MCCQ May 2024 Vol 1 Issue 1

CONNECT QUEENSLAND

Multicultural Australia and QPASTT organised a community leaders Forum and Dinner on May 7th 2024 at Brisbane Multicultural Center

Multicultural Australia and QPASTT organised it’s first Community Leader’s dinner for this year. Hon. Minister for Multicutlural Affairs Ms. Charis Mullen MP was in attendance.

She also addressed the community leaders and gave insightful information regarding Domestic Violence and financial grants that are much needed for the communities to thrive. Regarding domestic violence she was very much humbled by the efforts that are currently being taken by the community leaders to combat the violence against women in their communities. She said she was completely upset with what is going on in the community regarding violence against women. She

encouraged the men folk in the room to join hands in working together to prevent the violence. She was glad to see the men folks in the room advocating for the prevention of violence against women.

Regarding the funding for community organisations she said that she would love to fund every community organisation for their various activities however there is only one pool of funds and that is not enough. Hence she also appeals that community organisations use the funds wisely to fund projects that are the need of the day and implement programs that benefit the community at large.

The forum was very well

attended by community leaders from all faiths, and countries.

CEO of Multicultural Australia Ms. Christine Castley also addressed the community leaders and let everyone know of the activities Multicultural Australia has put forth for the Multicultural Month.

Leaders who attended the forum were Beny Bol from Queensland African Community Council. Mama Saba Abraham, Habib Jamal from Multicultural Police Advisory committee.

Please visit Multicutural Australia website for more information. https://www. multiculturalaustralia.org.au/

Queenslander Archie Moore triumphs at Venice

Biennale-

(Written by Phil Brown)

Brisbane, April 22

(first published in Review) Toowoomba-born Queensland artist Archie Moore is the toast of the art world after taking out one of the top honours in visual arts globally.

Creative Australia announced that Archie Moore’s exhibition kith and kin at the Australia Pavilion has been awarded the prestigious Golden Lion for Best National Participation at La Biennale de Venezia 2024 (Venice Biennale). This is the first time an Australian artist has received this accolade.

In kith and kin, Moore transforms the Australia Pavilion with an expansive, genealogical chart spanning 65,000 years. kith and kin is curated by Ellie Buttrose, who is a curator at the Queensland

Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane. The work was commissioned by Creative Australia.

The artwork bridges the personal and the political. While many of the stories in kith and kin are specific to the artist’s family, they mirror narratives throughout the world. Through this lens Moore highlights our shared ancestry and humanity: through the interconnectedness of people, place and time.

Awarding the accolade, the jury of the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia described his work as creating a “quiet, impactful pavilion”. “Archie Moore worked for months to handdraw in chalk a monumental First Nation family tree. Thus 65,000 years of history

(both recorded and lost) are inscribed on the dark walls and ceiling, inviting viewers to fill in the blanks and grasp the inherent fragility of this mournful archive.

“This installation stands out for its strong aesthetic, its lyricism and its invocation of a shared loss of an occluded past. With his inventory of thousands of names, Moore also offers a glimmer of the possibility of recovery.”

Moore, 54, who lives on Brisbane’s bayside, beat artists competing from 85 other countries. He says he is grateful for the accolade.

“It makes me feel honoured to be rewarded for the hard work one does,” Moore says. “I am grateful to everyone who has always been part of my continued on pg. 2

Rollout begins for Australian-first pharmacy pilot

Brisbane, April 24 (MCCQ Newsdesk Ministerial Press Release)

An Australian-first pharmacy pilot to improve access to healthcare is now underway in north Queensland. This will allow participating pharmacists to treat and prescribe medicines for a range of common health conditions.

The pilot will expand across the state over the next 12 months as more pharmacists complete the required education and training programs.

A new pilot that will expand the health services available through Queensland’s community pharmacies commenced today (24 April).

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman visited Alive Pharmacy Warehouse in Cairns which is one of the pharmacies that is participating in the Queensland Community Pharmacy Scope of Practice Pilot.

This innovative Australianfirst pilot will provide greater access to healthcare for common health conditions, wellbeing services and chronic disease programs.

Pharmacists are required to complete additional education and training to ensure they

are safely able to manage all conditions included in the pilot.

The pilot will expand across the state over the next 12 months as more pharmacists complete the required education and training program and will continue until June 2026.

The pilot enables pharmacists to treat and prescribe medicines for a wide range of health conditions and wellbeing services including:

Nausea and vomiting

Reflux

Nasal congestion and hay

fever

Acne

Eczema

Mild psoriasis flare ups

School sores

Shingles

Minor wounds

Ear infections

Mild pain and inflammation

Support to quit smoking

Hormonal contraception

Oral health screening and fluoride application

Travel health

Management of weight and obesity

Heart disease risk reduction

(including blood pressure and cholesterol management)

continued on pg. 2

Brisbane, May 8 (MCCQ Newsdesk written by Amrita Deshpande)

Publisher Dr. Noel Kannagaraj

Editor

Mrs. Amrita Deshpande Dr. Ram Mohan

Contributors

Amrita Deshpande

Various Organisations, Volunteers and Members of MCCQ

Website Design & Updates

A’s Design Studio

Designing Layout

A’s Design Studio

Editorial secretary@mccq.org.au

Advertising secretary@mccq.org.au

Multicultural Community Connect Queensland Unit 49, 391, WICKHAM TERRACE, Ground Floor, Spring Hill, Brisbane, QLD – 4000

Rollout begins for Australian-first pharmacy pilot

... continued from page 1

Improved symptom management for people with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Asthma

As of today, ten pharmacists and six pharmacies had been approved to participate in the pilot. These numbers are expected to increase in the coming days and weeks as clinicians and practices finalise their training, including one in Sarina.

The pilot follows the Queensland Government’s successful Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Pharmacy Pilot, which helped more than

10,000 women access treatment for uncomplicated UTIs through their local pharmacy.

This program has since been permanently implemented and is available at participating pharmacies.

Premier Steven Miles explains his commitment to the plan:

“Our Government is committed to making sure Queenslanders can access good quality healthcare, no matter where they live across the state.

“We know our hardworking pharmacists are more than

capable to deliver these services – for common health conditions - and divert people away from our emergency departments and GPs.

“I am really proud that Queensland is leading the nation with this initiative.”

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman:

“We are making it easier for Queenslanders to get the care they need quicker and closer to home.

“Our pharmacists are highly trained and regulated healthcare professionals.

“It’s why the Miles Government made a commitment to implement this pilot that allows pharmacists to practice to their full scope.

“Receiving treatment and medication for common health conditions without having to make an appointment with a GP will be a gamechanger for so many people.

“In a decentralised state like

Queenslander Archie Moore triumphs at Venice Biennale-

... continued from page 1

journey – from my kith to my kin – to my Creative Australia team and everyone else back home and those of the Venice lagoon.

“As the water flows through the canals of Venice to the lagoon, then to the Adriatic Sea, it then travels to the oceans and to the rest of the world – enveloping the continent of Australia – connecting us all here on Earth. Aboriginal kinship systems include all living things from the environment in a larger

network of relatedness, the land itself can be a mentor or a parent to a child. We are all one and share a responsibility of care to all living things now and into the future.”

Creative Australia’s executive director First Nations arts and culture Franchesca Cubillo congratulated Moore on “his historic accolade”.

“kith and kin is an extraordinary history painting of unprecedented scale,” Cubillo says. “The celestial map of names traces Archie’s

Kamilaroi and Bigambul relations over 65,000 years, demonstrating the resilience and strength of the First Nations people of Australia. Through this powerful and compelling artwork Archie asserts Indigenous sovereignty and celebrates the ongoing vitality of First Nations knowledge systems and kinship.”

Curator Ellie Buttrose says the work “enfolds all of us into Archie’s family” while Federal Minister for the Arts Tony Burke says it demonstrates “the power of

Australian art and storytelling going right back to the first sunrise”.

“Australian stories help us to understand ourselves, know more about each other and let the world get to know us. That’s exactly what this artwork does.”

Moore’s friend, Brisbane artist Bianca Beetson, now director, First Nations, at the Queensland Museum, studied with him at QUT in Brisbane.

“There were three of us,

Queensland, it’s so important we continue to improve access to healthcare for Queenslanders, especially in rural and remote areas.

“It’s about giving Queenslanders more choice and more access to healthcare.”

For more information on the services provided and participating pharmacies, visit: Queensland Community Pharmacy Scope of Practice Pilot | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)

(Written by Phil Brown)

Aboriginal students in a very white visual arts degree, but we still found ways to express our identity through our work,” Beetson posted on Facebook. “And all I can say is wow … what an amazing expression of your identity and clear articulation of what it means to be connected to the world’s oldest living culture.”

The exhibition continues until November 24 in the Australia Pavilion at La Biennale de Venezia 2024.

Dr Noel A.

Kanagaraj Chairman & Multicultural Ambassador

drnoel@noelnetwork.com +61 403 799 976

The term Time Management is a misnomer. You cannot manage time; you manage the events in your life in relation to time. You may often wish for more time, but you only get 24 hours, 1,440 minutes, or 86,400 seconds each day. How you use that time depends on skills learned through self-analysis, planning, evaluation, and self-control. Much like money, time is both valuable and limited. It must be protected, used wisely, and budgeted.

People who practice good time management techniques often find that they:

• Are more productive.

• Have more energy for things they need to accomplish.

• Feel less stressed.

• Have more free time to do the things they want.

• Get more things done.

• Relate more positively to others.

• Feel better about themselves.

Finding a time management strategy that works best for you depends on your personality, ability to self-motivate, and level of self-discipline.

Know How You Spend Your Time

A time log is a helpful way to determine how you use your time. Record what you are doing in 15-minute intervals for a week or two. Evaluate the results:

• Did everything you needed to do get done?

• Which tasks require the most time?

• What time of day when you are most productive?

• Where is most of your time is devoted (i.e. job, family, personal, recreation)? Identifying your most time-consuming tasks and determining whether you are investing your time in the most important activities can help you to determine a course of action. Having a good sense of the time required for routine tasks can help you be more realistic in planning and estimating how much time is available for other activities.

Set Priorities

Managing your time effectively requires a distinction between what is important and what is urgent (MacKenzie, 1990). Experts agree that the most important tasks usually aren’t the most urgent tasks. However, we tend to let the urgent tasks dominate our lives. Covey, Merrill, and Merrill (1994) categorize activities into four quadrants in their Time Management Matrix: urgent, not urgent, important, and not important. While activities that are both urgent and important must be done, Covey et al. suggests spending less time on activities that are not important (regardless of their urgency) to gain time for activities that are not urgent but important. Focusing on these important activities allows you to gain greater control over your time and may reduce the number of important tasks that become urgent.

In the Studio – and the tearoom – with Jingwei Bu

Brisbane, April 24 (first published inReview)

Tea is more than mere social lubricant for Jingwei Bu, a multi-disciplinary artist whose work is influenced by Buddhist Chan philosophy and who was recently invited to stay at the Byron Bay studio of celebrated painter and sculptor Lindy Lee. When it comes to the story of Jingwei Bu, tea is perhaps the best place to begin.

Bu, a multi-disciplinary Adelaide artist who works with everything from drawing to installations, makes tea for every one of her visitors.

“I love this human connection,” she says, as we sit across from each other at a Chinese kang table. “This is truly beautiful.”

She brews white tea and serves Chinese dried dates and corn crackers, which, she explains, are made from Australian corn.

The room we’re in is next to an open-plan studio that houses endless materials and a large piano. This tearoom, however, is as much of a creative space as the studio, as the walls are decorated with tea-stained pieces of paper.

The papers were collected

during a three-month residency at Nexus Arts in 2021, titled Pouring Tea Until It Is All Evaporated. For the residency, Bu hosted daily tea ceremonies with audience members.

“I use white paper as a mat [under the teacups] and it carries the memories,” she explains of the practice which she continues now, serving tea in a cup on a stack of white paper.

“Paper has been always comfortable because it’s in my heart, in my flesh.

“I grew up in the paper country – Chinese people invented paper! For me, it carries the energy and the time we spend together.”

The act of pouring tea is extracted from the Buddhist Chan teaching about letting go of one’s obstinate intention.

Bu was a finalist in the emerging artists’ category of the SA Museum’s 2024 Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize with a “tea calligraphy” piece titled Water # 3 which features repetitive shapes painted on a canvas with tea water.

“It’s culture, blending,” she

explains.

“The canvas is Western art material, obviously. The tea water is Chinese oriental art elements.”

Buddhist Chen philosophy is an ongoing stimulus for Bu’s work. She is currently exploring the teaching that individuals go through several cycles of birth, living, death and rebirth. This is something the artist encountered herself during two life-threatening birth experiences with her children. She has drawn from it for her upcoming performance work Bloody Ink Play.

“It’s not only about the experience of birth, the pain and the struggle, or the experience of dying and becoming alive again,” she says.

“It’s about how I gather my strength to move on and to get healthier again. It’s about how weak I was, and fragile inside and outside, physically, mentally.

“After giving to the newborns, everything’s gone. Where I am? I don’t know. Who I am? I don’t know.”

The work features a big ink pot, and Bu – wearing a white dress – will be dipped into the ink.

“It will be in slow motion, and you can hear that blood, the black blood, the ink water, go from the dress on to the leg to the feet to the pot.

“You can hear this beautiful drip.”

Bloody Ink Play – which features live music by Emily Tulloch – is part of Adelaide Festival Centre’s inSPACE Program and will have a work-in-progress showing on May 9. An earlier iteration was performed in Sydney in 2022, and Bu envisions that it will be developed even further to feature more elements that show the light and shade of life in greater depth.

“It will be the cheerfulness of life. The triumph of being alive, and celebrating everything: the pain, the struggle, the effort, and the joy, the simple joy… the achievement. Everything is part of life.”

Alongside the development of Bloody Ink Play, Bu is also completing a Guildhouse Catapult Mentorship with renowned Australian painter and sculptor Lindy Lee, whose 6m-high sculpture The Life of Stars graces the entrance to the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Bu has just spent a week living with Lee, whose

Written by Michelle Wakim

work blends the cultures of Australia and her ancestral China and explores her Buddhist faith.

“She invited me to stay in her [Byron Bay] studio,” Bu recounts.

“I basically became part of her life. I stayed in the bedroom opposite her bedroom. She never shut the door.

“The gesture of the invitation to her life, without any knowledge or context apart from a couple of Zoom meetings, already tells us everything about we need to know about Lindy.”

Bu is now in the process of developing a project in direct response to this encounter with Lee, exploring the themes of Chinese immigration, femininity and motherhood. While this project is still in its early days, she hopes it will be a moving image piece featuring Lee.

The mentorship has also encouraged Bu to play with the new medium of aluminium, in an effort to uncover a new way of exploring the idea of time and permanence.

“I think it’s a big step from what I’m doing in terms of the material,” she says.

“I’m going from being a paper person to a metal person! And from the gentleness of a very Zen experience of sharing tea, the performance of pouring, and the impermanence of these water concepts, to the kind of permanent material and statement of mental.

“If you punch or dent aluminium, it takes the memory of what’s happening, and we’ll never take it back.”

Exploring the possibility of permanence is, after all, what collecting the tea-stained piece of paper was all about.

“The tea stains will be faded in probably 200 years,” she says. “It reminds me my life is short and impermanent.”

Read more about Jingwei Bu and her practice on her website. Her work Water # 3 can currently be seen in the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize exhibiton at the SA Museum. Bloody Ink Play will have a work-in-progress showing on May 9 the Drama Centre Rehearsal Room at Adelaide Festival Centre.

In the Studio is a regular series presented by InReview in partnership with not-forprofit organisation Guildhouse (read our previous stories here). Guildhouse’s Catapult mentorships are supported by donations from its Creative Champions. Jingwei Bu was also part of the Art Works artist and writer-in-residence in the program in 2022, collaborating with writer Eleen Deprez.

Tea is integral to Jingwei Bu’s arts practice.

Photo: Jack Fenby

Jingwei Bu in her light-filled studio. Photo: Jack Fenby

Buddhist Chen philosophy is a stimulus for Bu’s work. Photo: Jack Fenby

Jingwei Bu in her light-filled studio. Photo: Jack Fenby

Multicultural Women’s Expo was a new feature of this year’s ‘Women in Conversation’ in addition to our annual art exhibition during

Queensland Women’s Week.

Brisbane, April 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk, MCCGC Press Release)

Multicultural Women’s Expo was a new feature of this year’s ‘Women in Conversation’ in addition to our annual art exhibition during Queensland Women’s Week.

The expo was a combination of a group exhibition, well-being activities, story-sharing, original arts-crafts display, and Celebrating International Woman’s Day with 19 different performances and live music.

The Expo held on 9 March 2024 at Robina Auditorium and Gallery, displayed local creative talents.

The event was large in concept, delivery, number of activities, number of audiences, number of participants and number of volunteers.

The event was a jam-packed day filled with performances

from various cultures.

The ‘Free-Style’ Exhibit at the Robina Art Gallery, which brought together emerging and established artists, attracted crowds during the exhibition period.

This project once again proves the position GCMAGIC as a pioneer community arts organisation.

The feedback from the participants and attendees on social media and through the survey system echoed the great successes of this innovative community project. The posts by the stall holders and some of the feedback on social media.

The Women’s Expo was very well designed to serve to connect CALD creative people to the wider communities. This strategy and aim were

perfectly achieved because the participants were all from Culturally Diverse backgrounds while the majority (not all), of audiences, were from the wider community or otherwise community in general.

The activities of the Women’s Expo were developed during the process of the project based on the demands and needs of the target women.

The number of Expressions of Interest received was over our expectations and forced us to extend the timeframe much more than originally planned. This event motivates women from CALD communities to connect, network, encourage and break the line of isolation.

Multicultural Women’s Expo is a signature event on the City of Gold Coast and will be held annually.

To Advertise in our MCCQ Newspaper please contact secretary@mccq.org.au.

Following are the rate to advertise in our newspaper.

Full Page

Advertisement

(253mm x 350mm)

$1000

Half Page Advertisement (253mm x 177mm)

$500

Quarter Page Advertisement (124 mm x 177mm)

$250

The rates are negotiable and we give discounts if you lock in for six months or 12 months of advertising.

National treasure: Everything old and new again!

Brisbane, April 18

(MCCQ Newsdesk) (Originally published in InReview)

It’s Brisbane, but not as we know it. The photographs of Alfred Elliot, an amateur snapper, chronicled the Queensland capital in the late 19th and early 20th century and they capture a city in the making.

When the treasure trove of his photos was unearthed and donated to Brisbane City Council it was a boon and a gift that keeps on giving.

In launching season 2024 at the Museum of Brisbane (MoB) this week, CEO and director Zoe Graham announced that a key exhibition in August would mine the archive of Elliot’s photos for a show that also features wellknown local photographers’ responses to them.

“The exhibition isn’t just about Elliot,” Graham explains. “We have done that already. But what we have are others coming in and using Elliot’s work as a starting point. We have seven contemporary artist photographers doing seven commissions including First Nations perspectives.”

Marian Drew, Carl Warner and First Nations artist Joanne

Driessen will be among the artists involved in New Light: Photography Now + Then, which will open at MoB’s Brisbane City Hall spaces in August.

Graham, who has been in charge for 10 months now and seems to have settled in quite nicely, and confidently, shakes her head in wonder at the riches that lie within the Alfred Elliot photo collection, which is now part of the City of Brisbane Collection.

“There were hundreds of these photos, plates and negatives found under a house in Red Hill,” she says. “There were 300 at first and then they uncovered hundreds more. They are all in the collection now and stored at an undisclosed location. Alfred Elliot’s subject was the emerging city of Brisbane.

“This photographic exhibition will perfectly demonstrate what MoB is all about, the old and the new, history and art. And as usual there will be a public component with a call out for photos from locals to be juxtaposed against the work of Elliot and the contemporary artists.

“We will curate and select around 50 to 100, which will

form a major body of work,” Graham adds.

The second major exhibition at MoB this year (I should mention these exhibitions are free, which we appreciate) is Precious, which opens in November celebrating the complex and rich narratives of some of the most inspired public and private collections across the city.

Hundreds of highly coveted objects from more than 20 diverse and distinct collections will be on view, ranging from textiles, ceramics and artisan-made dolls to vintage marine items and pharmaceutical paraphernalia. Precious will also offer audiences the opportunity to get up close with artefacts from the City of Brisbane Collection alongside accessories and design objects from the Museum’s Easton Pearson Archive.

There will be some quirky objects on display. The quirkiest?

“Probably the dental paraphenalia,” Graham says. “The Australian Dental Association’s Queensland branch has a small collection and they will be sharing some items with us.”

But wait, there’s more.

One of the innovative new experiences will break down the museum’s walls and transport the public to the heart of the creative process on Artists Studio Bus Tours. Kicking off in July, these offsite tours will visit a number of Rearranged: Art of the Flower exhibition artists in their studios and offer a peek behind the scenes of renowned gallerist Jan Murphy. (Rearranged is on until September, which is good news.)

There will be new collaborations including with Brisbane queer arts and culture festival MELT Open, presented by Brisbane Powerhouse later in the year, and Troy Innocent, an AI experiment and display with the International Symposium on Electronic Art, is also in the works.

The popular MoB artists-in-residence program returns in 2024 with a fresh crop of established and emerging local creatives, thanks to the ongoing generous support of Tim Fairfax.

Design-led theatre company Dead Puppet Society will resume its residency in May, gathering crowd-sourced recollections for an intricate

and interactive “emotional map” as part of the Making Place: 100 Views of Brisbane exhibition.

In partnership with Brisbane Festival and inspired by bestselling local author and journalist Trent Dalton’s Love Stories, audiences can share tales of love and loss in MoB’s pop-up Write Your Heart Out experience in September, festival time.

“This year promises a renewed commitment to welcoming visitors of all ages and interests to the mseum, particularly our local audiences who we hope will be inspired and moved by the stories and perspectives of Brisbane presented through our 2024 program,” Graham says.

MoB is a treasure in itself, now attracting more than 1200 visitors each day. museumofbrisbane.com.au.

Originally published in INReview https://inreview.com.au/429517

InReview is an open access, non-profit arts and culture journalism project. Readers can support its work with a donation.

Museum of Brisbane’s exhibitions juxtapose the old and the new in the most amazing ways and there’s plenty in store for 2024- Written by Phil Brown

Museum of Brisbane CEO and director Zoe Graham has plenty in store for visitors in 2024.

MACKAY and district Italian Association incorporated gave away Service Awards to Marcie Perna and Aldo Romagnolo

Mackay, 21 April 2024, (MCCQ

News Desk Press Release Contact person: Carmel Baretta Ph: 0400713535; Email lbaretta@ bigpond.net.au)

SERVICE AWARDS:

To have a strong, active and passionate association one needs a committee that is dedicated, hardworking and able to commit to the ideals as set out in its Constitution.

On Sunday 21 April last, two such members were honoured for more than ten years of continuous service.

Secretary Marice Perna, capable and quietly efficient, has fulfilled her role admirably recording Minutes, informing member by emails of upcoming events as well as

sharing relevant information pertaining to the Italian Community of Mackay and elsewhere. She is also heavily involved with the CWA at Seaforth, Mackay and the Canegrowers Network Mackay which promotes the role women play in the industry. Typical of her nature, Marice has unselfishly accepted to serve another year as Secretary of Mackay and District Italian Association Incorporated.

Aldo Romagnolo, a retired Accountant, has taken on the role of Treasurer for more than ten years. His account-keeping skills are faultless and each balance is correct to the last cent.

Supported by his wife, Janice,

he attends every function including our annual Street Parties, handles all monies personally and reports, with diligence, the financial results thereof.

Not having adapted to modern technologies, Aldo records each transaction by hand in his journal with handwriting that is the envy of every schoolteacher. Aged 86, his mind and account keeping skills have not faded. At our AGM earlier this year, he graciously agreed to continue with the role of Treasurer for another term.

After five years of lobbying, the Association, under the leadership of newly-elected President Lou Rosati,

continues to consult with Mackay Regional Council to have an Italian Precinct built at River Street, Mackay, adjacent to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. The aim is to honour Italian migrants who chose Mackay for their new home and acknowledge their contribution to the sugar industry as well as to the development of the city. With the election of new Councillors and the re-election of Mayor Greg Williamson, we are striving to seek a very satisfactory conclusion to this project.

EVERYTHING YOU WANT IS BASED ON your ability to DEVELOPING YOURSELF’

Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless wisdom resonates deeply: to see change in the world, we must embody that change. It’s a profound truth that echoes in every corner of my life. Whether it’s within the walls of my home, the confines of my workplace, or the expanse of my community and country, the journey to improvement begins with oneself.

Through intentional self-improvement, We have unearthed a newfound purpose, one that extends far beyond my own existence. Our efforts ripple outward, touching the lives of countless individuals, especially those who are often overlooked—the women, the

youth, the abused, and the marginalized.

With unwavering dedication, The Women’s Mentoring Foundation fosters human connection and resilience, offering solace and support to those in need. Together, we build communities fortified by strength, empowerment, and hope. Our work transcends boundaries, nurturing both social and environmental sustainability, enriching lives and landscapes alike.

In nurturing resilient communities, we pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future—one where individuals thrive, and our planet flourishes.

– Pushpa Vaghela

Brisbane, April 18, (Mccq Newsdesk Media Release WFM)

Photo l-r: Carmel Baretta (past President), Aldo Romagnolo (Treasurer), Marice Perna (Secretary) and Lou Rosati (President).

Ethnic Community Council of Queensland prevention of Domestic Violence

Brisbane,April 27 (MCCQ News Desk, ECCQ Media Release, message from CEO)

The month of May, is recognised as the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. ECCQ through its various programs including the Women’s Ethnic Network group raises awareness of the impact on individuals and their families because of domestic violence through their workshops and the support services available.

Violence by an intimate

partner continues to gain increasing attention in the media and by governments.

One woman a week and one man a month in Australia dies due to domestic and family violence. But we all need to do more. By 23 April 2024, 28 women in Australia have died due to gender-based violence.

Further, domestic violence continues to be a primary catalyst for homelessness, particularly impacting women

and children. No individual should ever be forced to endure violence in their home to ensure shelter for their children. Yet, alarmingly, countless families in Queensland find themselves grappling with this reality, or worse, have been thrust into homelessness due to the unsafe conditions within their own homes.

This must stop. We must all do what we can to put an end to this crisis. The theme for 2024 is It’s in our control to

end coercive control.

At ECCQ we have prioritized our efforts on education, advocacy and empowering multicultural women on their rights, responsibilities, and how and where to access culturally safe services. Last weekend our Women’s Ethnic Network held a workshop on empowering women with narrative practice tools. On the 8th of June the Network will hold a workshop to connect DFV service providers to members and will later

produce a sharable resource. You can learn more and join WEN by clicking here.

ECCQ was pleased to welcome the Queensland Government’s strengthened laws to address the patterned nature of coercive control and I encourage all of us to work collectively to improve gender inequality and engrained harmful attitudes and behaviours towards women knowing that they are key drivers of domestic and family violence.

WEN hosted a workshop “Reshaping Your Story” Narrative Therapy

Brisbane,April 27 (MCCQ News Desk, ECCQ Media Release, message from Convenors)

Our Women’s Ethnic Network hosted the workshop “Reshaping Your Story”, about narrative therapy and community work approach. The aim was to inform and train community leaders on how to identify and respond to Domestic Family Violence, including coercive control, in a safe and collaborative environment. Around 20

women, WEN members and their friends, actively participated in the event, facilitated by Leanne Levinge, narrative therapist.

WEN’s upcoming workshop will be on 8 June at Queensland Multiculture Center, and it will be about service providers and the support that they give on Domestic Family Violence. Stay tuned for more details to be announced soon!

Vietnamese community learns more about aged care services in their own homes, a in-homecare services for their loved ones

Brisbane,April 27 (MCCQ News Desk, ECCQ Media Release)

It’s well known that people from multicultural communities, fear growing old in Australia, especially when their adult children are too busy with work to take adequate care of them, and aged care services are unfamiliar.

ECCQ’s Partners in Culturally Appropriate Care (PICAC) program has been working with the Vietnamese community in Inala for eight years to provide information in Vietnamese language on ageing and services to support older people.

Learning about home care options helps older people make informed choices about their future. The Vietnamese Seniors have requested “more meetings in the future please”!

If your community would also like an aged care information event in your language, please contact Jenny and Amanda, picac@eccq.com.au or visit our page.

https://eccq.com.au/vietnamesecommunity-learns-more-aboutaged-care-services-in-their-ownhomes/

On 16 April, ECCQ’s Home Care division, Diversicare, joined PICAC to clarify how to get aged care services at home. Diversicare’s Dustin Hopkins and Cuong Hoang spoke to over 50 Seniors to take them through the steps to apply for in-home care.

Celebrating Inspiring Connections in the Global Fair President's Lunch

Brisbane 27 April 2024

MCCQ NewsDesk by

Mobile: 0488389885

Email: mjmguillergan@gmail com

The Global Fair celebrated a double milestone with a heartwarming President’s Lunch, marking both the one-year anniversary of the organization and the birthday of its esteemed President, Agnes Whiten AM. The event was a vibrant gathering, attended by distinguished leaders from various multicultural communities and organizations, all united to honor the accomplishments and future aspirations of Global Fair. Held in a spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect, the luncheon showcased a review of past events and programs that have successfully brought diverse groups together, fostering unity and cooperation. The celebration was enriched with inspirational messages from notable community figures including Lisa Ward, CEO of ECCQ; Suzie Tafolo, President of the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce; Ram Mohan, President of MCCQ; and Councilor Tracy Huges Each shared their perspectives on the impact of Global Fair’s initiatives and the importance of continuing such efforts to enhance multicultural ties

A highlight of the event was the heartfelt speeches from Global Fair President Agnes Whiten and Marketing Manager Maria Judith Guillergan. They extended their gratitude to all supporters and collaborators who have been integral to the success of Global Fair's projects over the past year. President Agnes Whiten, celebrating her birthday, expressed her joy and optimism for the future, emphasizing that the accomplishments of the past year were only the beginning and promising a future of continued collaboration and cultural celebration.

Maria Judith Guillergan

Brisbane- 21 April 2024

MCCQ Newsdesk by Maria Judith Guillergan Mobile: 0488389885

Email: mjmguillergan@gmail com

Queensland Filipino Excellence Awards 2024

The Queensland Filipino Excellence Awards (QFEA) recently honored individuals whose achievements and contributions have significantly uplifted the Filipino community in Queensland, Australia This prestigious event, held every five years, was graced by notable figures including the Philippine Ambassador to Australia, H E Hellen De La Vega, Vice Consul Angela Laurente, and Consul Sheryll Gabutero QFEA Team and President Rejoice Thomson was instrumental in coordinating this memorable occasion

The ceremony was further dignified by the presence of key Australian political figures such as Mr David Crisafulli, Leader of the Opposition in Queensland; Mr Robert Skelton, MP for Nicklin; The Right Honourable Adrian Schrinner, Lord Mayor of Brisbane; and Lady Mayoress of Brisbane, Nina Schrinner

This event does more than just acknowledge individual success; it shines a spotlight on the Filipino traits of compassion, industry, perseverance, resilience, and community spirit

Congratulations to all the awardees for their exemplary contributions and for showcasing the dynamic and vibrant nature of the Filipino community in Queensland Their stories of success not only honor their heritage but also serve as a powerful motivator for future generations seeking to make a positive impact

Government’s community safety plan to make ramming an emergency vehicle an offence

Brisbane, April 28 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Ministerial Media Statement Media Release)

New law making ‘ramming’ of emergency vehicles its own offence to be put before parliament.

Proposed legislation will make it a criminal offence for a vehicle to be used to cause damage to any emergency vehicle.

Penalty of up to 14 years imprisonment

The Miles Government is driving tough action on reckless and dangerous driving – making the ramming of an emergency vehicle a stand alone offence – as part of its community safety plan.

A new law will be introduced to parliament next week, making the ramming of emergency services vehicles its own criminal offence, with a penalty of up to 14 years imprisonment.

In addition, a person who causes wilful damage to an emergency vehicle will now face up to 7 years imprisonment.

Every day emergency services staff face highly volatile situations across the state while performing their duties to protect the community.

The proposed legislation would see any person who uses a motor vehicle to cause damage to police or ambulance vehicles or fire appliances face an additional charge for that action on top of other relevant associated offences such as dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.

Over recent months there have been a significant number of ramming incidents targeting police vehicles.

Of those incidents, two resulted in a police officer being admitted to hospital and eight required medical or first aid treatment for injuries sustained from the crash.

This legislation aims to protect frontline emergency workers, while ensuring those recklessly putting lives at risk by ramming emergency vehicles, face the appropriate penalty before court.

The proposed new law draws on similar offences introduced in other states.

Premier Steven Miles expressed:

“Disgracefully, Queensland’s hardworking police have been victim to about 60 ramming incidents this year.

“These are our first responders, our life savers, and they have subject to violent attacks in the line of duty.

“Now, my government will introduce new laws into the parliament to make the ramming of an emergency vehicle a standalone offence.

“That means offenders held to account through tougher laws enacted as part of our targeted community safety plan.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan explains that,

“Anyone ramming an

emergency vehicle and putting our emergency services personnel lives on the line, deserves to face the consequences.

“Our incredible emergency services are on the frontline day and night facing volatile situations to protect the public.

“This law will ensure those who recklessly and intentionally use a motor vehicle as a weapon and ram an emergency vehicle, will be held accountable before court.”

In Commissioner Steve Gollschewski’s opinion:

“To target emergency services by ramming is deplorable behaviour that not only risks the lives of our frontline but innocent members of the public as well.

“We see this behaviour all too often, and while our officers are tactically trained to respond, a motor vehicle can cause serious harm to anyone in its path.

“Queensland Police Service welcomes the proposed new law holding reckless drivers to account.”

Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman says regarding the ramming issue:

“Every day, Queensland paramedics jump in an ambulance to care for those who need it most.

“Not only do these heroes deserve our respect and admiration, but they deserve to be safe at work.

“Late last year, we saw a disgraceful attempt to ram an ambulance vehicle responding to a critical code one emergency.

“This proposed law is an important step and will ensure that anyone putting the lives of emergency service personnel at risk will be held accountable.”

Queensland Police Union President Ian Leavers confirms the purpose of the law:

“This new legislation is something the QPU has advocated for to protect police and other first responders. While it won’t directly form a barrier to shield police, paramedics and firefighters it will hold those to account who threaten the lives of those who are working to assist the community.

“The Premier and Police Minister have listened to frontline police and have done something positive to make this type of dangerous and reckless behaviour a special offence. Using a vehicle as a weapon is disgraceful and the potential for life changing injuries is extreme.

“I encourage all sides of politics to support this legislation in a bipartisan way and enact this law as soon as possible.”

Adam arrives to Pooh Corner koala haven in Brisbane

Brisbane, April 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Lord Mayor Media Statement Media Release)

Two-year-old koala, Adam, will today be released into bushland reserve as part of the Schrinner Council’s highly-successful Koala Reestablishment program.

The joint initiative with the University of Queensland aims to reintroduce a resilient koala population into Pooh Corner in Wacol.

All evidence suggests the furry locals are thriving with a new joey recently born in the area through the reintroduced population.

Adam joins Matilda, Karri, Lady Jane, Glenda, Chandler, Heaven, Attie, Olive, Oscar, Olive’s yet-unnamed baby Joey that have made Pooh Corner their home since 2022.

It is hoped Adam will further improve the genetic diversity

of koalas in Wacol and help build the population of our national icon.

Pooh Corner Bushland Reserve was acquired by Council in 2006 as part of the Bushland Acquisition Program, with work then undertaken to make it the ideal koala habitat.

The success of the program led to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner announcing in February that a further four sites would be investigated for koala reintroduction.

These sites are Mount Coottha Reserve, Marstaeller Road Reserve, Bayside Parklands in Wynnum and the Karawatha Reserve.

Council also continues to work with the Queensland University of Technology and University of Queensland to support the rollout of the ground-breaking koala

chlamydia vaccine.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed his concerns: “I want Brisbane to remain the koala capital of Australia and to do this we must be serious about protecting them,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Adam had a rough start in life – coming to the clinic with significant health issues – now he’s been given a new lease on life and I have a feeling he will be very happy in Pooh Corner.

“Brisbane has the best lifestyle in all of Australia, where you can spot a koala less than 10 kilometres from the CBD and projects like this one help to protect them and boost their population.

“Nina and I often take the kids for family walks and our favourite thing to do is spot koalas. I want to make sure more residents are able to enjoy opportunities like this,

Mundingburra MP Les Walker advocates for the law:

“We know our emergency service workers are often faced with significant risks while doing their job, and anyone that targets them should be held accountable which is what these new laws will do.

“We will always work with the Queensland Police Service and all emergency services to ensure we have the right laws in place to protect our frontline workers.”

Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper talks from the perspectives of the paramedics:

“Being a former paramedic I know the risks our emergency service personnel place themselves in to serve the community.

“I make no apologies to making sure anyone who targets people trying to keep our community safe are held accountable for their disgraceful actions.”

Townsville MP Scott Stewart supports the law proudly:

“It is simply disgusting behaviour whenever someone targets our emergency services.

“I’m proud to be part of this government that is putting in place laws to make sure offenders face the consequences of their actions.”

now and into the future.”

University of Queensland’s Dr Sean Fitzgibbon is extremely happy with the project outcome:

“We are super excited about the addition of a new male koala to the population at Pooh Corner Reserve. I’m sure some of the females will be happy to meet him. And he should add new genetics to the population which is a great outcome for the longer-term conservation of

the population,” he said. “The Pooh Corner project has already demonstrated that koala populations can be re-established in suitable, unoccupied habitat. We are starting to see population growth through breeding females, and the addition of this new male, Adam, will further enhance the population.”

For more information, please visit brisbane.qld.gov.au or contact Council on (07) 3403 8888.

Community Consultation opens on Woolloongabba plan for homes, jobs and open spaces

Brisbane, May 2 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Ministerial Media Statement Media Release)

• The public is invited to have their say on the proposed plan for the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area

• The proposed plan will deliver 14,000 new dwellings, accommodating an estimated 24,000 people over the next 40 years.

• The plan is aimed at delivering more public green space, a network of improved pedestrian connections to South Bank and the CBD while limiting urban sprawl.

The Miles Government has announced the start of community consultation on the proposed development plan for the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area (PDA) that will deliver more housing, more jobs and more public spaces.

The PDA is forecast to deliver over 14,000 much-needed additional dwellings, accommodating an estimated population of around 24,000 people and over 36,000 workers over the next 40 years.

The Woolloongabba Plan

includes requirements for 20 percent affordable or social housing and will promote urban renewal around the new Woolloongabba Cross River Rail station and will create greater connectivity with other parts of Brisbane.

The proposed plan includes the Miles Government’s commitment to 50 percent open space in the Cross River Rail precinct through a proposed new Central Park.

Walkways and bikeways are also planned to link Woolloongabba to South Bank and the CBD, with increased shade and safer routes around major roads.

The proposed plan also includes new open spaces and connections linking Kingfisher Creek with the Kangaroo Point Cliffs and the new green bridge.

To meet the demand for homes in our growing state, fast-tracked housing, economic growth and community development would be made possible through Economic Development Queensland’s streamlined assessment processes.

The Woolloongabba Plan aims

to increase housing supply in a sustainable manner, limiting urban sprawl and transforming this underutilised part of Brisbane’s inner south.

Public consultation will be essential to the progress of the proposed development plan and public submissions are encouraged.

Starting today community members are encouraged to have their say about The Woolloongabba Plan by making a submission. EDQ is inviting feedback on both the proposed development scheme and a supporting draft public realm guideline. Consultation will remain open until 14 June 2024.

Following consultation, EDQ will review all feedback and refine the proposed development scheme, with an anticipated finalisation date around September 2024.

Quotes attributable to Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Grace Grace:

“Housing is a top priority for the Miles Government with an emphasis on boosting overall supply while limiting urban sprawl.

“We have an unparalleled opportunity to build on the new public transport services and elevate Woolloongabba into a vibrant inner-city community.

“This is an opportunity for everyone to have their say about future of Brisbane’s inner south and we encourage people to get involved.

“We want to unlock the potential of underutilised inner-city urban land through state-led urban renewalserving as a southern gateway to Brisbane’s city centre, while supporting job creation, housing growth and new open space.

“At the heart of this is access to high frequency underground train stations, better access to high frequency bus services, and the freedom for residents to travel to the city or South Bank without the need for a car.

“As part of this process, I urge all interested community members to view the proposed development scheme and provide feedback by 14 June.”

Additional information:

Priority Development Areas

(PDAs) are areas of land within Queensland identified for development to deliver significant benefits to the community.

PDAs are a proven planning pathway for resolving complex planning and development matters that unlock value for the surrounding communities.

A Development Scheme provides streamlined planning and assessment processes which can accelerate development.

As part of this process, the community can have its say about the proposed development scheme (The Woolloongabba Plan) and a supporting draft public realm guideline.

Community consultation starts on 2 May and will close on 14 June 2024, with development scheme finalisation expected in September 2024.

For more information about the plan https://www. statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/ economic-development-qld/ priority-development-areas-and-projects/ priority-development-areas/ woolloongabba

For information on how to make a submission https:// haveyoursay.dsdilgp.qld.gov. au/woolloongabba-priority-development-area

Victims and their families given greater Children’s Court access

Brisbane, March 27 (MCCQ Newsdesk,Ministerial Media Statement Media Release)

New laws to ensure greater transparency and access in the Children’s Court Courts to open to victims, families of a deceased victim, victim representatives and the media

The Miles Government will this week introduce new laws to Parliament that will enhance victim and media access to Children’s Court.

Under the changes, government will open the Children’s Court to victims, family of victims of homicide, victim representatives and the media.

Currently, media are required to apply to be present in proceedings and that access is at the discretion of the Magistrate.

Importantly, these new laws ensure victims of crime – or the family of victims who have died cannot be excluded from proceedings.

Under the proposed changes, the court will have the powers to exclude the media and victim representatives from

the courtroom if it’s necessary to prevent prejudice to the proper administration of justice, or for the safety of any person, including the child.

Victim advocates, legal stakeholders and media were consulted on the amendments.

The laws continue the prohibition on the publication of the child’s identifying information.

Quotes attributable to Premier Steven Miles:

“My government has been listening to victims of crime and their families and has put them at the forefront of our new comprehensive community safety plan.

“Let me be clear. Victims and family of victims of homicide deserve a place in Children’s Court, as do journalists and the media.

“There will always be times the media shouldn’t be allowed in court, but the community should rightly expect that whenever there can be that scrutiny there should be.”

Attorney-General, Minster for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Yvette D’Ath:

“These new laws form part of this Government’s ongoing commitment to support victims of crime by enhancing access to Children’s Court Matters.

“Importantly, the laws clarify that the family of victims of homicide can attend

Children’s Court, as they should have a seat in the courtroom.

“This legislation will strike the right balance between the interests of the child and the community’s expectations.”

QLD Homicide Victims’ Support Group CEO, Brett Thompson:

“Families that we support have consistently expressed how being denied access to

court matters relating to the killing of a family member, simply makes things worse.

“This legislative change addresses that issue.

“Victims of homicide have the right to be treated with respect, courtesy, compassion and dignity. This new legislation creates the option for them to be present in court to better understand the situation and acknowledges the importance of these rights.”

A Glimpse into the Turkish Folk Dance group “Spirit of Anatolia”

Brisbane, March 21 (MCCQ Newsdesk press release)

“Spirit of Anatolia” is a Turkish Folk Dance Group in Queensland that embodies the essence and vitality of Anatolian culture through their mesmerizing performances.

The group’s repertoire often includes a dynamic mix of regional dances such as the energetic “Halay” from Eastern Anatolia, the graceful “Bar” and “Eskişehir Halayı” dance from Central Anatolia, and from the Thrace region of Turkiye, one of the traditional folk dances is known as “Kırklareli Zeybeği.”Each dance is meticulously choreographed, blending ancient traditions with modern flair, showcasing the group’s dedication to preserving and promoting Turkiye’s cultural heritage.

What sets “Spirit of Anatolia” apart is their ability to convey not just the technical precision of the dances but also the passion, emotion, and storytelling embedded within each movement. Through intricate

footwork, expressive gestures, and colourful costumes adorned with symbolic motifs, they transport audiences on a journey across Anatolia, evoking scenes of village life, celebrations, and ancient rituals.

Beyond entertainment, “Spirit of Anatolia” serves as cultural ambassadors, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for Türkiye’s rich heritage. Their performances are not just displays of skill but celebrations of identity, unity, and the enduring legacy of Anatolian traditions that continue to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide.”

“Introduction of Queensland Turkish Community”

The Queensland Turkish Community stands as a vibrant organization dedicated to nurturing connections among individuals with Turkish heritage or a fervent appreciation for Türkiye residing in the Queensland state. Their mission revolves

around uniting long-standing Turkish residents of the state, commemorating official and national holidays, extending mutual support, and aiding newcomers who have migrated to the region.

Officially established as an association in September 2024, the community’s roots stretch back to the year 2000, marked by a series of activities and collaborations with various community organizations. At its core, the association aims to foster unity and promote, preserve, and transmit contemporary Turkish culture to future generations.

Central to their ethos is a commitment to promoting modern and secular Turkish culture, aligning with the principles laid down by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the esteemed founder of the Republic of Türkiye. They embrace an inclusive approach, free from discrimination based on religion, language, race, or ideology, extending a warm welcome to members from all backgrounds and sectors of society.”

Impressions: Music and Meditation by Sahaja Yoga Meditation Australia

Brisbane, May 2 (MCCQ Newsdesk) by Adj Prof. Sudipto Roy

American Guitarist Jimi Hendrix said, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.” Underpinned by the premise to feel and experience that power of love within and around us and help us achieve world peace, on Saturday, 6th April 2024, Sahaja Yoga Australia hosted a program themed “Music and Meditation” in Brisbane at the SunPAC. This program was organised as part of the Australia-wide commemoration events celebrating the 101 birthday of Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi.

Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi was a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, recipient of the United Nations Peace Medal and was honoured twice by the United States Congress. She was internationally recognised for her contribution to humanity through a lifetime of work for peace and the wellbeing of humankind. Since 1970, she had travelled across the world tirelessly, spreading this message of love and peace. Shri Mataji said, “You cannot know the meaning of your life until you are connected to the

Power that created you.” Now millions around the world are enjoying meditation using a remarkably simple technique known as Sahaja yoga that was brought to humanity by Her Holiness Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970. This technique promotes mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. She had received numerous awards and citations from the governments of many countries in recognition of her selfless efforts for social improvement.

The Music and Meditation program commenced at 6:30pm with a warm welcome from Meghamala Roy Basu. Megha respectfully acknowledged the Turrbal, Ugarapul/Yugarapul and Jagera people, the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land, including Elders past and present, and the ongoing efforts to protect and promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures for a lasting legacy.

The first performance of the evening was by Sahaj Sangeet. Sahaj Sangeet includes singers and musicians from diverse background who are connected through their spiritual practices and passion

for music. Sahaj Sangeet presented two Hindustani Devotional Music pieces known as Bhajans in Hindi, and a musical composition accompanied by traditional and contemporary instruments, including Sitar, Harmonium, Santoor, Flute and Tabla. These semi classical songs based on Indian ragas coupled with simple Sahaja yoga meditation techniques helped the audience to connect with the inner spirit and experience the joy of meditation.

After a short break, Megha briefly spoke about the benefits of Sahaja yoga, before introducing Rhitom Sarkar, the feature artist of the evening, for his maiden performance in Brisbane. Born to musician parents in Kolkata, child prodigy Rhitom Sarkar started playing Indian classical music but soon veered towards playing the guitar due to its musical appeal (akin to vocal) to glide. His innovative mind searched for ways and means to incorporate the finer nuances of Indian music into his guitar practice. Rhitom’s preferred instrument is the Indian slide guitar or ‘gandharvi’ – a modified archtop acoustic with sympathetic and plucked drone strings, specially

designed for playing ragas. Ragas are the melodic patterns and modes in traditional Indian music compositions.

Rhitom started with Raag Malkaush in Jhaptaal followed by a composition on Teen taal. He concluded the evening presentation with a dhun in Mishra Kirwani. The mesmerising performance ended with a standing ovation from the audience. Megha concluded the program with a brief note of thanks.

This free “Music and Meditation” program raised public awareness about simple methods to reduce stress, improve mental

health and wellbeing, and promoted the benefits of a balanced living. Members of the wider community highly appreciated the significance and the overall quality of the program, including the role of Sahaja Yoga Meditation Australia and hosts in promoting inclusiveness, respect and belonging while making a positive contribution to the social, cultural and economic life of Queensland, evident from the following testimonials:

“If you ever have opportunity to see Rhitom again, it’s definitely worth going!” “Sensational! The music and vibrations were exceptional!” “Outstanding performance!”

Pasifika Vibes Festival unfolds with great Pomp and Galore

Brisbane,May 7 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Media Release)

The Pasifika Vibes Festival, South East Queensland’s largest celebration of Maori and Pacific Island Cultures took place on Monday the 6th of May in Lawnton Brisbane. Hosted annually, this festival stands as one of the largest Pasifika gatherings in Australia, drawing an incredible crowd of around 25,000 attendees.

The festival unfolds in a vibrant tapestry of food stalls, art & craft markets, live entertainment, and a special children’s village, all aiming to showcase the rich diversity and tradition of Polynesian, Melanesian and Micronesian cultures.

From the main stage that features mesmerizing talent and performances to the

intricacies of handcrafted artifacts, Pasifika Vibes Festival serves as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange.

MCCQ was proud to support this amazing local event with board members Adhis Cole and Dr Ram Mohan attending to meet the community and leaders of the community in the Brisbane region. MCCQ takes pride in being active in the vibrant QLD community.

Adhis Cole, one of MCCQ’s Board of Directors who attended the Pasifika Vibes Festival shared her thoughts about the event:

“The Pasifika Festival today is one that is true and dear to my heart. I always feel connected to the Pasifika communities as I have also been fortunate to have traveled & visited some South Pacific Islands & Countries including Papua

New Guinea, Vanuatu, Noumea & Fiji (visited 5 times). Fiji is like our second home and my son is so fondly called Fiji Boy by the locals whenever we visit. There’s a warm radiating energy that embraces me whenever I’m around our Pasifika brothers & sisters, and today was testament to that...the concept of community & multiculturalism was truly well & alive today as I witnessed diverse groups of people attending the festival and uniting to be as one.

From the food, performances, to merch and activities that allowed everyone to participate, no borders, no boundaries....it was everything a festival should be. I spoke to my friend, one of the organizers and I couldn’t stop congratulating her. But she simply told me it just comes

down to teamwork, trust and treating each other with respect, dignity & fairness.

This is why this festival was so successful this year, bigger & better than last year, as we continue to witness this event expanding. I spoke to one of the volunteers who told me that this festival began as a small gathering in a community hall in Deception Bay and slowly grew and now had to move the festival to a bigger venue. Such a beautiful thing to see. Kudos to the organizers and the team.”

Pasifika Vibes Festival is an annual non-profit event organized by Pasifika Families Inc. committee members and is made possible by the sponsorship and in-kind support from local businesses, and the many wonderful volunteers from within the

local community to ensure the day is a success. The Moreton Bay Regional Council also gives their support by way of a grant.

Funds generated by the food and market stalls through site fees, together with grants from other sources, are used to assist in the provision of children’s activities, live entertainment, advertising, and amenities. The provision of such activities and equipment ensures a huge attendance. In turn, community groups and stallholders enjoy the benefits of fundraising activities and sales respectively.

Website - Pasifika Vibes Festival Facebook Page - https:// www.facebook.com/ pasifikavibesfestival2014

MCCQ Marquee and Adhis Cole at Pasifika event. Photos:Adhis Cole

Adhis Cole and Dr Ram Mohan at Pasifika event. Photos:Adhis Cole

Congratulations to all the APNA Awards winners

Brisbane, April 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Media Release APNA).

Last evening, 2024 SBSAPNA Awards presentation was held at Michael’s Oriental Restaurant in Sunnybank attended by over 200 guests representing various Multicultural and Interfaith communities.

Hussain Baba, the founder & CEO of Multicultural Social Network (MSN), was the recipient of “Humanitarian Service” award in recognition of of his services to the Homeless members and victims of natural disaster.

Hussain Baba stated in his acceptance speech “I accept this award on behalf of the hundreds of MSN contributors

and volunteers who have been supporting my charity projects for the last 6 years”.

The 2024 SBS-APNA Award represents a collaboration between SBS and the Australian Pakistani National Association (APNA) in Queensland. This award recognises outstanding individuals or organisations within Queensland’s Multicultural and Inter-Faith Communities.

Across thirteen diverse categories, such as Interfaith Harmony, Humanitarian Service, Women Empowerment, Sports Excellence, Youth Leadership, Community Service and Cultural Ambassadorship,

recipients are honoured for their remarkable contributions to the Queensland community.

The primary objective of this award is to foster social cohesion by bridging connections between diverse individuals and organizations within Queensland’s multicultural and religious communities.

There were couple of dignitaries at this event last night:

QLD MP Peter Russo- Chair of Community Safety and Legal Affairs Committee

QLD Senator Paul Scarr- Chair of Legal and Constitutional Affairs References Committee

Mayor John Raven of Logan City Council

Rotary club of Sunnybank ANZAC Day Street Parade at RSL

Brisbane, April 29 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Media Release).

On 25th of April the Rotarty Club of Sunnybank celebrated the ANZAC Day commemorating the landing on Gallipoli.

The rotary club members participated in a street parade organised at the Sunnybank RSL Highlighting the club banner.

“Lest We Foget”

Congratulations to all the AfriQueensland Awards winners

Bisbane,May 7 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Media Release)

Queensland African Communities Council (QACC) is a peak organisation for African communities in Queensland. We are a not-for-profit organisation working towards uniting African communities irrespective of their ethnic, political, religious, national or regional backgrounds.

Representing over 80,000 African individuals and communities throughout Queensland, we are committed to engaging and supporting our community

organisations and individual members, so all Africans are able to properly establish their lives here as fully participating members of Australian society.

AfriQueensland Awards 2024 was yet another spectacular triumph of multiculturalism and community resilience.

Congratulations to all the winners and indeed congratulations to all of our diehard supporters across the state!

We thank all our partner organisations, advocates,

political leaders from all levels of government and the Queensland Government in particular for the support.

The event was attended by Hon. Cameron Dick MP, 36 Deputy Premier and 51st treasurer of the state pf Queensland as well as minister for trade and investment, Senator Paul Scarr- Senator Qld, Mayor Jon RavenLogan’s New Msyor, Elijah Buol OAM-CEO Act for Peace, Lisa Ward- CEO ECCQ, Lewis Lee OAM -President Chinese war Memorial, Wonder Chimonyo - President Zimbabwe

Community, Faysel Ahmed Selat- President Somali Qld and it was hosted by Beny Bol OAM President Queensland African Communities Council.

Those who won the award were Habib Jamal, Christina Grebremedin, Arthus Mushambi, Surendra Prasad and others.

Awards were given to community leaders, advocates and those who hve done outstanding owrk in their respective fields in making the not only the African Community flourish and thrive but also made a diference in their own

communities to help live in peace and harmony.

It was a great event and a fabulous evening that recognised the contributions of these members of the society. The food and the music was just amazing and fiting to the ocassion.

The Queensland African Communities Council thanks all their partner organisaions, advocates, political leaders from all levels of government and the queensland government in paricular for their support in making the event a success.

Buddha Birthday Festival celebrated in Chung Tian Temple

Brisbane,May 7 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Media Release)

Since 1991, the Buddha Birth Day Festival has become one of Queensland’s most notable cultural events and is recognised for promoting peace, as well as celebrating Australia’s harmony and diversity.

The 2024 Buddha Birth Day Festival celebrations continued at Chung Tian Temple and provided visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in a wide range of ceremonies and activities from the spiritual to the cultural, such as tea meditation, Buddhist talks, a Baby

Blessing and multicultural performances.

There were wonderful performances at the 2024 Buddha Birth Day Festival hosted by the Buddha’s Light International Association of Qld, Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple and the Chung Tian Chinese School of Qld.

At the festival there were traditional rituals that were performed. One of such rituals is the bathing of the buddha statue.

Buddhists all around the world celebrate the Buddha’s birthday by using fragrant

water the holy water to bathe the statue of the infant Buddha- the hindu king Prince Siddhartha.

The act of pouring fragrant water often done three times over the shoulder of the infant Buddha holds much significance as it symbolises the purification of our body, speech and mind to cultivate wisdom.

The universal message is that, “it is easy to wash away physical dirt, but much more difficult to cleanse one’s inner impurities of anger, greed and ignorance.”

Followers of buddhism took part in this meaningful ritual by following the steps to bathe the Buddha at the festival.

Chanting of the prayer “May I eliminate evil thoughts, May I cultivate good deeds, May I be of benefit to all sentient beings.” was heard all around as devotees religiously bathed the idol of buddha.

Apart from the Bathing of Buddha there were quiet a few activities that were planned for the three day fastival. From vegetarian feasts to mesmerizing Dragon and Lion Dances, the serene elegance

of Lei Cha Ceremony and the rich traditions of Chinese Tea to laser light shows, there was something for everyone. With over 150 events and 1,100 enthusiastic volunteers, the festival buzzed with excitement.

The Saturday night’s dazzling laser show honouring Buddha’s legacy and spreading joy was just an amazing experience.

The festival promotes sustainability and well-being and leaves your worries behind, immersing yourself in peace and harmony. Definitely a must attend if you never have.

Advocating for Taiwan’s Meaningful Participation in global health network.

By Director-General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Brisbane, Mr William Fan.

Brisbane, April 17 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Press Release)

Taiwan has the world class medical systems, facilities and services. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) continues to exclude Taiwan from participating for political reasons. We need a global health network that belongs to all of us equally; Taiwan is always here and always can help!

Over past few decades, Taiwanese community in Queensland has been making significant contributions to the Queensland health system, highlighting the importance of Taiwan’s role in the global health system.

Taiwan Can Help, and Taiwan is Helping!

One remarkable event showcasing this dedication is the annual medical and dental team organized by the Tzu-Chi Foundation Brisbane, Queensland. During the Easter holiday this year, when most Queenslanders enjoyed the beautiful sunshine and celebrating the long weekend holiday with families and friends, approximately 140 volunteers sacrificed their holiday and provided essential medical and dental services to

the residents of Tara, a town located four hours west of Brisbane.

Since 2007, the Tzu-Chi Foundation has been conducting this event, eagerly awaited by the locals. In 2024 alone, the team administered a total of 707 treatments, ranging from dental care to traditional medicine and physiotherapy. Particularly impactful is the fabrication of dentures, restoring smiles to those who lack teeth, a service that deeply touches the hearts of the community.

Furthermore, the Taiwanese community has forged significant partnerships in the healthcare sector. In 2021, an important Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Taiwan Adventist Hospital (TAH) and Mater Group, marking the first sister hospital relationship between Taiwan and Queensland. This collaboration aims to enhance medical research, education, and patient care, benefiting both countries. The MOU commits both parties to work together more closely towards our common goal, the pursuit

Taiwan has been proactive in international cooperation efforts against COVID-19.

The harrowing process of combating the SARS epidemic in 2003 was a crucial experience for Taiwan to reevaluate our epidemic preparedness efforts. As the COVID-19 pandemic struck the world in 2019, Taiwan was not only well-prepared, managing to strike a balance between epidemic control and economic development, but also continually provided vital assistance, including masks, isolation gowns, thermometers, and other medical equipment and pandemic prevention materials to over 80 countries in need severely affected by the pandemic. Collaborations with international partners, such as the United States, the European Union and Australia, underscore Taiwan's commitment to combating global health threats. This

of a better healthcare of people from Queensland and Taiwan.

Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taiwanese community in Queensland also launched a charity campaign in 2022, providing free lunch boxes to frontline healthcare workers in recognition of their dedication and sacrifice. This initiative, spanning major hospitals across Queensland, not only supports the local medical workforce but also exemplifies the spirit of solidarity during challenging times.

Taiwanese community in Queensland has consistently demonstrated our commitment to global health initiatives and continues to play a crucial role in advancing healthcare, both locally and internationally. Their contributions not only improve the well-being of individuals in need but also strengthen the global health system. As allies in the pursuit of better healthcare, Taiwan’s expertise and generosity serve as a beacon of hope in challenging times.

Taiwan has been proactive in international cooperation efforts against COVID-19. The harrowing process of combating the SARS epidemic in 2003 was a crucial experience for Taiwan to reevaluate our epidemic preparedness efforts. As the COVID-19 pandemic struck the world in 2019, Taiwan was not only well-prepared, managing to strike a balance between epidemic control and economic development, but also continually provided vital assistance, including masks, isolation gowns, thermometers, and other medical equipment and pandemic prevention materials to over 80 countries in need severely affected by the pandemic.

Collaborations with international partners, such as the United States, the European Union and Australia, underscore Taiwan’s commitment to combating global health threats. This known as “Taiwan Miracle” has garnered international recognition and admiration during the pandemic.

Despite of Taiwan’s significant contributions to

known as “Taiwan Miracle” has garnered international recognition and admiration during the pandemic.

Despite of Taiwan's significant contributions to the global health system and the widespread support from the international community, it remains sidelined and excluded by the World Health Organization (WHO) . Taiwan’s participation in WHO remains limited and a gap for global health security challenges.

World Health Organization (WHO), the main international organization defending the right to health for all, leads global development of public health continues to exclude Taiwan due to unreasonable political considerations. This exclusion undermines the principles of universality and human rights upheld by the WHO, particularly the commitment to "No one

left behind." It hampers the WHO's ability to fulfill our mandate professionally and neutrally, disregarding the urgent necessity and the broad international support for Taiwan's participation. The WHO's inaction not only imperils the health rights of Taiwan's 23 million citizens but also poses a significant threat to global health security, resulting in profound repercussions.

Health for All, Taiwan can Help

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of international cooperation. All stakeholders in public health, Taiwan included, must unite to effectively respond to global threats to public health. A collective effort is necessary to achieve health for all. As a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan’s healthcare and public health

the global health system and the widespread support from the international community, it remains sidelined and excluded by the World Health Organization (WHO) Taiwan’s participation in WHO remains limited and a gap for global health security challenges.

World Health Organization (WHO), the main international organization defending the right to health for all, leads global development of public health continues to exclude Taiwan due to unreasonable political considerations. This exclusion undermines the principles of universality and human rights upheld by the WHO, particularly the commitment to “No one left behind.” It hampers the WHO’s ability to fulfill our mandate professionally and neutrally, disregarding the urgent necessity and the broad international support for Taiwan’s participation. The WHO’s inaction not only imperils the health rights of Taiwan’s 23 million citizens but also poses a significant threat to global health security, resulting in profound repercussions.

systems are in sync with the WHO’s objectives, striving for universal health coverage and the advancement of global public health and safety. Taiwan stands ready to contribute our expertise and resources to global health efforts.

Time to include Taiwan in WHO and the WHA

Taiwan, a sovereign state with a democratically elected government, represents the 23 million people of Taiwan. It is crucial that Taiwan’s voice is heard in discussions and decisions regarding global health policies and initiatives. Taiwan remains firmly committed to our professional and pragmatic approach and to robust engagement with the global health security network and collaboration with WHO to strengthen the resilience of the global health system.

Taiwan advocates for pragmatic and constructive participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA) and World Health Organization (WHO).

We call upon the WHO Secretariat to adhere to professionalism and neutrality, recognize Taiwan’s rightful position in the WHA and other relevant activities and mechanisms of the WHO, including participation in the Pandemic Agreement. It is only through inclusivity and collaboration that we can effectively address the health challenges facing our world today.

Miles Government Supports the Paniyiri Greek Festival

Brisbane,May 7 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Ministerial Media Release)

Miles Government backs biggest cultural festival Paniyiri

The Miles Government continues support for Paniyiri. Paniyiri Greek Festival is Queensland’s largest multicultural event attracting more than 50,000 people a year.

The festival is in its 48th year and will be held at the Greek Club in South Brisbane as well as Musgrave Park in West End.

The Queensland Government will continue support for the state’s largest cultural event, the Paniyiri Greek Festival.

The festival, now in its 48th year, is expected to attract more than 50,000 people and

will be held at the Greek Club in South Brisbane as well as Musgrave Park in West End.

Organised by the Greek Orthodox Community of St George, the two-day event is also Australia’s longest-running Greek festival and will be held on 18 and 19 May this year.

Visitors can expect Zorba dancing, plate smashing, honey puff eating competitions, and a pop-up Greek village.

There will also be cooking demonstrations, food stalls and cafes serving up a scrumptious variety of Greek delicacies.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs and second-generation

child of Greek parents, Charis Mullen, said Paniyiri was an immensely significant event on Queensland’s multicultural calendar.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen backs the panyiri festival:

“I’m so proud of my Greek heritage and, like thousands of Queenslanders, absolutely love Paniyiri.

“Queensland is a proudly multicultural state.

“We speak hundreds of languages and come from all corners of the globe, and it’s festivals like this that bring us all together to proudly share our multicultural heritage.

“Our vision is to see a unified, harmonious and inclusive Queensland and I’m proud to represent a government committed to supporting multicultural communities to showcase their culture and thrive.

“I can’t wait to visit Paniyiri with my family this year and would love to encourage everyone to put it in your calendars.

“You don’t want to miss out.”

Paniyiri Organising Committee Chair Chris Kazonis OAM encourages all to attend the festival:

“This is a fantastic outcome for Paniyiri and Queensland’s Greek community, but particularly in the south east

of the state.

“As the largest multicultural festival in Queensland, the support of the Miles Labor Government is invaluable.

“This is one of the nation’s biggest festivals to showcase our food, music and art, and Australia’s longest running Greek festival.

“It’s time to dine, dance and party like a Greek.”

Further information:

For more information about Paniyiri Greek Festival 2024 please visit: Paniyiri Greek Festival Website and facebook page.

https://paniyiri.com/ programs/#event1

Queensland CommunityAlliance’s successful Community Assembly

Brisbane,May 7 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Media Release)

On Tuesday night the Queensland Community Alliance (QCA) had 188 community leaders come together to build a stronger public relationship with the Queensland Opposition Leader.

As a non-partisan Alliance QCA seeks a public relationship with all those who make decisions that impact the lives of Queensland’s people and communities. Those public relationships including listening, commitments and holding to account. A core

element of the Alliance is that they do not endorse any political candidate or party.

Opposition Leader David Crisafulli, Shadow Ministers John-Paul Langbroek and Deb Frecklington attended the Community Assembly and listened.

They heard the issues in our Maroonprint 2024:

• Safe and Connected Communities

• Accelerating Queensland’s Renewable Energy Transition

• First Nations Justice

• Thrive by Five

• Welcoming New Queenslanders

• Secure Work

What the community heard from the LNP on Tuesday night was a strong commitment to work with our Alliance on the issues raised by hearing our stories, and engaging on our proposed solutions.

The next step in this engagement will be a meeting with the Opposition Leader with an Alliance delegation next Friday to speak in more detail.

We look forward to updating

you on how that goes.

What as community leaders you should do:

• Head to our facebook page and like our post about this action

• Commitment Card: If you want to be part of the next steps and didn’t get to fill this out on Tuesday please fill out our Commitment Card here

• We are preparing upcoming actions with the Premier, local organising hubs, and civic academies to deeply understand the solutions we are proposing.

If you have particular interest and skills to be part of building a relationship with the Qld LNP please let us know call us on 0467 563 796.

If your organisation is not a member organisation of the Alliance and you’d like to find out more please get in touch with us by calling us on 0467 563 796.

to know more about the Alliance visit https://www.facebook.com/ qldcommunityalliance

visit our website https://www. qldcommunityalliance.org/

OUR TAKE

Be brave and fight Domestic Violence

As migrant women, many tend to fear to voicing their concerns about domestic violence. Many a times it is cultural that the man in the family controls the entire household. However, if that control is resulting into chronic violent behaviours then one must seek help, and protect themselves.

Recent incidents that have happened in Brisbane and elsewhere in Australia where 28 women have died in the past year because of domestic violence issues suggests that there is a need to implement an easy access help network for multicultural women to seek help when they are falling into the situations of domestic violence.

Women who are of the multicultural background are never made aware of their rights and supports they have in Australia when faced with domestic violence and coercive control issue. The rights and supports must be the first document that every multicultural women receives when she emigrates to Australia.

Ofcourse many may not have the language skills to understand the document if it is in English, hence translating into atleast the top ten languages of the migrant population of Australia in which domestic violence is seen on the rise will be beneficial.

Government has in the past implemented schemes, programs, workshops etc. on domestic violence, fighting the violence against women, yet the situation has not improved. The programs and the awareness building efforts on behalf of the government aren’t reaching the multicultural women. Involvement of community leaders from various ethnic organisations is a key to bridge the gap.

Providing training to ethnic community organisation leaders to recognise, support, and organise interventions for domestic violence situations in their community may help alleviate the situation for that particular community. It will also help women trust their leaders and approach for help when subjected to a violence situation. The department of police, Challenge DV, Bangles Foundation and the community organisations must work together to eliminate the occurrence of violence in the community.

Trust is a major issue when it comes to multicultural

women to say the truth. In many cultures especially the Asian cultures, women will not speak out, as they are taught and groomed to keep situations that occur at home in the home. This patriarchal ideology inculcated into the brains of Asian women right from birth, it becomes extremely difficult for Asian women to take the step forward and speak up. This phenomenon is true for both educated as well as non-educated women. Family pride and prestige is considered to be the most important and it is often a duty to protect it for all members of the family. Hence, when women are in a domestic violence situation, where the man in the family is the perpetrator, who is the head of the family, whose pride and prestige is often protected by rest of the family, going against the man or men is extremely difficult for the women. Moreover, even if she steps out and tries to express her feelings to others outside the family, she will be further controlled and isolated.

Service providers often wait for the victim to approach them and take the first step. Unless the women herself approaches the service providers, they cannot interveen or take steps to help the women. Hence, it is extremely necessary for the women to be bold and brave to step forward and say something to improve her situation and not fall a prey to the violent behaviours in the home.

To empower women to take action against violent situations, they need safe spaces to express the truth, they need protection from the perpetrators, they need to know their rights in such situations, they need to know what will happen of them if they step forward to report the situation. They need to have safe spaces for their children. They need to know what may happen to their children. And most important is who to approach and how to approach when faced with domestic violence situation. Unless the above questions are resolved for women of multicultural background, they may not step forward to voice their situation and seek the most needed support from the government or the service providers.

Fear is thus the number one reason for many women to continue to live in the domestic violence senarios.

Article

written by Amrita Deshpande (Editor. MCCQ and New Media Artist)

Queenslanders asked to join together to call out domestic and family violence

Brisbane, May 2, 2024 (MCCQ News Desk Ministerial Press Release)

The Miles Government and Domestic and Family Violence sector urge the community to stand together and call out violence against women and children during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month 2024 this May.

The event calls on all Queenslanders to recognise the patterns of violence and control, change attitudes in their communities, and learn how they can direct victims to support.

It’s in our control to end coercive control is the message Queensland will loudly promote this May, calling on the community to add their voice and take action in support of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month 2024.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Yvette D’Ath, will launch the monthlong event at Parliament House tonight alongside Premier Steven Miles, and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman.

Supported by the Queensland Government and various community organisations, the month-long campaign aims to raise awareness, provide support, and foster collaboration against domestic and family violence – with a focus on coercive control behaviours.

Earlier this year Queensland passed legislation to acknowledge additional domestic, family, and sexual violence behaviours, recognising coercive control in its criminal justice system.

Once the law commences, the offence will carry a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment and criminalises the conduct of adults who engage in repeated harmful behaviour to maintain control over a person they are in a domestic relationship with.

Coercive control is a pattern of abusive behaviours over time, which can be physical and/or non-physical, that hurt, humiliate, isolate, frighten or threaten another person in order to control or dominate them. Coercive control cannot be tolerated in Queensland communities.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that intimate partner violence contributes to more illness, disability and death in women

aged 25 to 44 than any other preventable risk factor in the nation.

Throughout May, Queenslanders are encouraged to stand together to participate in events focused on preventing DFV in their communities. Supporting and empowering individuals and communities to recognise the signs of abuse, learn how to access support services, and challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours.

Since the landmark Women’s Safety and Justice Taskforce was established, Queensland has invested $588 million to implement a majority of recommendations to address violence largely against women and children and enhance their experiences within the justice system.

This includes modernising criminal stalking laws, expanding specialist High Risk Teams, increasing funding for men’s behavioural change programs, and significant upgrades and expansion of Queensland’s specialist DFV courts.

Since 2015, total investment in domestic, family and sexual violence reforms is $1.75 billion.

Education and awareness also play a strong focus in DFV reform, with the Respectful Relationships program promoting healthy attitudes and resources in Queensland schools.

The Queensland Government recently released its Plan for the Primary Prevention of Violence Against Women 2024-2028 - a five year strategy to address the drivers of violence and prevent domestic, family and sexual violence from occurring.

For more information about Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month events and to get involved, visit https://www.justice.qld. gov.au/swe/dfvpm/events

The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Yvette D’Ath says:

“Let me be clear – according to Counting Dead Women Australia, 28 women have already been killed to gender-based violence this year, which only highlights the seriousness of this issue.

“Queensland has made significant progress in the justice system to better prevent and respond to domestic and

family violence, including new laws that recognise the dangerous behaviours of coercive control.

“Yet we know this is a complex problem, and we will continue to modernise and strengthen our laws and enhance prevention and DFV services – making sure they have consistent training processes, resources and funding.

“We continue to implement mechanisms for meaningful generational change - but recognise the need to change attitudes that minimise this behaviour in our communities and our society to see a lasting transformation.

“That is what Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is about, from awareness and education to advocating for survivors and promoting healthy relationships.

“I call on every Queenslander to participate in a Prevention Month event near them – and to educate themselves about how to recognise coercive behaviours in those around them, and what to do when they see it.

“In particular we need men in our communities to join these efforts against gendered violence - this can’t be solved without the full support of the Queensland community.

“Challenging harmful norms and taking action contributes to safer homes, safer communities, and importantly – safer lives for Queenslanders.

“We will continue to coordinate with frontline services, community organisations, health professionals and the legal sector – and listen to the powerful voices of victims, to ensure this Government is doing everything it can for those in need.

“Together, we can make a difference.”

Brisbane, May 2, 2024

Motor Museum in Gold Coast a great vintage experience for car lovers

When one thinks of Gold Coast one often thinks of the surfer’s paradise, the beach, the skydeck, lots of places to eat and the theme parks. But Gold Coast also has vintage beauty. If you are a car lover and like to see old cars well preserved through the time, you must visit the Gold Coast Motor Museum.

The Museum is not far from Mainland Gold Coast. It is however on the way to Gold Coast from Brisbane.

Here you will find cars that are from 1900 to 1988. It boasts of 80 cars display and each car has a story to tell. Besides the car you will also find the

fashion at the time when those cars were on roads. You might just meet Elvis sitting near the cars too. The fashion also included Piet Mondrian’s dress and a poster of Betty Boop hanging on the walls. The display is a complete treat to see the years that have gone by where technology and industrialisation made it possible for people to own a vehicle to move around. You will like the Ford, Lamborgini, BMW and many more.

The Museum was started in october 2nd of 2020 by two brothers Carl and Grant Amor. After their father passed away they turned his collection of cars into this massive museum. It is a legacy for their Mum and Dad. The museum sits on a 12 acre land, completely indoor museum with

well laid out cars, bikes and the memorabilia.

Carl says it is a museum with a difference. He adds, “ Many of the museums are one make like Holden or Ford Musuem, but ours has all cars, bikes and memorablia. It’s one of those places where you will be able to go see something that you will never get to see at other museums.”

The two brothers have spent about 30 years making this museum happen and they are extremely proud of their creation. Both say this is where they will spend rest of their life. It is their happy place to go to as well. They love the chance to combine their passion and help the audience see the amusement of the cars they possess. The

two brothers are very friendly and if you get a chance to see them in the museum don’t hesitate to say hi!

One can spend an entire day in this museum. There is also a restaurant which serves delicious food made to order. Hence, it is a complete experience for both children and adults. You can make this a mother's day or a father’s day trip and enjoy the beauty of the place.

What I liked about the place is the collection of accessories, the petrol pump, the juke box, and all the stories that are attached with the cars that are displayed here. It is an evidence of history, the living museum of those years gone by. One of the intriguing place here is also the Junk

yard where run down cars are displayed to make it look spooky, telling the stories of the dead cars.

I would highly recommend families to visit this museum if you have not already. It is a good experience to see those cars of your dreams displayed in the museum. If you like Mr. Bean and his car it is here. If you like the movie back to future then that innovative car of the future is here. If you like those ford cars they are all here. You name the brand and you will find one here. At the end you will also like the small shop that sells models of the cars you see today. There are artefacts which you will be tempted to buy for sure. Do pay a visit to this unique museum and enjoy the day with your family.

Brisbane, May 2, 2024

(MCCQ News Desk by Amrita Deshpande)

CRIKEY! Robert Irwin is the youngest ever Australian to be honoured with a Madame Tussauds Wax Figure

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, Tuesday 23 April 2024 (MCCQ Newsdesk, Press Release)

He is only 20, but Robert Irwin is everywhere! From magazine covers to TV hosting, and later this year, his wax figure will be unveiled at Madame Tussauds Sydney - making him the youngest celebrity to join the Sydney attraction!

Commenting on the news that he will be the latest celebrity to be immortalized in wax, Robert said, “Being approached by Madame Tussauds Sydney to receive a wax figure is a huge honour.

I’m such a fan of the Madame Tussauds attractions; they’re home to the most influential celebrities in the world, and I’m very proud that I’ll be amongst them!”

A few weeks ago, Robert took part in a Madame Tussauds sitting, where over 100 measurements and 300 reference photos were captured. Robert was joined by his mum, Terri, for the unique experience. Both were fascinated by the methodical process, commenting on how skilled the studio stylists were in matching his skin tone so quickly.

Robert was intrigued to learn how his father’s wax figure was created. Commenting, “Nine years ago, my dad, Steve Irwin, was posthumously honoured with a Madame Tussauds Sydney figure. My mum and the Australia Zoo team got behind the project, supplying information, images, and clothing to allow their studio team to expertly

sculpt his figure in tribute to his life and legacy.”

Robert’s figure will be unveiled later this year. Wearing the iconic Australia Zoo khaki set made famous by his father, he will also be poised with a camera - on top of which will be one of his favourite snake species - the woma python (Aspidites ramsayi).

“Robert Irwin is the man of the moment! We are in awe of all he has achieved at such a young age. Being honoured with his very own wax figure is a testament to his enduring legacy and the profound impact he continues to have on our planet. He’s also among the most requested Aussie celebrities by local and international guests. There’s no one like him, and

we’re thrilled to add him to the incredible line-up of stars at Madame Tussauds Sydney,” said Richard Dilly, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Sydney.

“Robert was great fun at the sitting! When he first saw the calipers (measuring tool) he instantly compared them to a crocodile!” added Richard.

For more information on the celebrities you can meet at Madame Tussauds Sydney, visit: https:// madametussauds.com/sydney/ what-s-inside/zones/coming-soon/ robert-irwin/

German Film Festival in Brisbane from May 9th to May 29th

30 April 2024 (MCCQ Newsdesk, written by Vicki Englund, originally published in InReview)

How often do we get to see German films? They rarely turn up outside of specialist film festivals and, even then, the German variety often don’t carry the same cachet as, say, their French or Italian counterparts.

But they should, especially with this year’s line-up of the German Film Festival (May 9 to 29 in Brisbane and May 15 to June 5 in Adelaide), featuring some compelling cinema.

A couple of films which this reviewer has seen and can highly recommend are Not a Word and Dark Satellites.

Not a Word (Kein Wort) is an atmospheric piece examining the troubled relationship between Nina (Maren Eggert), an orchestra conductor, and her taciturn teenage son Lars (Jona Levin Nicolai).

Something terrible has happened to a child at Lars’s school and after Lars himself has an accident – but was it really an accident? – Nina offers to take him away for a few days. Every time she tries to find out what’s troubling her son and it looks like he might be about to open up to her, her phone suddenly

demands her attention.

The pair end up going to a seaside town of apparently happy vacationers, but it’s winter now and the landscape looks as heavy and dismal as their mood. Even the boat they used for sailing remains stranded and broken on the beach where they left it.

Nina is very troubled by some of Lars’ behaviour, but she has to juggle how to deal with him while worrying about an upcoming concert, for which she’s missing rehearsals.

Polish director Hanna Antonina Wojcik Slak wrote this brooding piece, which doesn’t necessarily go in the directions you think it will.

It’s been a long while since the heyday of Nastassja Kinski (of Tess and Paris, Texas fame in the late ’70s and early 1980s), so fans should enjoy director Thomas Stuber’s Dark Satellites (Die stillen Trabanten).

In a loose adaptation of stories by Clemens Meyer, Kinski is part of an impressive ensemble cast playing people who are looking to ward off loneliness in the nightlife of Leipzig. She plays Birgitt, a hairdresser, who forms an emotional bond with

Christa (Martina Gedeck), a cleaner who’s had a tough day at work. Birgitt comforts Christa, with their initial friendliness evolving into a slow-burning exercise in sensual connection.

Then there’s security guard Erik (Charly Hübner), who comes across a young Ukrainian woman named Marika (Irina Starshenbaum) on a swing in a park at night. We’re not sure at first what his interest is in her as they strike up a conversation and she tells him about losing her family in the war.

Like Marike, Hamed (Adel Bencherif) and Aischka (Lilith Stangenberg) have fled to another country looking for a better life. But Aischka’s late-night smoking sessions on the balcony of her building with café owner Jens (Albrecht Schuch) threaten to put both her marriage and Jens’s friendship with her husband at risk.

These three stories have no crossover of characters but the thematic link of connections in the darkness of night is sufficient to form a cohesive and satisfying whole.

Kinski’s father, the late Klaus Kinski, turns up in the chilling Nosferatu the Vampire (Nosferatu – Phantom der

Nacht), Fitzcarraldo, and Aguirre, The Wrath of God, all part of a focus on the legendary director, Werner Herzog.

Herzog afficionados will also want to make sure to see the 2022 documentary about him and his unusual methods in Werner Herzog: Radical Dreamer.

To celebrate 70 years of German cinema abroad, German Films is also featuring a retrospective that includes acclaimed works such as a 4K restoration of Jacob the Liar (Jakob der Lügner) – the only East German Foreign Language Film to be nominated at the Academy Awards – and The Marriage of Maria Braun (Die Ehe der Maria Braun), directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, plus others from the German film canon.

Opening Night in Brisbane on May 9 sees director Andreas Dresen attend a Q&A session about his moving biographical film, From Hilde, With Love (In Liebe, Eure Hilde), about Hilde Coppi, who along with her partner, became involved with the anti-Nazi resistance movement in 1942.

Closing Night in Brisbane on May 29 looks like a

fascinating choice with Treasure, starring Lena Dunham and Stephen Fry as a music journalist and her Polish father, a Holocaust survivor, who set out on a tour of their family homeland. Directed and co-written by Julia von Heinz, the film is an adaptation of Australian author Lily Brett’s award-winning book, Too Many Men.

And let’s not forget kids and teens. The Goethe Institut is once again presenting a section titled Kino For Kids, with one of the highlights being a new Lassie film.

What’s that, you say? Lassie at a German Film Festival? Well, yes. Following on from 2020’s reimagining of the smart Border Collie in Lassie – An Adventurous Journey from Hanno Olderdissen, is Lassie – A New Adventure (Lassie – ein neues Abenteuer). It stars Nico Marischka as a boy who joins Lassie to help solve a recent spate of dognappings, in what promises to be a rollicking action movie as Lassie comes to the rescue against bungling criminals.

germanfilmfestival.com.au https://inreview.com.au/429634

The Menopause… and why it can be a laughing matter

When long-time friends Judith Lucy and Kaz Cooke decided to present a live comedy show about menopause combining jokes, stories and ‘useful chats’, they had no idea it would be embraced with almost evangelical fervour.

Brisbane, March 23 (written by

Suzie Keen)

In our household, we refer to it as THE Menopause.

Found yourself burying your head among the frozen peas to avoid spontaneously combusting in the supermarket?

It’s THE Menopause. Tried to make a phone call using the TV remote or had a little cry when someone’s choux turned soggy on MasterChef? Blame THE Menopause.

This emphatic use of the definite article turns something that can be extremely discombobulating into a bit of a joke to be shared with fellow sufferers. Because if you didn’t laugh, you’d have to smash something… and it might not be an inanimate object.

Comedian Judith Lucy and author Kaz Cooke know this all too well, which is why they’re inviting audiences to join them in a Menopausal Night Out.

“Women weren’t allowed to say anything about the menopause for decades and then suddenly people started talking about it and everyone just got really freaked out about it,” Cooke tells InReview.

“And then it became a marketing opportunity for people to sell us stuff – most of which, frankly, doesn’t work – so I think that just like their health, women need to take control of the story about menopause, to be able to laugh at the symptoms, to be able to be inclusive. Because everyone’s going to have a different experience and a different group of symptoms.”

Cooke’s most recent book, It’s the Menopause, combines advice from doctors and other experts with insights gleaned from a survey of thousands of Australian women to give readers “the lowdown on everything you need to

know about menopause” – all delivered with a healthy dose of humour. Her comedic night out with Lucy promises a similar style of infotainment, but with even more laughs.

Lucy doesn’t think any topic is off-limits when it comes to humour – especially something as “ludicrous” as perimenopause and menopause.

“So I will be hosting the night and cracking a lot of bad jokes about dry vaginas and lube – let’s just take that as a given,” she says.

“Then I will bring out the wonderful Chris Ryan, who is a fantastic stand-up comedian, and then I will bring out the marvellous Kaz Cooke and have a chat to her about her incredible book… then we’ll take questions from the audience.

“So in amongst all that I’ll probably have a bit of a chat to the audience, I’ll do a very sexy dance to Marvin Gaye’s ‘Let’s Get it On’ while reading out a list of menopause symptoms, and really, there will be something for everyone.”

Entertaining double act: Kaz Cooke and Judith Lucy. Photo: supplied

Kaz & Jude’s Menopausal Night Out begins its national tour at the Brisbane Comedy Festival on May 4 and 5 before travelling to eight locations across the country –including Adelaide on May 31 and June 1. The pair previously presented a couple of shows at the end of last year in Melbourne, where they say the response was riotous.

“I don’t think we realised until we were in front of an audience just how much menopausal women want to bloody talk about being menopausal and to have a laugh about it,” Lucy says. “Someone said to me

afterwards: ‘Oh my God, that had an evangelical feel to it.’ So, you know, we’re almost setting up a Hillsong event for menopausal women.”

Cooke says people at the Melbourne show were “laughing, falling off their chairs, they were getting teary”.

“It’s like a party. It’s a girls’ night out; nobody is laughing at you or being mean to you. Nobody is getting that feeling that society gives a lot of menopausal women, which is that ‘Your time is done, we’re not interested in you any more’… It’s so positive.”

And while it might be a “girls’ night out”, the pair are quick to add that they want men to come along, too.

“There isn’t a bloke who will come and get nothing out of it,” Cooke says. “Every relationship that’s got menopause in it can also be improved by everyone knowing more about it. You know that if a man comes to this thing he’s a good bloke!”

Lucy and Cooke have been friends for around 30 years – dating back to an awkward incident (recounted here) involving the ABC’s The Late Show, Single Living magazine and, uh, haemorrhoids – and have previously worked together in radio. If their double act is as entertaining on stage as it is in interviews, audiences at their live show should be in for a treat.

“It’s great to be doing it with Jude, a friend of such longstanding,” Cooke says.

“We know we have each other’s backs. We know we can make it funny but we also know we can be careful of people if they’re having a rough time… I wouldn’t do it with someone I didn’t know very well or who didn’t get it.”

To which Lucy responds

drolly: “I would, actually… I would do it with anyone if the timing was right.”

I thought, wow, we have only just scratched the surface of what can happen to people’s lives

Both women are happy to talk about their own experiences of perimenopause and menopause, with Lucy saying that for her, it happened “virtually overnight” when her brother died.

“Because that was such a dreadful, hideous time in my life, I actually put a lot of what I was experiencing down to that.

“A lot of my worst symptoms involved insomnia and chronic anxiety – two things I’d always suffered from but I’d just got to the point of thinking they were completely under control… [but] they got so much worse and it took me a while before I realised what the hell was going on. And thank god I did have a fantastic female GP who was able to help me out.”

In Cooke’s case, she just found “everything and everybody was making me furious”.

“And I remember realising –it can’t be everybody else, it must be me.

“The other thing that surprised me was when I did the book about 9000 women responded to the survey and told me all sorts of really private and also interesting things about their perimenopause and menopause experience, and I had kept to myself something that I had no idea was a menopausal symptom – and that was that I started getting really scared about driving to places I’d never been to before.

“About five women in the survey said, apropos of nothing – I didn’t ask a

question about it – ‘I suddenly became a nervous driver and didn’t want to drive to unfamiliar places’. And I thought, wow, we have only just scratched the surface of what can happen to people’s lives.

“So many women said they just didn’t feel themselves. And that happened to me – I just didn’t feel right. And it was such a relief to realise I wasn’t going crazy and there was a hormonal reason for all of that.”

Cooke says the Q&A sessions at the live show will be “wild and uncensored”, with audiences invited to ask their hosts anything and everything. One of the most common questions at events promoting her book has been: When will it end?

“And the last chapter of the book, after all the medical and emotional information, is about what it’s like to be on the other side, to get through menopause, and all the positive stuff about that, which I think surprised me and Jude when we started talking about menopause… I think you get the idea that the symptoms are it forever, and that’s not how it is.”

Meanwhile, for those still suffering symptoms of THE Menopause, Lucy passes on an anecdote shared by comedian Dave O’Neil.

“His grandmother used to call her time after menopause the glory days – so we’ve all got the glory days to look forward to!”

Kaz & Jude’s Menopausal Night Out is at the Brisbane Comedy Festival on May 4 and 5, Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from May 10-12, and the Adelaide Festival Centre on May 31 and June 1. It is also going to Sydney, Newcastle Canberra, Wollongong, Hobart and Perth.