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Content.

10.

22. 34. 42. 51. 54.

Hindi Diwas 2026 in Sydney: On 26 September 2026, a vibrant Hindi Day ...

66.

Creating Safe Conversations

76.

Festive Fashion and Women

81.

Recipe Diwali on Plate

86.

Diwali celebrations organised by Hindu

94.

Three Aussie Punjabis Tour India

102.

Dental care after moving to

When the Begums Came to Town:

Sometimes the ﬁrst sign that someone is ....

49.

For a few hours on 20th September after...

Harman Foundation And 1800respect

Festive shopping, cultural heritage and ....

Harman Foundation has launched a new ....

Provide 100 Free Meals to Port

Rose & Pistachio Shrikhand ....

A joint community effort in South Australia ...

Everyday Calm with Rajni Everyday

The community together in a vibrant atmosphere ...

Is the most wonderful time of the year ...

Seventeen Years of Giving: GOPIO

38.

From Australia to India, three cricketers with ....

Community spirit and generosity

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Understanding dental costs, overcoming language barriers ....

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PUBLISHER Desi Australia Pty Ltd

EDITOR'S LETTER

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Arti Banga CAMPAIGN DIRECTOR Hartaj Singh Banga SYDNEY (NSW) EDITOR: Sukruti Narayanan MELBOURNE (VIC) EDITOR: Pooja Prem BRISBANE (QLD) EDITOR: Rajni Ghai Malhotra

ARTI BANGA

Editor-in-Chief

CANBERRA (ACT) EDITOR: Adarsh Bhatt PERTH (WA) EDITOR: Preeti Kothari ADELAIDE (SA) EDITOR: Anshi Agarwala DESIGNER Ðevender Kumar Email : info@DesiAustralia.com

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Do not re-use any content and photo from Desi Australia without the prior written permission from the editor. All the material published in Desi Australia, including articles, features, ﬁllers, advertisements, and all other contents, are published in good faith, and the editor or the Desi Australia magazine cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions. All material is published on the understanding that it is copyright free, and Desi Australia accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. We also cannot accept responsibility for and do not endorse views expressed by the contributors.

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Australians.We extend our heartfelt thanks to our readers, contributors, advertisers and supporters for being part of our journey.May this Festival of Lights illuminate your homes and hearts with happiness, good health, peace and prosperity.

Hello Everyone, As we prep up for Diwali, we are reminded that it is a celebration of light, hope, happiness and togetherness. It reminds us of the triumph of good over evil and the importance of spreading kindness, positivity and joy. Across Australia, Diwali continues to bring communities together, beautifully reﬂecting our nation's rich multicultural spirit and shared values.In this Diwali Special Edition of Desi Australia, we celebrate our vibrant culture alongside inspiring stories of community achievements, business, innovation and the remarkable contributions of South Asian

DIWALI SPECIAL EDITION 2026

Wishing you and your loved ones a very Happy Diwali! Get in touch with us at info@DesiAustralia.com. Thank you for being part of the Desi Australia community. Happy reading!

DesiAustralia.com “Keeping you connected”

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Sydney Opera House Glows Gold for Diwali Desi Australia

hunderstorms fail to dampen the spirit of celebration as communities gather for the NSW Government’s annual Diwali event. The iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House shone in gold on 3 November 2026 as the NSW Government celebrated Diwali, sharing the Festival of Lights’ message of hope, renewal and unity. Organised by Multicultural NSW at the

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Museum of Contemporary Art, the annual celebration brought together parliamentarians, community leaders and guests, including representatives from Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities. Despite thunderstorms and ﬂashes of lightning across Sydney Harbour, the weather did little to dampen the festive spirit. Desi Australia attended the celebration, joining guests as the Opera House’s golden sails provided a spectacular backdrop to an evening of cultural pride and togetherness. NSW Premier Chris Minns extended his warm wishes to everyone celebrating, highlighting Diwali’s ability to connect generations and bring people together.

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He encouraged communities to embrace its message of belonging and work together to overcome division. “I want to wish everyone a joyful Diwali filled with light, happiness and prosperity,” Mr Minns said. Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper highlighted the festival’s celebration of tradition, community and connection. He acknowledged the significance of honouring Diwali and the contribution such celebrations make to the state’s cultural life. “I want to wish everyone a joyful Diwali filled with light, happiness and prosperity,” Mr Minns said.

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Minister for Multiculturalism Steve Kamper highlighted the festival’s celebration of tradition, community and connection. He acknowledged the significance of honouring Diwali and the contribution such celebrations make to the state’s cultural life. The gathering also included NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and MPs Jason Yat-sen Li, Donna Davis and Julia Finn, whose attendance was noted in the Sydney Telugu Association’s account of the evening. Represented by its President and Vice President Ramesh Gorla, the association described seeing Indian heritage celebrated against the backdrop of the Opera House as a proud and memorable moment. Its reflections highlighted the importance of cultural celebrations in strengthening community connections. Diwali is traditionally marked by lighting small oil lamps known as diyas, gathering with loved ones and offering prayers for health, knowledge and peace. Its themes of light overcoming darkness and good triumphing over evil resonate across generations, offering an opportunity for reflection, gratitude and new beginnings. For Australia’s South Asian communities, celebrations such as this offer a meaningful connection between cultural heritage and the place they call home. They also invite the wider community to share in traditions that enrich Australia’s multicultural identity. As the Opera House glowed gold across the harbour, the celebration offered a reminder of the hope, warmth and sense of belonging that bringing communities together can inspire. Image Source: Multicultural NSW (facebook)

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Hindi Diwas 2026 in Sydney:

Celebrating the Richness of Hindi Language and Literature

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Mrinal Sharma

n 26 September 2026, a vibrant Hindi Day Literary Meet was organised in Sydney, bringing together Hindi writers, poets, artists, literature enthusiasts, and members of the wider Indian-Australian community. The event was successfully hosted at Parramatta Five by the Indian Literary and Art Society of Australia (ILASA), in collaboration with Ekal Sanstha, Indian Seniors Hornsby, Darpan Radio, Mithila Cultural Society, Vaishwik Parivar, and other supporting organisations. ILASA and its collaborating organisations have been celebrating Hindi Diwas and promoting Hindi language and literature for the past seventeen years. Over the years, these celebrations have provided an important platform for writers and artists in Australia to share their creativity, preserve their linguistic heritage, and connect with fellow lovers of Hindi literature.

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This year’s celebration witnessed the participation of 27 talented writers and poets, who presented a diverse range of sensitive, thoughtprovoking, and engaging literary works. Their presentations touched upon themes ranging from nostalgia, nature, history, mythology, contemporary society, identity, and the signiﬁcance of Hindi, leaving the audience deeply moved and appreciative. The programme commenced with the traditional ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Parramatta Councillor Sameer Pandey, Professor R. P. Mathur, Dave Pasi, Rekha Rajvanshi and Harmohan Walia. The inaugural Vandana, presented by Richa Srivastava, created an atmosphere of serenity and positive energy and set the tone for the literary evening. Speaking on the occasion, Councillor Sameer Pandey highlighted the importance of literary and cultural activities in bringing communities together. He expressed his appreciation for the efforts being made to promote Hindi and Indian

DIWALI SPECIAL EDITION 2026

culture in the region and announced that a literary festival (LitFest) would soon be organised in Parramatta. Devendra Gupta of Ekal Vidyalaya team also appreciated the initiative and spoke about the activities and objectives of the Ekal Vidyalaya movement, providing the audience with valuable information about its work and outreach. The literary presentations covered a remarkably wide spectrum of subjects and emotions. Several nostalgic compositions used nature as a medium to evoke memories of India, homeland, childhood, and familiar landscapes. Poems celebrating the importance and richness of the Hindi language were also presented, reﬂecting the deep emotional and cultural connection that members of the diaspora continue to share with Hindi. Indian mythology and history found an important place in the programme as well. Through their creative interpretations, poets brought to life the emotional struggles of Draupadi

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(Pandvas’ wife) and Mandavi (Ramayan Bharat’s wife), offering fresh perspectives on the experiences and inner worlds of these women from the epic tradition. Contemporary themes were also explored. One of the compositions reflected upon the experiences of becoming an NRI, raising questions about what one gains and what one leaves behind while building a life away from one’s homeland. At another moment, the audience travelled nostalgically through memories of Kashi, while contemporary social and public issues in India were addressed with wit, humour, and gentle satire. Two short stories were also presented, adding variety to the programme. Poetry remained at the heart of the meet, but the evening was equally enriched by ghazals and shayari, which received an enthusiastic response from the audience. Among the senior poets, the literary presentations by Prof. R. P. Mathur, Dr Suman Agrawal, Dr Shailja Chaturvedi, Anil Verma, Santram Bajaj, Dev Pasi, Harmohan Walia, Rekha Rajvanshi, Dr Nupur Ashok, Darshan Mongia, Gunjan Tripathi, and Sangeeta Bansal from Perth captivated the audience. Their poetry reflected maturity, experience, sensitivity, and a deep engagement with language and life. The comparatively younger generation of poets also made a strong impression. Mrinal Sharma, Shishirendu Jha, Kanwar Plaha, Ingita Chadha, Gaurav Upadhyay, Namita Pathak, Manit Bhaskar, Tarun Malviya, Taufiq Ahmed Sheikh, Shweta, Akanksha Srivastava, Renu Signal, and Kuldeep Yadav presented their compositions with enthusiasm and confidence. Their works demonstrated the continuing vitality of Hindi literary expression among the younger generation in Australia and received warm appreciation from the audience. The musical performances added another beautiful dimension to the evening. The melodious singing by Richa Srivastava, Shobha Ingleshwar, Tanu Sharma, and Sharda Sharma

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brought a lively and celebratory spirit to the gathering. Their performances further enhanced the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the event. The three-hour programme maintained the interest and enthusiasm of the audience right until the end. Gaurav Upadhyay conducted the programme with conﬁdence and skill, ensuring a smooth ﬂow between the various presentations. Tarun, Garima, and Archana took care of the arrangements for tea and refreshments, contributing to the comfort and hospitality of the guests. Harmohan Walia, with his camera, beautifully captured the memorable moments of the evening, bringing smiles to the faces of participants and guests alike. His photographs will serve as a valuable record of this special celebration of Hindi literature and community spirit.

in Australia. At the conclusion of the programme, members of the audience and participating writers warmly appreciated the initiative and congratulated Rekha Rajvanshi, founder of ILASA, for her continued efforts to promote Hindi language, literature, art, and culture in Australia. Her sustained commitment, along with the cooperation of various organisations and volunteers, has helped create a meaningful platform where Hindi literature can be celebrated and shared across generations. The Hindi Diwas Literary Meet thus concluded on a warm and inspiring note, leaving the audience with memorable literary experiences and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and enduring relevance of the Hindi language.

The hall, filled with enthusiastic speakers, writers, poets, and literature lovers, reflected the deep affection and remarkable enthusiasm that the Indian-Australian community continues to have for the Hindi language. The event was not merely a literary gathering; it became a celebration of language, culture, identity, creativity, and community. For those living away from India, such occasions provide an opportunity to reconnect with their linguistic and cultural roots while also creating a space for new literary voices to emerge. The participation of writers from different generations and backgrounds demonstrated that Hindi continues to evolve and flourish

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New Multicultural Business Chamber Opens in Parramatta to build Stronger Community and Enterprise Links

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bringing together small business owners, community leaders, emerging entrepreneurs, government representatives and other guests. The organization was founded by multicultural community leader and small business owner Brian Laul, with a focus on turning connections between diﬀerent sectors into practical opportunities. Desi Australia

new organization aimed at bringing multicultural communities, businesses, government and industry closer together has oﬃcially launched in Parramatta, creating a new platform for collaboration, mentoring and economic participation across New South Wales. The Australian Multicultural Community & Business Chamber (AMCBC) was formally launched in Parramatta on 25 September 2026,

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NSW Premier Chris Minns attended the launch as Guest of Honour and spoke about the role established business owners can play in helping younger entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and running a business. He highlighted Western Sydney’s strong entrepreneurial activity and the contribution of migrants and secondgeneration Australians to the smallbusiness landscape. Minns said he hoped the Chamber would encourage experienced businesspeople to mentor younger entrepreneurs by sharing practical knowledge gained through years of operating businesses. He pointed to areas such as managing payroll and

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understanding government processes, while also emphasising the importance of giving young people confidence as they work through the challenges of building their enterprises. For Laul, the Chamber is intended to provide a collective voice for communities and businesses that often encounter similar challenges. He said bringing people together could allow members to exchange experience, learn from one another and advocate more effectively on issues affecting their businesses and communities. The Chamber’s broader vision is to establish a space where community organisations, businesses, government and industry can interact and develop relationships that lead to practical outcomes. Rather than operating solely as a conventional business networking organisation, the AMCBC aims to connect multicultural communities with wider commercial and institutional networks. Ronna Guzman, Co-Founder and Vice President of the AMCBC, described community, business and government

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as interconnected parts of the same ecosystem. She said the entrepreneurial contribution of multicultural communities should not only be recognised, but also linked more eﬀectively to opportunities, relationships and broader participation. The launch also placed considerable emphasis on the next generation of entrepreneurs. The Chamber introduced the Multicultural Young Entrepreneurs Awards, recognising emerging business and creative talent working across areas including technology, fashion and entertainment. The initiative is designed to give young entrepreneurs greater visibility while connecting them with established leaders who can provide guidance and professional networks. AMCBC Senior Director Abdul Khan Ratan said the awards would form part of a wider mentoring approach. The organisation plans to make the awards an annual event and link them with a mentoring program through which emerging entrepreneurs can engage with experienced business and community ﬁgures.

beyond creating new contacts. Its stated priorities include building business capability, encouraging collaboration across cultural and industry boundaries, developing young entrepreneurs and providing a platform through which communities can engage more closely with government and industry. The organisation is now positioned to develop these priorities through mentoring, awards, partnerships and community-focused initiatives. Its ﬁrst major gathering brought together the very groups the Chamber intends to connect, providing a starting point for its longer-term work across New South Wales.

of multicultural entrepreneurs. The Chamber’s launch therefore marks not simply the arrival of another business organization in Parramatta, but the beginning of an initiative centered on connecting multicultural communities with the networks, experience and opportunities needed to participate more strongly in the economic and social future of New South Wales.

With the Multicultural Young Entrepreneurs Awards set to continue annually and mentoring forming part of the Chamber’s future activities, the AMCBC is seeking to establish a lasting network linking established business leaders with a new generation

The initiative reﬂects one of the Chamber’s central objectives: helping young multicultural entrepreneurs move beyond recognition towards sustained business development. By combining awards with mentoring and networking, the AMCBC intends to create pathways for emerging entrepreneurs to develop their ideas, strengthen their capabilities and expand their connections. Parramatta MP Donna Davis and Leppington MP Nathan Hagarty also attended the launch. Their participation reﬂected the Chamber’s stated aim of strengthening relationships between multicultural communities, business networks and government across Western Sydney. The establishment of the AMCBC comes as Western Sydney continues to attract entrepreneurs and small businesses from diverse cultural backgrounds. Recent reporting on the Chamber’s launch has highlighted its intention to build a broader multicultural business network rather than limiting engagement to individual cultural or national communities. For multicultural business owners, the Chamber’s proposed role extends

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CELEBRATING 40 A STRONG LEGACY, A SHAR Desi Australia

our decades of partnership, shared achievement and a vision for stronger economic ties took centre stage at the Australia India Business Council’s anniversary celebration in Sydney. The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney on 16 October 2026 – exactly 40 years after its foundation on 16 October 1986. The Gala Dinner and Australia-India Address NSW brought together business leaders, former State Committee Chairs, members and distinguished guests to recognise the organisation’s contribution to strengthening Australia-India business relationships. The Sydney gathering formed part of AIBC’s broader 40th anniversary celebration series. Established under the leadership of then Prime Ministers Bob Hawke and Rajiv Gandhi, AIBC has spent four decades connecting businesses, government and industry across both countries. Its anniversary recognised the people and partnerships that have sustained this work while looking towards future trade and investment opportunities. Reﬂecting on the milestone, AIBC National Chair Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM dedicated the anniversary to the organisation’s wider community:

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“As we celebrate 40 years of the Australia India Business Council, we dedicate this landmark milestone to our valued members, key stakeholders, and everyone who has contributed across so many different capacities over the decades. Together, we have built strong bridges and expanded bilateral trade, further energized today by the Australia India ECTA. Through our literacy initiatives and cross border knowledge sharing, we remain deeply committed to ensuring that our strong commercial ties continue to empower communities and drive long term inclusive growth.”

Executive Ofﬁcer of the Centre for Australia-India Relations, representatives of the Consulate General of India in Sydney, sponsors and business partners. Their participation reﬂected the network of institutions and enterprises contributing to the bilateral relationship. A keynote address was delivered by Jessica Olivier, Partner and Lead of RSM Australia’s R&D Tax and Government Incentives practice, who contributed her insights to the evening’s business program.

The occasion brought together key stakeholders, including the Chief

The panel discussion, “Australia-India 2030: From Trade Agreement to Business Opportunity,” placed future economic collaboration at the centre of the celebrations. Moderated by Dr Namita Gupta, the panel brought together Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM, Ryan Neelam, Kala Philip and Lisa Sthalekar. The NSW Australia-India Address panel discussion was supported by the Centre for Australia-India Relations through its

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His message placed members, knowledge sharing and inclusive growth at the heart of AIBC’s anniversary, connecting its commercial purpose with the beneﬁts stronger economic relationships can bring to communities.

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0 YEARS OF AIBC: RED VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Maitri Grants Program. According to AIBC’s account of the evening, the discussion explored opportunities under the AustraliaIndia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), including its role in making business between the two countries easier. Panellists also emphasised the importance of deeper engagement between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in

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driving the next phase of economic collaboration. India’s Consul General in Sydney, Dr Janakiraman, captured the potential for collaboration with the words: “Design in Australia, make in India, and design in India, make in Australia.” The message reﬂects the possibilities of a partnership built on shared ideas,

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complementary strengths and mutual trust – creating opportunities for businesses, industries and communities in both countries. From technology and tourism to food, wine and education, the discussions highlighted the value of sustained relationships, local market knowledge and closer business engagement. These themes gave the anniversary a practical focus: building

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on established connections to help more businesses participate in bilateral trade, develop partnerships and pursue opportunities across both markets. Alongside the business program, the anniversary offered an opportunity to recognise the people behind AIBC’s

work. Business councils draw strength from the commitment of members, committee teams, sponsors and partners who bring people together and maintain relationships over time. The Sydney celebration reﬂected that collective effort. Looking ahead, AIBC NSW President

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Ravi Mandalika outlined the chapter’s focus on helping members develop meaningful business connections. “Over the past eight weeks, we’ve been listening closely to our members, business community, partners and government stakeholders. One message has been clear: businesses need more

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than networking opportunities. They need meaningful connections that help them grow,” he said. “That’s why we’re developing the AIBC NSW Business Growth Alliance, a member-focused initiative designed to connect businesses with trusted expertise, services and commercial opportunities across Australia and India.” The proposed initiative gives a practical direction to the chapter’s ambitions, placing member needs and business growth at the centre of its next phase. “Forty years is an extraordinary milestone, but the potential of the Australia-India relationship is even greater. We’ve come a long way, but I believe we’re just getting started,” Mandalika said. He also acknowledged the sponsors and partners whose support helped make the Sydney anniversary celebration possible.

occasion, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor presented a specially curated menu, bringing the ﬂavours of India to the anniversary celebration. Under the leadership of National Chair Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM and NSW President Ravi Mandalika, the milestone provided an opportunity to honour AIBC’s history and build momentum for its future. The NSW committee deserves recognition for bringing together the anniversary celebration, supported by its members, sponsors and wider business network.

journey ahead offers further opportunities to expand business participation, deepen partnerships and carry four decades of shared effort into the next chapter of Australia-India relations. Image Source: Harmohan Walia (Facebook)

Congratulations to AIBC’s past and present National Chairs, State Chairs, executive teams and members whose dedication has sustained this remarkable 40-year journey. Their collective contribution has helped nurture the relationships on which future collaboration can grow.

Adding a culinary dimension to the

With committed leadership, an engaged team and a shared ambition to strengthen bilateral ties, AIBC has a strong foundation on which to build towards its 50th anniversary. The

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SAREE STORY AUSTRALIA

When the Begums Came to Town: An Afternoon of Brocade,

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SAREE STORY AUSTRALIA

Poornima Menon

or a few hours on 20th September afternoon, a group of women in Sydney stepped into a world of royal elegance, rich fabrics, elaborate jewellery and Nawabi hospitality. Saree Club’s September gathering, aptly titled ‘Begums, Brocade & Nazaakat’, at Kebabiya was an invitation to rediscover the royalty within each woman, not through titles or status, but through the simple pleasure of dressing up, celebrating culture and enjoying the company of other women. The afternoon began long before the first plate of food was served. The women arrived dressed in their finest, transforming the place into a colourful tableau reminiscent of the Nawabi era. Brocade sarees, jewel tones, intricate jewellery, traditional accessories and carefully styled looks reflected the individual interpretations of what it meant to be a modern-day Begum. There was no prescribed way to look the part. Some women embraced the theme wholeheartedly, while others interpreted it more subtly. Yet each woman brought something unique to the occasion. And that was precisely the spirit of this September meet up. Saree Club has always sought to create a space where women can come together without the pressure of comparison or conformity. The theme provided an opportunity to dress up and have fun, but it also allowed each woman to express her own personality and version of regal elegance. An impromptu fashion walk soon followed. With ada and nazaakat – grace, poise and a touch of theatrical flair – on full display, the women walked, posed and laughed their way through an informal celebration of their sartorial choices. The inevitable photo sessions followed, capturing not just the outfits but the camaraderie of the afternoon.

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SAREE STORY AUSTRALIA

The visual spectacle was soon complemented by an equally lavish culinary experience. The chefs at Kebabiya prepared a Nawabi-inspired feast that reﬂected the grandeur of the theme. The menu featured Shahi Reshmi Seekh Kebab, Nawabi Shami Kebab, Daal-e-Kebabiya, Sheermal, Chilli Lehsuni Mini Naan, Awadhi Murg Ki Biryani, Gulab Jamun-e-Khas with Rabri and Kehwa. The meal also included vegetarian and Jain options, ensuring that the celebration remained inclusive and that everyone could participate fully in the experience.

women together through sarees, stories, culture, traditions and memories, the club has evolved into a platform for connection and community. Its gatherings provide women with an opportunity to step away from the demands and routines of everyday life and simply enjoy being themselves in the company of other women. ‘Begums, Brocade & Nazaakat’ was

And while the food provided a feast for the senses, the conversations around the tables provided the real nourishment. Women at diﬀerent tables mingled, exchanged stories and shared anecdotes about their lives. Some were reconnecting with familiar faces, while others were meeting fellow members for the ﬁrst time. Laughter punctuated conversations as friendships deepened and new connections were formed. It is this aspect of Saree Club that extends beyond its love of the saree. Founded around the idea of bringing

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SAREE STORY AUSTRALIA

therefore more than a themed lunch. It was a celebration of femininity, individuality, friendship and culture, with a generous helping of food and laughter on the side. As the afternoon drew to a close, the modern-day Begums departed, their ﬁnery packed away for another day. But they left with something that could not be folded into a saree cupboard or captured in a photograph – new conversations, shared laughter, renewed friendships and memories of an afternoon well spent. Their hearts full, their stomachs full and for a few wonderful hours, the royalty within each of them awakened.

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MAG CORNER AUSTRALIA

Five Days, Three States: IABCA 2026 Celebrates Australia-India Connections Desi Australia

rom the halls of Queensland Parliament to the waters of Sydney Harbour, the 2026 IABCA Australia Immersion Week brought together business, government and community leaders for a journey through enterprise, culture, sport and shared ambition. Held from 22 to 26 September across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, the ﬁve-day program encompassed seven experiences, combining leadership discussions and industry insights with cultural encounters, an awards celebration and opportunities for informal connection.

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MAG CORNER AUSTRALIA

The India Australia Business & Community Alliance, founded in 2014, has developed a platform for engagement between the two countries through business, government, academia and community networks. Founded and facilitated by Sonia Sadiq Gandhi, IABCA places people-topeople connections at the centre of its work, with forums, roundtables, delegations and recognition programs extending beyond its annual awards.

and investment.

This year’s immersion began at Queensland Parliament on 22 September with a welcome reception and panel session presen ted in partnership with Trade and Investment Queensland. Government and business representatives gathered alongside the AustCham India delegation to consider how opportunities between Queensland and India could translate into enterprise and investment.

The delegation’s journey continued in Sydney on 23 September, where the Art Gallery of NSW hosted the IABCA Global Leaders Forum under the theme “People. Place. Partnership.” Discussions explored talent, tourism, investment, technology, standards, culture and sport, reﬂecting the breadth of the Australia–India relationship.

The Hon Ros Bates MP, Consul General Mrs Neetu M. Bhagotia and Peter Varghese AO joined a leadership discussion exploring practical pathways for trade, investment and collaboration. The opening reception established a theme that continued throughout the week: building relationships that can support cooperation well beyond the event itself. The delegation’s journey continued in Sydney on 23 September, where the Art Gallery of NSW hosted the IABCA Global Leaders Forum under the theme “People. Place. Partnership.” Discussions explored talent, tourism, investment, technology, standards, culture and sport, reﬂecting the breadth of the Australia–India relationship.

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MAG CORNER AUSTRALIA

momentum into greater business participation. As quoted in IABCA’s recap, he said: “The opportunity now is to build on the momentum in the Australia–India relationship by increasing Australian business engagement and investment across the corridor.” The awards recognised contributions ranging from established enterprise to emerging leadership. Rajni and Pawan Luthra, founders of Indian Link Media Group, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Professor Mohan Yellishetty of Monash University received the Australia India Impact Award in the individual category, while Addverb Australia won the organisation category. The forum featured the IABCA Australia–India Leadership Pulse and the launch of Commonwealth Bank’s India Opportunity Research and Insights. Its agenda also considered how talent pipelines, business mobility, market access, diaspora connections and alumni networks could support greater economic engagement between the two countries.

A private viewing of Avatar: Forms of Vishnu complemented the discussions, placing Indian art and cultural heritage within a day focused on future partnerships. The gallery setting oﬀered a reminder that cultural understanding is part of the foundation on which international relationships develop.

Neil Saligrama, founder and CEO of Compare & Connect, was named Business Leader of the Year, and Lina Ashar, founder of Dreamtime Learning

On 24 September, attention turned to Melbourne, where the National Gallery of Victoria hosted the IABCA Awards Gala for the ﬁrst time. According to the organisers’ recap, more than 300 guests gathered to celebrate achievements across business, innovation, research, trade, culture and community, with an exclusive viewing of *Cartier: The Exhibition* adding to the occasion. Addressing the gala on behalf of the Australian Government, the Hon Julian Hill MP emphasised the importance of translating the relationship’s

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MAG CORNER AUSTRALIA

School, received Business Woman of the Year. Renew IT and UNSW Smart Centre were recognised in the Australia India Science, Research & Development category. Other winners included Orica for Large Business of the Year, InQuik for Excellence in Innovation, CUMI Australia for Excellence in Trade, Investment and Partnerships, and DoxAI for SME of the Year. Together, the winners illustrated the range of industries and expertise contributing to the relationship. Their recognition also gave delegates an opportunity to encounter the people and organisations behind the partnerships discussed throughout the week. The formal program gave way to Melbourne’s sporting atmosphere on 25 September, as delegates visited the Australian Sports Museum at the MCG and experienced the AFL Grand Final Parade and AFL Footy Festival.

from India to continue conversations and strengthen connections formed across the preceding days. Against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour, the final gathering brought the week’s emphasis on personal relationships into focus. Meetings, exhibitions, awards and sporting experiences had offered different settings for delegates to exchange ideas and learn about one another.

about what comes next. Sources: IABCA post-event recap supplied by the user; IABCA oﬃcial program, advisory page, winners list and forum information. https://www.iabca.com.au/alumni

For Australia’s Indian community, IABCA 2026 highlighted how the bilateral relationship is shaped by contributions across many areas of life. Business leaders, researchers, educators, cultural organisations and community voices each have a role in connecting the two countries. Across ﬁve days and three states, the immersion week brought those contributions into a shared conversation

For visiting business leaders, Grand Final Week oﬀered a distinctive introduction to the place of sport in Australian life. The museum, parade and festival provided diﬀerent ways to experience the city, from its sporting history to the crowds and community traditions surrounding a major national occasion. The journey concluded back in Sydney on 26 September with an AustCham delegation tour on the harbour. A private catamaran experience and Australian barbecue created a relaxed setting for visiting business leaders

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AUSTRALIA

Hon. Jacqui Munro Celebrates A Girls and Launches AIMERS

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rom representing Australia at a global space conclave in India to inspiring the next generation of women in STEM, the Mission ShakthiSAT girls receive a special welcome from NSW parliamentarian Hon.Jacqui Munro MLC.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – What began as an ambitious dream to bring 12,000 girls from 108 countries together

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through space science has become a global movement for young women in STEM. Now, following their participation in an international space conclave in India, Australia’s Mission ShakthiSAT delegation has returned home to a special welcome from the Hon. Jacqui Munro MLC, Shadow Minister for Science and Technology in NSW.

providing 120 hours of free satellite engineering and space technology education.

A Global Mission, an Australian Success Story

Australia has played a signiﬁcant role in this international endeavour.

Conceived by Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, Mission ShakthiSAT is an ambitious international initiative bringing together 12,000 girls from 108 countries,

With more than 250 girls participating from across Australia, seven ﬁnalists emerged through a competitive selection process, with four outstanding students chosen to represent the nation at the Global Conclave in India.

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The mission aims to break barriers in aerospace education by giving girls, regardless of their geographical, cultural or socioeconomic backgrounds, an opportunity to contribute to a global satellite project.

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AUSTRALIA

Australia’s Mission ShakthiSAT S National Science Debate Among its signiﬁcant milestones was the appreciation towards the initiative by Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the 137th episode of his radio programme, Mann Ki Baat. The mission has received international appreciation, highlighting the growing importance of initiatives that bring together young women across borders to collaborate in science and innovation.

A Special Welcome from NSW Parliamentarian Jacqui Munro Upon the delegation’s return to Australia, the Hon. Jacqui Munro MLC became the ﬁrst parliamentarian to meet and congratulate members of the Australian Mission ShakthiSAT team on their successful completion of Phase 2.

The Australian delegation reﬂected the diversity and strength of the nation: ● Aarvi Chhabra, New South Wales – Castle Hill High School ● Dhanvi Deshpande, Queensland – Corinda State High School ● Evelyn Larsen, Regional Victoria – St Joseph’s College Mildura ● Kathleen Roberts, First Nations Representative – Wyndham Central College Together, these four young Australians represented not only their respective communities but also a generation determined to challenge traditional boundaries in science and technology.

Australian Leadership Creating Global Impact

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At the heart of Australia’s participation is Sukruti Narayanan, Founder and President of AIMERS Foundation, who serves as both the Australian Ambassador and Global Head of Partnerships for Mission ShakthiSAT. Under her leadership, AIMERS Foundation was involved beyond mentoring and mobilising students. As one of the mission’s major international fundraising partners, AIMERS Foundation raised over AUD 40,000, helping facilitate travel for delegates from 11 countries to attend the Global Conclave in India. The Foundation’s contribution reﬂects a powerful belief: talent is universal, but opportunity must be created.

A Mission That Captured International Attention

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The meeting brought together the participants of the Mission and the student leaders of AIMERS Foundation : Aarvi Chhabra, NSW Student State Leader for Mission ShakthiSAT and a student at Castle Hill High School; Ria Modi, Mission ShakthiSAT Australian ﬁnalist from Xavier Catholic College; Arshiya Harihara Subramaniam, AIMERS Foundation student leader from Asquith High School; and Sanvi Samal, AIMERS Foundation student leader from Castle Hill High School. They were accompanied by Sukruti Narayanan, who led the discussion on the mission’s achievements, Australia’s role in international STEM collaboration and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation.

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AUSTRALIA

When Young Girls See Women in Space, Possibilities Become Limitless The conversation sparked an enthusiastic response from the students, when Ms Munro asked the students about the significance of seeing Australian astronaut Katherine BennellPegg, the 2026 Australian of the Year, and what her achievements meant for young women aspiring to enter the space industry. Students reflected on the importance of seeing Australian women succeed in fields traditionally dominated by men. For these young leaders, representation matters. Also,seeing an Australian woman achieve international recognition in astronaut training and space science reinforces a powerful message: Career in Space is not a distant dream, but a genuine possibility. The students shared how initiatives such as Mission ShakthiSAT had already expanded their understanding of what they could achieve. The meeting reinforced a simple but powerful idea: when young girls see women breaking barriers in science, they begin to imagine themselves doing the same.

From Space Science to Scientiﬁc Debate: The Next Chapter The interaction also marked another

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significant milestone for AIMERS Foundation. Ms Munro inaugurated the AIMERS National Science Debate, an initiative designed to encourage Australian students to develop critical thinking, scientific reasoning, public speaking and evidence-based argumentation. The debate provides young people with an opportunity to engage with some of the most important scientific and ethical questions facing society.

capable but also conﬁdent communicators, critical thinkers and responsible future leaders. Desi Australia wishes the AIMERS Foundation all success with their programs igniting Scientiﬁc curiosity. To be part of AIMERS Foundation Programs, visit their website – www.aimersfoundation.org or email to : info@aimersfoundation.org

The inaugural debate will explore: “Are Genetically Modified Foods Safe to Sell in Supermarkets?” The topic will challenge students to examine scientific evidence, food safety, biotechnology, environmental sustainability and public perceptions of genetically modified organisms.For the students who recently participated in Mission ShakthiSAT, the debate represents a natural progression in their leadership journey. Having experienced international collaboration through space science, they will now apply their knowledge and communication skills to complex scientific questions affecting everyday life. The initiative reflects AIMERS Foundation’s broader vision of developing young people who are not only technologically

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MAG CORNER AUSTRALIA

SAFFRON DAY SPREADING HOPE, SAVING LIVES

Deyaan was a bright seven-year-old boy with an infectious smile, who tragically passed away in 2016 during his family holiday in India. Prior to this, both Desi Australia

aﬀron Day raises awareness about organ donation; and urges all Australians to register for organ donation and discuss with your family about your intentions to donate a gift of life and keep your dreams and legacy to live on. Honouring the life of litle Deeyan Udani Saﬀron day is celebrated every year on 22nd Oct and is a beautiful reminder of the power of community, compassion, and the gift of life.

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Deyaan and his sister had learned about organ donation in school at the Quaker Hill Public School in Sydney, and both siblings told their parents that they wanted to help save lives.

Howe, PhD Candidate, Southern Cross University,The Ekushe Bangladeshi Academy Australia Inc. Management Committee,Magar Samaj-Nepalee Community,Saree Enthusiasts-Shirley Jacob along with 175 people came together to learn, reﬂect, and help spread awareness of organ and tissue donation. The response from the communities was wonderful.

In memory of his life, his parents decided to donate his organs, and this precious gift gave four people another chance at a full and healthy life.

You can register to become the donor at

This year Saﬀron Day was celebrated at West Pennant Hills Community Centre, organised by SRMD Australia. Chris Thomas, CEO, Transplant Australia,Dr Dhaval Ghelani, Director of ICU, Norwest Private Hospital, The President of SRMD Australia, Juliet

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https://saﬀronday.org/register-as-a-donor/

One community. One cause. The gift of life.

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COMMUNITY NEWS | SYDNEY (NSW) AUSTRALIA

HARMAN FOUNDATION

AND 1800RESPECT LAUNCH HOPE CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITIES ACROSS WESTERN SYDNEY

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COMMUNITY NEWS | SYDNEY (NSW) AUSTRALIA

Desi Australia

arman Foundation has launched a new community awareness campaign in collaboration with 1800RESPECT, bringing messages of hope, prevention and support for domestic, family and sexual violence to multicultural communities across Western Sydney. Launched on 26 October 2026 at Busways Glendenning Depot, the HF HOPE Line Community Awareness Campaign carries a simple message: “HOPE IS A CALL AWAY.” The initiative aims to raise awareness of available support services, encourage people to seek help early and promote safer, healthier relationships. Through buses, shopping centre digital screens, multilingual resources, social media and community engagement, the campaign seeks to reach individuals and families who may face barriers to accessing support, including stigma, fear, language difﬁculties or uncertainty about where to turn.

Five Ways to Bring HOPE to Western Sydney The campaign uses five complementary approaches to share information and connect people with support services. Two community buses will carry the campaign message across Riverstone, Schofields, The Ponds and Stanhope Gardens for 43 weeks. Twelve digital displays in shopping centres will also help bring awareness messages into everyday public spaces. Multilingual flyers will provide information for culturally and linguistically diverse communities, while social media content and videos will extend the campaign’s

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reach. Community engagement will bring together families, community leaders and local organisations to encourage prevention, awareness and early help-seeking. By placing support information in familiar community settings, Harman Foundation hopes to make it easier for people to recognise the signs of unhealthy relationships and access assistance before situations become more serious.

Community Leaders Support Prevention and Early Intervention The launch brought together government representatives, police, community organisations and support service representatives to highlight the importance of collaboration in building safer communities. Maninder Singh, Chairperson and CoFounder of Harman Foundation, ofﬁcially opened the event and welcomed Warren Kirby MP, Member for Riverstone; Stephen Bali MP, Member for Blacktown; Councillor Dorothy Del Villar of Blacktown City Council; Superintendent Joyce from Riverstone Police Area Command; Lauren Zevgitis; and representatives of 1800RESPECT and Telstra Health, alongside community leaders, volunteers and guests.

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Singh acknowledged the role of 1800RESPECT in providing national counselling and support services, emphasising the importance of partnerships between national organisations and grassroots multicultural groups. Superintendent Joyce highlighted the value of prevention and early intervention, including the role police can play in supporting families and communities before situations escalate. Stephen Bali MP praised Harman Foundation and 1800RESPECT for addressing a serious community issue through a campaign designed to communicate hope and encourage people to seek assistance. Warren Kirby MP also welcomed the initiative’s positive message and its focus on strengthening relationships and creating safer, more harmonious neighbourhoods. Simran (Summy) Gulati, Harman Foundation Brand Ambassador and HF HOPE Line champion, hosted the launch as Master of Ceremonies, helping reinforce the campaign’s message of compassion, awareness and seeking support without fear or judgement.

Harinder Kaur OAM Emphasises Safety, Dignity and Respect

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COMMUNITY NEWS | SYDNEY (NSW) AUSTRALIA

and Telstra Health to the awareness initiative, with representatives from both organisations attending the launch.

Harinder Kaur OAM, CEO and CoFounder of Harman Foundation, said the campaign aims to help people understand that support is available before problems become more serious. “Every family deserves to live with safety, dignity and respect. We believe prevention begins with awareness, stronger relationships and communities that listen without judgement,” she said. Kaur said people can hesitate to seek help because of fear, stigma, language barriers or uncertainty about available services. The campaign is designed to bring information into everyday settings, including public transport, shopping centres and community networks. “Our hope is that people will reach out early, talk to someone and access the support they need,” she said. She also stressed the importance of families, neighbours, police, community organisations and support services working together to strengthen relationships and build more harmonious communities. The campaign’s central message, “HOPE IS A CALL AWAY,” encourages people to take the ﬁrst step towards seeking support.

Partnership With 1800RESPECT Expands Access to Support Harman Foundation acknowledged the contribution of 1800RESPECT

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1800RESPECT provides national counselling and support for people affected by domestic, family and sexual violence, including access to interpreting assistance in more than 30 languages. Harman Foundation also operates its 24/7 Multicultural Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Helpline and Support Service, offering culturally responsive assistance to individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. Through their collaboration, the organisations aim to improve awareness of local and national services and encourage people to seek assistance early, without judgement.

The campaign provides direct contact details for people who need support or information. Harman Foundation HF HOPE Line Call: 1800 116 675 Text: 0414 016 828 Website: harmanfoundation.org.au 1800RESPECT – National Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service Call: 1800 737 732 Text: 0458 737 732 Online chat and video call: www.1800RESPECT.org.au In an emergency, call 000. As the campaign continues across Western Sydney, Harman Foundation hopes its message will encourage more people to recognise that support is available and that seeking help is an important step towards safety and wellbeing. With one message reaching communities across many cultures, the initiative reinforces a shared responsibility to create safer families, stronger relationships and more supportive neighbourhoods.

Harman Foundation also thanked Busways Glendenning Depot for hosting the launch and helping bring the campaign onto local roads. The organisation recognised the support of participating parliamentarians, council representatives, police, community partners, volunteers and guests.

How to Access Help

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ARTS AND CULTURE AUSTRALIA

CulturalPulse and NRMA Roadside Assistance turn cultural intelligence into new ‘Every Trip Matters’ campaign Desi Australia

ulturalPulse and NRMA Roadside Assistance have launched Every Trip Matters, a new culturally-led campaign designed to drive growth among Chinese and Indian Australian drivers across NSW and the ACT.

in-community education sessions with NRMA Technicians. CulturalPulse’s community brand ambassadors have been instrumental in shaping the work and will drive its rollout through trusted networks across Chinese and Indian Australian communities. NRMA Roadside General Manager of Marketing and Proposition, Kate McBean said: “We believe there was an opportunity to better connect with Chinese and Indian Australian communities, but we also recognise that reaching them eﬀectively meant doing things diﬀerently.

Analysis of NRMA’s 3.6 million-strong membership base using CulturalPulse’s AskGenie audience intelligence technology found Chinese and Indian Australian drivers to be signiﬁcantly under-represented in comparison to the diverse NSW/ACT general population, despite these communities having very high car dependency.

“The NRMA wants to understand the experiences of these communities that we hope to represent and serve, the role their cars play in everyday life and what would make Roadside Assistance relevant to them. Simply taking our existing marketing campaigns and translating them into other languages is not how we want to show up for your community.”

Every Trip Matters is NRMA Roadside Assistance’s ﬁrst in-language campaign, with story-led creative in English, Hindi, Punjabi, Mandarin and Cantonese featuring real families and community members rather than actors.

“Every Trip Matters reﬂects that thinking. We want every Australian to feel that NRMA Roadside Assistance is there for them, wherever they go.”

The integrated campaign spans cultural media and community distribution, dedicated in-language landing pages, a three-month free membership oﬀer and

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CulturalPulse, said: “The campaign demonstrates why reaching multicultural Australia requires more than an in-language execution. “Language matters, but translation alone doesn’t build relevance. You need to understand the audience ﬁrst, then carry that understanding through the creative, the media, the customer experience and how you show up in the community. “That’s what we’ve built with NRMA. The stories come from real community experiences, feature real community members and will be delivered through the channels and networks they know and trust. “When all of those pieces work together, you’re not simply reaching an audience. You’re giving people a reason to see the brand as relevant to them – and that’s where the growth opportunity lies.” Every Trip Matters launched across NSW and the ACT from 1 September 2026 across all major Western and Asian social media platforms and digital channels.

The work marks the ﬁrst campaign partnership between CulturalPulse and NRMA Roadside Assistance. Rohan Nayee, Head of Client Service at

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MAG CORNER AUSTRALIA

FROM THE NILGI A FAMILY TEA LEGACY B

Desi Australia

vataa Tea brought a taste of India’s Nilgiri Hills to Sydney, celebrating its Australian launch at The Tea Room in the historic Queen Victoria Building. Desi Australia attended the occasion, which combined an interactive high tea, tea tastings and creative tea cocktails with the story of a family bringing its heritage to a new audience. At the heart of the event was Aarthi, who spoke about carrying forward

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the tea legacy built by her father and family in India. Her introduction offered guests a connection to the people behind Avataa and the generations of work that underpin the brand.

Avataa’s single-origin teas come from the century-old Billimalai Tea Estate, situated approximately 6,400 feet above sea level in the Nilgiri Hills of southern India. Also known as the Blue Mountains, the region provided the starting point for a journey that has now reached Australian shores. The tasting encouraged guests to explore the variety within tea, including white tea and a range of fragrant, ﬂoral, roasted and warming ﬂavours. It offered an opportunity to consider how a familiar daily ritual can take on different forms through

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IRIS TO SYDNEY: BEGINS A NEW CHAPTER preparation and presentation. Adding another dimension to the experience, mixologist Gaurang Gahoi introduced guests to tea cocktails, demonstrating creative ways to incorporate tea into mixed drinks. In her Facebook reflection on the launch, attendee Poornima Menon described discovering a world of tea beyond the strong and spiced chai familiar to many Indian households. She praised the cocktails’ aromatic flavours and noted that one of the tea blends reminded her of South Indian rasam—a personal connection between an unexpected tasting experience and a familiar flavour. The event also included an acknowledgement of the First Peoples of this land, recognising the Australian setting in which Avataa’s family story was entering its next chapter. In a message shared following the launch, Udayakumar G of Billimalai Estate thanked guests for attending and supporting the family’s Australian event. Although unable to be there in person, he said hearing about the turnout and encouragement “means the world to our family”. His message echoed the family connection at the centre of the occasion, linking the estate in India with Aarthi’s efforts to introduce Avataa to Australia. Within the elegant surroundings of The Tea Room, the launch brought together heritage, hospitality and experimentation. From traditional tea appreciation to contemporary cocktails, guests were invited to discover new possibilities in the cup while learning about the family and place behind it.

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COMMUNITY NEWS | ADELAIDE (SA) AUSTRALIA

Sikh Organisations

Provide 100 Free Meals to Port Adelaide Community A

Desi Australia

joint community effort in South Australia has provided 100 freshly prepared meals to people experiencing hardship in the Port Adelaide area, bringing together Sikh organisations and volunteers to support a local community service. The initiative involved United Sikhs of South Australia, Australian Sikh

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Support and Gurudwara Sahib Modbury North, which worked together to prepare, pack and provide the meals for distribution through CHATS, or Community Help And Togetherness. The freshly prepared meals were delivered to CHATS in Port Adelaide, an organisation that supports

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COMMUNITY NEWS | ADELAIDE (SA) AUSTRALIA

vulnerable people and members of the local community experiencing difﬁcult circumstances.

recognising their contribution to preparing the meals and supporting the community effort.

Australian Sikh Support highlighted the collaboration as an opportunity to provide practical assistance to people in need while working alongside an organisation already connected with the local community.

The organisation extended its thanks to Rose and the CHATS team for providing the opportunity to collaborate and contribute to the work being carried out in Port Adelaide.

The initiative brought together volunteers from the participating organisations, who contributed their time to preparing and packing the meals before they were delivered to CHATS.

The meal delivery represents a practical example of community organisations working together to respond to local needs. Rather than operating separately, the participating groups combined their efforts around a simple objective: preparing food and making it available to people facing hardship.

For the groups involved, the focus remained on providing direct support through food and working collaboratively with a community organisation to ensure the meals reached people who could beneﬁt from them. Australian Sikh Support also acknowledged the volunteers who helped make the initiative possible,

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Volunteer-led initiatives such as this can also create stronger connections between community organisations by bringing different groups together around shared local priorities. In this case, the collaboration connected Sikh community organisations with CHATS and its work in Port Adelaide.

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The delivery of 100 meals also highlights the contribution of volunteers and community groups in providing immediate, practical assistance. Through coordinated efforts, the organisations were able to prepare and deliver a substantial number of meals for people in the local community. For United Sikhs of South Australia, Australian Sikh Support and Gurudwara Sahib Modbury North, the initiative provided an opportunity to put community service into action, while CHATS provided a local pathway for the meals to reach people experiencing hardship. The collaboration ultimately centred on a straightforward act of support: volunteers preparing meals, organisations working together and food being delivered to people who may need it. The effort adds to the ongoing role of community-led initiatives in supporting people across Port Adelaide.

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COMMUNITY NEWS | ADELAIDE (SA) AUSTRALIA

HSS SOUTH AURAA CEBRAS VIJAYADASHAMI, BRINGING 382 COMMUNITY MEMBERS GHER IN UNITY organisations across South Australia. Dr Jayanthi Jayakaran, South Australia’s incoming Chief Medical Oﬃcer, attended as the chief guest. Desi Australia

indu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) South Australia celebrated Vijayadashami Utsav on 25 October 2026, bringing together 382 attendees for an event highlighting cultural heritage, shared values and community connections.

The gathering provided an opportunity for the community to celebrate Vijayadashami while reﬂecting on the importance of personal development, social responsibility and collective contribution.

Celebrating the Values of Vijayadashami

The celebration welcomed families, young people, professionals and community leaders, alongside representatives from more than 40 social, cultural and community

Dharma, or righteousness. The festival carries a message of standing for

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Vijayadashami symbolises the victory of good over evil and the triumph of

positive values and choosing the path of truth and responsibility. For HSS South Australia, the occasion also served as an opportunity to highlight the importance of preserving cultural traditions while encouraging individuals to contribute positively to the wider community. The participation of people from diﬀerent generations and more than 40 community organisations reﬂected the importance of cultural gatherings in strengthening relationships and building connections across South Australia’s diverse society.

Focus on Character Building and Leadership

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COMMUNITY NEWS | ADELAIDE (SA) AUSTRALIA

Strengthening Community Connections in South Australia The participation of families, professionals, community leaders and representatives from numerous organisations highlighted the role of shared cultural celebrations in bringing people together. The Vijayadashami Utsav provided a platform for people across diﬀerent backgrounds to connect through common values and an appreciation of community service.

A central theme of the celebration was HSS’s philosophy of Vyakti Nirman, meaning character building.

values and carry them into their families, workplaces and wider communities.

The approach emphasises developing individuals through self-discipline, leadership, service and social responsibility. It encourages young people to develop strong personal

Through its focus on individual development, HSS seeks to encourage younger generations to become responsible members of society while maintaining a connection with their cultural heritage.

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The gathering also reﬂected HSS South Australia’s commitment to promoting cultural awareness, encouraging leadership among younger generations and contributing to Australia’s multicultural society. By combining traditional celebrations with a focus on character development and social responsibility, the event highlighted how cultural values can continue to play a meaningful role in building stronger and more connected communities.

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COMMUNITY NEWS | MELBOURNE (VIC) AUSTRALIA

AusKabaddi Team Set for Commonwealth Championship in Ahmedabad A Desi Australia

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ustralia’s national kabaddi team has been formally launched ahead of its upcoming campaign at the inaugural Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship in India, marking a signiﬁcant international outing for the Australian side and another link between the sporting communities of Australia and India.

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The AusKabaddi launch was supported by the Consulate General of India in Melbourne as part of Seva Pakhwada 2026. The initiative brought together sporting and community representatives while highlighting the people-to-people connections that continue to develop between the two countries.

The Commonwealth Kabaddi Championship is scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, later this month. The Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India has listed the championship among its 2026

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COMMUNITY NEWS | MELBOURNE (VIC) AUSTRALIA

Ahmedabad will therefore place it in an environment where the sport has a particularly strong following. The launch of AusKabaddi also reﬂects the broader growth of kabaddi within Australia. Beyond competition, the sport has become another avenue through which Australian and Indian communities can connect through shared sporting interests, cultural exchange and international participation.

international events, while Indian government event records conﬁrm the tournament is scheduled for October 21 to 31. For Australia, participation in the championship will provide an opportunity to compete against teams from across the Commonwealth and gain valuable international experience in one of the sport’s most established environments. Kabaddi has deep sporting roots in India, where the discipline has developed into a major competitive sport through domestic tournaments, national championships and professional competitions. The Australian team’s arrival in

The involvement of the Consulate General of India in Melbourne through Seva Pakhwada 2026 adds a community dimension to the team’s international campaign. Initiatives linked to sport can provide opportunities to strengthen connections between communities while showcasing cultural links between Australia and India. The Australian side will now focus on preparations for its trip to Ahmedabad, with the tournament providing an opportunity for players to test themselves against international opposition. Competing in India is also expected to give the team exposure to a highly competitive kabaddi environment.

Championship and has continued preparations for the event through its national federation structures. With the tournament approaching, AusKabaddi’s launch represents an important step in Australia’s preparations. The Australian team will head to Ahmedabad looking to make its presence felt at the inaugural Commonwealth championship while contributing to the growing international proﬁle of kabaddi in Australia. The tournament will also provide a platform for sporting connections between Australia and India to develop further. As the two countries continue to strengthen community and cultural links, kabaddi offers a distinctive shared sporting space that brings competition and cultural engagement together. Image source: India in Australia (Consulate General of India, Melbourne) (facebook)

The championship is being organised as an international kabaddi event bringing Commonwealth nations together in India. The Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India currently lists a probable player list for the 2026 Commonwealth Kabaddi

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COMMUNITY NEWS | BRISBANE (QLD) AUSTRALIA

Award-Winning Play Counting

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COMMUNITY NEWS | BRISBANE (QLD) AUSTRALIA

Desi Australia

he award-winning Australian theatre production Counting and Cracking will make its Queensland debut at Brisbane Powerhouse from 27 May to 6 June 2027, bringing its acclaimed story of family, migration and belonging to Brisbane audiences for the ﬁrst time. Created by S. Shakthidharan with Eamon Flack, the production is a coproduction between Belvoir St Theatre and Kurinji. It will be presented by Brisbane Powerhouse in association with Queensland Theatre Company as part of the venue’s 2027 season. Developed over a decade, Counting and Cracking has received 14 major awards and earned widespread recognition across Australia and internationally. More than 100 theatre professionals have hailed it as the best Australian play of the 21st century, according to the production’s media release. Running for three and a half hours, the play explores the experiences of a Sri Lankan-Australian family across four generations and ﬁve decades,

from 1956 to 2004. The story moves between Sri Lanka and Australia, examining the lasting effects of migration, political conflict, family relationships and the search for belonging. The narrative begins with Radha and her son Siddhartha scattering the ashes of Radha’s mother on the banks of Sydney’s Georges River. As they attempt to move forward and embrace their lives in Australia, a phone call from Colombo draws them back into a complicated past shaped by love, political turmoil and separation. Featuring 16 performers, five languages and more than 50 characters, the production explores the connections between personal history and national identity. It raises questions about the responsibilities people carry towards their past and the challenges of deciding what to preserve and what to leave behind. The Brisbane season follows acclaimed appearances at Sydney Festival, Adelaide Festival, the Birmingham Commonwealth Games and the Edinburgh International Festival. Further international performances are expected to be announced. For Brisbane Powerhouse CEO and Artistic Director Louise Bezzina, bringing the production to Queensland fulfils a long-held

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ambition. Bezzina recalled seeing the play at the Adelaide Festival in 2019, describing an experience that moved her between tears and moments of joy. She praised the work by Shakthidharan and Flack for combining large-scale theatre with an intimate exploration of human experiences. Bezzina also described the Brisbane season as a signiﬁcant moment for the city, highlighting the role of partnerships between major cultural organisations in bringing ambitious productions to local audiences. The season also marks a new collaboration between Brisbane Powerhouse and Queensland Theatre Company. Bezzina said she was delighted to work with Queensland Theatre Company to make the production accessible to Brisbane audiences. For co-writer and director Eamon Flack, the Queensland debut has a personal connection. Having attended high school in Brisbane and studied at the University of Queensland, Flack is bringing one of his most celebrated theatrical works to a city that played a role in his early education. The production’s accolades include seven Helpmann Awards, among them Best Play and Best New Australian Work, as well as three Sydney Theatre Awards and seven

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COMMUNITY NEWS | BRISBANE (QLD) AUSTRALIA

Green Room Awards. The media release also notes that the production won in every category for which it was nominated at the Green Room Awards in 2025. Additional recognition includes the Victorian Premier’s Prize for Literature, the Nick Enright Prize for Playwriting and the 2026 WindhamCampbell Prize for Drama. After years of development and successful seasons across Australia and overseas, Counting and Cracking will bring its exploration of Sri Lankan history, migration and intergenerational relationships to Brisbane in May 2027. The production will run at Brisbane Powerhouse from 27 May to 6 June 2027. Tickets go on sale on Thursday, 8 October 2026, through the Brisbane Powerhouse website. The production is written by S. Shakthidharan with Eamon Flack and directed by Eamon Flack with S. Shakthidharan. The project is supported by Tim Fairfax AC and Gina Fairfax AC.

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YOGA AUSTRALIA

Everyday Calm with Rajni Everyday Moment: When the Festive Cheer Feels Like Too Much

Rajni Ghai Malhotra

THE EVERYDAY MOMENT Is the most wonderful time of the year starting to feel more stressful and overwhelming than joyful? Does the festive season sometimes leave you feeling more exhausted than joyful? Between shopping, social gatherings, family commitments, preparing meals and trying to make everything special, do you ever feel like you're managing a production rather than enjoying the celebration? Whether it’s a festive celebration, a family gathering or simply the endof-year rush, this time of year can bring plenty of joy but with a fair bit of pressure and overwhelm. The endless to-do lists, social commitments and the urge to make everything perfect can leave us feeling more exhausted than excited. And somewhere between doing it all and keeping everyone happy, are you actually enjoying the moment? What if you gave yourself permission to do a little less?

THE YOGA PERSPECTIVE One of the yogic principles, Aparigraha, often described as non-grasping, teaches us the art of

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loosening our grip and letting go of things we don’t need to hold so tightly. This might mean letting go of the pressure to create the perfect celebration, meet every expectation or say yes to every invitation. It could also mean letting go of some traditions or ideas of how things should be. After all, not everything has to be perfect for a moment to be meaningful. And we don’t have to do it all to enjoy what matters most.

THE 2-MINUTE PAUSE Before your next task or gathering, take two minutes for yourself. Relax your shoulders and take ﬁve slow, steady breaths. Ask yourself gently: “What really matters in this moment — and what can I let go of?” Choose one expectation to release. It might be making everything perfect, attending every event or trying to please everyone.

year for enjoyment and celebration. You don’t have to make everything perfect or be everything to everyone. Sometimes, letting go of just one little thing gives you more room to slow down, share a laugh and truly enjoy the moments that make this season special.

RAJNI'S REMINDER Repeat this thought as often as you can. I can enjoy this season without doing it all or being everything to everyone.

THE EVERYDAY CALM The best celebrations aren't about getting everything right — they're about being present for what matters. Wish you all a happy festive season. Rajni Follow Rajni on Facebook @YogaWithRajni

And remember, it’s the time of the

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COMMUNITY NEWS | TOWNSVILLE (QLD) AUSTRALIA

Telangana’s Bathukamma Festival Brings Colour, Culture and Community Spirit to Townsville members of the wider Australian community for an afternoon of traditional Bathukamma songs, folk dances, beautiful ﬂoral arrangements and authentic Telangana cuisine.

Desi Australia The event provided an opportunity for the Telugu community to celebrate its cultural heritage, strengthen

he vibrant traditions of Telangana came alive in North Queensland as the Telugu Association of North Queensland (TANQ) hosted a colourful Bathukamma festival on October 17 at the Riverway Community Centre in Douglas, Townsville. The celebration brought together Telugu families, children, elders and

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community connections and share its traditions with people from diverse backgrounds.

Bathukamma: Celebrating Nature, Women and Cultural Heritage DIWALI SPECIAL EDITION 2026

Bathukamma is one of Telangana’s most cherished festivals, celebrating nature, seasonal flowers, womanhood and community unity. Women create colourful, tiered floral arrangements using seasonal flowers. Gathering in circles around the displays, they sing traditional songs and perform folk dances, creating an atmosphere of joy, togetherness and cultural pride. The festival reflects Telangana’s distinctive cultural identity and rich folk traditions. Celebrating Bathukamma in Australia also gives younger generations an opportunity to connect with their cultural roots and understand the traditions passed

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down by their families.

Queensland Assistant Minister Joins the Celebrations The event was attended by Janelle Poole MP, State Member for Mundingburra and Queensland Assistant Minister for Community Safety, Defence Industry, Veterans and North Queensland. A Townsville local who grew up in Cranbrook, Ms Poole previously served in the Queensland Police Service from 1996 and received the Australian Police Medal in 2015 in recognition of her contribution to policing and the community. During the celebrations, Ms Poole met members of the Telugu community and learned about Bathukamma’s cultural signiﬁcance and its connections with Navaratri. She interacted with women participating in the festivities and joined them in dancing, sharing in the spirit of the occasion. She also sampled traditional dishes prepared by Telugu families and learned more about their culinary traditions. Her participation highlighted how cultural celebrations can create opportunities for meaningful interaction, encourage mutual understanding and strengthen connections between people from different backgrounds.

The participation of parents, grandparents, young people and children at the Townsville event demonstrated how cultural celebrations can strengthen relationships between generations and help preserve traditions far from their homeland.

Celebrating Multicultural Diversity in North Queensland A key feature of the celebration was the involvement of Australian friends and community members alongside the Telugu community. Through traditional food, music and dance, attendees had the opportunity to experience the richness of Telangana culture. TANQ continues to bring Telugu families together across North

Queensland. With the support of families and volunteers, events such as Bathukamma help foster belonging, build community relationships and preserve cultural heritage. Originating in Telangana and now celebrated by communities around the world, Bathukamma brought its colourful floral traditions to Townsville, creating a welcoming space for cultural exchange and friendship. More than a festival, the celebration reflected the unity of the Telugu community and the important role multicultural events play in Australia’s diverse society. In Townsville, Bathukamma became a celebration of flowers, family, cultural pride and the shared community spirit that brings people together across cultures.

Passing Cultural Traditions to Future Generations For Telugu families living overseas, festivals such as Bathukamma play an important role in maintaining connections with their language, culture and family traditions. Through arranging flowers, singing traditional songs and explaining the festival’s significance, older generations help children and young people experience their heritage firsthand.

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COMMUNITY NEWS | SYDNEY (NSW) AUSTRALIA

Seventeen Years of Giving: Celebrates Car

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ommunity spirit and generosity took centre stage as GOPIO Sydney North West Chapter hosted its 17th annual Caring & Sharing event at Sapphire Function Centre, Auburn, on 19 September 2026. The evening brought together sponsors, volunteers, supporters and guests to celebrate seventeen years of friendship, compassion and charitable work, continuing the chapter’s commitment to helping communities in Australia and India. Supporting health causes remains an important part of the initiative. According to the chapter, it donates $2,000 annually to support the Heart

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: GOPIO Sydney North West ring & Sharing

Foundation and Cancer Council NSW, contributing to their vital work in the Australian community. Part of the event’s proceeds also supports educational programs providing basic amenities for disadvantaged schoolchildren in India. The chapter reports that 14,000 children have beneﬁted from the initiative to date, reﬂecting the lasting impact of its supporters’ contributions. Behind this work is a network of sponsors, volunteers and guests whose continued involvement helps sustain the annual fundraiser. The chapter acknowledged those who return year after year, recognising their generosity as central to the initiative’s success. Sponsors recognised this year included Kalra Group of Companies, Ozzy Tyres, B Town Wheels and Tyres,

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RyRo Loan Centre, Sapphire Function Centre, Laing & Simmons – Raj and Aman Mangat Group, Star Partners Rouse Hill/Box Hill, Motor One Garage, Little India Australia, Select Insure, Pixie Photo Booths and Evergreen Memories. This year also marked a new partnership with Cricket NSW and Sydney Thunder, which supported the fundraiser by contributing a Cricket NSW bat and a Sydney Thunder T-shirt for auction. Across seventeen editions, Caring & Sharing has brought people together around a shared purpose: turning community goodwill into practical support for others. The 2026 celebration continued that tradition, highlighting the difference sustained generosity can make both locally and overseas. Image supplied by: Harmohan Walia

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SUPERNAARI CONCLAVE 2026 HIGHLIGHTS WOMEN’S HEALTH AND EQUALITY IN SPORT

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he inaugural SuperNaari Conclave 2026 brought together parliamentarians, athletes, sports professionals, health experts, multicultural community leaders and advocates at the Parliament of NSW on 24 September, placing women’s health, participation and leadership in sport at the centre of a wider Women, Peace & Security conversation. The event was organised by the Saroni Roy Foundation (SRf) under the theme “SuperNaari Sportainment: Breaking Barriers for Women in Sports.” The event date, venue and theme were also publicly outlined by the foundation ahead of the conclave. The conclave developed the work of SuperNaari, a period equity initiative launched by SRf at the MAHATMA Peace Symposium at the NSW Parliament in 2024. The 2026 gathering broadened that focus by examining the relationship between menstrual, reproductive and sexual health and women’s experiences in sport, ﬁtness and wellness. With “Naari” deriving from the Sanskrit word for woman, SuperNaari Sportainment focused on the experiences of female athletes, coaches and industry professionals while

drawing attention to what the foundation describes as the Gender Health Gap in Sport. Discussions explored how menstrual and reproductive health can affect participation, athletic performance, career longevity and overall wellbeing, particularly in high-performance sporting environments. A central part of the programme was the SuperNaari Sportainment Global Icons Forum, which brought together sporting and fitness personalities to share experiences and discuss barriers affecting women in sport. The session was designed around lived experiences, professional perspectives and practical conversations about improving health, leadership, equity and inclusion through sport.

The inaugural SuperNaari Conclave 2026 brought together parliamentarians, athletes, sports professionals, health experts, multicultural community leaders and advocates at the Parliament of NSW on 24 September, placing women’s health, participation and leadership in sport at the centre of a wider Women, Peace & Security conversation. The event was organised by the Saroni Roy Foundation (SRf) under the theme “SuperNaari Sportainment: Breaking Barriers for Women in Sports.” The event date, venue and theme were also publicly outlined by the foundation ahead of the conclave. The conclave developed the work of SuperNaari, a period equity initiative launched by SRf at the MAHATMA Peace Symposium at the NSW The Global Icon Award 2026 was presented to a group of sports and fitness figures including professional boxer and Commonwealth Games medallist Kaye Scott, natural bodybuilding competitor and fitness professional Sharnalee Pignataro, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete and entrepreneur Isaiah Lazaro, professional boxer and coach Chloe Grech, and boxer and wellness and fitness advocate Natalia Savinova. Saroni Roy served as moderator and facilitator for the forum. Saroni Roy, Founder and CEO of the Saroni Roy Foundation and SuperNaari, said the initiative is built around addressing period poverty, menstrual equity and the broader gender health gap. According to the foundation, its mission is to reach one million

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SuperNaari through education, advocacy, policy engagement and community partnerships while encouraging more open conversations around menstrual, reproductive and sexual health.Parliament in 2024. The 2026 gathering broadened that focus by examining the relationship between menstrual, reproductive and sexual health and women’s experiences in sport, fitness and wellness. With “Naari” deriving from the Sanskrit word for woman, SuperNaari Sportainment focused on the experiences of female athletes, coaches and industry professionals while drawing attention to what the foundation describes as the Gender Health Gap in Sport. Discussions explored how menstrual and reproductive health can affect participation, athletic performance, career longevity and overall wellbeing, particularly in high-performance sporting environments. A central part of the programme was the SuperNaari Sportainment Global Icons Forum, which brought together sporting and fitness personalities to share experiences and discuss barriers affecting women in sport. The session was designed around lived experiences, professional perspectives and practical conversations about improving health, leadership, equity and inclusion through sport. The Global Icon Award 2026 was presented to a group of sports and fitness figures including professional boxer and Commonwealth Games medallist Kaye Scott, natural bodybuilding competitor and fitness professional Sharnalee Pignataro, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete and entrepreneur Isaiah Lazaro, professional boxer and coach Chloe Grech, and boxer and wellness and fitness advocate Natalia Savinova. Saroni Roy served as moderator and facilitator for the forum. Saroni Roy, Founder and CEO of the Saroni Roy Foundation and SuperNaari, said the initiative is built around addressing period poverty, menstrual equity and the broader gender health gap. According to the foundation, its mission is to reach one million SuperNaari through education, advocacy, policy engagement and community partnerships while

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encouraging more open conversations around menstrual, reproductive and sexual health. The foundation positioned the 2026 conclave as the next stage of that mission, expanding the conversation from period equity to the wider intersection of women’s health, sport, leadership, wellbeing and opportunity. The event also reflected the organisation’s stated Women, Peace & Security focus, bringing community and institutional voices together around issues affecting women and girls. The programme began with a Welcome to Country performed by First Nations elder Uncle John. Parliamentary and community representatives also addressed the gathering, including host Warren Kirby MP, Julia Finn MP, Mark Coure MP, Jacqui Scruby MP, Jason Yat-sen Li MP, Charishma Kaliyanda MP, Donna Davis MP and Stephen Bali MP, alongside Dr Talat Uppal, an obstetrician and gynaecologist and Director of Women’s Health Road. Award-winning film and media personality Carol Ferrone served as MC. The event also highlighted Australia–India cultural connections through women’s leadership, education, business and sport. The conclave was supported by the Australia India Business Council and major sponsor Bakasura, with multicultural community representatives, councillors, media and other guests joining the gathering. The SuperNaari Global Icon Awards 2026 additionally recognised women working across community service, media, health, business and advocacy. Honourees included Dr Patricia Jenkings, President of the United Nations Association of Australia NSW; Arti Banga, Director and Editor in Chief of Desi Australia Media Group; Aruna Chandrala, Vice President of the Australia India Business Council NSW; Carol Ferrone; Sunita Kotnala, CEO of Women’s Shed Canberra; and Dr Talat Uppal. The Global Leader in Community Service Award 2026 was presented to Amal Dev and Kamal Pasha for their community service work.

singer Saroni Roy performed live, while Dr Tanima Banerjee, Founder of Bandana Cultural School, presented a dance performance featuring Rabindranath Tagore’s “Ekla Cholo Re”. The performances brought together culturally and linguistically diverse artists from India and Australia and were presented as a tribute to Tagore and Mahatma Gandhi and to the role of art in promoting peace and social harmony. Sydney Conservatorium of Music artist Neeru Shyju also performed her original compositions “Shakti” and “Painted Maiden”, combining elements of Western and Indian classical music. The artistic programme complemented the conclave’s broader message of inclusion, cultural exchange and community participation. The gathering concluded with a formal vote of thanks to parliamentarians, dignitaries, sponsors, media partners, volunteers and supporting community organisations, followed by community networking over refreshments. With its focus extending from menstrual equity to sport, health and leadership, the SuperNaari Conclave 2026 marked a broader public conversation around the experiences and opportunities of women and girls in Australia.

Arts and culture formed another important part of the evening. Actor and

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Australian Foundation for Disaster Relief Launches in Sydney,

Raising Raising$90,000 $90,000 in inJust Just30 30Minutes Minutes

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More”, highlighting the importance of early funding, preparedness and coordinated action in improving responses when disasters strike.

Experienced Leadership Behind the Foundation

The Foundation aims to build a credible, transparent and collaborative organisation that communities can rely on during times of crisis.

AFDR is led by Chairperson Jagdish Trivedi, Vice Chairperson Sewa Singh, Secretary Jigish Purohit, Treasurer Samir Mehta and Joint Secretary Srinivasa Rao.

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he Australian Foundation for Disaster Relief (AFDR) has ofﬁcially launched in Sydney, raising an impressive $90,000 in just 30 minutes for its Nepal Flood Relief Initiative, as community members and supporters came together to back the new humanitarian organisation. The launch took place on Sunday, 18 October 2026, at Grand Royale in Granville, bringing together dignitaries, community leaders, business professionals and supporters committed to helping communities affected by natural disasters. The fundraising achievement was one of the evening’s highlights, demonstrating the collective generosity of attendees and their willingness to support families experiencing hardship following devastating ﬂoods in Nepal. Although AFDR’s long-term mission focuses on supporting communities across Australia, the Foundation marked its launch with a special, oneoff Nepal Flood Relief Initiative to express solidarity with those affected by the disaster.

Building Disaster Preparedness and Community Resilience AFDR has been established to strengthen disaster preparedness, provide timely assistance, support recovery and rebuilding, and contribute to long-term community resilience across Australia. Its guiding principles are Prepare, Respond, Support, Rebuild and Strengthen, reﬂecting the organisation’s commitment to helping communities before, during and after disasters.

Dignitaries and Community Leaders Attend Launch The event was attended by Dr S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney; Julia Finn MP, representing NSW Premier Chris Minns; Warren Kirby MP; Mayor Michelle Byrne of The Hills Shire Council; and Nihal Singh Agar, alongside councillors and community representatives. Dr Maurice Newman AC, a distinguished Australian business leader and adviser to AFDR, also delivered an encouraging message through a special video address. Their participation reﬂected the involvement of community, business and public-sector representatives in supporting the Foundation’s humanitarian objectives.

Charity Auction Supports Humanitarian Efforts A charity auction added to the evening’s fundraising activities, featuring a cricket bat signed by Brian Lara, framed Ashes memorabilia associated with Mitchell Johnson, and three original paintings created by artist Dakshinamurthy and his daughters, Milli and Khushi. The auction formed part of an event centred on generosity, community participation and support for people facing hardship. The $90,000 raised in just 30 minutes for the Nepal Flood Relief Initiative provided a strong start to AFDR’s humanitarian journey.

The leadership team is supported by directors Ajay Kumar Dhull, Amardeep Malik, Arjun Mehta, Dr Jyothi Marry, Smitha Karki and Dr Sunil Vyas. The Foundation’s advisory team comprises Dr Maurice Newman AC, Dr Jayker Dave, Munish Grover and Sunil Gautam, bringing expertise in governance, healthcare, ﬁnance and communications. Together, the leadership and advisory teams will guide the organisation as it works towards its disaster relief and community resilience objectives.

A New Humanitarian Initiative for Australian Communities The launch marks the beginning of AFDR’s efforts to establish a coordinated approach to disaster preparedness, emergency assistance and long-term recovery. By combining community support, experienced leadership and a focus on preparedness, the Foundation aims to help strengthen the ability of Australian communities to respond to future disasters. The organisation’s launch message captures its central philosophy: “Disasters may be unpredictable, but our preparedness, compassion and willingness to stand together need not be.” For more information about the Australian Foundation for Disaster Relief, visit www.afdr.com.au.

The launch also featured a presentation titled “Early Money Does

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COMMUNITY NEWS | CANBERRA (ACT) AUSTRALIA

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ommunity leaders, volunteers and organisations have been recognised at the 2026 ACT Multicultural Awards for their contributions to Canberra’s multicultural community. From cultural education and community leadership to volunteer broadcasting, this year’s recipients reﬂect the many ways individuals and organisations help strengthen connections across cultures.

public servant and community leader. The honour recognises sustained contributions to multiculturalism over many years. The Individual Champion Award went to Dr Nadir Saikal, State Director of the Afghan Peace Foundation, recognising his contribution to the community. Navitas Skilled Futures received the Community Organisation Champion Award, with college manager Sandesh Ban accepting the honour on the organisation’s behalf. The Multicultural Association of Canberra won the Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion, accepted by its president, Nishi Puri.

Ravi Krishnamurthy received the Lifetime Achievement Award, introduced to mark the awards’ 15th anniversary. The Principal of the Canberra Sanskrit School and President Meanwhile, Kishor Nangrani received the Art, Media or Culture Award in of the Australian Multicultural Action recognition of 20 years of volunteer Network, Krishnamurthy is also a

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broadcasting service. His award highlights the contribution of community media to sharing cultural perspectives and connecting audiences. The ACT Government also recognised Hamza Abujarbou, the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra and Sarah Deonarain as highly commended recipients in the individual champion, community organisation and diversity and inclusion categories respectively. The awards acknowledge both visible leadership and the sustained work that takes place behind the scenes. This year’s recipients demonstrate how education, community service, cultural activities and media can contribute to a more welcoming Canberra. Desi Australia congratulates all the winners and highly commended recipients on their achievements and service to the community.

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CANBERRA MARKS GANDHI JAYAN WITH FRAL TRIBU AT GBE PARK Desi Australia

he Indian community in Canberra came together on Friday, 2 October 2026, to commemorate the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi with a floral tribute at his statue in Glebe Park. The High Commission of India in Canberra organised the commemorative gathering at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue between 9am and 10am, inviting members of the community to pay their respects and remember Gandhi on Gandhi Jayanti. The event was held on his birth anniversary, which is observed annually on 2 October. The ceremony at Glebe Park provided an opportunity for members of the Indian community and others attending the event to gather at one of Canberra’s public memorials dedicated to Gandhi. Floral tributes formed the central part of the commemoration, reflecting the longstanding practice of marking the occasion through public remembrance. The Canberra gathering was part of wider Gandhi Jayanti commemorations taking place in India and around the world on 2 October. In 2026, the occasion marks 157 years since Gandhi’s birth in 1869. Gandhi remains a significant historical figure associated with India’s independence movement and the philosophy of non-violent resistance. His ideas around nonviolence, civil disobedience and selfreliance have also been referenced in commemorations and public initiatives beyond India.

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The Canberra ceremony therefore formed part of a broader day of remembrance connecting the Indian diaspora with an important date in India’s national calendar. For many members of the community, such commemorations also provide an opportunity to maintain cultural connections while living in Australia.

The Canberra statue, located at the intersection of Akuna and Bunda Streets in Glebe Park, is one of the city’s public monuments commemorating Gandhi. The memorial records his role in India’s independence movement and his association with Satyagraha and nonviolent resistance. Gandhi Jayanti is also recognised through community, educational and civic activities that reﬂect different aspects of Gandhi’s legacy. In India, the 2026 observance includes youthfocused initiatives through Mera Yuva Bharat, with activities centred on community service, cleanliness, environmental work, digital literacy and other forms of civic participation.

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Gandhi’s association with nonviolence has remained central to how his birth anniversary is commemorated. Official Indian government material for Gandhi Jayanti 2026 describes the day as an occasion for reflecting on principles including Satyagraha, Swadeshi and Seva and their relevance to contemporary civic participation. The floral tribute in Canberra added a local dimension to those nationwide and international commemorations, bringing members of the Indian community together around the Gandhi statue in the Australian capital. With Gandhi Jayanti observed each year on 2 October, the Canberra gathering once again highlighted the continuing presence of Indian cultural and historical commemorations within Australia’s multicultural community landscape. Image source: India In Australia (High Commission Of India, Canberra) - FB

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COMMUNITY NEWS | CANBERRA (ACT) AUSTRALIA

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ndia’s High Commissioner to Australia, Nagesh Singh, has outlined the growing depth of the India-Australia relationship during an address to the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) in Canberra, focusing on the partnership’s expanding role across the Indo-Pacific. Singh addressed the AIIA ACT Branch on 22 September at the AIIA National Conference Centre in Deakin as part of an event titled “India Australia: A consequential partnership in the IndoPacific”. The session was conducted as a hybrid event, allowing participants to attend both in person and online.

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The discussion examined the development of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the areas in which both countries are seeking to deepen cooperation. The AIIA described the relationship as being on an accelerated path, with growing strategic convergence and shared interests in the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Paciﬁc. According to the AIIA, cooperation between the two countries now extends across a broad range of sectors, including trade and investment, defence and security, critical minerals, technology, cyber security, space, clean energy and people-to-people connections. The event followed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia in July 2026 for the third India-Australia Annual Leaders’ Summit. The summit in Melbourne resulted in commitments to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and expand cooperation across economic, security, technology, energy and people-to-people areas. The July summit also reﬂected the increasingly broad nature of bilateral engagement. Australia and India have been working to expand collaboration beyond traditional diplomatic and economic ties, with critical technologies, critical minerals, cyber security and clean energy becoming increasingly important areas of cooperation.

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During his Canberra address, Singh discussed different aspects of the bilateral relationship and its future direction. He also responded to questions from members of the audience, addressing challenges and opportunities for India and Australia to work together on regional and global issues. The High Commission of India said the discussion covered the enduring bilateral relationship and the way forward for the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The strategic dimension of the relationship has also expanded significantly. In July, India and Australia issued a renewed Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, reaffirming their commitment to an open, peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific and noting the growing strategic convergence between the two countries. Economic cooperation remains another important component of the partnership. The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, which entered into force in 2022, has provided a framework for expanding trade and economic links, while both governments continue to identify new opportunities for investment and collaboration. People-to-people connections also remain an important part of the relationship, supported by Australia’s

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large Indian community and growing links in education, skills, business and cultural exchange. These connections provide a broader foundation for the strategic relationship beyond government-to-government engagement. The AIIA discussion offered an opportunity for an Australian audience to hear directly from India’s senior diplomatic representative about the priorities shaping the partnership. It also provided a forum for questions about how the two countries can coordinate their interests as the Indo-Pacific becomes an increasingly important focus of regional and international affairs. For India and Australia, the next phase of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will involve translating the growing political alignment into practical cooperation across trade, defence, technology, critical minerals, clean energy, cyber security and other emerging areas. Singh’s Canberra engagement comes at a time when both countries are continuing to broaden their cooperation while working through the opportunities and challenges associated with a rapidly changing Indo-Pacific. The AIIA event provided another platform for dialogue on how India and Australia can strengthen their partnership and contribute to regional stability and prosperity. Image source: India In Australia (High Commission Of India, Canberra) (facebook)

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Creating Safe Conversations: South Asian Community Leaders Afternoon Tea hosted by Haathi in the Room and Lifeline Australia at Club Parramatta on Sunday 23 August. Nitasha Bhatia

ometimes, the ﬁrst sign that someone is struggling is not what they say. It is what they stop doing. They withdraw from friends. Stop attending community events. Lose interest in things they once enjoyed. Seem unusually tired, anxious, irritable or overwhelmed. For the people around them, recognising that change can be the ﬁrst step towards helping. That was the focus of Creating Safe Conversations – Mental Health and Wellbeing in South Asian Communities, a Community Leaders Afternoon Tea

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The afternoon brought South Asian community leaders together around a deceptively simple question: How do we create communities where people feel safe enough to talk about their mental health? The event opened with a Welcome to Country, followed by introductions to Haathi in the Room and Lifeline Australia by Vidhisha Khetwani, CoFounder of Haathi in the Room, and Abbivathana Deva from Lifeline Australia. A panel featuring Varsha Yajman, Climate Justice and Mental Health Youth Advocate; Sayaka Sayeed, Counsellor and Sydney Hub Lead at Umeed Psychology; and Dr Suraj Samtani, Lecturer and Clinical Psychologist at UNSW, moderated by Nitasha Bhatia, Co-Founder of Haathi in the Room, explored the barriers that

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can make conversations about mental health difficult – from stigma and family expectations to questions of identity and the pressure to appear strong. For some, asking for help can feel like admitting they are not coping. Others may fear judgement, worry about burdening their families or simply lack the language to describe what they are experiencing. As General Practitioner specialising in mental health reflected Dershini Kumar reflected after the event, mental health struggles in South Asian communities can often remain “unspoken”, hidden behind stigma, shame and silence. She also highlighted the importance of culturally sensitive care, noting that understanding pressures such as family expectations, intergenerational tensions and the discomfort surrounding words like “therapy” can make a real difference to whether someone follows through with support.

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The panel explored how community leaders can help change that environment – not by having all the answers, but by creating the conditions for people to feel heard.

The conversations then moved from awareness to practical support.

Notice the change. Start the conversation.

Abbivathana Deva from Lifeline Australia introduced Lifeline’s Support Toolkit, while Hindi-translated factsheets gave participants resources they could take back to their communities.

One of the afternoon’s most practical messages was also one of its simplest: you do not need to diagnose someone to reach out to them.

The organisers ensured participants could access support and speak privately if needed during or after the event.

A change in mood, behaviour, relationships, sleep, energy or everyday functioning can be a reason to check in, particularly when it persists.

Small actions, stronger connections

The response does not need to be complicated.

Ask. Listen. Don’t judge. Dr Suraj Samtani spoke about recognising changes in someone’s wellbeing and approaching them with care, while giving them the space to respond in their own time. The distinction matters. Community leaders are not expected to become counsellors or diagnose mental-health conditions. Their role can be much more immediate: recognise a change, open a safe conversation and help someone connect with appropriate support. As Lifeline emphasises, supporting someone is not about having all the answers or ﬁxing their problems. Sometimes, it is simply about showing up, listening and helping a person ﬁnd their next source of support.

From conversation to action Following the panel and audience Q&A session, participants moved into facilitated round-table discussions. In smaller groups, community leaders reﬂected on the realities within their own organisations and networks: how to recognise when someone may be struggling, how to approach them without judgement, and how to encourage help-seeking without making someone feel labelled.

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The discussion also turned to the role of everyday wellbeing. Participants were encouraged to consider a simple “two social, two physical” approach each week: two opportunities to connect with other people and two opportunities to move. That might mean having coﬀee with a friend, attending a community gathering, calling a family member or making plans with someone. It could mean walking, dancing, swimming, exercising or simply getting outside.

about what happens when they do – and whether they will be met with judgement, discomfort or understanding. Building psychologically safer communities means making room for vulnerability while still preserving the sense of connection and belonging that makes community so valuable.

Building communities that know what to do The partnership between Haathi in the Room and Lifeline brought together two forms of expertise that are particularly important in conversations about mental health: community trust and professional support. For Haathi in the Room, the event forms part of its broader work to challenge mental-health stigma in South Asian communities. For Lifeline, it provided an opportunity to equip trusted community members with practical knowledge, resources and conﬁdence to respond when someone may be struggling.

The point is not the formula. It is the habit. Supportive relationships can help people feel less alone, while physical activity is an important part of maintaining mental wellbeing. Just as importantly, staying connected creates more opportunities to recognise when someone is no longer themselves. But connection is not only about being present. It is also about creating an environment where people feel safe enough to be honest. As panel speaker Sayaka Sayeed, Senior Counsellor at Umeed Pychology, reﬂected during the panel: “If we want people to speak honestly about their mental health, we have to build communities where honesty doesn’t cost them their belonging.” That idea goes to the heart of what creating safe conversations requires. It is not enough to tell people to speak up or ask for help. We also need to think

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The afternoon concluded with group reﬂections, key takeaways, participant feedback and informal conversations over afternoon tea. But its real impact will be measured beyond Club Parramatta. It will be seen when community leaders feel conﬁdent to notice when someone is struggling, check in and encourage them to seek support. They do not need to have all the answers or solve the problem themselves. They simply need to ask, listen without judgement and help connect people to the right support. That is what creating safe conversations is about: making it easier for people to speak openly, ask for help and know that they are not alone. Because sometimes, the most important thing we can do is simply ask: How are you going?

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Continuing the conversation Creating safe conversations does not end when the event does. The hope is that community leaders can take these conversations, tools and resources back into their own communities and organisations. We are grateful to Lifeline Australia for helping make practical resources available to support those conversations. The Lifeline Support Toolkit is available in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Nepali, providing accessible resources that community members and leaders can continue to use and share.

Punjabi and Nepali. These resources are intended to help keep the conversation going – beyond the afternoon tea, and within the communities and organisations where people live, work and connect. Haathi in the Room Inc was founded in 2017 to reduce the stigma around mental health and wellbeing within the South Asian Community. Haathi in the Room Inc executive committee members are Sue Advani, Nitasha Bhatia, Vidhisha Khetwani, Megha Agarwal, Honey Rupani, Sangeeta Thakwani, Monica Das and Annika. For more information, please visit our website www.haathiintheroom.com.au and FB page.

For further information and support, visit the Lifeline Australia website. Community leaders can also access the Lifeline Support Toolkit in English, as well as resources available in Hindi,

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Indranil Halder

allygunge, the historic garden suburb of Calcutta, West Bengal,India is a captivating cocktail of eras, ambitions, and extraordinary memories.

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Our chauﬀeur drove through its leafy avenues to celebrate 2026 Durga pujo festive season with my elderly dad and uncle at the Rai Bhadur Mansion, now, 6 Ballygunge Place restaurant with a gala coconut infused lunch. Our crisp white cotton daywear had retired for freshly pressed kurtas and handspan cotton dhotis. I started unraveling a rich historical tapestry woven by Royal Bengal Tigers (RBT), colonial commanders, displaced royalty, landed aristocrats, and modern industrial titans. Behind the restaurant

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lives Subhra Pal whose late husband Manab Pal founded Polo Floatel(India’s and South Asia’s ﬁrst ﬂoating hotel), located on the Hooghly river. This is a neighbourhood that does not merely house its residents; it enshrines a legacy of ultra-high society. Its character was forged by openness, coexistence, and an intersection of identities in Bengal – historically one of the wealthiest provinces in the world. The suburb breathes an incredible atmosphere, born from layers of distinct histories that easily rival the stately

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RBT population. In 1818, Castle Rainey arose in Ballygunge to host elite British army commanders, followed by residence of Fanny Eden (sister to the GovernorGeneral of India, Lord Auckland). In 1840, Emily Eden, known for publishing Portraits of the Princes and People of India(1844), Up the Country (1866) and Letters from India (1872),called the neighborhood of Ballygunge, “our Eltham or Lewisham” Gradually, Ballygunge evolved into a premier residential enclave of grand garden bungalows for the local elites, attracting prominent ﬁgures like Colonel Gilbert Ironside and George Mandeville.

elegance of Edwin Lutyens’ Delhi or the elite charm of Hyderabad’s Banjara Hills. To me, it reminds me of the Double Bay demography in Sydney, Australia. It was definitely time for me to explore the RBT connection to Ballygunge. Centuries before this urban transformation, the land belonged to the wild. The terrain was then thick with Ulu Ghas (Cogon grass), “Tiger Grass,” and Entolasia grass – a striped, marshy wilderness that perfectly camouflaged the RBT. Warren Hastings, the first British Governor-General of Bengal, regularly rode out into these dense swamps and low-lying tidal jungles to hunt. Caring less about tigers and more about ego,Hastings hunted tigers which were among the largest of wild cats and are still found across the Indian Gangetic delta to Deccan Plateau including neighbouring Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. As the wilderness receded, global histories converged here.

In 19th century, Ballygunge Park witnessed the rise of the iconic “Park Chummery,” a massive residential collective for British executives. It was here, British corporate giant Sir Edward Charles Benthall recorded his address at 37 Ballygunge Park. Meanwhile, on Lovelock Street, the grand bagan-bari (garden house) of Arthur Samuel Lovelock – a historical partner of the legendary accounting ﬁrm Lovelock & Lewes – became a permanent landmark of the local lore. Ballygunge started reigning as the absolute epicentre of subcontinent high life – a playground where almost every giant of history left their mark including RBT. History says, Surendranath Tagore – the ﬁrst Indian to join the prestigious Indian Civil Service – owned a sweeping property at 19 Ballygunge Store Road (now Gurusaday Dutta Road). Later, the

In 2026, according to an article in The Economist headlined How India saved its tigers, lions, rhinos and elephants, highlighted that King Ashoka, an Indian emperor issued edicts against hunting more than two millennia ago and followed by late prime minister Indira Gandhi who created the Project Tiger saving the RBT population of India. Ballygunge had became home to “Banglar Bagh”(Tiger of Bengal), who was most notably educationist and judge Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee for his contributions to the society and education. But love for real RBT never left Ballygunge. In 1990s, on a very early morning walk, I did notice a real life RBT being transported with care, from world renowned magician PC Sorcar’s mansion named “Indrajal” for a magic show somewhere . He didn’t look happy in his cage. And during 2015 Durga Pujo, I noticed the painting of a giant RBT in the front wall of a house as I walked towards Golpark. Even the recent news of the cricket trials taking place in Ballygunge Arena, oﬀering local talents a shot at joining the Bengal Tigers Cricket Team (from the Celebrity Cricket League)for Phase 1 CCL Wildcard Trials, kept connecting tiger to Ballygunge. This sparked my imagination. Now, I could almost feel it: the RBT from the heritage painting, I had admired over champagne at the Soﬁtel Winter Palace Luxor had somehow come alive, roaming the lanes of Ballygunge once more. It felt like the perfect moment to celebrate the area’s deep tiger history and heritage.

The hunting lodges established in 1806 by the exiled family of ruler Tipu Sultan of Mysore on Ballygunge Circular Road. Tipu, himself was famous for his obsession with tigers, adopting the animal as his primary personal and state symbol. And for his courage, he is also known as the “Tiger of Mysore’ throughout history. During this time, Tiger hunting was full time obsession for British Raj in Bengal, when RBT claws became fashion item in European aristocratic markets commanding high statement prices that nearly vanished

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As we drove through the neighborhood, the presence of the mighty RBT felt palpable – prowling past the sprawling Agrawal Residence on Jamir Lane, winding through Cornﬁeld Road to Banerjee mansion next to Citizens Park,

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Hindusthan Co-operative Insurance Society(home grown insurance), founded by the Tagore family alongside other prominent Bengali elites, orchestrated a massive urban expansion by draining Ballygunge’s rural marshlands. And Ballygunge’s frequent visitor- RBT, no longer could safely roam around. They moved to Sundarban mangrove forests. In 2026, according to an article in The Economist headlined How India saved its tigers, lions, rhinos and elephants, highlighted that King Ashoka, an Indian emperor issued edicts against hunting more than two millennia ago and followed by late prime minister Indira Gandhi who created the Project Tiger saving the RBT population of India. Ballygunge had became home to “Banglar Bagh”(Tiger of Bengal), who was most notably educationist and judge Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee for his contributions to the society and education. But love for real RBT never left Ballygunge. In 1990s, on a very early morning walk, I did notice a real life RBT being transported with care, from world renowned magician PC Sorcar’s mansion named “Indrajal” for a magic show somewhere . He didn’t look happy in his cage. And during 2015 Durga Pujo, I noticed the painting of a giant RBT in the front wall of a house as I walked towards Golpark. Even the recent news of the cricket trials taking place in Ballygunge Arena, oﬀering local talents a shot at joining the Bengal Tigers Cricket Team (from the Celebrity Cricket League)for Phase 1 CCL Wildcard Trials, kept connecting tiger to Ballygunge. This sparked my imagination.

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Now, I could almost feel it: the RBT from the heritage painting, I had admired over champagne at the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor had somehow come alive, roaming the lanes of Ballygunge once more. It felt like the perfect moment to celebrate the area’s deep tiger history and heritage. As we drove through the neighborhood, the presence of the mighty RBT felt palpable – prowling past the sprawling Agrawal Residence on Jamir Lane, winding through Cornfield Road to Banerjee mansion next to Citizens Park, before entering Swinhoe Street, and finally turning into Ballygunge Place with Weavers Studio and Starbucks cafe getting ready for Durga pujo celebration season. And near the grand red mansion which one held regular wedding receptions, RBT paused for a fleeting majestic moment before vanishing for ever with a roar. Soon, we arrived at 6 Ballygunge Place restaurant where lunch was served with an effortless, worldly grace, aroma and perfect atmosphere. A typical of Ballygunge culture. With great care culinary traditions were maintain as the chef prepared mouthwatering dishes such as Narkel Bata Mangsho ( Murshidabad recipe),Narkel Chingri ( Bay of Bengal Tiger Prawn ) diye Mashkalaier Dal ( 24 Parganas recipe) and Narkel Doodh diye Ilish Pulao (Barishal, Bangladesh recipe).

once designed my dhoti/kurta for a fundraising fashion parade, organised in aid of charity organization Dress for Success Sydney (DfSS), Australia. In all, I realised that the real luxury of Ballygunge, which is the effortless art de vivre and the silent display of understated wealth that truely defines the Ballygunge residents. Though the Hurun India Wealth Report counts 26,600 dollar-millionaire households and over 250 ultra-high-net-worth individuals across Calcutta, a staggering concentration of them choose to anchor their lives in Ballygunge. It is an existence founded on the privileges of old money, where a loyal, generational army of staff unpacks and packs for family members returning from overseas or from a rugby union match at the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club or retiring after attending a Calcutta event. Ballygunge residents continue living with the dignity, grace and command of Royal Bengal Tiger.

We ﬁnished the lunch with mouthwatering deserts such as Til Narkeler Payesh, Coconut & Palmyra Palm Tart with Tender Coconut Ice Cream and baked Sandesh. After our lunch, I attended the inauguration of Durga Pujo at Indian Museum by Honourable Depty Chief Minister Agnimitra Paul of West Bengal who

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Sydney Student Dhanya Vasanta Honoured for Literacy and Youth Leadership Download Our App

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EDUCATION AUSTRALIA

established when she was just 12 years old. What began with a donation of 200 books to Westmead Children’s Hospital has grown into a large-scale community literacy eﬀort, with more than 10,000 books collected for distribution. Desi Australia

Sydney Year 12 student

Dhanya Vasanta has received the 2026 Dame Marie Bashir Peace Award, recognising her sustained contribution to literacy, volunteering, community service and youth engagement across Australia and beyond.

asanta was presented with the award at NSW Parliament House in Sydney on 28 September as part of the annual awards organised by the National Council of Women New South Wales. The program recognises young women in Years 10 to 12 for contributions to social justice, inclusion, social cohesion, peace and understanding. A student at Northern Beaches Secondary College’s Manly campus, Vasanta has developed a strong record of community involvement while continuing her secondary education. Her Telugu heritage is also an important part of her family background and connection to the wider Australian Indian community.

The books have reached regional and remote communities across Australia as well as communities in African countries. Over time, the initiative has expanded through fundraising, partnerships and volunteer participation, allowing Vasanta to extend the project well beyond its original hospital-based beginnings. Her commitment to community service also includes regular volunteering with children who have physical disabilities and neurodivergence. For around four years, she has volunteered at a music therapy clinic, an experience that has also influenced her interest in communicating the benefits and possibilities of music therapy. That experience later became part of her writing. In 2024, Vasanta wrote about music therapy for the Los Angeles Times’ High School Insider platform, drawing on her own volunteering experience and her observations of children participating in music-based support programs. Vasanta has also remained active in youth participation and cultural exchange. Her activities have included the Northern Beaches Youth Advisory Group and Have Your Say Day, while a pen-pal initiative she helped establish has connected students in Australia and Japan. At school, she has supported younger students through mentoring and peer tutoring and established a Japanese club. Her interest in Japanese language and culture has also been reflected in her academic and extracurricular achievements, including a second-place finish in the 2024 Western Sydney Japanese Speech Contest. Her volunteering record was recognised earlier when she received a NSW

Premier’s Diamond Student Volunteering Award in 2024 after completing more than 115 hours of service. These experiences have contributed to a broader pattern of community involvement that has continued throughout her senior school years. The Dame Marie Bashir Peace Awards have been presented since 2010 and honour the legacy of Dame Marie Bashir, who became the ﬁrst woman to serve as Governor of New South Wales. The awards recognise students from government and independent secondary schools for contributions to their communities and eﬀorts connected with peace, inclusion and social cohesion. This year’s presentation took place in the Jubilee Room at NSW Parliament House, with the National Council of Women NSW hosting the ceremony. NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison was listed as the presenter for the awards. For Vasanta, the recognition brings together several strands of her work: making books accessible to communities, supporting children through volunteering, encouraging young people to participate in community life and creating opportunities for cultural exchange. Her family background also connects her to the Telugu community in Australia. She is the daughter of Mallika Potluri and Vasanta Harikrishna and the granddaughter of Potluri Bhaskara Rao, president of the Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation. The 2026 Dame Marie Bashir Peace Award adds another milestone to Vasanta’s growing record of service while highlighting the contribution that young Australians can make through sustained community involvement, literacy initiatives and youth-led programs. Image source: X

One of her most signiﬁcant initiatives is A Little Library, a project she

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Festive Fashion and Women Entrepreneurs Take Centre Stage at Dussehra Exhibition 2026 F

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estive shopping, cultural heritage and women’s entrepreneurship came together at Ethnic Bazaar Australia’s Dussehra Exhibition 2026, held at The Granville Centre in Sydney on Saturday, 26 September.

shoppers together ahead of the festive season. For participating small businesses, it offered an opportunity to introduce their products to new customers and build connections within the community.

According to the event recap, more than 500 visitors attended throughout the day, exploring a colourful marketplace of ethnic clothing, jewellery, artwork, gifts and authentic desi food.

A highlight was a fashion showcase choreographed by Dee Mukherjee, featuring Shaoli, Reena, Piyali, Suparna and Shreya. Their presentations brought traditional and contemporary styles to the stage, celebrating the creativity behind the clothing on display.

Running from 11am to 9pm, the exhibition brought local vendors and

According to the event recap, the exhibition also welcomed Donna

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Davis, State Member for Parramatta, who toured the exhibition, purchased items from local vendors and expressed support for women-led small businesses. contemporary styles to the stage, celebrating the creativity behind the clothing on display. According to the event recap, the exhibition also welcomed Donna Davis, State Member for Parramatta, who toured the exhibition, purchased items from local vendors and expressed support for women-led

an opportunity to celebrate culture while supporting the people and businesses that sustain it. A highlight was a fashion showcase choreographed by Dee Mukherjee, featuring Shaoli, Reena, Piyali, Suparna and Shreya. Their presentations brought traditional and “This exhibition is about more than just shopping – it’s about celebrating our culture and uplifting the women and small businesses who bring it to life,” Talukdar said in the event recap. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved this year and grateful to everyone – our vendors, performers, volunteers, and visitors — who made it such a success.” Alongside its focus on small business, the exhibition celebrated Bengali cultural traditions within Australia’s diverse community. Clothing, food and creative presentations offered ways for families to share their heritage and introduce younger generations to familiar festive customs. Organisers described the initiative’s purpose as creating an inclusive platform where small entrepreneurs, particularly women, can showcase their products and creativity to a wider audience.

small businesses. Ethnic Bazaar Australia founder Urmi Talukdar described the exhibition as

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Ethnic Bazaar Australia thanked participating vendors, performers, volunteers, visitors and supporters, and expressed hopes for a larger exhibition in 2027.

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COMMUNITY NEWS | SYDNEY (NSW) AUSTRALIA

Indian Food and Agriculture Delegation Strengthens Australia-India Trade Ties Across Sydney and Melbourne

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Desi Australia

n Indian Food and Agriculture Business Delegation has concluded a ﬁve-day visit to Australia, strengthening trade connections between Indian exporters and Australian businesses through buyer-seller meetings, industry engagement and market visits across Sydney and Melbourne. Organised by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), the delegation concluded its program on 9 October 2026. The initiative brought together Indian exporters, Australian businesses, diplomatic representatives and industry leaders to explore new commercial opportunities and develop long-term trade relationships. The delegation was coordinated by Prashant Seth, Joint Deputy Director General and CEO of FIEO, and Mohit Hans, Deputy Director of FIEO. Buyerseller meetings were held at PARKROYAL Darling Harbour in Sydney on 6 October and Pan Paciﬁc Melbourne on 8 October. The program received support from the Consulates General of India in Sydney and Melbourne and the Australia India Business Council (AIBC). Its focus was to strengthen direct trade relationships, develop distribution partnerships and improve market access for Indian food and agricultural products in Australia.

Sydney Engagement Connects Exporters with Australian Buyers The Sydney program brought together representatives from government, business and the food industry to discuss trade opportunities and market development.

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Participants included Dr S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India; Deepak Raj Gupta, National Chair of the AIBC; Divya Skene of the Centre for Australia-India Relations; Uvaraja Hariramakrishnan, CEO of Sabrini Foods; Tarang Koppal, Director of ALS Global; Ravi Kumar Mandalika, AIBC NSW President; and Carolyn Macgill, Executive Ofﬁcer of the Food and Beverage Importers Association. The delegation also visited Udaya Supermart, Indya Foods and Grosco to gain practical insights into Australian food retail operations, distribution networks and the requirements of the local market. These visits provided Indian exporters with opportunities to better understand the Australian retail environment and explore potential pathways for bringing their products to Australian consumers.

Melbourne Program Highlights Distribution and Supply Chains The delegation continued its engagements in Melbourne, where representatives from government, business and industry discussed opportunities to strengthen commercial cooperation. The program featured Shri Tej Krishan, Head of Chancery and

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Consul at the Consulate General of India in Melbourne; Lee Tarlamis MP, representing Victoria’s Minister for Trade; Louise Perry, Interim Multicultural Coordinator General; Agostino Giramondo of the Committee for Melbourne; and Dhara Shah, AIBC Victoria President. Industry speakers included Murali K. Metlapalli, CEO of Indya Foods; Tarang Koppal, Director of ALS Global; and David Burns, Founder of DJB Food Group Australia. Participants included Dr S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India; Deepak Raj Gupta, National Chair of the AIBC; Divya Skene of the Centre for Australia-India Relations; Uvaraja Hariramakrishnan, CEO of Sabrini Foods; Tarang Koppal, Director of ALS Global; Ravi Kumar Mandalika, AIBC NSW President; and Carolyn Macgill, Executive Ofﬁcer of the Food and Beverage Importers Association. The delegation also visited Udaya Supermart, Indya Foods and Grosco to gain practical insights into Australian food retail operations, distribution networks and the requirements of the local market. These visits provided Indian exporters with opportunities to better understand the Australian retail environment and explore potential pathways for bringing their products to Australian consumers.

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Melbourne Program Highlights Distribution and Supply Chains

Diverse Range of Indian Food and Agricultural Products

The delegation continued its engagements in Melbourne, where representatives from government, business and industry discussed opportunities to strengthen commercial cooperation.

The participating Indian exporters represented a broad range of sectors, including rice, spices, pulses, grains, beverages, confectionery, honey, packaged foods, coconut products and sustainable packaging.

The program featured Shri Tej Krishan, Head of Chancery and Consul at the Consulate General of India in Melbourne; Lee Tarlamis MP, representing Victoria’s Minister for Trade; Louise Perry, Interim Multicultural Coordinator General; Agostino Giramondo of the Committee for Melbourne; and Dhara Shah, AIBC Victoria President.

The diversity of products highlighted the potential for cooperation across multiple segments of the food and agriculture industry. By bringing exporters into direct contact with Australian buyers and industry representatives, the program aimed to facilitate discussions around sourcing, distribution and future commercial partnerships.

Industry speakers included Murali K. Metlapalli, CEO of Indya Foods; Tarang Koppal, Director of ALS Global; and David Burns, Founder of DJB Food Group Australia.

VC Next Gen Pty Ltd (VCN), led by Manjit Ginny Singh, served as the Australian organising partner. The organisation coordinated industry engagement, business connections and on-the-ground arrangements across Sydney and Melbourne.

The delegation visited ALS Laboratory, Sabrini Foods and Grace Grocery in Victoria. These visits offered insights into food testing, supply chains, distribution operations and retail opportunities, helping participants understand the practical considerations involved in establishing or expanding business relationships in Australia.

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Singh said the initiative focused on creating meaningful connections between Indian exporters and Australian industry, extending beyond formal meetings to practical market engagement and long-term business relationships.

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Strengthening Australia-India Economic Cooperation The delegation reinforced opportunities for bilateral trade under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), highlighting the importance of direct business engagement in strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Through buyer-seller meetings, company visits and discussions with industry stakeholders, the program created opportunities for participants to identify potential business partners and continue commercial conversations beyond the delegation’s visit. The initiative also demonstrated the value of collaboration between trade organisations, diplomatic representatives and business councils in helping companies navigate new markets. As Australia and India continue to explore opportunities for closer economic cooperation, initiatives connecting exporters with buyers and distributors can help build stronger commercial relationships and support long-term growth across the food and agriculture sectors.

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Diwali ON A PLATE

ROSE & PISTACHIO SHRIKHAND A little taste of India, beautifully reimagined.

Refrigerate for at least one hour. Serve in individual dessert bowls or elegant glasses, garnished with pistachios, saffron and edible rose petals.

Diwali is a celebration of light, love and togetherness. For Indian families living in Australia, it is also a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with our roots, share cherished traditions and introduce the next generation to the ﬂavours of home.

A Modern Australian Twist For a contemporary presentation, serve in individual glass dessert cups and add fresh Australian strawberries or raspberries for a burst of colour and freshness.

And what better way to celebrate than through food?

A sprinkle of pistachio crumble adds a lovely ﬁnishing touch.

This Diwali, we bring you a timeless Indian dessert with a contemporary touch – Rose & Pistachio Shrikhand. Originating in western India, shrikhand is traditionally made with thick, strained yoghurt, sugar and aromatic spices. Loved for its creamy texture and delicate sweetness, it has long been a favourite at festive gatherings. My modern interpretation combines fragrant rose water, crunchy pistachios and a hint of saffron to create a dessert that is elegant, refreshing and wonderfully simple to prepare.

Creamy, fragrant and perfect for your Diwali table. Preparation: 15 minutes Straining: 4–6 hours (or overnight) Chilling: 1 hour Serves: 4–6 Difﬁculty: Easy Ingredients 1 kg full-fat plain yoghurt or thick Greek yoghurt ½ cup icing sugar (adjust to taste) 2 tablespoons rose water ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios A pinch of saffron 1 tablespoon warm milk Edible dried rose petals for garnish Method Place yoghurt in a muslin cloth over a sieve and refrigerate for 4–6 hours or overnight until thick and creamy.

My kitchen tip: The secret to perfect shrikhand is well-strained yoghurt. Use rose water sparingly to achieve a delicate ﬂoral ﬂavour without overpowering the dessert. A SWEET CELEBRATION OF CULTURE Living in Australia gives us the wonderful opportunity to embrace two cultures while keeping our traditions alive. From recipes passed down through generations to new creations inspired by our multicultural surroundings, food connects us to our heritage and brings communities closer. This Rose & Pistachio Shrikhand is more than a dessert – it is a celebration of memories, family and the beautiful ways traditions evolve across generations.

Thick Greek yoghurt may need less straining. Soak saffron in warm milk for ﬁve minutes. Transfer strained yoghurt to a bowl. Add icing sugar, rose water and cardamom powder. Whisk until smooth. Mix in the saffron-infused milk and chopped pistachios.

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This Diwali, let's share our ﬂavours, celebrate our diversity and create sweeter memories together. Wishing all our readers a joyful, prosperous and delicious Diwali! Shubh Deepavali!

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or Nikita Thakrar, Diwali’s message of light overcoming darkness carries a deeply personal meaning. Born in Britain into an Indian family, she spent years navigating the tension between two cultural identities, searching for a sense of belonging and a clearer understanding of who she was. At school, peers told her to “go back to where she came from”. Yet she struggled with a question that had no easy answer: where did she truly belong?

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At 16, she legally changed her name, feeling that the identity she had inherited did not reﬂect her authentic self. Two years later, while her friends prepared for university, she travelled alone to India. Although she told her family she was going to study Indian classical dance, her deeper motivation was to ﬁnd herself.

A Decade in India: Finding Connection Through Dance and Spirituality Nikita spent ten years in India, training intensively in Kathak and studying yoga and Vedantic philosophy. The experience gave her dedicated teachers, discipline, a spiritual framework and a renewed connection with her body and cultural heritage.

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However, the journey did not provide a complete or permanent answer to her questions about identity. Over time, she came to understand that belonging cannot simply be handed down through a name, homeland, tradition or family. Instead, it involves consciously deciding which parts of one’s inheritance to carry forward and how to make them meaningful. For Nikita, Kathak became a bridge between Britain and India, allowing her to embrace both cultures without viewing either as an incomplete home.

Building a Community, Then Letting Go of an Identity After returning to Britain, Nikita

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founded a dance and yoga school that grew into an award-winning community serving more than 100 students each week. For two decades, the school became a source of purpose, connection and professional identity. But personal growth eventually brought a difficult realisation: the role that had once made her feel alive no longer represented the entirety of who she had become. At 40, she chose to give up the business, despite it not having failed. The decision meant confronting uncertainty, including fears of disappointing others, losing relevance and discovering who she was without the role through which people had come to know her. Her experience reflects a broader challenge faced by people navigating major life transitions: an identity that once provided meaning and direction may not always fit the person they are becoming.

Diwali and the Darkness We Carry Within Diwali is widely associated with the triumph of light over darkness. For Nikita, however, the festival also invites reﬂection on the quieter struggles that can exist within individuals and communities. For many people across the South Asian diaspora, questions of belonging can be shaped by inherited expectations, cultural pressures and patterns repeated over generations. The search for identity may involve navigating family traditions, social expectations and the desire to feel at home in more than one culture.

parts of one’s story genuinely feel true.

From Inherited Patterns to Conscious Purpose These reﬂections now inform Nikita’s work as a TEDx speaker, author and identity and purpose mentor. Her TEDx talk explores creativity as a bridge from chaos to clarity, while her forthcoming book, Journey from Karma to Dharma: The Bridge from Inherited Patterns to Conscious Purpose, examines how people can move beyond inherited patterns towards a more conscious sense of purpose. Rather than telling people who they should become, Nikita encourages them to reﬂect on the identities and expectations that have shaped their lives and consider what they genuinely wish to carry into the future.

Nikita believes that lighting a lamp during Diwali can serve as a reminder to look inward rather than search endlessly for answers in external roles, cultural labels or other people’s expectations.

A Diwali Invitation to Reﬂect As families and communities light lamps this Diwali, Nikita invites people to consider a simple but meaningful question: what are they carrying because it truly belongs to them, and what are they holding only because it was handed down? Her story highlights the complex relationship between cultural heritage, personal identity and belonging. It also offers a reminder that embracing one’s roots does not have to mean surrendering the freedom to grow and change. For Nikita, the light within is not something another person can provide. It is something each individual must learn to recognise through reﬂection, conscious choices and a deeper understanding of their own story. Nikita Thakrar is a TEDx speaker, author and identity and purpose mentor. Her forthcoming book, Journey from Karma to Dharma: The Bridge from Inherited Patterns to Conscious Purpose, is scheduled for publication in January 2027. Learn more at journeywithnikita.com.

The process, she suggests, does not require a new name, a different country or a perfect understanding of oneself. It begins with listening honestly and recognising which

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Her central message is that personal clarity cannot simply be borrowed from a role, a culture or another person’s expectations. It emerges through honest reﬂection and a willingness to distinguish what feels authentic from what has merely been inherited.

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Diwali in Australia: A Festival of Lights, A Celebration of Belonging Desi Australia

rom cherished traditions to vibrant celebrations across Australian cities, Diwali has become a beautiful expression of culture, community and the shared values that bring us together. There is something magical about Diwali. The gentle glow of oil lamps, the fragrance of traditional sweets, colourful decorations, beautiful attire and the laughter of families coming together create an atmosphere of warmth and happiness. For millions around the world, Diwali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair. For Indian and South Asian communities in Australia, it carries an even deeper meaning — a connection to their roots, cherished childhood memories and the joy of celebrating their heritage in the country they now call home. From Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Canberra, the Festival of Lights is increasingly becoming an important part of Australia's multicultural identity.

From Ancient Traditions to Modern Australia Celebrated on 8 November 2026, Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most signiﬁcant festivals in Hindu tradition. For many Hindus, it commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after 14

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years of exile and his victory over Ravana. The lighting of diyas symbolises the victory of righteousness and the triumph of light over darkness. The festival also honours Goddess Lakshmi, associated with prosperity and well-being, and Lord Ganesha, revered as the remover of obstacles. Diwali holds signiﬁcance across other faith traditions too. Jains commemorate Lord Mahavira's attainment of nirvana, while Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, marking the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji from imprisonment. Although traditions may diﬀer, the underlying messages of compassion, hope, renewal and togetherness resonate universally.

Australia Shines Brighter with Diwali What was once celebrated mainly within homes and temples has grown into one of Australia's most colourful multicultural celebrations.

bring together thousands of people through cultural performances, traditional music, Bollywood dance, festive markets, delicious food and family-friendly activities. In Sydney, neighbourhoods such as Parramatta and Harris Park come alive with celebrations, while Melbourne's Federation Square has become a popular gathering place for Diwali festivities. Communities in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Canberra also embrace the festival with enthusiasm. These celebrations extend far beyond the Indian community. Australians from diverse cultural backgrounds participate, experience Indian traditions and discover the deeper meaning of the Festival of Lights. Diwali has become a wonderful example of multicultural Australia at its best — where diﬀerent cultures are celebrated, traditions are shared and communities are brought closer together.

Across the country, Diwali festivals

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Two Homes, One Celebration For many migrants, Diwali in Australia is a beautiful blend of nostalgia and new beginnings. Memories of celebrating in India remain vivid — busy markets overflowing with sweets, streets illuminated with decorations, relatives visiting throughout the day and families gathering for prayers and celebrations. Life in Australia may be different. Families are sometimes separated by oceans, celebrations are balanced with work commitments, and instead of India's autumn evenings, Diwali arrives during the Australian spring. Yet the spirit remains unchanged. Homes are decorated with rangoli and diyas, traditional meals are prepared, children dress in colourful outfits and families gather to exchange sweets and festive greetings. Video calls connect grandparents overseas with grandchildren in Australia, while recipes and customs passed down through generations keep family traditions alive. A diya glowing on a Sydney balcony carries the same message as one illuminating a home in India. It reminds us that home is not always defined by geography, but by the traditions we cherish and the memories we create. Diwali in Australia is a beautiful blend of nostalgia and new beginnings. Memories of celebrating in India remain vivid — busy markets overflowing with sweets, streets illuminated with decorations, relatives visiting throughout the day and families gathering for prayers and celebrations. Life in Australia may be different. Families are sometimes separated by oceans, celebrations are balanced with work commitments, and instead of India's autumn evenings, Diwali arrives during the Australian spring. Yet the spirit remains unchanged. Homes are decorated with rangoli and diyas, traditional meals are prepared, children dress in colourful outfits and families gather to exchange sweets and

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festive greetings. Video calls connect grandparents overseas with grandchildren in Australia, while recipes and customs passed down through generations keep family traditions alive.

Passing Traditions to the Next Generation One of the most meaningful aspects of Diwali in Australia is its role in connecting younger generations with their cultural heritage. For children growing up between two cultures, festivals provide a sense of identity and belonging. Whether helping parents create rangoli, learning the signiﬁcance of lighting diyas or listening to stories associated with Diwali, these experiences become treasured family memories. Parents and grandparents play an important role in preserving these traditions, while younger generations bring their own contemporary expressions through music, school celebrations, multicultural friendships and community events. This beautiful combination of tradition and modern Australian life ensures that the spirit of Diwali continues to ﬂourish for generations to come.

Celebrating Unity, Kindness and Community Diwali is not simply about colourful lights, festive clothing and celebrations. Its deeper message is one of kindness, gratitude, generosity and togetherness. Across Australia, community organisations, cultural associations, volunteers and local businesses contribute to making Diwali celebrations welcoming and memorable. These gatherings strengthen community connections while recognising the valuable contributions Indian and South Asian Australians make to the nation's cultural, social and economic life.

prosperity is not measured by material wealth alone. True prosperity lies in good health, meaningful relationships, happiness and the ability to make a positive diﬀerence in the lives of others. In a world often challenged by uncertainty and division, Diwali encourages us to spread kindness, embrace diﬀerences and support those around us. Just as one diya can light another without losing its brightness, sharing compassion and happiness makes our communities stronger.

Lighting the Way Forward As Diwali continues to grow across Australia, it reﬂects a beautiful journey of migration, resilience, cultural pride and belonging. It celebrates the traditions our communities have brought from their homelands while embracing the opportunities and experiences of life in Australia. Whether marked through a grand community festival, a family gathering, prayers at a temple or a single diya glowing beside a window, the message of Diwali remains timeless. The Festival of Lights reminds us that darkness is never permanent, hope should always be cherished and even the smallest light can make a diﬀerence. This Diwali, may we carry the spirit of love, unity and compassion beyond the celebrations and into our everyday lives. Because the true beauty of Diwali lies not only in the lamps we light, but also in the lives we brighten. From all of us at Desi Australia, wishing you and your loved ones a joyous, peaceful and prosperous Diwali 2026. May the light of Diwali bring happiness to every home, hope to every heart and unity to every community. Happy Diwali! Shubh Deepavali!

The festival also reminds us that

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Diwali celebrations organised by Hindu Council of Australia

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iwali celebrations organised by the Hindu Council of Australia brought the community together in a vibrant atmosphere ﬁlled with colour, joy and festive spirit. From captivating performances and delicious food to exploring stalls and sharing special moments with loved ones, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

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The highlight was the magniﬁcent 40-foot Ravan, fully illuminated and standing tall, ready for the grand Ravan Dahan. A wonderful celebration of culture, tradition and togetherness! Photo Credit: Evergreen Memories

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Inaugural Maitri Lecture Ce Contributions Through Desi Australia

riendship, belonging and service to the community took centre stage at the inaugural Maitri Lecture, held at ABC Studios in Sydney on Thursday, 8 October 2026. Hosted by the Centre for Australia-India Relations in partnership with the ABC, the event featured renowned cardiologist and Heart of Australia founder Dr Rolf Gomes. The new lecture platform was established to recognise Australians of Indian heritage and share their contributions to Australia’s national story. The name Maitri reﬂects the spirit behind the occasion. A Sanskrit word encompassing friendship, kindness and goodwill, it captures the connections the lecture seeks to celebrate between Australia and India. Delivering the welcome address, the Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP noted its similarity to the familiar Australian word “mate”. His remarks highlighted the contributions of Indian-Australians and the ways migration, cultural heritage and community service continue to shape the nation. Dr Gomes brought these themes to life through his own journey. From his childhood in Kolkata to his work improving access to specialist healthcare in regional and remote Australia, his story oﬀered a powerful example of innovation guided by service.

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elebrates Indian-Australian h Dr Rolf Gomes’ Story As the founder of Heart of Australia, Dr Gomes has pioneered mobile healthcare delivery, helping bring specialist medical services closer to communities facing the challenges of distance and limited access. His contribution demonstrated how an individual’s experience and sense of purpose can translate into practical benefits for Australians far beyond their own community. The welcome address also reflected on his family’s decision to migrate to Australia when he was nine. It connected that experience with the sacrifices and aspirations shared by many migrant families, acknowledging their role in building a stronger and more resilient country. With ABC journalist Shalailah Medhora as master of ceremonies, the evening created space for a story of Indian heritage and Australian belonging to reach a wider audience. The Centre announced that the inaugural Maitri Lecture would be broadcast internationally on ABC Australia and available to Australian audiences on ABC iview from Sunday, 1 November 2026, extending the conversation beyond those gathered in the Sydney studio.

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Indian-Origin

Dr Neha Umaretiya Wins WA Premier’s Science Awards People’s Choice

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r Neha Umaretiya, an Indianorigin STEM educator whose journey began on a small farm in India, has been recognised with the 2026 People’s Choice Award at the Western Australian Premier’s Science Awards, highlighting her contribution to modernising horticulture education and preparing students for the technologydriven future of agriculture.

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The award was announced on 22 September 2026 as part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Premier’s Science Awards. Dr Umaretiya, an Advanced Skills Lecturer at North Metropolitan TAFE, received the highest number of public votes in this year’s People’s Choice category. The Western Australian Government said the award attracted 4,036 votes from the scientific community. Dr Umaretiya’s recognition comes from work that brings advanced technology directly into vocational education. Her work combines horticulture with emerging digital technologies, giving students practical experience with systems that are increasingly being used to improve agricultural productivity, efficiency and sustainability. According to the Western Australian Government, Dr Umaretiya holds a PhD in Horticulture and has 15 years of experience in the field. At North Metropolitan TAFE, she has developed an automated hydroponic greenhouse incorporating cloud-connected sensors and a live Digital Twin. The system allows students to gain hands-on experience with precision horticulture while learning how technology can be integrated into agricultural production. A Digital Twin is a digital representation of a physical system that can be connected to real-time information from sensors. In an educational setting, the technology gives students an opportunity to understand how data can be collected, monitored and used to make decisions about growing conditions and other aspects of horticultural production. Dr Umaretiya’s approach reflects the changing nature of agriculture, where traditional farming knowledge is increasingly being combined with automation, sensors, data analysis and connected technologies. Her work is aimed not only at teaching students how to operate modern systems but also at developing skills that can be applied to the future workforce. Her work also extends beyond technology. The WA Government says she collaborates with industry, government and Aboriginal communities to develop inclusive and future-focused curriculum. Her teaching is aligned with areas including food

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security, green skills and biosecurity, connecting classroom learning with wider challenges facing Western Australia and the horticulture sector. Accessibility and inclusion have also formed part of Dr Umaretiya’s contribution to education. She has been recognised as an Accessibility and Learning Support Champion, with her work focused on helping students from diverse backgrounds participate successfully in STEM education and develop skills relevant to changing horticulture industries. The People’s Choice Award is one of the categories within the Premier’s Science Awards, which recognise scientific research, education and engagement across Western Australia. The 2026 program recognised winners across 11 award categories, covering areas ranging from scientific research and STEM education to government science projects and science engagement initiatives. This year’s awards also marked a significant milestone, with the Premier’s Science Awards celebrating 25 years of recognising scientific achievement across Western Australia. The 2026 program featured a total prize pool of $140,000, including the major $50,000 Scientist of the Year award and prizes across other categories.

adopt automation, connected devices, artiﬁcial intelligence and data-driven systems, training institutions are increasingly expected to provide students with practical exposure to technologies they may encounter in their careers. For Western Australia’s horticulture sector, such skills have broader signiﬁcance. Food production, biosecurity, sustainability and workforce development are interconnected challenges, and educators working at the intersection of agriculture and technology can play a role in preparing students to respond to those changes. The 2026 Premier’s Science Awards therefore recognised more than an individual achievement. Through the People’s Choice Award, Dr Neha Umaretiya’s work received public recognition for its focus on making STEM education practical, inclusive and closely connected to the future needs of Western Australia’s horticulture industry. Image: Dr Neha Umaretiya (Western Australia: State of Energy)

Dr Umaretiya was one of five finalists in the 2026 STEM Educator of the Year – Tertiary category before being recognised through the public-voted People’s Choice Award. Her fellow finalists were Associate Professor Alison Blyth, Professor Marco Ghisalberti, Dr Katrina O’Mara and Yvette Vos. Her journey is particularly notable because it connects agricultural roots with advanced STEM education in Australia. Moving from an early connection with farming to a career involving horticultural research, vocational education and emerging agricultural technology, Dr Umaretiya’s work demonstrates how different forms of knowledge can come together in a modern education environment. The recognition also places attention on the growing role of vocational education in developing Australia’s future STEM workforce. As industries

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Dr Parwinder Kaur

Honoured as ATSE Fellow for Contributions to Science and Innovation leaders and colleagues working to shape Australia’s future.

Desi Australia

estern Australian parliamentarian and scientist Dr Parwinder Kaur has been officially welcomed as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE), recognising her contributions to scientific research, biotechnology, innovation and public policy. In a social media post, Dr Kaur described her induction as a significant personal and professional honour, expressing gratitude at joining a distinguished group of researchers, innovators, industry

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She was among 34 new Fellows elected to ATSE for 2026. The Academy recognises leaders whose achievements in applied science, technology and engineering help translate knowledge into practical outcomes for society.

Recognising Excellence in Science and Technology Founded in 1975, ATSE has grown from 65 Foundation Fellows, including just two women, into a community of more than 900 Fellows, according to Dr Kaur’s announcement. The Academy brings together

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expertise from research, engineering, industry, government and entrepreneurship, supporting the application of scientiﬁc and technological knowledge to Australia’s major challenges. For Dr Kaur, the Fellowship represents both recognition of past achievements and a responsibility to contribute to future progress through collaboration, innovation and public engagement.

From Scientiﬁc Research to Public Service Dr Kaur is a scientist and Member of the Legislative Council of Western Australia whose work spans biodiversity genomics, agricultural resilience and biotechnology.

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a future for themselves in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Her journey from international student to scientist and elected parliamentarian reﬂects the opportunities created through education, research and public service.

Joining the ATSE Class of 2026 Dr Kaur congratulated her fellow 2026 Fellows and acknowledged the mentors, colleagues, friends and collaborators who had supported her journey. She founded the Australian chapter of DNA Zoo, a global genomics consortium that has enabled genome sequencing of more than 45 iconic Australian species. Her career has also included contributions to science and technology policy, including serving as a special adviser on Western Australia’s 10-year Science and Technology Plan and contributing to the Australian Government’s Pathways to Diversity in STEM Review. Elected to the Western Australian Parliament in 2025, Dr Kaur has continued to advocate for science, research and innovation in public decision-making. She also established the Parliamentary Friends of Science, Medical Advancement, Research, Technology and Talent (SMARTT) to encourage collaboration and engagement across these ﬁelds.

Encouraging the Next Generation in STEM

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Her election places her among a diverse group of Australian leaders recognised for their work across science, engineering, technology and innovation. The new Fellows are contributing expertise across areas including digital infrastructure, advanced research, agricultural innovation and public policy.

Dr Kaur said the recognition had strengthened her commitment to helping translate knowledge into action, turning innovation into opportunity and ensuring scientiﬁc excellence delivers lasting beneﬁts to society.

For Dr Kaur, the Fellowship is not simply a milestone to celebrate, but an opportunity to help shape what comes next – strengthening the connection between science and public service and supporting a future in which innovation creates opportunities for communities across Australia.

She also highlighted the importance of inspiring more young people to see

Image Source: Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC (Facebook)

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Three Aussie Punjabis To Jason Sangha, Tanveer San

Nikhil Chaudhary toured India with Australia A, taking part in four-day red-ball cricket and 50-over matches.

Chinmay Mehta

For cricket fans in Australia, particularly those with Punjabi and Indian roots, it was an exciting opportunity to follow three players whose journeys reﬂect the growing connection between Australian and Indian cricket.

rom Australia to India, three cricketers with Punjabi roots recently had the opportunity to showcase their talent on the cricket ﬁeld.

Although they have taken different paths in the game, all three share a passion for cricket and the ambition to make their mark.

There was plenty to cheer about for the Australian Punjabi community as Jason Sangha, Tanveer Sangha and

Jason Sangha is no stranger to the spotlight. A talented batter, he captained Australia’s Under-19 team to victory at the 2018 ICC Under-19

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Cricket World Cup. Since then, he has continued to work towards greater opportunities in the game. Touring India provided another chance to test his skills in conditions where patience, technique and the ability to handle spin are particularly important. Then there is Tanveer Sangha, the exciting leg-spinner who has caught the attention of Australian cricket fans. Known for his ability to turn the ball and trouble batters, Tanveer has represented Australia at the senior international level in limited-overs cricket. The tour of India offered him valuable experience in conditions that can challenge even the most accomplished bowlers, helping him continue to develop his game.

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our India with Australia A: ngha and Nikhil Chaudhary

Nikhil Chaudhary brought his own story to the mix. An all-rounder who has pursued his cricketing ambitions in Australia, Nikhil has worked hard to establish himself in the competitive cricket scene. The opportunity to play in India gave him another platform to showcase his abilities, adapt to different conditions and take his game to the next level. For the Punjabi community in Australia, seeing these players compete in India was something special. It was about more than just runs scored or wickets taken. It was about watching cricketers with Punjabi roots pursue their ambitions and represent the multicultural spirit of Australian cricket, inspiring the next generation to follow their

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dreams.

of different playing conditions.

And let’s be honest there is something special about playing cricket in India. The passionate crowds, the atmosphere, the different pitches and the deep love for the game make it an experience unlike any other. For players coming from Australia, the tour was an opportunity to challenge themselves, gain valuable experience and enjoy cricket in one of the sport’s most passionate homes.

As Jason Sangha, Tanveer Sangha and Nikhil Chaudhary returned from their Indian tour, their journeys served as another reminder of the strong cricketing connection between Australia and India.

With both the four-day red-ball and 50-over formats offering different challenges, the players had the opportunity to develop their skills, sharpen their game awareness and test themselves against the demands

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Three players, one shared passion and a journey connecting two cricketloving nations. For Australia’s Punjabi community, their involvement was a proud moment and another reason to get behind the players as they continue pursuing their cricketing dreams. Image source: Nikhil Chaudhary (Cricket Australia)

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20 Teams to compete in Australia’s Second National KHO KHO Championship

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Desi Australia

13–15 November 2026 Wheelers Hill, Victoria Kho Kho Australia will host its Second National Kho Kho Championship from 13–15 November 2026 at Waverley Meadows Primary School in Wheelers Hill, Victoria, bringing together 20 teams for three days of national competition.

• Dedicated Kho Kho grounds were subsequently established in Victoria.

development, Raj Sura President of Kho Kho Australia said:

• Exhibition games, friendly matches, local competitions and community initiatives have helped grow the sport across several states, organised by Kho Kho Australia and in partnership with other organisations.

“In 2024, we had to search hard to ﬁnd 30 players to represent Australia at the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. By 2026, we have 300 players participating in the National Championship— a remarkable reﬂection of the sport’s growing popularity across Australia.”

The Second National Championship builds on this progress, showcasing the growing participation in Kho Kho across Australia.

A Remarkable Journey of Growth Reﬂecting on the sport’s

Kho Kho Australia welcomes the wider community, sporting enthusiasts and media representatives to attend the championship and experience the excitement of national-level Kho Kho competition.

Event Details Event:

Kho Kho Australia’s Second National Kho Kho Championship

Dates:

13–15 November 2026

Venue:

Waverley Meadows Primary School

Address:

11-27 Columbia Dr, Wheelers Hill VIC 3150

Competition categories:

Women’s and Men’s

Participating teams:

20 (10 women’s and 10 men’s)

States and territories represented:

ACT, NSW, VIC, QLD, SA and WA

• Representing in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in January 2025.

Visitor Entry:

Free Spectator Entry!

• Australia’s ﬁrst dedicated Kho Kho ground was established in Liverpool.

Streaming:

• Exhibition matches were held at the Australian Masters Games 2025.

Match schedule:

The championship will feature 10 women’s teams and 10 men’s teams, comprising 300 players and over 20 team ofﬁcials representing the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC), Queensland (QLD), South Australia (SA) and Western Australia (WA).

Building on the Growth of Kho Kho in Australia Kho Kho Australia was established in October 2024. Since then, the sport has reached several important milestones:

• The inaugural Kho Kho National Championship was held in Liverpool, NSW, in December 2025.

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Via Kho Kho Australia YouTube Channel

To be announced via below social media channels

Kho Kho Australia

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Desi Australia

ECTA was signed in April 2022 and entered into force on December 29, 2022. Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade describes the agreement as the foundation for the more ambitious CECA negotiations. Under ECTA, tariffs were eliminated or reduced on a large share of Australian exports to India, while imports from India have progressively gained expanded access to the Australian market.

ndia and Australia are seeking to accelerate negotiations for a broader trade agreement, with senior ministers discussing ways to deepen economic cooperation across pharmaceuticals, services, investment, agricultural technology and critical minerals.

The proposed CECA has been under discussion for more than a decade. Australia and India originally began negotiations for a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement in 2011, before the process was suspended in 2016. Formal negotiations resumed in 2021, eventually leading to ECTA while discussions continued towards a wider agreement.

Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met Australian Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Milwaukee, United States, as both countries work to build on their existing Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).

The next stage is expected to cover areas extending beyond traditional goods trade, particularly services and investment. Education, healthcare, technology, agriculture, energy and resources are among the sectors that form an important part of the broader economic relationship between the two countries.

The discussions focused on moving negotiations for the proposed Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) forward. The agreement is intended to expand the scope of the current trade framework and create broader opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries.

Critical minerals have also become an increasingly important area of bilateral economic cooperation. Australia has signiﬁcant mineral resources, while India is seeking secure and diversiﬁed supplies needed for advanced manufacturing, clean-energy technologies and other strategic industries.

Following the meeting, Goyal said the two ministers discussed accelerating the CECA negotiations while identifying several sectors where closer cooperation could deliver further economic opportunities. These included pharmaceuticals, services, investment, agri-tech and critical minerals.

Investment is another major component of the negotiations. India and Australia are also working towards a bilateral investment treaty, with Goyal previously indicating that the investment agreement is being pursued alongside CECA. He has described the broader trade agreement as one that should provide balanced and mutually beneﬁcial outcomes.

The ministers also reviewed the implementation of ECTA and the extent to which Indian exporters are beneﬁting from the agreement. Goyal said the discussions included efforts to ensure Indian businesses make full use of duty-free market access available under the existing arrangement.

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The economic relationship has expanded significantly in recent years. Australian government figures show that India was Australia’s fifthlargest trading partner, with two-way

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trade in goods and services reaching A$54.4 billion in the 2024–25 financial year. Australia’s investment stock in India and Indian investment in Australia have also grown, reinforcing the importance of investment provisions in future negotiations. Services are particularly important to the relationship, with education representing a major connection between the two economies. Indian students contribute significantly to Australia’s international education sector, while Australian businesses continue to explore opportunities in India’s large and expanding services and consumer markets. The Milwaukee discussions also came against a wider backdrop of pressure on the international trading system. Farrell travelled to the United States for the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting with a focus on protecting Australia’s trading interests, expanding market opportunities and supporting a rulesbased global trading system. The latest ministerial meeting follows a broader push by both governments to maintain momentum on the economic relationship. At the leadership level, Australia and India have continued discussions on trade, investment, critical minerals, technology, energy and resilient supply chains. However, the latest talks did not establish a specific deadline for concluding CECA. The two governments still need to work through outstanding issues covering goods, services, investment and other areas before a final agreement can be reached. For businesses in both countries, the next phase of negotiations could determine how much further market access and investment opportunities expand beyond the benefits already created by ECTA. The Milwaukee meeting signals continued government-level efforts to move those negotiations forward. Image source: Piyush Goyal (Facebook)

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POLITICS AUSTRALIA

Chowdhury and Eliza Rahman elected deputy mayors in Ryde, Campbelltown and Camden respectively.

Desi Australia

eptember has brought new leadership responsibilities for four South Asian councillors across Sydney, with Sandy Reddy elected Mayor of Strathﬁeld and Shweta Deshpande, Masood

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Mayor of Strathﬁeld at Council’s ordinary meeting on 29 September 2026. She will serve until September 2028, alongside newly elected Deputy Mayor Esther Kim.

The appointments bring Indian and Bangladeshi Australian representation into prominent civic roles. For the communities celebrating these achievements, they are also a reminder that participation in public life begins close to home, where council decisions shape neighbourhoods and everyday services.

Sandy Reddy elected Mayor of Strathﬁeld Councillor Sandy, also known as Sandhya, Reddy was elected the 73rd

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First elected to Council in December 2021 and re-elected in 2024, Reddy previously served two terms as Deputy Mayor, in 2023–2024 and 2025–2026. A first-generation migrant from India, she brings experience in law, migration services and community volunteering. Her contribution to local life was recognised when she was named Strathfield’s Local Citizen of the Year in 2020. “It is an honour to be elected Mayor and have the opportunity to serve the Strathfield local government area,” Reddy said following her election. She has emphasised listening to residents and working with councillors, staff and the wider community. Her election has been welcomed by Indians in Sydney, which congratulated her on the milestone and highlighted the importance of inclusive public service in a culturally diverse municipality.

Shweta Deshpande returns as Ryde Deputy Mayor Central Ward Councillor Shweta Deshpande was elected Deputy Mayor of the City of Ryde at the ordinary Council meeting on 22

pharmaceutical industry. She holds an MBA and an undergraduate degree in English Literature, and has received innovation awards for her approach to problem-solving and managing teams. Following her election, she outlined her intention to work with Mayor Trenton Brown, fellow councillors and Council staff to support a vibrant, sustainable city for present and future generations.

deputy mayoralty Councillor Eliza Rahman was elected Deputy Mayor of Camden at the ordinary Council meeting on 8 September 2026, alongside newly elected Mayor Vince Ferreri.

Mayor Brown welcomed her appointment, recognising her strategic thinking and leadership experience. Indians in Sydney also congratulated Deshpande, acknowledging her professional background and commitment to diversity, inclusion and sustainable living.

Masood Chowdhury elected Campbelltown Deputy Mayor Councillor Masood Chowdhury was elected Deputy Mayor of Campbelltown on 1 September 2026 for a 12-month term, alongside reelected Mayor Darcy Lound. First elected to Council in 2016, Chowdhury takes on the deputy mayoralty for the ﬁrst time. Members of the Bangladeshi community attended the meeting to support him, with his election drawing celebration among local residents. www.miragenews.com Chowdhury secured nine votes from the 14 councillors present. In his remarks after the result, he thanked his supporters and family and placed service to residents at the centre of his new role.

September 2026. She will hold the position until September 2027, returning to a role she previously held in 2023.

Eliza Rahman takes on Camden

“Being deputy mayor is not about the title, but about listening to the residents, it’s about service to the community,” he said.

Deshpande brings professional experience in strategic marketing and leadership within the

His appointment follows an earlier milestone for Bangladeshi representation in Campbelltown, where Councillor Masud Khalil served as Deputy Mayor after his election in September 2023.

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A Bangladeshi Australian councillor elected on the Labor ticket in 2024, Rahman’s appointment has been warmly welcomed within the Bangladeshi community. Bangladeshi media have reported her election as a milestone for women from the diaspora in Australian local government. “I can’t wait to continue to serve this wonderful community in my new position,” Rahman said in Council’s announcement. Her new role comes as Camden continues to experience rapid population growth. Mayor Ferreri has identiﬁed the need for infrastructure to keep pace with that growth as an important area of advocacy for the Council. Together, these four appointments offer South Asian communities visible examples of civic participation and leadership. Their responsibilities now extend to serving all residents of their respective council areas, listening to local concerns and helping guide decisions that will shape their communities. Image source: Sandy Reddy (FB) Shweta Deshpande (City of Ryde) Cr Masood Chowdhury (FB) Australian High Commission, Bangladesh (FB)

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HEALTH AND WELL BEING AUSTRALIA

Dental care after moving to Australia: A guide for South Asian families Why it is better not to wait for pain

Why it is better not to wait for pain

Tooth decay and gum disease can develop without pain in their early stages. Waiting until a tooth hurts may mean that a problem requires more extensive treatment.

nderstanding dental costs, overcoming language barriers and knowing when to book can help families feel more conﬁdent about dental care in Australia.

Regular dental visits can help identify problems early. Your dentist can recommend how often you should attend based on your oral health and individual needs.

Moving to a new country comes with a long to-do list. Finding a school, a GP, a bank and somewhere to live can take priority, leaving dental appointments for another day.

If you have not visited a dentist for several years, there is no need to feel embarrassed. Let the clinic know when booking, and explain any concerns you have.

For some South Asian families settling in Australia, unfamiliar costs, language barriers and uncertainty about the healthcare system can make booking a dental visit feel daunting.

Understanding dental costs in Australia

Medicare does not cover most adult dental examinations and treatment. This can come as a surprise to families who are still learning how Australia’s healthcare system works.

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Understanding the options available can help families take the ﬁrst step.

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Before starting treatment, ask for a written, itemised quote and discuss the available options.

during the night?

Some ways to understand and manage costs include:

Ask when booking whether a team member speaks your preferred language or whether interpreter support can be arranged. Bring a list of your medicines, including those obtained overseas. Ask the dentist to speak slowly, use plain language or explain treatment with a picture. Ask questions whenever something is unclear. Understanding your options is an important part of feeling comfortable with your care.

• Check your private health cover. If you have extras cover, ask your insurer which dental services are included, what limits apply and whether you have any waiting periods. • Ask about treatment priorities. If several treatments are recommended, ask whether they can be completed in stages, with urgent needs addressed first. • Check public dental eligibility. In Queensland, eligible residents with Medicare eligibility and a qualifying concession card may be able to access free public dental care. Contact your local public dental service to confirm eligibility and waiting arrangements. • Check children’s benefits. Eligible children aged 0–17 may receive help through the Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule. • For eligible children whose twocalendar-year benefit period begins in 2026, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule provides up to $1,158 towards specified basic dental services. Medicare eligibility and other conditions apply. Families can check eligibility and their available balance through Medicare or Services Australia. Public dental eligibility and services vary between states and territories. Readers outside Queensland should check with their local health department. Making appointments easier when English is your second language Describing dental pain can be difficult, particularly when you are speaking a language you are less comfortable using. Before your appointment, write down when the problem started, where it hurts and what makes it better or worse. For example, does the pain occur with cold drinks, when biting or

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You can also:

Tell your dentist about your health and habits Your general health, medicines and some chewing habits can affect your oral health. Tell your dentist if you have diabetes, and provide an up-to-date list of your medicines. It is also important to mention any use of paan, supari, gutka or other products containing areca nut or tobacco. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classiﬁes areca nut and betel quid, with or without tobacco, as carcinogenic to humans. Your dentist can discuss these risks and examine your mouth for changes.

When should children first visit a dentist? Children should have their first dental visit when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Early appointments help children become familiar with the dental setting and give parents an opportunity to ask about brushing, food choices and caring for developing teeth. During Diwali and other celebrations, when sweets are often shared, families can also ask their dentist for

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practical advice about protecting children’s teeth.

A simple checklist before your visit Before attending, prepare: A short description of your symptoms and when they started. A list of medicines and relevant health conditions. Your Medicare, concession or private health insurance details, where applicable. Questions about treatment options, costs and language support.

Taking the ﬁrst step For many families, booking the ﬁrst appointment is the biggest hurdle. Whether you have recently arrived in Australia or have been putting off a visit for years, understanding the system and discussing your concerns can help you take the next step towards caring for your oral health.

About the author Dr Matthew Peyravi is a general dentist at Pure Dentistry in Upper Mount Gravatt, Brisbane. Disclosure: The author works at Pure Dentistry. This contributed article provides general information and does not replace individual advice from a dentist or other qualiﬁed health professional.

Further information Services Australia: Child Dental Beneﬁts Schedule Queensland Government: Public dental services Australian Government: What Medicare covers Australian Dental Association: First dental visits World Health Organization: Betel quid and areca nut cancer risks

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Mahananda Dasgupta, Robin Khuda, Parwinder Kaur and Rajeev Varshney

Named ATSE 2026 Fellows

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deeper understanding of processes taking place within atomic nuclei.

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our prominent ﬁgures with strong connections to science, technology, research, innovation and industry have been elected as Fellows of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) for 2026. Professor Mahananda Dasgupta, Robin Khuda, Hon Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC and Professor Rajeev Varshney are among 34 new Fellows recognised by ATSE for achievements spanning scientiﬁc research, technology infrastructure, agricultural biotechnology, industry leadership and public policy. ATSE describes its Fellows as leading experts who contribute knowledge and expertise to help Australia understand and apply technology to major challenges. The 2026 cohort brings together researchers, entrepreneurs, engineers, policymakers and innovators from across the country.

Professor Mahananda Dasgupta: Advancing Nuclear Science and Technology Professor Mahananda Dasgupta, Director of the Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility at The Australian National University, has been recognised for her contributions to nuclear physics, nuclear reactions and advanced scientiﬁc instrumentation. Her research has focused on understanding nuclear reactions at a fundamental level, including precision measurements of quantum processes associated with nuclear fusion. According to ATSE, her measurements have inﬂuenced nuclear physics research internationally and contributed to a

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Beyond fundamental research, Dasgupta has played a major role in developing and leading Australia’s national heavy-ion accelerator infrastructure. The technology has applications extending across nuclear and quantum science, environmental research, defence and space. She is also involved in developing scientiﬁc capability and addressing skills shortages in nuclear science. In partnership with universities and industry, she is leading a training centre designed to strengthen Australia’s future nuclear-science workforce. Dasgupta has additionally supported efforts to improve diversity in STEM and has provided scientiﬁc expertise to policymakers through her involvement with the National Science and Technology Council. Her election as an ATSE Fellow adds to an already distinguished career. She is an elected Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science and the American Physical Society and has received major recognition including the Pawsey Medal.

Robin Khuda: Building Australia’s Digital Infrastructure Robin Khuda has been recognised for his contribution to Australia’s technology sector through his leadership as Founder and CEO of AirTrunk, a company that develops and operates hyperscale data-centre infrastructure across the Asia-Paciﬁc and Middle East.

computing, artiﬁcial intelligence, digital services, communications and large-scale data storage. Khuda’s work has therefore placed him at the intersection of technology infrastructure and Australia’s rapidly developing digital economy. His contribution also extends beyond commercial technology. Through the Khuda Family Foundation, he donated A$100 million to the University of Sydney to establish a 20-year program aimed at creating STEM pathways for girls from Western Sydney. The initiative reﬂects Khuda’s broader focus on expanding opportunities for young people and encouraging greater participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Khuda founded AirTrunk and opened the company’s ﬁrst data centre in 2017. The business subsequently became a major player in the region’s digital infrastructure sector and was acquired by Blackstone and CPP Investments in 2024 in a transaction valued at A$24 billion. Data centres have become increasingly important to modern economies as demand rises for cloud

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ATSE’s recognition places his entrepreneurial and technology leadership alongside Australia’s leading researchers and innovators in the 2026 Fellowship cohort.

Hon Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC: Connecting Science With Public Policy Hon Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC brings a combination of scientiﬁc research, biotechnology expertise and parliamentary experience to the 2026 ATSE Fellows. Kaur is a scientist and Member of the Legislative Council of Western Australia whose work has focused on biodiversity genomics, agricultural resilience and biotechnology. She founded the Australian chapter of DNA Zoo, a global genomics initiative that has supported genome sequencing of more than 45 iconic Australian species.

to the Australian Government’s Pathways to Diversity in STEM Review. She also established the Parliamentary Friends of Science, Medical Advancement, Research, Technology and Talent, known as SMARTT, to encourage greater engagement with science, research, technology and innovation. Her ATSE Fellowship recognises the combination of scientific expertise and public policy leadership represented in her career. Kaur has also highlighted the importance of encouraging more young people to see science and STEM as fields in which they can build their futures. Her journey from scientific research to elected public office has made her a notable figure in Australia’s science and policy landscape.

Her scientiﬁc work has contributed to the development of genomic resources for Australian biodiversity and to the wider use of biotechnology in agriculture and environmental research. Kaur entered the Western Australian Parliament in 2025 and has since brought her scientiﬁc background into public policy discussions. She served as a special adviser on Western Australia’s 10-year Science and Technology Plan and contributed

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Professor Rajeev Varshney: Strengthening Agricultural Biotechnology Professor Rajeev Varshney has been recognised for his work in agricultural biotechnology, crop genomics and the development of technologies aimed at improving agricultural productivity and resilience.

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to the Australian Government’s Pathways to Diversity in STEM Review. Varshney is Director of the Centre for Crop and Food Innovation and Director of the WA State Agricultural Biotechnology Centre at Murdoch University. He also serves as International Chair for Agriculture and Food Security at the university. His research has contributed to genomic resources and breeding platforms for important crops, including wheat, pulses and horticultural crops. His work has helped support the development of higher-yielding and climate-resilient varieties for Australia, Asia and Africa. In Australia, Varshney has focused on making genomic resources and precision-breeding technologies more accessible and practical. These efforts have implications for agricultural productivity, sustainability, grower proﬁtability and the ability of farming systems to respond to challenging environmental conditions. His work has also contributed to strengthening Australia’s agricultural biotechnology capability and connecting scientiﬁc research with industry and farming applications. Varshney has trained more than 450 scientists around the world and has been an advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM. His election to ATSE follows his election to The Royal Society in 2023 and the Australian Academy of Science in 2025.

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only recognition of achievement but also carries a responsibility to contribute expertise to national conversations, government advice and STEM education and workforce development. The 2026 Fellows will be formally showcased at the ATSE New Fellows Showcase in Sydney on October 28, alongside the Academy’s awards program.

reﬂecting the growing importance of connecting research and innovation with practical outcomes for the wider community. Image source: The Australian National University (FB) Dr Parwinder Kaur MLC (FB) Professor Rajeev Varshney (FB)

The recognition of Mahananda Dasgupta, Robin Khuda, Parwinder Kaur and Rajeev Varshney highlights the diverse contributions being made across Australia’s scientiﬁc, technological, entrepreneurial and agricultural sectors, while also His Fellowship highlights the growing importance of agricultural science and biotechnology in addressing food security, climate resilience and sustainable production.

Four Different Fields, One National Recognition Although Dasgupta, Khuda, Kaur and Varshney work in very different ﬁelds, their careers demonstrate the broad range of expertise represented within Australia’s science and technology ecosystem. Dasgupta’s work centres on nuclear physics and advanced scientiﬁc infrastructure, while Khuda has helped develop large-scale digital infrastructure. Kaur combines biotechnology and genomics with parliamentary policymaking, while Varshney focuses on agricultural biotechnology and crop improvement. ATSE said its 2026 Fellows were elected for outstanding achievements across applied science and engineering, industry leadership, policymaking, research and commercialisation. The Academy’s new cohort includes 34 innovators from academia, industry, government and research. ATSE President Dr Cathy Foley congratulated the new Fellows and emphasised that Fellowship is not

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Isla’s Ridge: A Slow, Soulful Escape into the Palani Hills Desi Australia

here are trips one undertakes to see a place, and there are trips one undertakes to be elsewhere. My two nights and three days at Isla’s Ridge, high in the Palani Hills, belonged unmistakably to the second kind. The road from the world I had left behind seemed to grow progressively less interested in civilisation. Somewhere along the way, the traﬃc thinned, the roads narrowed, and the familiar vocabulary of the city…horns, deadlines, notiﬁcations, the incessant choreography of people going somewhere; began to dissolve. By the time the road slipped into the village of Manjalparappu and then into the estate, I had the curious sensation that I had not merely travelled a distance but crossed a border between two notions of time. The entrance itself gives away something of what lies ahead. Angel’s Trumpets arch overhead in pink, yellow and white; ducks and chickens wander about with the unhurried authority of permanent residents. The driveway winds through old-growth forest before arriving at the ridge, where two whitewashed plantation bungalows sit quietly above the valley.

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At roughly 1,200 metres above sea level, Isla’s Ridge occupies an extraordinary corner of the Palani Hills, part of the Western Ghats and the biodiverse Shola landscape. The estate stretches across forty acres of heritage coﬀee and pepper plantations. Yet it is not the scale that impresses. It is the feeling of being suspended above everything else. The ﬁrst thing I noticed was the silence. Not the sterile silence of an empty room, but the complicated silence of the countryside: leaves shifting somewhere beyond the veranda, birds announcing themselves from trees one cannot see, the occasional sound of an animal, the

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wind moving through the hillside. Silence here was not an absence of sound. It was a diﬀerent composition of sound. My room had the particular warmth one associates with a house that has been inhabited and loved rather than a hotel room assembled for temporary occupation. Wooden ﬂoors, vintage furniture, lamps and objects collected by Isla, and a private veranda looking towards the valley gave the space the character of a private retreat rather than an anonymous accommodation. The interiors are, in fact, an extension of Isla’s own aesthetic world, a meeting of European furnishings, Indian textiles, antiques and objects collected over a lifetime.

There was something wonderfully primitive about it. No itinerary, no sightseeing list, no particular destination. Just a man walking with horses through a hillside estate while the day slowly assembled itself around him. A little further along the path. One more turn. A pause beneath a tree. Another handful of feed. The valley opening suddenly between the foliage.

never still, but it never seemed hurried either. CGH Earth describes the surrounding region as part of the Shola forests, and the estate itself has undertaken eﬀorts towards rewilding portions of the land. The property encourages guests to put aside their devices, walk through the

I began to understand why the most memorable journeys are sometimes those in which almost nothing happens.

I had come alone. But I soon discovered that solitude and loneliness are entirely diﬀerent things. My companions, unexpectedly, were horses. Isla’s Ridge has two ponies, Potluck and Blue Diamond, and it did not take long for them to become the centre of my days. What had begun as an innocent visit to the estate animals gradually became a small ritual. I found myself returning to them in the morning, feeding them, running a hand along their backs, lingering beside them longer than I had intended. Eventually, I began taking them for walks.

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Mornings at Isla’s Ridge were especially deceptive. One woke to the mist and cool air of the hills, stepped onto the veranda with coﬀee, and watched the valley change almost imperceptibly. Clouds would gather and retreat; sunlight would ﬁnd one hillside and leave another in shadow. The landscape was

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wilderness, watch the birds and spend time with its farm animals. These are not grand activities in the conventional resort sense. They are invitations to notice things. And noticing, I discovered, becomes an activity in itself when one has been away from the noise for long enough. There were birdsong and butterﬂies, the occasional movement in the trees, the scent of damp earth after mist. The swimming pool sat quietly against the landscape, but somehow it was the library that exerted the greater pull. Isla’s collection of books is as much a part of the house as its furniture. One could spend an afternoon there with a book and coﬀee and feel absolutely no obligation to go anywhere else. The open air dining room was another such place. It is wonderfully unlike the dining rooms of conventional hotels. Prints,

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masks, statues, Jaipur rugs and objects gathered from across India surround the table, while the library and its accumulated wisdom seem to spill naturally into the space. The result is eclectic without being theatrical. One has the feeling of sitting inside someone’s life rather than inside a design concept. The food follows the same philosophy. Breakfast was unhurried. Eggs, fresh bread, fruit, and the possibility of dosa or vadai with chutneys; coﬀee sourced from a nearby estate. Lunches were lighter, dinners more elaborate. The kitchen draws upon Tamil traditions, recipes from the Nilgiris and the culinary inﬂuences of the Raj period, while using produce from the garden and surrounding farms. Yet for all the beauty of the property, I found myself thinking less about its architecture and more about its temperament.

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Isla’s Ridge does not feel like a hotel in the conventional sense. It feels like being allowed temporarily into someone’s extraordinarily well-lived life. Perhaps that is inevitable because the place began as Isla Van Damme’s own world. Born in Kodaikanal in 1945, Isla spent much of her life between India and Europe, working as a designer and developing a distinctive eye for textiles, jewellery, antiques and interiors. She acquired the estate in 2016 and gradually shaped it into what it is today; CGH Earth later came on board as a partner. Before Isla’s Ridge, her hospitality life had included the Olive Ridley café in Goa. The history gives the place its particular soul. There is a diﬀerence between a hotel designed to look personal and a home that has subsequently become a hotel. Isla’s Ridge belongs to the latter category. On my ﬁnal morning, I had breakfast at my table expecting nothing more than

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My own stay had begun as an escape from the city. By the time I left, it felt more like an encounter. There is a particular kind of luxury in being somewhere that asks nothing of you. No sightseeing checklist. No pressure to be entertained. No compulsion to fill every hour. At Isla’s Ridge, the day can simply be allowed to happen. As I drove away, the hills receded slowly behind me. The city would eventually return…he traffic, the screens, the appointments, the familiar urgency of modern life. But for two nights and three days, I had inhabited another rhythm. Perhaps that is the real gift of Isla’s Ridge. It does not make you forget the world. It merely reminds you that the world can be experienced at a different speed.

another quiet meal before departure. And then I met Isla. She joined me at the breakfast table and, for a while, the distinction between guest and host seemed to disappear. She spoke with the ease of someone for whom stories are not performances but simply the natural residue of a life lived across continents, professions and decades. I listened. There were stories from her long experience, fragments of places and people, recollections that seemed to stretch far beyond the boundaries of the estate. I remember thinking that the most interesting thing about meeting someone who has lived an unusually rich life is not the number of places they have been, but the way those places continue to live inside them. Isla seemed to carry her worlds lightly. And suddenly the horses, the library, the collected objects, the European furniture, the Indian textiles, the kitchen, the gardens and even the peculiar quietness of the ridge made greater sense. They were not separate features of a boutique hotel. They were chapters of the same story.

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