Australia Wide
Australians of Filipino heritage are contributing to this great Australian nation in many ways all around the country. RFA is in communication with Filipino community leaders in all Australian states and territories through email. We have received enthusiastic responses from around Australia with stories we can deliver to our Canberra audience via the live airwaves, as well as to Filipino Australians listening to us around this vast country using either the "Homepage" live web streaming feature we have linked to the Canberra Multicultural Service (CMS) site, or through our "Broadcast Archive" page.
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Fiesta Kultura, Sydney - One of Australia's Largest Multicultural Events
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North-West Tasmania,
On the Island at the Bottom of the World,
Rocks with a Great Filipino-Australian Party for Harmony Day 2017- Attended by hundreds of people.
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Hello to our many Filipino-Australian compatriots and friends across the length and breadth of Tasmania, which is one of the most beautiful, geographically and geologically diverse wilderness paradises in the world.
It also has many of the world's most friendly and welcoming people. |
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The Filipino-Australian community in North-West Tasmania covering cities and towns such as Smithton, Stanley, Wynyard, Burnie, Penguin, Devonport, Latrobe and Deloraine, as well as everywhere far and wide in between came together for a great night of Filipino food and dance. There were many dignitaries including Tasmanian politicians who attended the great night.
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Dante Maribbay, President of the Peak Filipino Organisation in Australia, Filipino Communties Council of Australia (FILCCA), Attended High Level Conference in Perth, WA (June 2017)
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Dante Maribbay, the President of Australia's leading Filipino organisation, FiLCCA, attended a public event which was held at the end of May at the USAsia Centre, University of Western Australia (UWA).
The theme of the event was the connection between security of women and nation states. The event was hosted by Professor (Prof.) Gordon Flake. Also, Dr. Valerie Hudson,co-author of the Hilary Doctrine, addressed a panel discussion on women in national security. In the panel discussion Dr Hudson was joined by Prof. Dawn Freshwater, Vice Chancelor UWA, Prof. Carmen Lawrence who was also former Premier of WA and now representing the School of Psychological Sciences at the UWA, as well as Captain Angela Bond Research Fellow of the Perth USAsia Centre. |
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Photo right: FILCCA President Dante C. Maribbay , Prof. and former Premier WA Dr. Carmen Lawrence and Barbara Butler.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Alongside her research colleagues, Dr Hudson found that the level of violence against women is the "best predictor" of whether a state is peaceful or not. This indicator included both intra and international conflict. The main message here relates to respect for women in societies around the world, and all countries should strive to ensure that the rights of women as equal citizens of the world, along with men, are valued and protected. |
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The Devil's in the Detail for Superbug Destruction:
Peptides in Tassie Devil's Milk Found to Kill the
Most Potent Superbugs and Could Kill Cancers. (October 2016)
Photo above: Biologist Emma Peel with a young Tasmanian Devil. [As pictured in Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) 17th October 2016]
The milk peptide detail is definitely in the Tassie Devil. There is currently a global war against superbugs and the peptides within the milk of these devils have recently been proven to demolish some of the deadliest bacterial and fungal infections on the planet known to humans. It might even be able to fight cancers.
Superbugs include the notorious golden staff (Staphylococcus aureus) infection. The euphemistic sounding name of golden staff belies the insidious nature of this superbug which has become resistant to some of the world's most potent antibiotics.
Biologist Emma Peel [pictured above] refers to the Vancomycin antibiotic as an example of what happens when superbug bacteria such as enterococcus develop resistance:
"Vancomycin is a pretty potent antibiotic and if a bug is resistant to that, then there aren't a lot of drug options available to you."
Antimicrobial resistance has also caught the attention of the World Health Organisation (WHO). Margaret Chan, WHO Director-general described antimicrobial resistance as "a fundamental threat to human health, development and security". It is predicted superbugs could kill more people than cancers within the next few decades if the fight against superbugs is not continued.
The milk peptide detail is definitely in the Tassie Devil. There is currently a global war against superbugs and the peptides within the milk of these devils have recently been proven to demolish some of the deadliest bacterial and fungal infections on the planet known to humans. It might even be able to fight cancers.
Superbugs include the notorious golden staff (Staphylococcus aureus) infection. The euphemistic sounding name of golden staff belies the insidious nature of this superbug which has become resistant to some of the world's most potent antibiotics.
Biologist Emma Peel [pictured above] refers to the Vancomycin antibiotic as an example of what happens when superbug bacteria such as enterococcus develop resistance:
"Vancomycin is a pretty potent antibiotic and if a bug is resistant to that, then there aren't a lot of drug options available to you."
Antimicrobial resistance has also caught the attention of the World Health Organisation (WHO). Margaret Chan, WHO Director-general described antimicrobial resistance as "a fundamental threat to human health, development and security". It is predicted superbugs could kill more people than cancers within the next few decades if the fight against superbugs is not continued.
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The Tassie Devil is a marsupial and its babies live their early life in a pouch, just like joey kangaroos. The Tassie Devil's pouch microbiome can be particularly unhygienic, with an ecosystem of microorganisms living within it. Ms Peel also says:
"There are potential pathogens present in the devil microbiome, so the fact that the under-developed young in the pouch don't get sick was a clue something interesting was going on." Consequently, it was discovered the young little devils developed a quick resistance. It was discovered that devil's milk was the key ingredient in helping the little devils survive a rather hellish microbacterial environment for early development. |
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However, milking these devils is best left to the experts. The devil is the world's largest carnivorous marsupial, characterised by its stocky and muscular build. It has black fur, with a white stripe, pungent odour, an extremely loud and disturbing screech, as well as ferocity when feeding. Be careful of fingers, hands or basically everything else.
It earned such a ferocious reputation worldwide that it became infamous in the Looney Tunes cartoons appearing with Bugs Bunny. With massive jaws it has one of the most powerful bites in the entire animal kingdom. Looney Tunes depicts it as being able to destroy virtually anything in its path. |
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Pictures: Looney Tunes depiction of Taz, considered one of the most infamous of the cartoon figures often hilariously appearing in scenes with Bugs Bunny. It was shown on cartoons as spinning in circles when it moved. Although real Tassie Devils do not spin in circles like this they can run around endlessly and change direction quite fast as witnessed in captivity when looking down on their Devil dens.
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The wilds of Tasmania, particularly the central west and south west coasts have rain forests which are among the most remote and dense in the world. Tasmania's aboriginal people who occupied Tasmania up to 60,000 years ago explored these forests, however some parts of it are so dense it's possible that no human has ever ventured or set foot within large regions of it.
Photos below: The vastness and diversity in Tasmania's west coast is breathtaking, and that's not even half of this amazing island which is an environmentalist's pristine heaven with its large world-heritage protected areas at the bottom of the world.
Photos below: The vastness and diversity in Tasmania's west coast is breathtaking, and that's not even half of this amazing island which is an environmentalist's pristine heaven with its large world-heritage protected areas at the bottom of the world.
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By George... Ancient, Spooky and Anachronistic
Lake becomes Inland Sea!
The Continent of Australia from the Deserts to the Farm Lands Goes Under Water with Biblical-Like Rains, Flash-Flooding and Massive Storms Hitting the Country, and in a Rare Sight Lake George in NSW near Canberra Fills Up (September 2016)
RFA Photo: Sunday 24th September 2016. This is not Australia's Pacific coastline, but rather a rare sight of inland Australia, New South Wales (NSW) near the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). This is Lake George which is now full to capacity. This ancient lake which no longer has any major rivers running into it is usually empty. When it fills on the rare occasion it draws visitors and tourists from far and wide.
An anachronism, is an ancient Greek word meaning, ana (against) and khronos (time), "Against Time" which refers to a chronological inconsistency in some arrangement, such as a juxtaposition between time and place, or event, such as a pub with no beer. Today, Lake George, the spooky lake which usually has no water is now full, has dropped its anachronistic tag, and become true to its name, however briefly.
An anachronism, is an ancient Greek word meaning, ana (against) and khronos (time), "Against Time" which refers to a chronological inconsistency in some arrangement, such as a juxtaposition between time and place, or event, such as a pub with no beer. Today, Lake George, the spooky lake which usually has no water is now full, has dropped its anachronistic tag, and become true to its name, however briefly.
Photo: Alan and Julie Aston standing in the middle of Lake George in 2015 with their Zebra sculptures, giving Lake George a Noah's Arc type feel in Australia's hinterland.
Meanwhile large sections of the Australian desert, inland farmlands and mountain areas currently have no shortage of water as one of Australia's wettest September months ever recorded - set to become the wettest in recorded history - has hit across the country from South Australia, to Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales (NSW), Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Tasmania.
As this RFA story goes global the capital city of South Australia (SA), Adelaide, has been hit by a massive storm which has caused a power blackout across the entire state. South Australia is being warned of cyclone type winds and the latest storm is headed directly for Australia's major eastcoast population centres, of Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane and Hobart. Thankfully, Tasmania is a very mountainous island, and not low lying, otherwise it could disappear off the map under water.
After many days of wild weather this month, it was a perfect cloudless day in Canberra (Wednesday 28th September 2016), and the evening is currently clear and calm with all the stars on show in their great heavenly display. However, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is saying this is the calm before the storm, and residents should get ready to lock down as nature gets ready to demonstrate its atmospheric power yet again. Residents of Adelaide have already been hit.
Meanwhile large sections of the Australian desert, inland farmlands and mountain areas currently have no shortage of water as one of Australia's wettest September months ever recorded - set to become the wettest in recorded history - has hit across the country from South Australia, to Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales (NSW), Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Tasmania.
As this RFA story goes global the capital city of South Australia (SA), Adelaide, has been hit by a massive storm which has caused a power blackout across the entire state. South Australia is being warned of cyclone type winds and the latest storm is headed directly for Australia's major eastcoast population centres, of Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane and Hobart. Thankfully, Tasmania is a very mountainous island, and not low lying, otherwise it could disappear off the map under water.
After many days of wild weather this month, it was a perfect cloudless day in Canberra (Wednesday 28th September 2016), and the evening is currently clear and calm with all the stars on show in their great heavenly display. However, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is saying this is the calm before the storm, and residents should get ready to lock down as nature gets ready to demonstrate its atmospheric power yet again. Residents of Adelaide have already been hit.
Satellite Map: The eastern seaboard of Australia, viewed side on with the help of some computer interactive magic, showing the great continental ridge/shelf which the island state of Tasmania also sits on. In the topographic map, (left to right) the major capital cities of Hobart, Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney can be seen.
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Meanwhile, Lake George is ready to overflow into surrounding population centres as the sheep and cows have already run for whatever dry land they could find.
The kangaroo population of Australia (estimated to be 60 million), which is more than double the population of people in Australia, and over half of the population of people in the Philippines, have now got an abundant new water supply in the world's largest continental backyard for bouncing around unhindered. |
Photo: Two eastern grey kangaroos look like they are praying in the rain in some type of celebration ceremony, however they are actually fighting as the heavens pour down. It's common for kangaroos to practice their kick boxing skills, using their powerfull tails for kicking leverage, on a regular basis, even in the rain.
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Sous Terre (Underground), Adamek Anahata Productions,
Friday 8th April 2016, 3pm, Marion Cultural Centre, 287 Diagonal Road, Oaklands Park, Adelaide City, South Australia (SA).
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Adamek Anahata Productions invites you to a creative development showing of Sous Terre to be held at the Marion Cultural Centre, Oaklands Park near Adelaide's beautiful beachside suburb, of Brighton, just south-east of the famous tourist beachside suburb of Glenelg driving along the 4 lane Diagonal Rd connector.
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Photo: Glenelg beach, Adelaide's City by the Sea! The Marion Cultural Centre in Oaklands Park is along the 4 lane Diagonal Road Highway, leading from Glenelg.
Friday, 8th April 2016, 3pm. Entry, $5 donation.
Friday, 8th April 2016, 3pm. Entry, $5 donation.
Photo: Marion Cultural Centre, foyer, Adelaide, SA.
Description:
Sous Terre is a contemporary fusion of classical, Philippine ethnic dance, Adelaide house-style and vogueing. It experiments with an interactive combined media approach, working with multi-award winning Felicity Arts. The presentation will involve a 30-minute live performance of the work and a 30-minute artists' talk to discuss the creative process with the audience.
Sous Terre melds together gender and cultural role-playing in the setting of an underground nightclub. True to its title, which translates to Underground, the piece investigates the idea of bohemia. Inspired by Cathy’s and Ben's 20-year relationship with the electronic music scene in Adelaide, where they first met as dancers and performers, this work is also inspired by the subject of Cathy’s PhD thesis “Adelaide Dance Music Culture Late 1980s–1990s”. It evokes a transformational space for dance and personal expression and will feature SA Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Producer and DJ Tom Cotter.
Background:
Sous Terre was developed as a 15-minute dance fusion work-in-progress in 2014 for Dance Creation -a professional choreographic initiative of the Australian Institute of Classical Dance. Finalists were invited to work with the Australian Ballet, Houston Ballet and Expressions dance company. Community engagement of Sous Terre has already occurred through presented excerpts at the 2015 Chinese New Year Street Party and the 2015 Adelaide Fringe Festival.
Description:
Sous Terre is a contemporary fusion of classical, Philippine ethnic dance, Adelaide house-style and vogueing. It experiments with an interactive combined media approach, working with multi-award winning Felicity Arts. The presentation will involve a 30-minute live performance of the work and a 30-minute artists' talk to discuss the creative process with the audience.
Sous Terre melds together gender and cultural role-playing in the setting of an underground nightclub. True to its title, which translates to Underground, the piece investigates the idea of bohemia. Inspired by Cathy’s and Ben's 20-year relationship with the electronic music scene in Adelaide, where they first met as dancers and performers, this work is also inspired by the subject of Cathy’s PhD thesis “Adelaide Dance Music Culture Late 1980s–1990s”. It evokes a transformational space for dance and personal expression and will feature SA Electronic Dance Music (EDM) Producer and DJ Tom Cotter.
Background:
Sous Terre was developed as a 15-minute dance fusion work-in-progress in 2014 for Dance Creation -a professional choreographic initiative of the Australian Institute of Classical Dance. Finalists were invited to work with the Australian Ballet, Houston Ballet and Expressions dance company. Community engagement of Sous Terre has already occurred through presented excerpts at the 2015 Chinese New Year Street Party and the 2015 Adelaide Fringe Festival.
Photo: South Australian (SA) Governor's Multicultural Awardees, 2014. Ben-Hur Winter, front row, second from the right, was an individual winner in the Arts and Culture category. Ben-Hur is one of the artists for Sous Terre.
Ben's SA Arts and Culture Award Citation:
Ben-Hur Winter has drawn from a rich history and culture to develop an impressive body of work over many years across state, national and international dance and opera companies. Since 2000, Ben-Hur Winter has increasingly chosen projects that foster inter-cultural understanding and is now working towards a specific focus on youth, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Artists:
Cathy Adamek is an Actor/Dancer/Director and Creative Producer her award winning original dance theatre pieces have premiered at the Sydney Opera House and toured nationally.
Ben's SA Arts and Culture Award Citation:
Ben-Hur Winter has drawn from a rich history and culture to develop an impressive body of work over many years across state, national and international dance and opera companies. Since 2000, Ben-Hur Winter has increasingly chosen projects that foster inter-cultural understanding and is now working towards a specific focus on youth, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Artists:
Cathy Adamek is an Actor/Dancer/Director and Creative Producer her award winning original dance theatre pieces have premiered at the Sydney Opera House and toured nationally.
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Ben-Hur Winter:
Cultural Producer, Performing Arts Professional, (CALD) Community Arts Practitioner and Arts Projects Manager undertaking Directorship roles. In 2014 Ben-Hur was the proud recipient of the SA Governor's Multicultural Award for Arts and Culture. |
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The Felicity Arts team consists of Alexander Whaite Mitchell and Amanda Phillips, a creative team of Multi-Media/Digital Arts practitioners who combine New Media with the physical body in unexpected ways.
Ellicia Britton is a recent Bachelor of Dance Performance graduate from Adelaide College of the Arts who since graduating has been in numerous dance and theatre works (Europe, England, Australia) receiving commendations from the English Youth Ballet.
Fiona Gardner is an award-winning Independent Artist and Dance Maker who is interested in testing social boundaries, she is the Director of Finsart, a Yoga and Pilates studio in Adelaide.
RSVP by Wednesday 6 April:
Email [email protected]
Call 0418809430.
Ellicia Britton is a recent Bachelor of Dance Performance graduate from Adelaide College of the Arts who since graduating has been in numerous dance and theatre works (Europe, England, Australia) receiving commendations from the English Youth Ballet.
Fiona Gardner is an award-winning Independent Artist and Dance Maker who is interested in testing social boundaries, she is the Director of Finsart, a Yoga and Pilates studio in Adelaide.
RSVP by Wednesday 6 April:
Email [email protected]
Call 0418809430.
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Filipino Communities Council of Australia
WA State Leaders Forum and Youth Summit 2015
Perth, Western Australia, Summit 2015
17th - 18th October 2015
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Australia's Hybrid Political System and
Leadership Change Process
Breaking News: Tuesday, 15th September 2015
Australia gets new Prime Minister after a
lightning-fast political party vote.
Analysing political systems and change in different countries is like trying to analyse the personalities of different people. They all have their individual differences as well as similarities across a wide spectrum of societal conduct and historical circumstance.
Photo: Hot air balloons rise over the Australian Parliament House in Canberra, which is the national seat of government encompassing both the federal House of Representatives and the Senate.
Australia has a unique political system which is a hybrid of the British Parliamentary Westminster system and an American system of federated states and a senate.
One of the notable aspects of the Australian system is that its leader is elected from amongst other Members of Parliament (MPs) who belong to the dominant political party of the day holding legislative and executive power. This is also the case in Britain.
Consequently, it is the party of MPs who holds the power delegated to it by the Australian people, and they use this delegated power to appoint a national leader from within their ranks. This leader then becomes known as the Prime Minister. Just as a dominant party of parliamentary members holding legislative and executive power can appoint a Prime Minister, they also have the power to depose a Prime Minister with an internal party vote.
This is in contrast to an American and Philippine presidential system where the President is elected separately by the populace of the nation. Both America and the Philippines will directly choose their Presidents next year in 2016.
Last night, on the 14th September 2015, here in the nation's capital of Canberra, there was a change in leadership at the top of the government. The Liberal Party of Australia, which is currently the dominant political party holding legislative and executive authority, took an internal vote of parliamentary members which appointed Hon. Member of Parliament (MP) Malcolm Turnbull as the leader of Australia.
Australia has a unique political system which is a hybrid of the British Parliamentary Westminster system and an American system of federated states and a senate.
One of the notable aspects of the Australian system is that its leader is elected from amongst other Members of Parliament (MPs) who belong to the dominant political party of the day holding legislative and executive power. This is also the case in Britain.
Consequently, it is the party of MPs who holds the power delegated to it by the Australian people, and they use this delegated power to appoint a national leader from within their ranks. This leader then becomes known as the Prime Minister. Just as a dominant party of parliamentary members holding legislative and executive power can appoint a Prime Minister, they also have the power to depose a Prime Minister with an internal party vote.
This is in contrast to an American and Philippine presidential system where the President is elected separately by the populace of the nation. Both America and the Philippines will directly choose their Presidents next year in 2016.
Last night, on the 14th September 2015, here in the nation's capital of Canberra, there was a change in leadership at the top of the government. The Liberal Party of Australia, which is currently the dominant political party holding legislative and executive authority, took an internal vote of parliamentary members which appointed Hon. Member of Parliament (MP) Malcolm Turnbull as the leader of Australia.
Photo: GQ Australia April 2015 Edition: Cover photo of Hon. MP, Malcolm Turnbull, predicting that he would become the next Prime Minister of Australia.
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This is a process which the other major political party, the Australian Labor Party (ALP), has itself engaged in during recent years when it held power. However, the ALP has now made this process more difficult for itself by passing a rule that the broader non-parliamentary membership base of the party would also need to vote to elect and remove party leaders, whether they are in the position of Prime Minister or Opposition Leader.
There was no extended presidential impeachment process, whilst at the other possible end of the political spectrum of behaviour there were no tanks, guns or prolonged civil war. The Prime Ministerial system regarding leadership change in a stable, well-functioning democracy such as Australia, can be lightning fast in comparison to other systems. One may view this as a strength of flexibility within a liberal democracy, whilst others may view it as a Machiavellian weakness. This point of view can depend upon a person's personal loyalties, political affiliations and ideological belief system, amongst many other factors. |
In regard to ideology, Prime Minister Turnbull is generally considered by colleagues, the press and Australian public to be more of a 'middle-ground' politician who can garner wider support from both the ideological left and right sides of politics. In politics, self-interest is a major motivating factor and as such Liberal party MPs who voted for Malcolm Turnbull would have carefully considered which leader could best deliver their party to victory and thus protect their own jobs within a federal electoral system. Regular political polling by the major polling companies, which is a very powerful factor in such a Prime Ministerial system, plays a significant role in influencing MP voting intentions.
Photo: Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, MP representing the electorate of Wentworth in the beachside suburbs of Sydney, with Deputy Leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop, MP representing the electorate of Curtin at the opposite side of the Australian continent in the beachside suburbs of Perth, Western Australia.
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In any case the people of Australia will have the final say in this system during a general federal election in 2016 when they decide which of the major parties, their coalition party partners and independent candidates are elected to power. Thus, in this system of checks and balances, the public still acts as the final arbitrator.
The national media has now descended on Canberra to cover this change of leadership event. A major focus for Prime Minister Turnbull during his speeches was on the economy of Australia, particularly considering the recent collapse of the Chinese stock market which will have a major effect on Australia as well as surrounding economically-interconnected regional countries such as the Philippines. |
Prime Minister Turnbull was born and educated in Sydney. He won a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, graduating from Oxford University in England. He was a journalist for the Sunday Times in London, an investment banker with Goldman Sachs in New York and an international case-winning barrister, including defending a former MI5 (British Secret Intelligence) agent regarding the publication of a book called "Spycatcher" which the British government tried to block.
A notable optimistic quote from Prime Minister Turnbull's speech to challenge for the leadership yesterday was: "Now, we are living as Australians in the most exciting time. The big economic changes that we’re living through here and around the world offer enormous challenges and enormous opportunities."
Later that evening after winning the vote he said: "The Australia of the future has to be a nation that is agile, that is innovative, that is creative."
The ambitious and high-achieving Prime Minister Turnbull will now get his chance to politically prove if he can meet the "enormous challenges" and take advantage of the "enormous opportunities" in a world which is currently undergoing major economic change.
If the Prime Minister can find the correct balance in focusing on "agility", "innovation" and "creativity" in a world on the verge of major industrial computer, network and robotic technological change then he and his political party may be rewarded by the Australian public at the 2016 general election.
A notable optimistic quote from Prime Minister Turnbull's speech to challenge for the leadership yesterday was: "Now, we are living as Australians in the most exciting time. The big economic changes that we’re living through here and around the world offer enormous challenges and enormous opportunities."
Later that evening after winning the vote he said: "The Australia of the future has to be a nation that is agile, that is innovative, that is creative."
The ambitious and high-achieving Prime Minister Turnbull will now get his chance to politically prove if he can meet the "enormous challenges" and take advantage of the "enormous opportunities" in a world which is currently undergoing major economic change.
If the Prime Minister can find the correct balance in focusing on "agility", "innovation" and "creativity" in a world on the verge of major industrial computer, network and robotic technological change then he and his political party may be rewarded by the Australian public at the 2016 general election.
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Adelaide's Ethnic Radyo Pilipino Inc. Cultural Presentation,
September 2015, South Australia (SA)
Congratulations to Adelaide's Radyo Pilipino for a wonderful Fund-Raising Dinner Dance it recently held earlier in September. There were approximately 400 guests in attendance. Special guest of honour and speaker for the evening was the South Australian Minister for Multicultural Affairs, The Hon. Zoe Bettison, Member of Parliament (MP). Many other VIPs were in attendance.
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Photos - Above left: Lumad costume and dance. Above right: Maranao costume and Singkil dance.
Below left: Maria Clara national dress. Below right: Ethnic, Filipiniana and modern fashion.
Below left: Maria Clara national dress. Below right: Ethnic, Filipiniana and modern fashion.
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Dr Reynaldo Dante G. Juanta, Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), former Philippine Honorary Consul General for South Australia (SA) wrote:
"To the delight of the audience, particularly to many with limited knowledge about the country, segments of Philippine history and its people and some selected scenic spots of the Philippines were shown on a large screen in sequence accompanied with narration... All were dressed up in costumes to depict the times in Philippine history – tribal, pre-Hispanic, Spanish era and contemporary period. Rudina “Nini” Sielaff’s own collection of fashion dresses she herself designed and created put color and splendor to the evening cultural show."
To read the full document written by Dr. Juanta OAM regarding this colourful and fabulous evening in the beautiful, artistic and culturally stylish SA capital city of Adelaide, please refer to the RFA website.
"To the delight of the audience, particularly to many with limited knowledge about the country, segments of Philippine history and its people and some selected scenic spots of the Philippines were shown on a large screen in sequence accompanied with narration... All were dressed up in costumes to depict the times in Philippine history – tribal, pre-Hispanic, Spanish era and contemporary period. Rudina “Nini” Sielaff’s own collection of fashion dresses she herself designed and created put color and splendor to the evening cultural show."
To read the full document written by Dr. Juanta OAM regarding this colourful and fabulous evening in the beautiful, artistic and culturally stylish SA capital city of Adelaide, please refer to the RFA website.
| radyo-pilipino-adelaide-sa-cultural_presentation-2015.pdf |
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The Balikbayan Program: A Consular Bulletin Announcement by Philippine Hon. Consul General for Victoria, 2015
Professor Felix Pintado.
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Hon. Consul General, Prof. Felix Pintado provides a regular monthly Consular Bulletin in The Philippine Times, which is a popular and high quality Melbourne based newspaper which RFA receives. Prof. Pintado has provided good details about the Balikbayan program which can boost Philippine tourism by allowing overseas Filipinos and their families extended stays in the Philippines.
An extract from the Consular Bulletin on page 4 of The Philippine Times, May 2015 edition says: "... Balikbayans are overseas Filipinos who return to the Philippines, including those who have acquired foreign citizenship. The program grants a range of benefits to those who qualify." |
"The main advantage of the Balikbayan Program is that it allows balikbayans to stay in the Philippines for one year without requiring a visa. Additionally, the non-Filipino family of the balikbayan (such as a spouse and children) may also stay in the Philippines for a year without a visa, provided they enter the country with the balikbayan."
For more information regarding the Balikbayan Program, Prof. Pintado refers readers to the Philippine Embassy web address: www.philembassy.org.au.
You can also listen to a past RFA Interview with the dedicated and hardworking Hon. Con. Gen., Prof. Pintado which is located in the extensive "Interview Archive" of this RFA website: "#085-Prof-Felix-Pintado-15Nov2014".
For more information regarding the Balikbayan Program, Prof. Pintado refers readers to the Philippine Embassy web address: www.philembassy.org.au.
You can also listen to a past RFA Interview with the dedicated and hardworking Hon. Con. Gen., Prof. Pintado which is located in the extensive "Interview Archive" of this RFA website: "#085-Prof-Felix-Pintado-15Nov2014".
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Petition to save Mary Jane by Migrante Australia (July 2015)
The photo above shows Mary Jane at an Indonesian prison just merely one week before the scheduled execution. She is seen dressed in Indonesian traditional attire on the 21st April 2015, which is Kartini national heroine day for Indonesia. Kartini is revered in Indonesia as a champion advocate of female rights. The poster in the background with a picture of Kartini reads in Indonesian:"Semangat Kartini Semangat Perempuan Untuk [word covered by Mary Jane] Menatap Masa Depan" (Spirit of Kartini, Spirit of Women, For Facing the Future").
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RFA previously featured a breaking story about Mary Jane Veloso who was led to 'execution island' in Indonesia and received a stay (temporary suspension) of execution just before midnight on the 29th April, literally within the last minutes before facing an execution squad.
The declared mission of Migrante International is to defend the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) by raising public awareness of their plight. It was founded in December 1996 after the death of Filipina domestic helper Flor Contemplacion who was hanged in Singapore. It has handled and assisted with thousands of welfare and rights cases, including the landmark case of Angelo dela Cruz who was kidnapped and held hostage in Iraq in 2004. Angelo dela Cruz was eventually rescued from captivity. |
Migrante International has over 200 member organisations in more than 23 countries. Migrante Australia is just one example of these organisations. Migrante Australia, which has one of its many bases in New South Wales (NSW) (Australia's largest state by population), is nobly acting as an advocate for Mary Jane Veloso who is still awaiting the firing squad.
Migrante Australia forwarded a petition to RFA, which is addressed to the Presidents of Indonesia and the Philippines arguing Mary Jane's innocence as a victim of people smugglers who put drugs in her bag without her knowledge.
This passionate petition gives Mary Jane a voice and by distributing it to as many people as possible can help Migrante help Mary Jane.
The Indonesian public at many different levels of society is very well disposed towards Mary Jane and any extra assistance she receives, however small or large, may just save her life. You can distribute this petition amongst your community - social, religious and sporting groups - and return to Migrante Australia, in NSW.
Further to the efforts of Migrante and many others, Philippine Congressman and international boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao and his wife Jinkee, also visited Mary Jane last week, 10 July 2015, at a prison in Yogyakarta, on the main Indonesian Island of Java.
Migrante Australia forwarded a petition to RFA, which is addressed to the Presidents of Indonesia and the Philippines arguing Mary Jane's innocence as a victim of people smugglers who put drugs in her bag without her knowledge.
This passionate petition gives Mary Jane a voice and by distributing it to as many people as possible can help Migrante help Mary Jane.
The Indonesian public at many different levels of society is very well disposed towards Mary Jane and any extra assistance she receives, however small or large, may just save her life. You can distribute this petition amongst your community - social, religious and sporting groups - and return to Migrante Australia, in NSW.
Further to the efforts of Migrante and many others, Philippine Congressman and international boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao and his wife Jinkee, also visited Mary Jane last week, 10 July 2015, at a prison in Yogyakarta, on the main Indonesian Island of Java.
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Photo: Left to right: Mary Jane, Manny and Jinkee Pacquiao hold hands in solemn prayer at a prison in central Java, Indonesia, 10th July 2015.
Click the link below to view and print the petition from Migrante Australia.
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Mr Ben-Hur Winter receives
South Australian Governor's Multicultural Award (2015)
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Congratulations to Mr Ben-Hur Winter from Adelaide, South Australia (SA) for recently receiving a prestigious SA Governor's Multicultural Award for the Arts and Culture category.
[Extract below from Filipino Settlement Coordinating Council of South Australia (FSCCSA)] "In the Arts and Culture Awards the Individual Winner was Mr Ben-Hur Winter who has drawn from a rich history and culture to develop an impressive body of work over many years across state, national and international dance and opera companies. Since 2000, Ben-Hur has increasingly chosen projects that foster inter-cultural understanding and is now working towards a specific focus on youth, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds." |
Photo above: Ben-Hur Winter front row, second from right wearing traditional barong Tagalog attire.
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Philippine Independence Day Dinner-Dance and Cultural Presentation, by the Filipino-Australian Club of Perth Inc (FACPI), Grand Ballroom, Crown Perth Convention Centre, Perth, Western Australia, 19th June 2015.
FACPI does it again by organising a Philippine Independence day celebration at one of Australia's most prestigious venues, the world-class Crown Convention Centre in Perth, Western Australia, which is the state of Australia's many high rolling millionaires.
Perth, which is often referred to as the beautiful city of lights, and which is blessed by being located on the banks of the Swan River, as it winds its way to the crystal clear beaches and white dazzling sand of the Indian Ocean, is always dazzling in its splendour and full of endless social energy.
Event:
Perth, which is often referred to as the beautiful city of lights, and which is blessed by being located on the banks of the Swan River, as it winds its way to the crystal clear beaches and white dazzling sand of the Indian Ocean, is always dazzling in its splendour and full of endless social energy.
Event:
- Friday, 19th June 2015
- Grand Ballroom, Crown Convention Centre Perth
- 7pm unti 1am
- Dinner Dance
- Cultural Presentation
- Live Band by Daren Reid and the Soul City Groove
- Attire: Formal/Filipiniana
- Contact: Neneth Lacsamana 0415-353-439
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Philippine Independence Day, Dinner-Dance
By the Filipino Settlement Coordinating Council of South Australia (FSCCSA), Dudley Park, Near Adelaide City Centre, SA
Saturday 13th June 2015
Below: Beautiful Adelaide City on the River Torrens, also referred to as the "City of Churches".
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Freedom Ball - Sunday 13th June 2015
by the Alliance of Philippine Community Organisations Inc (APCO), at the Dooleys Lidcome Catholic Club, (Sydney, NSW)
| apco_all_set_for_freedom_ball-dooleys_lidcombe_catholic_club-13june2015.pdf |
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Philippine National Day Ball - Sydney
Philippine Community Council of NSW Inc.
Friday 12th June 2015
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Hamon Sa Kampeon (Champion's Challenge)
Catholic Club, Lidcombe, Sydney
Sunday 22nd March 2015
Different singing champions from around New South Wales (NSW), the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and possibly further afield from other Australian states, will compete for the title of Champion of Champions.
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Josefina Musa
receives New South Wales (NSW) Woman of the Year 2015 award
at the NSW Parliament House Sydney (4th March 2015)
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Above left: Josefina (Josie) Musa (left) with fellow Woman of the Year recipient Evelyn Lester (right).
Above right: (left to right) Hon. Pru Goward, Member of Parliament (MP) and NSW Minister for Women, Josie Musa and Hon. Kevin Conolly, Member of Parliament (MP) NSW.
Above right: (left to right) Hon. Pru Goward, Member of Parliament (MP) and NSW Minister for Women, Josie Musa and Hon. Kevin Conolly, Member of Parliament (MP) NSW.
Congratulations to Josefina (Josie) Musa for receiving the prestigious NSW Woman of the year award at the NSW Parliament House in Sydney. Josie, who is beautiful on the outside and inside, is a very popular and respected community figure in NSW. She is full of ideas, integrity and energy. Josie is actively involved in many different Filipino Australian community activities in the Sydney area. She is the coordinator and host of the popular Adhika Radio (100.7FM) in Sydney and is a good friend of RFA.
Adhika Radio is part of the Filipino Press Sydney (Filpressyd) media group which is led by Jaimie (Jimmy) K. Pimentel, the highly respected elder statesman and media godfather type figure within Sydney's large and talented pool of Filipino-Australian journalists and announcers. Filpressyd has also organised media delegations from Sydney to visit the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, and also organises media delegation trips to the Philippines.
Adhika Radio is part of the Filipino Press Sydney (Filpressyd) media group which is led by Jaimie (Jimmy) K. Pimentel, the highly respected elder statesman and media godfather type figure within Sydney's large and talented pool of Filipino-Australian journalists and announcers. Filpressyd has also organised media delegations from Sydney to visit the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, and also organises media delegation trips to the Philippines.
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Attorney (Atty.) Aida Garcia, Adelaide, South Australia (SA) based National President of the
Filipino Communities Council of Australia (FILCCA) (2015)
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Hearty congratulations to Atty. Aida Garcia, the national president of FILCCA - which is Australia's peak Filipino body - for receiving the Citizen of the Year Award in the Port Adelaide Enfield Council from Mayor Gary Johanson. RFA recently conducted an interview with Aida on the 25th October last year just after she was awarded as one of the 100 most influential women of the year by the Filipina Women's Network (FWN) at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel, Metro Manila. She also led the organisation of the highly successful national FILCCA conference held at the Novotel Hotel, Parramatta, Sydney. |
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Prof. Floro Quibuyen: One of the foremost academics on the contribution of Jose Rizal to Philippine History (2015)
Prof. Floro Quibuyen, Knights of Rizal (KOR), Sydney, recently contacted RFA about an upcoming seminar series on Jose Rizal. RFA is pleased to advertise this to our Australian, Philippine and global audience.
| rizal_seminar_workshop-order_of_the_knights_of_rizal-_prof.floro_quibuyen-flyer_launching_2015.pdf |
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Scholarships are on offer for the first 20 enrollees. This seminar-workshop would be valuable for anyone wishing to gain a greater understanding of the Philippines, which is a proud and economically fast rising South-East Asian country to Australia's near north.
In particular, this would benefit both Filipinos wishing to learn more about their history, as well as university students of South-East Asian and wider Asian studies. Photos Above: Jose Rizal in front of a Philippine flag. Right: Internationally recognised Rizal historian Prof. Floro Quibuyen. |
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Filipino Communities Council of Australia (FILCAA) national conference in Sydney 24-26th October 2014
Congratulations to the FILCCA event organisers and attendees for such a wonderful event from Friday to Sunday last week. This conference by the peak national Filipino organisation in Australia was very informative and entertainingThe conference included many great speakers, an entertaining and fun gala dinner, and a relaxing luxury cruise on the world's best harbour in Sydney.
Many Filipinos from around all parts of the great nation of Australia won awards for their service to Filipino Australian communities. The best gala dinner performance award went to the Filipino Community Council of the Australian Capital Territory (FCCACT) [photo above].
Many state and federal political VIPs representing gave speeches as well as the Philippine Ambassador to Australia, Her Excellency Belen F. Anota.
Many Filipinos from around all parts of the great nation of Australia won awards for their service to Filipino Australian communities. The best gala dinner performance award went to the Filipino Community Council of the Australian Capital Territory (FCCACT) [photo above].
Many state and federal political VIPs representing gave speeches as well as the Philippine Ambassador to Australia, Her Excellency Belen F. Anota.
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Filipino Communities Council of Australia (FILCCA) Conference: Sydney, 24 - 26 October 2014, and Mobile Overseas Registration for eligibility to vote in Philippine National Election
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Be sure to attend this great conference in beautiful Parramatta, Sydney. Full details can be found in the documents above, attached for your online convenience.
In addition to the above information Attorney (Atty.) Aida Garcia, President of FILCCA, has announced that in conjunction with FILCCA's 13th National Conference,hosted by the Philippine Community Council (PCC) NSW, the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney will be conducting a Mobile Overseas Voters' Registration for those who are eligible to participate in the Philippine national elections on May 9, 2016.
The Phil Consulate General in Sydney will have official representatives present for this particular service to the Filipino community.
MOBILE OVERSEAS REGISTRATION AT THE FILCCA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2014
Times for the Mobile Overseas Registration:
Evidence required:
In addition to the above information Attorney (Atty.) Aida Garcia, President of FILCCA, has announced that in conjunction with FILCCA's 13th National Conference,hosted by the Philippine Community Council (PCC) NSW, the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney will be conducting a Mobile Overseas Voters' Registration for those who are eligible to participate in the Philippine national elections on May 9, 2016.
The Phil Consulate General in Sydney will have official representatives present for this particular service to the Filipino community.
MOBILE OVERSEAS REGISTRATION AT THE FILCCA NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2014
Times for the Mobile Overseas Registration:
- 1.30-5.00pm, Friday, 24th October and
- 5.00-7.00pm Saturday 25th October 2014.
- Possession of Filipino citizenship, including Filipino-Australians who are dual citizens,
- Be at least 18 years of age on the day of the election, and
- Not otherwise disqualified.
Evidence required:
- Photocopy of valid Philippine Passport (bring the original as well for sighting)
- For Dual citizens: photocopy of the Order of Approval to retain/reacquire Filipino citizenship or
- Oath of Allegiance or
- Identification Certificate.
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Filipino Communities Council of Australia (FILCCA) Inc,
National Australian Awards for Outstanding Filipinos and Outstanding Organisation: NOMINATE NOW!
Perlita Swinbank, the FILCCA Vice President, External Affairs, pictured on the right of the picture wearing a red dress and jusi shawl, with the Philippine Ambassador to Australia, Her Excellency Belen Anota wearing a blue
Filipiniana costume, at the Philippine Independence Day Celebration Ball 2014 in Canberra. |
Perlita Swinbank, the FILCCA Vice President, External Affairs, forwarded a communiqué to RFCA regarding excellence awards to recognize Filipinos and community organisations around Australia for their outstanding achievements, efforts and noble work.
Award categories are:
See attached letter from Perlita Swinbank below detailing the criteria, selection process and conditions.
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26th Fiesta Kultura, Sydney
Including Miss Philippines-Australia Pageant
6th October 2014 (Monday Public Holiday)
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Youtube clip: By Kalatas Media, Sydney
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Australia's biggest Filipino cultural event, run by the Philippine Australia Sports and Culture (PASC) Incorporated, is on again this year, 6th October at the Fairfield Show Grounds.
This event is also attended by many political and community dignitaries. If you wish to see a video of this year's contenders for the Miss Philippines-Australia Crown please click on the image on the left. |
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Grand Filipino Fiesta, 28th September 2014
Perth, Western Australia (WA)
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Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, Penrose Park, NSW
& Picnic at Hanging Rock
(Half way between Sydney and Canberra near national highway on Hanging Rock road - approx. 2.5km on the Canberra side of the Sutton Forest MacDonald's road stop)
Saturday, 11am, 27th September 2014
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Lady of Penafrancia Fiesta on the Nepean River, Sydney
Great successful event with large turnout and good entertainment
Saturday, 20th September 2014
Photo Above: Getting ready for the fluvial procession with the Lady of Penafrancia.
Photo below: Australia's answer to the famous Mississippi Queen, the Nepean Belle, on the beautiful Nepean river.
Photo below: Australia's answer to the famous Mississippi Queen, the Nepean Belle, on the beautiful Nepean river.
Above: On board the river boat queen, Nepean Belle, from left to right, Penny Perfecto, Chairperson Bicol Communities League Inc., Gloria Ross, Director RFA, Lolita Farmer, Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and Violi Calvert, Director of Handball Australia.
Below: The band on the river boat queen, Nepean Belle.
Below: The band on the river boat queen, Nepean Belle.
Above: All ashore with the marching band leading the way.
Below: The Lady of Penafrancia Procession on land. Benjamin Bongat, President of the Australian Devotees of our Lady of Penafrancia, middle right of photo in dark sun glasses as a procession bearer.
Below: The Lady of Penafrancia Procession on land. Benjamin Bongat, President of the Australian Devotees of our Lady of Penafrancia, middle right of photo in dark sun glasses as a procession bearer.
Above: Beautiful dancing ladies and friends at the fiesta.
Below: Left to right: Brian Lorenz, Singing and Dancing Filipino Australian Superstar, Gloria Ross, Director RFA, Michael Bernardino, BDO Manager Australia, Nenita Weekes, Justice of the Peace (JP) Bathurst NSW radio announcer and cultural entertainer, Nenita's friend and Arnulfo Pan.
Below: Left to right: Brian Lorenz, Singing and Dancing Filipino Australian Superstar, Gloria Ross, Director RFA, Michael Bernardino, BDO Manager Australia, Nenita Weekes, Justice of the Peace (JP) Bathurst NSW radio announcer and cultural entertainer, Nenita's friend and Arnulfo Pan.
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Lady of Penafrancia Fiesta: Mass and Fluvial Festival
Penrith (Sydney), 20th September 2014
The Australian Devotees of our Lady of Penafrancia under the Guidance of the Basilica of Penafrancia and the Diocese of Parramatta, as well as support from the Penrith City Council within the greater Sydney metro area will be having a Lady of Penafrancia mass at St. Nicolas of Myra Church in Penrith, and a fluvial (water) festival on the beautiful Nepean river in Penrith. If you are in the area be sure to attend this wonderful and colourful celebration. This is a great example of a community coming together to celebrate and strengthen their faith, culture and friendships.
- Mass: 9.30am, St. Nicholas of Myra Church, 326 High Street, Penrith (Carpark entry at Higgins Street).
- Fluvial Procession: 12 noon, Nepean River, Penrith
- Lunch and Entertainment: 1pm, Factory Road (Tench Reserve), Penrith
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Philippine Navy receive a warm welcome in Darwin
for the 2014 Kakadu international military exercises
with Australia and other countries.
25th August to 12th September 2014
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The Philippine Warship BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), pictured above, is a Gregorio del Pilar class frigate which was officially commissioned last year. It is the most capable naval ship in the Philippine Navy and is evidence of the Philippine's growing naval strength. It is currently in Darwin for the Kakadu international military exercises from August 25th to September 12th, 2014.
The participation of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz Frigate with Australia and other countries in Darwin is an example of the Philippine Navy's objective to help promote peace and stability in the maritime region of South East Asia. This region is of great economic and geo-strategic importance. It is an area that borders Darwin which has a significant Australian and permanent American military presence. It is envisaged that the Philippines and Australia will increasingly create stronger military ties as friends with common peaceful and democratic purposes, and Darwin will play a major role in the forging of this closer friendship.
The Ramon Alcaraz received a warm welcome in Darwin from the Filipino community. The Philippine Hon. Consul General of the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia, John Rivas, (picture above right) on board the Ramon Alcaraz, third from left, mentioned in a communication to RFA recently that the Philippine Navy in Darwin has boosted the patriotism of the NT Filipino community who have extended their unique Darwin hospitality. Thanks to the Hon. Consul General John Rivas and the Darwin Filipino community for extending their natural warm welcome to the noble personnel of the Philippine Navy.
The participation of the BRP Ramon Alcaraz Frigate with Australia and other countries in Darwin is an example of the Philippine Navy's objective to help promote peace and stability in the maritime region of South East Asia. This region is of great economic and geo-strategic importance. It is an area that borders Darwin which has a significant Australian and permanent American military presence. It is envisaged that the Philippines and Australia will increasingly create stronger military ties as friends with common peaceful and democratic purposes, and Darwin will play a major role in the forging of this closer friendship.
The Ramon Alcaraz received a warm welcome in Darwin from the Filipino community. The Philippine Hon. Consul General of the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia, John Rivas, (picture above right) on board the Ramon Alcaraz, third from left, mentioned in a communication to RFA recently that the Philippine Navy in Darwin has boosted the patriotism of the NT Filipino community who have extended their unique Darwin hospitality. Thanks to the Hon. Consul General John Rivas and the Darwin Filipino community for extending their natural warm welcome to the noble personnel of the Philippine Navy.
Photo above: Philippine Naval personnel boarding the Philippine warship, BRP Ramon Alcaraz.(PF-16).
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Kalayaan (Independence) Cup 9th June 2014
Prestigious Macquarie International Golf Club, Sydney
Providing Support for Typhoon Haiyan victims
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A big Superstar event by the Filipino Community Cooperative Ltd: Rose Fontanes & Dami Im together at the Sydney Town Hall
Sunday, 1st June 2014, 1pm
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As for big events on the Filipino-Australian calendar in 2014, this is one of the most sizzling, stunning and exciting - truly 'top notch' entertainment in the global city that sings!
Rose Fontanes, a Filipino caregiver, became famous in XFactor Isreal where she is now a 'household name'. Rose has been dubbed the Filipino version of Susan Boyle - the Scottish international singing sensation who became famous in 2009 on "Britain's Got Talent". This will be the first time Rose has performed outside of Israel. Damil Im, is a Korean-Australian who is now an Australian superstar and is set to become a world-class superstar. |
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Perth Western Australia, Bond007 Evening,
Rock and Roll, Dinner Show, Live Music
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Ceremony, 18th February 2014, for Filipino Mariners and Filipino-Australians who died during the bombing of Darwin,
World War II, 19th February 1942
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| multicultural-minister-nt-government-filipino-merchant-memorial-media-release-letter-2014.pdf |
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RFCA has received communication from the Hon. Philippine Consul General of the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia, John Rivas, regarding an upcoming ceremonial event for Filipino mariners who died during the bombing of Darwin.
"A ceremony organized by John Rivas, Philippine Honorary Consul General of the Philippine Consulate General, Darwin, through a collaborative effort with Dr. Tom Lewis, OAM, Director of Darwin Military Museum, Ms Linda Fazldeen, Community Officer of the Office of the NT Chief Minister and Ms Christine Gray, Protocol Office, NT Government and the Philippine Embassy will be held on 18 February 2014 from 9:30 am to 10:30 in Darwin Military Museum, East Point, Darwin, Northern Territory." Also, Maj (retired) Paul Rosezweig, former Australian Assistant Defence Attache to the Philippines has provided a document detailing each of the Filipino-Australians. |
This ceremony will also be attended by the Ambassador of the Philippines to Australia, Her Excellency Belen F. Anota, the First Secretary of the Philippine Embassy of Canberra, Ms Nina Cainglet, the Minister of Multicultural Affairs of the NT the Hon. Peter Styles MLA, and the Hon. Philippine Consul General for the NT, Mr John Rivas. At this ceremony a commemorative plaque will be jointly unveiled by Her Excellency Philippine Ambassador Belen F. Anota and the Hon. Peter Styles MLA, .
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Photos above: Then and now - Darwin city centre after the Japanese bombing on the 19th February 1942, and the beautiful and economically dynamic Darwin City which has risen from the ashes today to become a tourist, defence and international gas hub.
Upper right: Philippine Hon. Consul General of the NT John Rivas. Lower right: Maj Rosenzweig, former Assistant Defence Attache to the Philippines, and currently military historian, in Military ceremonial uniform with his daughter. Photos Below: Darwin Military Museum advertsing poster and one of the large gun turrets at East Point. |
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Beautiful Hobart, Tasmania and upcoming Filipino "Sinulog" Festival near the Cadbury's Chocolate Factory, January 2014
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Besides being one of the prettiest cities in the world, Hobart is a tourist mecca for many different reasons. The Hobart city waterfront is one of the great entertainment, food, festival and travel hubs in the world. The habour is very deep which can accommodate the largest towering luxury ocean cruise ships in the world which are able to dock right next to the city centre. There are many Filipinos who work on these ships and get to enjoy looking around Hobart.
Between Christmas and New Year Eve Hobart becomes the cosmopolitan festival capital of Australia as it is the finish line for one of the toughest and most expensive Yacht races in the word; the "Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race". National and international tourists converge on Hobart to see the great Super Maxis yachts in the docks, as well as enjoy some of the best seafood in the world at the "Taste of Tasmania" festival. Tasmania is surrounded by three large oceans - the Pacific, the Indian and the Great Southern Oceans - where the fish are plentiful and the waters pristine and comparatively undisturbed by human activity. As part of this magnificent habour city next to where the yachts and cruise ships berth, is Salamanca Place. This is where classical colonial architecture and modern interiors co-exists, and is one of Hobart's main entertainment, retail and market hubs. It is home to Australia's largest outdoor market. You can buy an amazing array of traditional handicrafts made from one of the most expensive wood in the world, Huon Pine. Some Huon Pine trees found in southern Tasmania are thousands of years old. There is also a large Filipino community in Hobart. Hello to all RFCA friends in Hobart and good luck with your big upcoming Filipino "Sinulog" community festival at St Bernards' Community Church and Hall in Claremont being directed by Maria Price. This event is near the famous Claremont Cadbury's Chocolate Factory. The Tasmania government attracted this chocolate factory to the city of Hobart in the 1920s from England, with a lucrative business concession; namely very cheap electricity pricing. It's great to see how government and private business can work together for the good of the economy as this factory has had a major positive impact on Tasmanian society for close to a 100 years - very impressive! Nearby the chocolate factory on the banks of the Derwent River lives a billionaire investor who has made one of the most extravagant and famous museums in the world called MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). This staggering multi-level cave structure, which would be great for a Hollywood movie setting, was tunneled into a large sandstone peninsular cliff. It has pumped untold hundreds of millions of dollars extra into the Hobart economy. Smart foreign and local investment is a winner for everyone and is a good example for all countries! |
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The Office of Tourism Tasmania has commended RFCA for its great website, as well as the above story about the awesome tourist locations and events around Hobart.
Photos Top to Bottom:
1) Cruise ships in Hobart harbour, one of the best deep water harbours in the world.
2) Hobart City at night.
3) Greater Hobart city from the top of the magnificent Mount Wellington, which spectacularly towers over the city providing one of the best combinations of city and nature view of any lookout in the world.
4) The Tasman bridge at night, Australia's second largest bridge after the Sydney Harbour bridge.
5) Looking towards Hobart from the Mount Nelson lookout, with the Wrest Point Casino, Australia's first casino, in the foreground of the photo.
6) The bustling cosmopolitan Salamanca Market, which is Australia's largest outdoor market. This market takes place every Saturday of the year.
7) Inside the Cadbury's chocolate factory tourist shop, at Claremont, Hobart.
8) Inside the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) near the chocolate factory. This stunning museum room is just one of many built into a massive sandstone peninsular cliff which sits between Hobart's mountains which dominate the
panoramic landscape and the beautiful Derwent river.
1) Cruise ships in Hobart harbour, one of the best deep water harbours in the world.
2) Hobart City at night.
3) Greater Hobart city from the top of the magnificent Mount Wellington, which spectacularly towers over the city providing one of the best combinations of city and nature view of any lookout in the world.
4) The Tasman bridge at night, Australia's second largest bridge after the Sydney Harbour bridge.
5) Looking towards Hobart from the Mount Nelson lookout, with the Wrest Point Casino, Australia's first casino, in the foreground of the photo.
6) The bustling cosmopolitan Salamanca Market, which is Australia's largest outdoor market. This market takes place every Saturday of the year.
7) Inside the Cadbury's chocolate factory tourist shop, at Claremont, Hobart.
8) Inside the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) near the chocolate factory. This stunning museum room is just one of many built into a massive sandstone peninsular cliff which sits between Hobart's mountains which dominate the
panoramic landscape and the beautiful Derwent river.
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Sinulog Festival in Sizzling Summer Perth, Western Australia (WA)
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There is a Sinulog festival in the dynamic city of lights, Perth, which is one of Australia's fastest growing and economically strongest cities. Perth, the capital city of the state of Western Australia, is not just hot economically, but it's sizzling with its temperature this summer as it reaches 45 degrees Celsius (or 113 degrees Fahrenheit). Its good that Perth possesses some of the best beaches in the world to swim.
Well, actually the temperature in Perth is cooler compared to Marble Bar, one of the towns in Western Australia. Marble Bar, where residents still live like ancient cave people with their mansions built underground to keep cool, is so hot it holds the world record of 160 days over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Just this January temperatures in Marble Bar are set to reach 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). Be sure to attend this great festival in Perth near the banks of the magnificent Swan river! |
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Fiesta Sinulog in Bathurst, New South Wales (NSW)
Contact: Nenita Weekes, Justice of the Peace (JP) 0429040383
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FAMAS Christmas Party, Perth, December 14, 2013.
(Click on advertisement below to open full location and contact flyer information.)
Pictures below:
Dazzling Perth City skyline at night time, and one of Perth's many beautiful beaches on the sparkling Indian Ocean.
Dazzling Perth City skyline at night time, and one of Perth's many beautiful beaches on the sparkling Indian Ocean.
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Hon. Consuls General from around Australia visit Canberra
In November 2013 Hon. Philippine Consuls General from all the states and territories in Australia converged on Canberra to visit the Philippine Embassy. Gloria Ross, of RFCA met up with two Hon. Consuls General, from the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia and South Australia (SA), for a dinner at a restaurant in Canberra's China Town.
Photo:
Left: Hon. Philippine Consul General of the Northern Territory of Australia, Januario "John" Rivas.
Middle: Gloria Ross, RFCA
Right: Hon. Philippine Consul General of South Australia (SA), Dr. Reynaldo Dante Galura Juanta,
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
Left: Hon. Philippine Consul General of the Northern Territory of Australia, Januario "John" Rivas.
Middle: Gloria Ross, RFCA
Right: Hon. Philippine Consul General of South Australia (SA), Dr. Reynaldo Dante Galura Juanta,
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
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Darwin city, Northern Territory (NT) of Australia pours out its
heart, spirit and money
for Typhoon Yolanda Victims (November 2013)
Total Donation from Darwin, NT: $41,289.40 |
Please refer to the following, detailing the very generous financial assistance which the NT Government and community organisations provided for the Typhoon victims in the Philippines. This was kindly forwarded to RFCA by the Hon. Philippine Consul General of the NT, John Rivas:
1) Filipino-Australian Association of the Northern Territory (FAANT) collected as total of $21,289.40. 2) The NT Government donated $10,000 that was coursed to Australian Red Cross for Typhoon Haiyan Appeal. 3) Darwin City Council donated $10,000 that was coursed to Aust. Red Cross for the same appeal. |
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The Grand Filipino Fiesta in Perth, Western Australia
29th September 2013, 8:30am to 5:00 pm
at the FACPI Clubhouse Grounds
1 Catherine Street, Cnr Grand Promenade, Bedford
(Contact: Nestor Jonko - 0413704061)
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Book Launch in Melbourne 13 October 2013
Faith and Struggle on Smokey Mountain: Hope for a Planet in Peril
Meet the Author: Fr Benigno P. Beltran
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Smokey Mountain, a vast garbage dump in Manila, the Philippines, served for many years as an emblem of Third World squalor. In many ways, it is a metaphor for a planet slowly choking on garbage and waste. But for Fr. Beltran, who served for three decades as chaplain to the 25,000 scavengers who survive off this reeking heap, it is also a metaphor of hope—an emblem of the will to survive, the ability to create joy and find meaning even in the midst of abject poverty.
“I lived for more than thirty years in a huge garbage dump called Smokey Mountain in the heart of the city of Manila . . . . It was a journey through the heart of darkness, a pilgrimage through the crucible of despair to emerge into joyful hope in the end.” Fr. Beltran. |
Join Fr. Benigno P. Beltran SVD on Sunday 3:30pm 13 October 2013 at St Francis Church Monastery Hall, Lonsdale corner Elizabeth Streets, Melbourne 3000.
The proceeds of the launching of this inspiring book will go to the Sandiwaan Learning Centre at Smokey Mountain. |
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Please refer to the PDF attachments
for more detailed information about the book launch. |
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Pinay Ice Hockey Grand Finals 2013
Olympic IceHouse Stadium, Melbourne
Tina Modesto, Filipina Australian Ice Hockey Star
Story from Alice Nicolas, Editor-In-Chief of the Philippine Times, Victoria, Australia.
"Tina Modesto and her team recently won the Ice Hockey Grand Finals 2013. They won the Grand Finals three years in a row. "Only two chicks among a bunch of macho men," mom, Irma Modesto commented on her Facebook page.
At 16, Tina Modesto played with a local all-female team "The Polar Bears" out of Ringwood and Oakleigh. They competed interstate in Adelaide. She's always had the full support of her family and have encouraged her to participate in a mostly-male dominated sport. After a few years break, Tina's back with The Demons, playing out of Icehouse at Docklands. They've gone on to win the Grand Finals three years in a row." [Alice Nicolas]
"Tina Modesto and her team recently won the Ice Hockey Grand Finals 2013. They won the Grand Finals three years in a row. "Only two chicks among a bunch of macho men," mom, Irma Modesto commented on her Facebook page.
At 16, Tina Modesto played with a local all-female team "The Polar Bears" out of Ringwood and Oakleigh. They competed interstate in Adelaide. She's always had the full support of her family and have encouraged her to participate in a mostly-male dominated sport. After a few years break, Tina's back with The Demons, playing out of Icehouse at Docklands. They've gone on to win the Grand Finals three years in a row." [Alice Nicolas]
Tina started playing when she was 16. She's nearly 30 years old now. Also Tina is part of the Demons team and the premiership title win was a great collaborative effort. Congratulations Tina from RFCA.
Top photo: Tina Modesto, 2nd from left. Above: Tina making her moves on the ice. Right photo: IceHouse disco skating.
Photos by Irma Modesto, Tina's "Proud Mama". |
DOCKLANDS MELBOURNE
FAST FACTS Docklands was Melbourne's historical area for shipping and trade. Recently this area has undergone massive 'urban renewal'. This has transformed it from an industrial working class area into a very upmarket district of big names, big money and very big venues where billions of dollars have also been spent on high rise condos with individual multi-million dollar price tags and luxury yachts which are sometimes even more expensive. The IceHouse in Docklands is superb Olympic standard venue. Melbournians are proud of the fact that their city is called the sporting capital of Australia, which is good considering Melbournians, and Victorians in general which is the state where Melbourne city is located, are 'sports crazy' in the fun sense of the term. Melbourne has also previously held the Olympics and currently has the largest sporting stadium in Australia which can seat approximately 100,000 people. 
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Barrio Fiesta, Filipino Community Centre in Marrara,
Darwin, Northern Territory of Australia
For Top End Filipino-Australians be sure to attend the magnificent and colourful Barrio Fiesta held at the large Filipino Community Centre in Marrara, Darwin. This community event, along with the Fiesta Kultura event in Sydney is one of the biggest Filipino gatherings in Australia.
The NT government, which is very supportive of multicultural groups, provided generous assistance to the Filipino Community in Darwin by helping it establish this great community centre in the Darwin central suburb of Marrara near the city airport. Darwin has a very large Filipino community group and the Barrio Fiesta is expected to be attended by many thousands of people. In past years it has also been attended by many of the NT's leading politicians, such as the Chief Minister, Opposition Leader, and Darwin Mayor who all recognize the great importance and positive impact that the dynamic NT Filipino community have in the Top End of Australia, and Darwin in particular.
The NT government, which is very supportive of multicultural groups, provided generous assistance to the Filipino Community in Darwin by helping it establish this great community centre in the Darwin central suburb of Marrara near the city airport. Darwin has a very large Filipino community group and the Barrio Fiesta is expected to be attended by many thousands of people. In past years it has also been attended by many of the NT's leading politicians, such as the Chief Minister, Opposition Leader, and Darwin Mayor who all recognize the great importance and positive impact that the dynamic NT Filipino community have in the Top End of Australia, and Darwin in particular.
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Carmen Garcia, Liberal Candidate for the CBD Seat of Adelaide:
Seniors' Forum and Message
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A footpath rallying call from Carmen!
Thank you so much to all of you who were at the launch of my official campaign - I am very lucky to have such supportive friends and community members to stand by me and I am really appreciative of all your support. The momentum is high and we need to stay focused and do whatever we can, so I am calling for a weekend of frenzy next weekend Saturday 17th or Sunday 18th to Liberal members and friends to be part of the action by giving '3 hours to stop another 3 years of Labor' and help get me elected. I am asking members and friends to increase my name recognition by hitting the streets, door knocking, walking around shopping centres with Carmen Tshirts on and letterboxing the new materials. This will be the weekend before pre-poll opens and if we have a weekend bursting with activity, it will help leave a positive impression on early voters. If you can give some time, please RSVP to Aida Garcia via [email protected] or call her on 0401 770 278 to advise what day, time and activity you prefer! Remember if you are going to do your shopping do it in a Carmen Tshirt everything will help! Thanks again for your ongoing support! Kind regards Carmen Carmen Garcia | Liberal Candidate for Federal Adelaide Email: [email protected] | Mobile: 0481 282 118 | Web: www.carmengarcia.com.au |
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The Leigh eReport:
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Ministerial media release: Millions of $ in grants available to the multicultural community in Australia,
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| multicultural-grants-ministerial-news-release-31may2013.pdf |
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Hotel Grand Chancelor, Adelaide, South Australia
Business Breakfast Carmen Garcia
Liberal Candidate for the Federal Seat of Adelaide
Thursday Morning 7.30, July 18, 2013
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Carmen Garcia, who is of Philippine heritage, will be contesting for the Federal Liberal inner capital city seat of Adelaide in the fast approaching national election.
There will be a Business Breakfast at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, in the heart of the city, hosted by Carmen. Special guest speaker will be the Hon. Andrew Robb, Officer of the Order of Australia (AO), Member of Parliament (MP), Shadow Minister for Finance, Deregulation and Debt Reduction. |
Event contact information: Adelaide FEC, PO Box 102, Glenside SA 5065, or email to [email protected] .
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Kalayaan Golf Tournament
MACQUARIE LINKS INT’L GOLF CLUB
Macquarie Links, Sydney
Fil-Oz Social Golf Club
10th June (Queen's Birthday Public Holiday)
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Filipinos in the geographical heart of Australia - Alice Springs, NT.
Mr Miguel Ociones, President of the Mabuhay Multicultural Association Inc, has been in contact with RFC from Alice Springs, in Australia's Northern Territory (NT). There are active Filipino Australian communities around most of Australia's population areas. The community in Alice Springs is a very dynamic and friendly group. Alice Springs is the second largest population centre within the NT, with Darwin as the Territory Capital. Alice Springs is located in the geographical centre of Australia (refer to the detailed map of Australia at the top of this web page).
"Alice", as it is also affectionately nicknamed, is famous as an oasis with underground spring water, surrounded by some of the largest deserts in the world. The red mesmerizing sands of these great surrounding deserts which look as if they belong to the planet Mars, are popular with movie makers wishing to produce science fiction, adventure, or just exotic scary movies considering that most of the world's population could be considered 'Salt Water People', or people who live near the oceans. Less than 20 kilometres from Alice is the large joint Australian and US military signals base called Pine Gap which employs many locals. Another big employer in Alice is tourism. Nearby is the internationally famous tourist attraction, the ancient monolithic Uluru, previously known as Ayres Rock, which is a world heritage protected area.
"Alice", as it is also affectionately nicknamed, is famous as an oasis with underground spring water, surrounded by some of the largest deserts in the world. The red mesmerizing sands of these great surrounding deserts which look as if they belong to the planet Mars, are popular with movie makers wishing to produce science fiction, adventure, or just exotic scary movies considering that most of the world's population could be considered 'Salt Water People', or people who live near the oceans. Less than 20 kilometres from Alice is the large joint Australian and US military signals base called Pine Gap which employs many locals. Another big employer in Alice is tourism. Nearby is the internationally famous tourist attraction, the ancient monolithic Uluru, previously known as Ayres Rock, which is a world heritage protected area.
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If anyone is passing through Alice on the 22nd of June be sure to attend the festival. There are three main ways to get to Alice Springs:
1) By car or motor bike as an overland adventure seeker 2) By the 5 star Great Southern train, more commonly known as the Ghan, which is considered one of the greatest train journey's of the world. It runs from the edge of the great southern antarctic ocean with 'happy feet' penguins to the hot steaming tropics of Darwin City with has the world's largest salt water crocodiles (now that's diversity!) 3) By the familiar aircraft route from Adelaide to Darwin. * As a practical Australian travel advisory rule, it's not advisable to try walking or jogging like 'Forrest Gump' did in the movie of the same name on his travels around the USA, as this would not be conducive to one's good health. The first word of Filipino that many jolly Filipinos say is "Mabuhay" which means "Long Live" in English. This is used as a welcoming phrase. The friendly Filipino community of Alice will put out the Mabuhay welcoming mat for all friends who wish to attend the event at the local Convention Centre. The full advertising flyer for this event is attached below. |
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Philippine Independence Day Celebration
Crown Casino Convention Centre
Perth, Western Australia
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Tickets $140 per person
Cocktails and Open Buffet Call: 0413-704-016 or 0416-527-809 |
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On Monday 10th June, Queen's Birthday public holiday, the Fil-Oz Social Golf Club in Sydney have organized the Kalayaan [Freedom] Golf Tournament. As advertised: “Experience the thrill of playing at the World Class
Golf Course, while enjoying the scenery and sumptuous Buffet Filipino food after." First prize for the tournament winner is a return ticket to the Philippines flying PAL. The same first prize will also be for the raffle ticket winner. Click the flyer document below for full details.
Golf Course, while enjoying the scenery and sumptuous Buffet Filipino food after." First prize for the tournament winner is a return ticket to the Philippines flying PAL. The same first prize will also be for the raffle ticket winner. Click the flyer document below for full details.
| kalayaan_cup_2013.pdf |
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Hon. CONGEN Januario "John" Rivas,
Darwin, NT
(Continued from Prime Page Profile story)
In addition to the Hon. CONGEN Rivas' many achievements in his professional teaching experience and tireless work for the Filipino Australian community in Darwin (as mentioned on the RFC "Home" page) he turned his civic mindedness towards charity work in the Philippines. This opened up a new chapter in his efforts to help the less fortunate in the Philippines. The Adopt-a-School for the Kabankalan Feeding Program and the Mobile Library Program have been recognized by senior education officials and media outlets in the Philippines.
John maintains a strong desire to champion the needs of the marginalized and under privileged . His noble and humble efforts aim to give children an opportunity to escape from the misery caused by a poverty cycle which spreads like a plague. He believes in a philosophy that with a coordinated effort of civic minded people then a difference, however small, can be made within the larger ocean of social disadvantage. The looks of genuine gratitude on the children's faces tell the real story, because by providing them with better nutrition and education for the long term these children's lives and future prospects have been substantially enhanced. The teacher in charge of the feeding program provides some background to the predicament of the students when she writes in a letter of gratitude to John:
" Most of the people here are farmers or laborers for they work as paid workers in the farm or sugarcane farms as “Carga-Tapas laborers” only. Some are indulged in small “Buy and Sell business. Others are carpenters and tricycle drivers. Parents are hard-up with their daily needs that they even use some of the bigger and older children to help them augment their family income. Some children even dropped from school just to work to help the family.
Congratulations to the Hon. CONGEN Rivas for being one of the noble Filipino Australians who humbly go about their work to socially and economically give back to the Philippines by making such positive impacts and improvements to Filipino society after already providing so much to the educational and social fabric of Australia.
Please refer to the the attached documents below which are letters of gratitude from the Teacher in charge of the Feeding Program, The Coordinator and Trustee of the Feeding Program, and the Department of Education in the Division of the City of Kabankalan. Also included is a Power Point software presentation of the feeding program.
John maintains a strong desire to champion the needs of the marginalized and under privileged . His noble and humble efforts aim to give children an opportunity to escape from the misery caused by a poverty cycle which spreads like a plague. He believes in a philosophy that with a coordinated effort of civic minded people then a difference, however small, can be made within the larger ocean of social disadvantage. The looks of genuine gratitude on the children's faces tell the real story, because by providing them with better nutrition and education for the long term these children's lives and future prospects have been substantially enhanced. The teacher in charge of the feeding program provides some background to the predicament of the students when she writes in a letter of gratitude to John:
" Most of the people here are farmers or laborers for they work as paid workers in the farm or sugarcane farms as “Carga-Tapas laborers” only. Some are indulged in small “Buy and Sell business. Others are carpenters and tricycle drivers. Parents are hard-up with their daily needs that they even use some of the bigger and older children to help them augment their family income. Some children even dropped from school just to work to help the family.
Congratulations to the Hon. CONGEN Rivas for being one of the noble Filipino Australians who humbly go about their work to socially and economically give back to the Philippines by making such positive impacts and improvements to Filipino society after already providing so much to the educational and social fabric of Australia.
Please refer to the the attached documents below which are letters of gratitude from the Teacher in charge of the Feeding Program, The Coordinator and Trustee of the Feeding Program, and the Department of Education in the Division of the City of Kabankalan. Also included is a Power Point software presentation of the feeding program.
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| letter-teacher_in_charge-kabankalan_feeding_program.pdf |
| letter-coordinator-trustee-kabankalan_feeding_program.pdf |
| letter-dept-education-kabankalan_feeding_program.pdf |
| adopt-a-school_feeding_program.pptx |
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Mr Renato Perdon: Sydney, NSW
Historian, Author, Newspaper Editor, Archivist, Cultural Consultant to the Philippine Presidential Commission on Culture and Arts, Professional Translator and many more...
RFC is proud and honoured to profile Mr Renato Perdon. Mr Perdon currently lives in Sydney. He has had a notable and successful professional career both in the Philippines and in Australia. As you will understand from reading this profile, Australia is definitely a richer nation from having benefited from Mr Perdon's contributions and skills.
Mr Perdon was born in Bato, Camarines Sur Province, Bicol region, on the main island of Luzon. He grew up in Sipocot, which is a first class municipality of Camarines Sur.
He has a degree in Political Science and Foreign Service, International Relations from the Philippines. He has a Postgraduate Diploma in Museum Studies (Sydney University), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Spanish Major (Colegio de San Juan de Letran). In addition to this he also holds a Masters Degree in Asian Studies and a Graduate Diploma in Archives Administration (University of New South Wales).
Prior to migrating to Australia, Mr Perdon had an esteemed professional career working with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines for more than twenty years. During this time he was a historical translator, curator, and, later, chief historical researcher, while teaching history at the Lyceum of the Philippines University in Intramuros, Manila.
He has acted as a consultant for cultural heritage for the Philippine Presidential Commission on Culture and the Arts (1986-1989), now the NCCA, and special assistant to the Chairman of the National Historical Institute (1981-1989).
Mr Perdon was a recipient of Colombo Plan Scholarship, British Council Grant, and Philippine Government Graduate Scholarship and attended various conferences and seminars on history and conservation in Europe, USA, and Asia and the Pacific.
Since his time in Australia Mr Perdon has had a very impressive publishing career. He co-translated a book Kalendaryong Pangkasaysayan, a Filipino translation of Historical Calendar - a daily record of historical events in the Philippines. His other publications include Laws on Historic Preservation in the Philippines (1988); Sydney Aldermen: A Biographical Register of Sydney Aldermen, 1843-1992 (1995); Brown Americans of Asia (1998); Pocket Filipino Dictionary (2002); Essential Filipino Phrase Book, (2002); Moving Out in Filipino (2003), English-Filipino/Filipino-English Wordbook (2003); Pocket English-Filipino-English Dictionary (2004); Technical and Business English-Filipino Wordbook (2007); Learning and Speaking Filipino (2009); Footnotes to Philippines History, Australian edition (2008); Footnotes to Philippine History, American Edition (2010); The Life and Times of the Perdon Family (2011); Understanding Jose Rizal (2011); Kulturang Pilipino (2012)
Mr Perdon retired as archivist in the Sydney City Archives and is currently the editor of the Filipino Section of Bayanihan News based in Sydney. He is also an accredited NAATI Professional Translator for translation agencies in Australia.
Contributions to Australian society from people with a high level of personal, educational and professional calibre, integrity and dedicated work is what helps make Australia a great country. Mr Perdon is one example of the great successes of multiculturalism in Australia. Australia is proud of its multicultural heritage. Filipino Australians, who include those born in the Philippines and those born in Australia, number in the hundreds of thousands. This Filipino Australian community and its many friends have contributed in so many positive ways to Australian society and are motivated to achieve even more when witnessing the humble and significant accomplishments of one of their own, such as Mr Renato Perdon.
Mr Perdon's previous Prime Page Profile summary can be found in the "Previous Stories" page of this website. Likewise you can listen to a broadcast interview which was conducted in Filipino and a longer English version of this interview. Both have been posted online and are currently on the "Home" page.
Mr Perdon was born in Bato, Camarines Sur Province, Bicol region, on the main island of Luzon. He grew up in Sipocot, which is a first class municipality of Camarines Sur.
He has a degree in Political Science and Foreign Service, International Relations from the Philippines. He has a Postgraduate Diploma in Museum Studies (Sydney University), and a Postgraduate Diploma in Spanish Major (Colegio de San Juan de Letran). In addition to this he also holds a Masters Degree in Asian Studies and a Graduate Diploma in Archives Administration (University of New South Wales).
Prior to migrating to Australia, Mr Perdon had an esteemed professional career working with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines for more than twenty years. During this time he was a historical translator, curator, and, later, chief historical researcher, while teaching history at the Lyceum of the Philippines University in Intramuros, Manila.
He has acted as a consultant for cultural heritage for the Philippine Presidential Commission on Culture and the Arts (1986-1989), now the NCCA, and special assistant to the Chairman of the National Historical Institute (1981-1989).
Mr Perdon was a recipient of Colombo Plan Scholarship, British Council Grant, and Philippine Government Graduate Scholarship and attended various conferences and seminars on history and conservation in Europe, USA, and Asia and the Pacific.
Since his time in Australia Mr Perdon has had a very impressive publishing career. He co-translated a book Kalendaryong Pangkasaysayan, a Filipino translation of Historical Calendar - a daily record of historical events in the Philippines. His other publications include Laws on Historic Preservation in the Philippines (1988); Sydney Aldermen: A Biographical Register of Sydney Aldermen, 1843-1992 (1995); Brown Americans of Asia (1998); Pocket Filipino Dictionary (2002); Essential Filipino Phrase Book, (2002); Moving Out in Filipino (2003), English-Filipino/Filipino-English Wordbook (2003); Pocket English-Filipino-English Dictionary (2004); Technical and Business English-Filipino Wordbook (2007); Learning and Speaking Filipino (2009); Footnotes to Philippines History, Australian edition (2008); Footnotes to Philippine History, American Edition (2010); The Life and Times of the Perdon Family (2011); Understanding Jose Rizal (2011); Kulturang Pilipino (2012)
Mr Perdon retired as archivist in the Sydney City Archives and is currently the editor of the Filipino Section of Bayanihan News based in Sydney. He is also an accredited NAATI Professional Translator for translation agencies in Australia.
Contributions to Australian society from people with a high level of personal, educational and professional calibre, integrity and dedicated work is what helps make Australia a great country. Mr Perdon is one example of the great successes of multiculturalism in Australia. Australia is proud of its multicultural heritage. Filipino Australians, who include those born in the Philippines and those born in Australia, number in the hundreds of thousands. This Filipino Australian community and its many friends have contributed in so many positive ways to Australian society and are motivated to achieve even more when witnessing the humble and significant accomplishments of one of their own, such as Mr Renato Perdon.
Mr Perdon's previous Prime Page Profile summary can be found in the "Previous Stories" page of this website. Likewise you can listen to a broadcast interview which was conducted in Filipino and a longer English version of this interview. Both have been posted online and are currently on the "Home" page.
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State of New South Wales (NSW), Western Sydney
Jaymes Diaz, Filipino Australian Candidate for Fed. seat of Greenway,
Jaymes Diaz previously contested the seat of Greenway for the Liberal Party in western Sydney for the 2010 Federal election. He lost the contest by the narrowest of margins, which was less than one per cent. Now he is back for a second attempt after winning an internal Liberal preselection early last month. This preselection was hotly contested by some big names within the Liberal Party and Australian community as a whole, as this is now considered a prized seat. Since the last election, according to national independent polling results, which measure voting intention and are conducted every two weeks, there has been a further significant swing towards the Liberal party. This is particularly the case within the western Sydney region which covers many crucial seats that could determine which party forms the next Government of Australia. As such, on these trends, it seems likely that Jaymes Diaz will become the next Federal representative Member of Parliament (MP) for the seat of Greenway. If this is the case then Jaymes will be spending much time in the Federal Capital of Canberra for many years.
According to the official Liberal Party website, James is currently a Lawyer, a member of the International Lions club, and importantly has a keen passion for tennis. Even though Jaymes did not end up as an international tennis star, he has instead kept himself busy working as a family lawyer for the last 15 years. Quoting from the Liberal Party website, it states "Jaymes is constantly in touch with our community and is known as a strong and dedicated advocate, helping many locals with their day-to-day problems."
Jaymes' profile, as a successful Australian Filipino (whether he wins his seat in the September federal election or not) demonstrates a depth of community maturity within the Australian Filipino community. This is being increasingly recognized by both sides of politics in Australia and the greater Australian multicultural community as a whole - whether they are identified as Australians with Anglo, European, Asian, American or African heritage. This helps make Australia a socially and culturally stronger nation.
According to the official Liberal Party website, James is currently a Lawyer, a member of the International Lions club, and importantly has a keen passion for tennis. Even though Jaymes did not end up as an international tennis star, he has instead kept himself busy working as a family lawyer for the last 15 years. Quoting from the Liberal Party website, it states "Jaymes is constantly in touch with our community and is known as a strong and dedicated advocate, helping many locals with their day-to-day problems."
Jaymes' profile, as a successful Australian Filipino (whether he wins his seat in the September federal election or not) demonstrates a depth of community maturity within the Australian Filipino community. This is being increasingly recognized by both sides of politics in Australia and the greater Australian multicultural community as a whole - whether they are identified as Australians with Anglo, European, Asian, American or African heritage. This helps make Australia a socially and culturally stronger nation.
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State of South Australia
Disco supporting Filipino Australian Candidate, Carmen Garcia, for Fed. seat of Adelaide
Carmen Garcia is a rising political star on the national scene. She has been preselected by the Liberal Party of Australia to run for the high profile inner city seat of Adelaide in what could be a tight contest. Carmen is currently the director of Multicultural Youth South Australia. There is an upcoming fancy dress disco sponsored by "Friends of Carmen for Federal Adelaide". To our South Australian readers, or anyone who will be in Adelaide on Saturday 20th April, if you wish to attend you can express your interest by calling the three contacts, Aida, Maylin and Cholly detailed below. RFC would like to congratulate Carmen on her selection. If successful at the federal election in September, Carmen will be spending much time in the national political capital of Canberra representing her Adelaide constituents.
