre in Boronia 15 minutes drive away. Alternatively, this year we will be including participants who return home overnight,.

Considerations:
Full program attendance at conference is a requirement for participation.
Please understand that registration of interest is not a guarantee of final selection to participate.

Several considerations will govern final selection of participants:

• Presenters need to be selected from among participants.
• A reasonable balance between all three faith communities will be attempted
• Balance between young and old, male and female will also be kept in mind.

Who: All who identify as Jewish, Christian or Muslim, and from all over Australia.

Where: St Paul Retreat Centre, Nortons Lane, Wantirna South.

Cost: $160


Registering Your Interest
Participants' indication of readiness will enable finalised program. As soon as required information is received, the planning committee will select final participants and confirm attendance.

For this reason, register your interest online through Eventbrite. Please note, ‘EventBrite Tickets’ issued do not represent admission to the conference. Organisers will contact registrants regarding final selection for participation. Payment will only be requested upon confirmation of your selection for participation. Payment will be necessary to confirm final booking. For more information contact Ginette Everest (03) 9287 5590 or executiveofficer@jcma.org.au or David Schutz 9926 5708 or email eic@cam.org.au.

MORE:
Jewish Christian Muslim Association of Australia (JCMA)
Ginette Everest, Executive Officer (Usual Working days: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays)
Address: 383 Albert St., East Melbourne Vic 3002    
Tel: (03) 9287 5590 / Mobile: 0400 211 221
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 goodwill of volunteers and generosity of our donors.
Donations are tax deductible.

ACA | CONFERENCE | Asia-Pacific Comparative Theology | Wednesday 19 - Thursday 20 July 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Explore new and creative ways of learning from and with other religions, without forsaking your own cherished beliefs and practices. 

The focus will be on methods and purposes of inter-religious learning in the Asia-Pacific context.

Keynote Speaker: Professor Francis X Clooney SJ, Harvard University is Parkman Professor of Divinity, Professor of Comparative Theology, and Director of the Centre for the Study of World Religions, Harvard, University. He is also an Australian Catholic University distinguished visiting research fellow in 2017.

Eminent scholars from the Asia-Pacific region will offer insights into the practice of comparative theology from within their respective contexts. 
Speakers include:
Professor Joseph S. O'Leary, Sophia University, Japan
Dr Bagus Laksana SJ, Sanatana Dharma University, Indonesia
Dr Amy Yu Fu, Zhejiang University City College, China
Dr Anita C Ray and Members of the ACU Comparative Theology Reading Group in Melbourne, including the Rev Dr John Dupuche (Hindu-Christian learning), Associate Professor John D’Arcy May (Buddhist and Christian learning), Mr Fatih Tuncer (Islam and inter-religious learning) and Dr Diana Cousens (Buddhism), will offer updates and personal reflections on the development of inter-faith studies in the Australian milieu. Rabbi Fred Morgan will also discuss the possibilities and problems of inter-religious studies from a Jewish perspective.

Who: All those with an interest in inter-religious learning, wishing to discover more about theological and spiritual aspects of comparative theology and philosophy, and wishing to participate in the 2017 Asia-Pacific Conference on Comparative Theology.

Where: Australian Catholic University, Melbourne Campus, 115 Victoria Parade Fitzroy Victoria

Bookings: For more information and to register
Please note places are limited, so we encourage you to register your interest via the website as soon as possible.

MORE:
Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
Australian Catholic University
Website: http://www.acu.edu.au/

THF | 20TH ANNIVERSARY | Bringing Them Home Report

[Edited extract from public address]

Commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Bringing Them Home report which extensively documented the experiences of our Stolen Generations.

Stop. Remember. And. Understand. Take positive action for Stolen Generations members and their families.

The Healing Foundation is a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that partners with communities to address the ongoing trauma caused by actions like the forced removal of children from their families. Our work helps people create a different future.

Learn more and lend your support - let's do this together.

MORE:
The Healing Foundation
Unit 11 (Level 2), 11 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600
PO Box 4363, Kingston ACT 2604
Tel: (02) 6272 7500
Email: info@healingfoundation.org.au
Website: www.healingfoundation.org.au

MIM | EXHIBITION | Stories from Detention | 17 March-2 July 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Victorians come from more than 200 countries, speak 260 languages and dialects and follow 135 religious faiths.

Why do people leave their countries of birth to live here? What is their experience in their new country? How do communities adapt to new arrivals?

"This beautiful ocean was once a nightmare to me. But I was the captain of my actions. I embrace my bravery, not my destination."
-- Hani

Hear Hani and others tell their own 'Stories from Detention'.

When: Daily 10am-5pm

Where: Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders Street, Melbourne Vic 3000

MORE:
Immigration Museum
400 Flinders Street, Melbourne Vic 3000
Tel:
General 13 11 02
Schools and groups: (03) 9927 2754
Outside Australia +61 3 8341 7777
Website: https://museumvictoria.com.au

NRW | RECONCILIATION | National Reconciliation Week | 27 May-3 June 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Let's take the next steps together: Referendum 1967. Mabo 1992. Apology 2008. Recognition...

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievements in the journey towards reconciliation.

The week is bookended by two major milestones - 27 May, the day of the historic 1967 Referendum, and 3 June, when the High Court delivered its landmark Mabo judgement in 1992.

In 2017, those dates are especially significant as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Referendum and the 25th Anniversary of Mabo.

At hundreds of events around the country, #NRW2017 will remind us that big changes take courage and dedication. So let's take those next steps together to make history again.

In the meantime, be sure to register related events at reconciliation.org.au/nrw. Our online calendar is the go-to guide for what's on during NRW 2017.

MORE:
National Reconciliation Week 27 May-3 June
Reconciliation Australia
Old Parliament House King George Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600
Tel: 02 6273 9200
Email: enquiries@reconciliation.org.au
Website: reconciliation.org.au

WIN | TOUR | Places of Worship | Wednesday 3 May 2017 | 9.30am-2pm

[Edited extract from public address]

All aboard for this tour to local places of diverse worship.

• St Andrews Parish | Catholic | 125 Greave Street, Werribee
• Plon Tayaw Pratta Monastery | Buddhist | Melbourne Buddhist Association | 67 Greens Road, Wyndham Vale
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints | Corner Shaws Road & Heaths Road, Werribee

Cost: Free

Inclusions: Morning Tea served at Buddhist Monastery. A vegetarian lunch will be provided for all participants at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Bookings: RSVPs essential by Monday 1 May 2017 to Laurence, email laurence@wyndhamcec.org.au

MORE:
Wyndham Interfaith Network
Wyndham Community & Education Centre Inc.
3 Princes Highway, Werribee VIC 3030
Tel: 9742 4013
Website: http://www.wyndhamcec.org.au/WIN.html

ADC | CALL FOR NOMINATIONS | Multi-faith Future Leaders Seminar | Monday 5 June 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

A one day seminar promoting tolerance, justice and multiculturalism. 

Bringing together young adults from various faith groups to:

• Build leadership skills in young people who are identified as future leaders of their faith communities
• Provide them with  knowledge and positive experiences about people of other faiths
• Build networks and make positive connections

Who: Applicants should be aged between 18-30ish

Cost: There is no cost to the participant – lunch and dinner is included.

Bookings: Click on https://www.antidef.org.au/events-and-programs/multi-faith-future-leaders/ to apply.

MORE:
The Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC)
306 Hawthorn Rd, Caulfield South, Melbourne VIC 3162 Australia
Tel: 03 9272 5677
Email:  reception@antidef.org.au
Website: https://www.antidef.org.au/

BIN | WALK | On Country | Presented by Uncle Bryon Powell | Saturday 6 May 2017 | 10am

[Edited extract from public address]

Walk on Country with Wadawurrung elder, Uncle Bryon Powell, who will share his knowledge of the ancient indigenous significance of the Lal Lal Falls area. 

This is a site of ancient significance to the indigenous Wathaurung people and therefore a wonderful opportunity for non-indigenous people to learn more about this beautiful landmark.

Meet: Reserve car par beside the Clarendon-Lal Lal Road

Bookings: Due to limited number, please register for the event.
RSVP essential: Margaret 0400 650 234 | Maureen 0418 383 802

MORE:
Ballarat Interfaith Network and Wadawurrung
Margaret: 0400 650 234
Maureen: 0418 383 802

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/binfaith/

Website: http://interfaithinballarat.blogspot.com.au/

GIN | COMMEMORATION | Symphony of Peace Prayers | Sunday 7 May 2017 | 1.15-3.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]
Calling women and men in communities worldwide to activate the divine feminine for a more balanced world.
Incorporating once again The Fuji Declaration: igniting the Divine Spark for a Thriving World along with ‘Soul of WoMen’.

For afternoon tea, as a celebration of our oneness in diversity, please bring to share a small plate of food with the flavour of your culture.

This year we are out in the countryside, communing with nature. Cover is provided if weather is inclement. Bring a chair/cushion or rug on which to sit.

Please write your personal prayer on paper before coming: there will be a ceremonial placing of all prayers together.

We would be delighted to have your presence & participation, along with as many of your family and friends as possible for this special afternoon.

Where: ‘Kirriemuir’, 400 Mathisons Road, Winchelsea

All are very welcome.
Bookings: RSVP by 4 May 2017 to Jenny Funston, email jennyfunston@gmail.com

MORE:
Geelong Interfaith Network and Byakko Shinko Kai
Jenny Funston
Email: jennyfunston@gmail.com

PPLS | TALK | Not Quite Australian: How Temporary Migration Is Changing the Nation | Thursday 11 May 2017 | 6.30-7.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join in this discussion with author Peter Mares of new book Not Quite Australian: How Temporary Migration is Changing the Nation.

Drawing on case studies, interviews and personal stories, Peter investigates the complex realities of this new era of temporary migration. Author of the award-winning book Borderline: Australia’s Response to Refugees and Asylum Seekers in the Wake of the Tampa and has written about migration for many media outlets including the Age, Australian Financial Review and Griffith Review.

Where: St Kilda Library, 150 Carlisle St, St Kilda VIC 3182

Bookings: Please book online through Eventbrite
Event booked out? Put your name down to be notified if a space becomes available. Just select ‘Add to Waitlist’ on the Eventbrite listing page.  You’ll need to do this for each person you want to add to the list.
Need to cancel? Please let us know if you can no longer make your booking. We get a lot of people on the waitlist who might miss out if you can’t come.

MORE:
Port Phillip Library Service
Tel: 9209 6655
Email: library@portphillip.vic.gov.au

MIN | TALK MEAL | Unity in Diversity: Faith Forum and Dinner | Thursday 11 May 2017 | 6.45-9pm

[Edited extract from public address]

How relevant is Faith in Australian Society in 2017 and beyond? 

Come, join us in conversation about harmony, faith and spirituality with three-course dinner.

Where: United Muslim Migrants Association (UMMA) Centre, 72 George Street, Doncaster East

Cost: $10 per person.

Bookings: RSVP Sunday 30 April 2017 | Telmay 0438 136 958 | Pari 0418 910910 |

MORE:
The Manningham Interfaith Network
Email: info@manninghaminterfaithnetwork.org.au
Website: www.manninghaminterfaithnetwork.org.au

VESAKVic10 | EAT WALK COMMEMORATE | 10th Victorian United Nations Day of Vesak | Saturday 27 May 2017 | 10am-3.30pm

[Edited extract from public address]

Join Buddhist Communities of Victoria and Friends for the 10th Observance of the Victorian United Nations Day of Vesak. A peaceful day of harmony and friendship to celebrate and practice the Buddha’s universal peace message for the world. 

The recognition by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 of an International Day of Vesak acknowledged the contribution which Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made for over two and a half millennia and continues to make to the spirituality of humanity.

An occasion and day when Victorian Buddhist community will gather to Commemorate the Buddha’s Birth, Enlightenment and Passing. There are over 110 Buddhist Temples and Centres, located across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Comprising a diverse and harmonious mix of cultures, languages, traditions and forms of practice including from among the Bhutanese, Burmese, Cambodian, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Karen, Khmer, Korean, Laotian, Malaysian, Mongolian, Taiwanese, Thai, Tibetan, Sri Lankan, and Vietnamese Buddhist communities.

Scheduled Program:

• 10.00am: Pindabata (offering of food to Venerable Monks and Nuns). Together with Interfaith and Indigenous Leaders and our lay Buddhist community. Where: St Peters Anglican Church Hall in East Melbourne.
• 12.15pm: Procession and Friendship Walk. Welcome to Country ceremony given by Indigenous Elder. Where: Gather in Parliament Gardens Reserve, East Melbourne. Procession starts at 1pm. Proceeds along Spring and Collins Streets to Swanston Street. Arriving 1.30pm at Melbourne Town Hall.
• 1.45pm: Commemoration. Where: Melbourne Town Hall

Cost: Free. All are Welcome.

Full details at website www.unvesakvictoria.org.au

MORE:
Victorian United Nations Day of Vesak Inc.
Mr Julian Bamford, President
Tel: 0400 267330
Email: secretary@unvesakvictoria.org.au
Website: www.unvesakvictoria.org.au

Generously supported with grants from the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Victorian Government, City of Melbourne, and our Victorian Buddhist Community, friends and supporters.

VMC | REPORT | AWARDS | Primary School Art Competition | Saturday 25 March 2017

[Edited extract from public address]

Victorians celebrated Cultural Diversity Week 2017 in many wonderful ways, from morning teas to posting their own stories of cultural heritage on social media.

A highlight of the Week was the presentation of the Primary School Art Competition awards during Victoria's Multicultural Festival's official proceedings.

The Primary School Art Competition called on budding young artists to think about our state's amazing diversity and creatively express what multiculturalism means to them.
The theme for this year’s competition was 'What’s Your Multicultural Story?’

Helen Kapalos, Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Robin Scott MP,  Minister for Multicultural Affairs, and Inga Peulich MLC, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, presented the winners and runners up with certificates on the Fed Square main stage on Saturday 25 March 2017.

Entries were received across three categories - drawing and painting, photography and short films - in three age groups.

Congratulations to this year's finalists:
Prep – Year 1   |   Drawing and Painting
• Winner: Hishan, Glen Waverley Primary School
• Runner up: Evelyn, Camelot Rise Primary School
Year 2 – Year 4   |   Drawing and Painting
• Winner: Buwanaji, Glen Waverley Primary School
• Runner up: Amali, Glen Waverley Primary School
Year 2 – Year 4   |   Short Film
• Winner: Year 3 and 4 Students, Vermont Primary School
Year 5 – Year 6   |   Drawing and Painting
• Winner: Danielle, St John Vianney's Catholic Primary School
• Runner up: Saleha, Clayton North Primary School

Visit the website to see the winning entries.

Each year schools play a huge role in engaging young Victorians in our state's diversity and the Victorian Multicultural Commission would like to thank all for participating.

Special thanks to the following schools that submitted entries to the 2017 Primary School Art Competition: Camelot Rise Primary School, Clayton North Primary School, Deer Park West Primary School, Glen Waverley Primary School, Holy Family Catholic Primary School Doveton,  Leibler Yavneh College, St John Vianney's Catholic Primary School Mulgrave, Truganina South Primary School and Vermont Primary School.

MORE:
Victorian Multicultural Commission
Street: Level 3, 3 Treasury Place, East Melbourne VIC 3002
Post: GPO Box 4698, Melbourne VIC 3001
Tel: 03 9651 0651. For all grant related enquires please call 1300 366 356.
Email: info@vmc.vic.gov.au
Website: http://www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/

GEIFN | Media Mix | May 2017

MEDIA WORDS
Approx 5 min reads

Intro
Jayne D'Arcy explores positivity theory, practice and practitioners, declaring "Melbourne leading the way in mindful living" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/m22cover-20170324-gv5lob.html

Barney Zwartz explores ancient symbolism, meaningful rituals, timed commemoration and regular togetherness, sharing a view on "The moral beauty of Easter" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/comment/the-moral-beauty-of-easter-20170411-gviiol.html

Jimmy Carter explores dogmatic faith, personal experience and reconciling uncomfortable truth, revealing "Losing my religion for equality" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/losing-my-religion-for-equality-20090714-dk0v.html


Intra
Craig Mathieson explores one performer's living experience of place, opportunity and equality, reflecting "Larissa Tandy - a time to heal" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/entertainment/music/larissa-tandy--a-time-to-heal-20170424-gvrkgv.html

Simon Smart explores personal view, losing sight and his view where the road to redemption lies, reasoning why "The generation brought up on self-esteem is struggling" via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/comment/the-generation-brought-up-on-selfesteem-is-struggling-20170413-gvk4ng.html

Carolyn Tate explores some hidden benefits of adapting an ancient practice to make relevant for modern times, inviting us to "Meet the women proving there is not just one body type suitable for yoga" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellbeing/meet-the-women-proving-there-is-not-just-one-body-type-suitable-for-yoga-20170411-gvinlm.html


Inter
Ray Edgar explores information, freedom of access, transparency and reliability when reporting "Wikipedia's Katherine Maher on free knowledge in the age of mass surveillance" via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/world/wikipedias-katherine-maher-on-free-knowledge-in-the-age-of-mass-surveillance-20170427-gvtrdg.html

Lindsay Murdoch explores expressed parental desires, paternity, surrogacy and trafficking, reporting "Thai police arrest man suspected of smuggling semen for surrogacy across Laos border" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/world/thai-police-arrest-man-suspected-of-smuggling-semen-for-surrogacy-across-laos-border-20170422-gvq6c0.html

Brian Johnston explores history, enduring legacy and architectural splendor, sharing "Best Islamic tourist attractions around the world: The top 25 sites" via Traveller.com.au
http://www.traveller.com.au/the-islamic-world-and-why-you-should-visit-gvm21g


Multi
Craig Mathieson reveals explorations in the full breadth of contemporary living, reporting  how the 10th Human Rights Arts and "Film festival strikes right balance" via The Canberra Times
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/entertainment/movies/film-festival-strikes-right-balance-20170425-gvrsok.html

 Kirsty Needham explores fictionalisations, facts and fervor as "Nostalgia for Monkey sweeps China as original TV director dies" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/world/nostalgia-for-monkey-sweeps-china-as-original-tv-director-dies-20170421-gvpmn4.html

Peter Martin explores comparisons between fiction, economics and modern day reality "The dark side of Harry Potter could transfer to our world" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/comment/the-dark-side-of-harry-potter-could-transfer-to-our-world-20170410-gvi6d4.html


All
Maureen Mathews addresses interpersonal relationships, visible mistreatment and need for mutual respect, answering a reader's question "About Last Night" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/life/family-relationships-and-sex/m15aboutlastnight-20170324-gv5l2a.html

Rae Dufty-Jones explores parallels between post-war housing, affordability, nation's fertility and modern Australia, revealing how "We've had a major housing crisis before - and this is how they fixed it" via The Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/comment/weve-had-a-major-housing-crisis-before--and-this-is-how-they-fixed-it-20170418-gvmsoe.html

Nick Miller explores talent, genius and rapport with "Geoffrey Rush on Genius and the brilliance of Einstein" via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/tv-and-radio/geoffrey-rush-on-genius-and-the-brilliance-of-einstein-20170417-gvm19k.html


Togather
Bridget McManus reviews three revealing reality programs designed with today’s audience in mind “Brush with Fame, Testing Teachers and You Can’t Ask That!" via The Age
http://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/tv-guide/m15tvwed-20161229-gtjfzx.html

Chris Taylor explores value in old hands sharing their passion, passing over the reigns and encouraging the next generation,  and other reasons "Why Alain Passard left Paris to travel to Launceston TAFE" via Good Food
http://www.goodfood.com.au/eat-out/news/alain-passard-20170412-gvjmuo

Matt Schudel salutes the life of "Robert Taylor, whose early vision helped create the internet, dies at 85" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/world/robert-taylor-whose-early-vision-helped-create-the-internet-dies-at-85-20170416-gvlpi4.html


Nobly
Julie Power shares an example of aspirational leadership, effective reach-out and team work, sharing a "Poster boy for the global citizen army" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/national/poster-boy-for-the-global-citizen-army-20170411-gvikw8.html

Catherine Armitage compares educational and workplace bias, and how access, equity and prospects differ is influenced by individual's gender, in time for "'You better think twice': women tackle tech industry's toxic bro culture" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/business/innovation/you-better-think-twice-women-tackle-tech-industrys-toxic-bro-culture-20170406-gvf7sb.html

Philip Pullella updates united efforts dealing with recent refugee tide as "More than 2000 migrants plucked from Mediterranean Sea" via WA Today
http://www.watoday.com.au/world/more-than-2000-migrants-plucked-from-mediterranean-sea-20170414-gvleu9.html


-----------------------------
TED TALKS
Approx 20min presentations
Tania de Jong AM: How singing together changes the brain

Ruairí McKiernan: How Hitchhiking Gave Me Hope For Humanity

Robb Willer: How to have better political conversations


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

Laura Mvula - That's Alright
https://youtu.be/hYjHixQ9Ns4


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STREET JIVES
Approx 2 min presentation

Sesame Street: Elmo and Craig Ferguson explain the word Experiment
https://youtu.be/2fPOAWsQ1c8


-----------------------------
EXPERIENCE SHOWS
Approx 52 min presentation

Testing Teachers (Season 1 Episode 1)
Teach for Australia parachutes industry high achievers after just 6 weeks training into classrooms with extreme disadvantage and challenging behaviours. All aboard for the ride of a lifetime.
http://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/video/914818115950/testing-teachers