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HINDI DIWAS ~~ हिंदी दिवस ~~
Sun 19 Sept 2010, 4pm - 6pm @ HTCC, Florey
Hindi Diwas (Day) will be celebrated jointly by Canberra Hindi School and HTCC at the HTCC Temple, 81 Ratcliffe Cres, Florey on Sunday 19 Sept between 4-6pm.
An exciting program is being put together which will include play, songs, poetry and much more by adults and children who are learning Hindi HTCC and Canberra Hindi Pathshala (School).
Please contact Basu Banka on 0408504467 or Santosh Gupta 0423 779820 or Manish on 0421 898095 or Kishor Nangrani on 0414 527962 for further information or participation.
Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations 2010 @ Vishnu Shiva Mandir, Mawson
will be on 11th Sept 2010 & Visarjan on 19th Sept 2010(Sun)
The most popular, colourful and divine event of the year, Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated with poojas, cultural programs, foods, children's activities, procession with drumming and singing of 'Ganpathy Bappa Morya' to Tuggernnong lake for final immersion!
On 11th Sept 10(Saturday) : Shri Ganesh Pooja (10.30am to 12.00noon), followed by Deeparadhana & Prasadam
On 19th Sept 10(Sunday) : Ganesh Homam at 10.30am to 12.00noon, followed by Deeparadhana & Bhojan Prasadam and from 2.30pm onwards Visarjan starts
BOOK YOU NAME FOR THE POOJA SPONSORSHIP WITH TEMPLE PRIEST
Bring your Drums/Trumpets/Bells & Chant Ganpathy Bappa Morya for final procession!
Clay Ganesh - Clay Ganesh available at temple strictly on previous booking basis, please book your name with Temple Priest by contacting on Tel: 02-62866404. The cost of Clay Ganesh Idol : $ 20/-
All are welcome
For more information contact 6286 6404 or email: vishnushivamandir@hotmail.com or visit www.vishnushivamandir.org
2010 Canberra Eid-al-Fitr Festival
10am to 5pm
Sunday 19 September
@Commonwealth Place (between Questacon and the High Court of Australia)
Stage performance (starts at 12pm) includes, singers, (eg, The Brothahood), folklore and cultural shows, handicrafts, multicultural food and drink, henna and face painting, fairy floss, books, snakes and lizards, baby farm animals,pony rides, dodgem cars, train ride, kid’s rides and more…
Everyone is Welcomed !
Come along and share in our celebration at the end of Ramadan and learn about our culture, food, traditions and faith. Share in our festive spirit of celebration, peace, harmony and community.
Email: ceffcommittee@gmail.com
Poster Link : Radio Manpasand Website
Bengali Cultural Association
RONGE / SHURE / CHONDE
Venue: Polish Club Turner
On: 25 Sep 2010 from 7.30pm
Entry by Gold coin donation
A very homely cultural programme, involving Children.
We also would like to invite to the community in general, if they would like to
participate, they can get in touch with Ajit on 6281 3564, for both adults and children.
We’ll try and give all the talents in our community a chance to perform in stage and in front of a big audience.
For more information please contact: Ajit on 6281 3564 (daytime)
Poster Link : Radio Manpasand Website
Invitation to AIBC ACT’s Annual National Address Luncheon
Enter the Dragon or A Passage to India
I am pleased to announce that the ACT Chapter of the Australia India Business Council (AIBC), with the Canberra Business Council (CBC), is holding our Annual National Address Luncheon on Friday, 28th of September 12pm – 2pm at the National Press Club.
The theme for this address seeks to analyse Australia’s lucrative positioning between the giants of Asia, India and China. Dr Doug McTaggart, Chief Executive of Queensland Investment Corporation will be the keynote speaker and will provide an insight into the lucrative investment opportunities in India and readiness of Indian market to share its rising potential to the world.
The luncheon will be a fantastic opportunity to discuss about Australia’s position in the current economic climate with prominent members from Canberra’s business sector and to interact with our guests from the political and diplomatic community. We hope you will be able to join us at this event and encourage your colleagues who may be interested in attending. In order to reserve your place at the luncheon, please RSVP to Kate Holland at kate.holland@canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au
For more information and details http://webzoom.freewebs.com/radiomanpasand/AIBC - Annual National Address.pdf
Kind regards
Deepak-Raj Gupta
President, ACT Chapter
Australia India Business Council
(e) aibcact@aibc.org.au ; (w) www.aibc.org.au
DIWALI MELA 2010 - TO BE HELD ON SUNDAY 31 OCTOBER 2010 AT GLEBE PARK (CANBERRA)
NEWSLETTER – 3 - REPORT OF LAST MEETING AND INVITATION
TO NEXT MEETING - ON SUNDAY 29 AUGUST AT 4 PM AT SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB (CORINNA STREET) WODEN
The successful second Meeting was held on Sunday 15 August at Ainslie Football Club, attended by more community organisation, agreeing to actively support and participate in Diwali Mela.
Diwali Poster - Attached Poster shows that all active (21) organisations will be participating in bringing the community together and celebrating the Diwali Mela in a spectacular style, showcasing Indian style of celebrating festivals to the entire community. We welcome any remaining organisation, including dancing schools, to join the Diwali community. The Poster reflects the decisions at the last meeting and will be distributed in all available media.
Poster Link : Radio Manpasand Website
Diwali Mela Features - Competitions
The Poster shows the special attractions of the Diwali Mela – not held previously in any other city in Australia, as far as we are aware.
Vande Matram Award – for Mrs Canberra India
This award will recognise the contributions and persevering hard work for the community benefit, by our ‘Devis’. More later
Miss Canberra India
Remember the catwalk with momentous music (later replayed by ABC radio), at the last Miss Canberra India pageant held in Albert Hall in 2006. This year will be better than that. It is being organised by the ambitious youth. Selection criteria will include their plans for community benefit work. More later
Diwali Lights – Devi Award
The most significant part of Diwali is the decorate homes with special lights, to welcome the ‘Lakshmi’. This aspect seems to have been forgotten in Australia.
Indian shops will have Christmas style lights for sale. Other strings of lights can also be used. The lights can be in the form of a Devi, a revolving chakra, a map or any other ingenious style.
The entry form will be on Diwali Mela web site. After receiving the entries, the judges will visit all entrant homes, on the night of Friday 29 October 2010. Best decorative lights for welcoming Prosperity ‘Lakshmi’ will get a prize. The homes are expected to keep on the lights at night till 06 November – Deepavali Night, to enable the community to enjoy and appreciate Prosperity lights. More later
Talent Shows – For 3 Age Groups (Under 15, 15-18, Over 18 years age)
Competitors, in each of three age, will show their talents, in any aspect of life of their choice – music, drama, joker, poetry, dance, speech etc etc, limited only by your imagination. This should be very attractive to our students. More later.
Spectacular Community Festival
As mentioned earlier, above reflects the discussions at the last meeting. It also shows the Meetings are very productive in coming to innovative decisions. The Diwali Mela is being planned to be an enjoyable and a spectacular community festival – of the community, for the community and by the community.
Please participate and be a part of your community.
Next Meeting - ON SUNDAY 29 AUGUST AT 4 PM AT SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB (CORINNA STREET) WODEN
· Will decide (Agenda)
· the rules for the above events,
· form sub-committees to handle various aspects of the Diwali Mela,
· decide on stall entry fees
· decide on the exact stage location
· make a marketing and PR plan
· plus any other business.
Finally, let us all get together and celebrate Diwali Mela as an Indian Cultural Festival, as a Diwali Dhamaka – Diwali with a Bang, bigger and better than that in Stage 88, in a spectacular manner, befitting the great name of Diwali.
Let us invite the entire local community and show-case our culture and our Festival.
Let us together invite the entire community to our food and other normal Mela stalls. Let us show them our culture through musical, dances and drama and other media. We will attract them through all media including TV. Let us show them our games, e.g. Kabbaddi, Keekli, Rope Skipping and Tug-of-war. Let us attract them to our Astrology, Comedy and Poetry.
All those willing to work for the Diwali Mela, should make it a point to attend the next meeting.
Diwali Mela Inc
Phone 6282 2202
FLORIADE 2010
Imagination. Where will yours take you?
Sat 11 Sep - Sun 10 Oct 2010
Commonwealth Park, Canberra
Cost: Free
Floriade 2010 features more than one million blooms as a backdrop for fantastic entertainment, displays and a whole program celebrating the theme of imagination and runs from Saturday 11 September - Sunday 10 October, 2010.
Unlock your imagination with Floriade, Australia’s celebration of spring. See over a million flowers bloom; setting the scene to stimulate your imagination – the theme for Floriade 2010. Be intrigued by the inspired garden bed designs. Get captivated by the artistic entertainment. Take part in demonstrations and workshops. Be fascinated with the engaging exhibitions. Get absorbed into family time with fun kids’ activities. Experience the beautiful ambience of Floriade’s ticketed night event NightFest. Plan your short break to Floriade now.
Make a date with Floriade 2010. There are plenty of things to see and do in the capital this spring. So come on, see for yourself !
For more information: www.floriadeaustralia.com
South Indian Fine Arts Association presents
Government of India through Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) - "Strengthening cultural relations & mutual understanding with other countries since 1950" sponsored
Classical violin concert by Padma Bhushan, Prof. T.N.Krishnan, (violin maestro)
Sunday, 3rd October 2010
Venue: Theo Notaras centre, London Circuit, Canberra
Ticket: $20, concession: $15
Time 6:30pm
Accompanied by his son: Sriram Krishnan (violin) and his daughter: Viji Natarajan Krishnan (violin)
Mridangam (The mridangam (drum) is a percussion instrument used in the Carnatic music of South India) by Thiruvarur Bhaktavalsalam
Ghatam (The ghatam an earthenware pot used as a percussion instrument, used in the Carnatic music of South India) by Vaikom Gopalakrishnan
T N. Krishnan is India's preeminent violin virtuoso who has been performing, composing, teaching, and promoting Indian classical music all over the world for nearly seventy five years. T. N. Krishnan hails from an illustrious family steeped in the Carnatic and Hindustani music traditions of India.
For more information contact Gopal Krishnan on 02-62319081 or mobile: 0416 311 343
IMPORTANT Message from the Indian High Commission, Canberra
RENUNCIATION OF INDIAN CITIZENSHIP AND SURRENDER OF INDIAN PASSPORTS
Indian passport holders, who have acquired foreign citizenship, are required to surrender their Indian passports to the nearest Indian Mission/Post immediately after acquisition of foreign citizenship. The Government of India has fixed the fee for renouncing the Indian Citizenship/surrender of Indian passport at A$ 273/- and has prescribed certain penalties for not renouncing Indian citizenship/surrender of Indian passport.
The other features of the recent revision of rules are :-
- Government of India has prescribed imposition of penalty on a graded scale, for the violation of Passport Rules ranging from a minimum of A$ 390/- to a maximum of A$ 1950/-, depending on number of trips made on the Indian passport after acquiring foreign nationality.
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) intending to apply for visa, OCI & PIO Cards, are required to first renounce Indian citizenship/surrender their Indian passports and then apply for these services. In case they do not have the Indian passports in their possession for any reason (loss/misplacement/submission to Department of Immigration and Citizenship a long time back, etc.), they are required to furnish a duly notarised affidavit in this regard and pay a penalty of A$ 273/-. If the Indian passport is still valid but has been misplaced/lost, then a Police report should be submitted additionally (to rule out any misuse).
- All applications for renunciation/surrender of Indian passports are to be made at the High Commission of India, Canberra or Indian Consulates at Sydney and Melbourne.
- Fee schedule for renunciation of Indian citizenship and Surrender of Indian passport(in A$) with effect from 01.06.2010 is given below:-
|
S.No. |
subject |
Fee for renunciation |
penalty |
ICWF |
Total |
|
1 |
PIOs who have already acquired foreign citizenship voluntarily prior to 31.05.2010 shall cease to be Indian citizenship. However, such persons are required to surrender their Indian passport, whether valid or expired so that the passport is not misused |
25 |
No penalty |
2 |
27 |
|
2 |
Passport not surrendered upto three years and not used for travel after obtaining foreign nationality |
273 |
No penalty |
2 |
275 |
|
3 |
Retention of Indian passport beyond three years and not used for travel after obtaining foreign nationality |
273 |
390 |
2 |
665 |
|
4 |
Passport not surrendered for 3 years and travelled once after obtaining foreign passport |
273 |
390 + 390 |
2 |
1055 |
|
5 |
When travelled more than once on Indian Passport after obtaining foreign nationality and also got the Indian passport re-issued |
273 |
390 for each travel (total penalty will not exceed A$1950/-) and A$975/- for re-issue |
2 |
1640 (for one travel and re- issue) |
|
6 |
Passport got re-issued after acquiring foreign nationality and retained the passport for more than three years |
273 |
A$975/- If travelled also plus A$ 390/- each travel |
2 |
1640 |
|
7 |
When a duplicate Indian passport is got issued on loss or damage after acquiring foreign nationality |
273 |
A$975/- |
2 |
1250 |
|
8 |
When a person has obtained miscellaneous consular service on the Indian passport after acquiring foreign nationality |
273 |
A$ 390/- each occasion. (after 3 months grace period) |
2 |
665 |
|
9 |
OCI/PIO applicants who claims to have lost/misplaced Indian passports or that the foreign Government has retained the Indian passport |
273 |
273 |
2 |
548 |
To apply for this service please visit at http://www.hcindia-au.org/misc_consular_services.html#cancel
For more information please visit Indian High Commission http://www.hcindia-au.org/ or contact on 02-6273 3999
HOME BASED COMMUNITY CARE SERVICES FOR OLDER PEOPLE
(ESPECIALLY THOSE WITH A CULTURALLY AND LINGUISTICALLY DIVERSE BACKGROUND) AND HOW TO ACCESS THEM
Speakers include:
· Kylie McGalashan, CALD Coordinator, Baptist Community Services
· Maria Gonzalez, Case Manager, Aged & Disability Services, Northside Community Services
· Gerard Sandi, Community Options
· Jo Cochrane, Manager, Organisation Development & Support, Home Help Service
When: Wednesday 22 September 2010 - 9.30am-noon
Where: Atlas Room, Hellenic Club in the City, 13 Moore St., Canberra ACT 2601
Everyone is welcome, entry is free but bookings are essential. Book by email - ailsa.turrell@act.gov.au.
Hope to see you all there.
Ailsa Turrell
CPP Officer, Aged Care Assessment and Liaison Unit
ACT Health, GPO Box 825, Canberra ACT 2601
Tel: 02-6205-4794; email: ACTHealthCPP@act.gov.au
Be “Quarantine-Aware” this Raksha Bandhan
Rakhi gifts from India sometimes contain plant /animal material which leads to their postal delay. Being separated from loved ones during Rakhi can be difficult. A powerful affirmation of family bonds, this is a Hindu festival during which brothers and sisters exchange traditional gifts in celebration of love and togetherness. Sisters tie a sacred thread around the wrists of their brothers as a token of undying love, while brothers in turn promise care and continued friendship (or protection, as in older times).
When siblings live in different cities or in different parts of the world, the sacred thread is sent by post, often accompanied by traditional sweets. Over the years as the Indian community has grown in Australia, the postal service here has begun to accept increased mail processing during Rakhi. Given the nature of the material they handle at this time, it is not surprising that quarantine issues have surfaced.
The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) acknowledges the unique bond shared by siblings and loved ones overseas, and the importance of celebrating Rakhi on time. So they urge you to make overseas family and friends quarantine-aware to avoid delays with the arrival of your gifts. Although Rakhi gifts are sent with love, your family may not realise these gifts can contain plant or animal material which can harbour pests and diseases that can harm Australia’s unique environment and industries.
AQIS recognises the importance of this festival. That’s why it’s committed to processing international mail in a timely manner to ensure that your special gifts are received in time. “The lead up to Rakhi has shown that it is common for well meaning overseas family and friends to send not only their prayers, but also quarantine risk items that can be detrimental to the Australian environment. All international mail is assessed, x-rayed or checked by detector dogs, and packages containing risk items are opened and inspected,” said Ms Caroline Martin, Program Manager, AQIS International Mail Program.
Quarantine risk items include Rakhi threads made with seeds or flowers; traditional Indian sweets made with milk products such as barfi, mysore pak, gulab jamun, rasgulla, pedas or soan-papdi; grains; and dried fruits. “To ensure the auspicious occasion of Rakhi is celebrated on time, AQIS endeavours to keep processing delays to a minimum but this is difficult when mail contains risk items as they require further processing which leads to lengthy delays. But you can avoid these delays if you tell friends and family overseas not to send gifts containing quarantine risk items – as gifts with no risk items are processed much faster. So talk to your friends and family overseas and have your gift in time for Rakhi, which will certainly make the day much more enjoyable,” said Ms Martin.
Some suggestions for safe items your family can send are:
* Cotton Rakhi threads with plastic, fabric, gold or silver beads
* Gold or silver coins
* Personalised photo items
* Artificial flowers
Make sure your family correctly lists the contents of all parcels and fills out any postal declarations labels or forms. Declaring items does not automatically mean they will be confiscated – in many cases, most are returned or sent on after inspection. Some products may require treatment to make them safe. Where treatment is not an option, the goods will not be permitted into Australia.
AQIS wishes all siblings a joyous Rakhi – a celebration of the continued tradition signifying love between brothers and sisters, and much enjoyment of the Rakhi gifts.
For more information visit the AQIS website http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/about/public-awareness/cultural-seasonal/rakhi2 and http://www.daff.gov.au/languages/hindi; download the brochure ‘What Can’t be Mailed to Australia?’ or call AQIS on 1800 020 504 (free call in Australia and is in English).
CANBERRANS URGED TO BE WARY OF SCAMS
SCAMwatch is a website run by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). SCAMwatch provides information to consumers and small businesses about how to recognise, avoid and report scams. Scams that are reported to SCAMwatch will be analysed by the ACCC.
Many scams originate overseas or take place over the internet, making them very difficult to track down and prosecute. If you lose money to a scam, it is unlikely that you will be able to recover your loss. The ACCC publishes this website to help consumers recognise and prevent scams.
The ACCC's roles extend beyond preventing scams and include other areas of consumer protection, infrastructure regulation, cartels and other forms of anti-competitive conduct. See the link below for more information on the ACCC.
The ACCC also works with state and territory fair trading agencies and other government agencies to promote awareness in the community about scams. In 2005 the ACCC and these other agencies formed the Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce (ACFT) to coordinate this work. For more information about the ACFT, see the link below.
If you have fallen victim to a scam, or suspect you have been contacted by a scammer, you can call the Office of Regulatory Services (Fair Trading) on 6207 3000. A comprehensive guide to various types of scams, and how to avoid them, is available at http://www.scamwatch.gov.au
Changes to the residence requirements for Australian citizenship
From 1 July 2010 most applicants for conferral of Australian citizenship must meet the general residence requirement. From this date there will be only one general residence requirement for everyone aged 16 years and over who wishes to apply for Australian citizenship.
People applying for conferral of citizenship on or after 1 July 2010 must meet the following requirements:
• Four years of lawful residence in Australia immediately before making an application including at least 12 months as a permanent resident immediately before applying,
• The person was not in Australia as an unlawful non citizen at any time during the four year period, and
• The person was not absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during that four year period, including no more than 90 days in the 12 months immediately prior to application.
For example, a person who applies for Australian citizenship in July 2010 will meet the new residence requirements if they:
- have been living lawfully in Australia since June 2006 on either a temporary or permanent visa, and
- were a permanent resident on 1 June 2009, and
- have been outside of Australia for less than 90 days in the year immediately before applying, and not absent for more than a year since July 2006.
The four year lawful residence requirement was introduced in 2007 because it was felt important that a person spends a reasonable period of time in Australia before becoming an Australian citizen so they have an opportunity to learn about life in Australia and what being an Australian means. It is also important that a person fully understands the commitment they are making when they make the Australian citizenship pledge and accept the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship.
For more information on the changes to the residence requirement for citizenship and to check your own residential eligibility you can visit the Australian citizenship website at www.citizenship.gov.au or telephone the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880 Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm.
A message from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC)
Dear ACT and Regions Community Groups and Service Providers,
Please find attached the recent Australian Multicultural Affairs Council (AMAC) publication, "The People of Australia" - A statement on cultural diversity.
Click files to open: Official Joint Media Release (Min & Parl Sec) - 30 Apr 2010 and AMAC People-Of-Australia 2010 - English
This publication is available in both pdf format and hard copy in the following community languages: Arabic, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Croation, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Korean, Macedonian, Polish, Serbian, Spanish, Tagalog, Turkish and Vietnamese. If you are interested in obtaining a hard copy of the publication could you please provide us with your preferred postal address and specify the community language in which the publication is required. We are also happy to provide the pdf version of the publication in a specified community language.
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR HINDI VERSION
Please reply to Rowan Thomson, Manager, Multicultural Affairs Section, ACTRO, if you have any questions regarding distribution of the publication.
Your comments on the publication would also be appreciated. In either case, please email rowan.thomson@immi.gov.au or telephone 61956021.
Thank you for your interest.
Trisha Vaughan
Community Liaison Officer
Multicultural Affairs, Community Engagement and Multicultural Affairs Branch
ACT and Regions Office (ACTRO); Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC)
Multicultural and Indigenous Youth Media Conference
The National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters’ Council (NEMBC) together with the Australian Indigenous Communications Association (AICA) and Canberra’s multicultural community radio station1CMS, invite you to attend the 2010 National Radioactive Multicultural and Indigenous Youth Media Conference in Canberra this August.
Over two days you will hear from industry professionals, learn media skills, explore what it means to be a media maker and get the chance to meet young people who currently broadcast. It’s a chance to get connected with community media outlets, find out about training and internship opportunities and learn from people in the media industry.
The conference is for young people to take part in workshops, information sessions and presentations. You don’t need any experience in the media, just come and see how you can get involved.
In addition to media presentations, the themes of language, intercultural dialogue, heritage and identity will be explored in presentations and workshops. We will look at the importance of youth participation and representation in the media as a way to build community strength, encourage dialogue and work towards understanding each other.
When: 14 and 15 August 2010, 10am-5pm
Where: Function Room, Theo Notaras Multicultural Centre
This two-day event is affordable for everyone!!! $30 for registration
Rachael Bongiorno
Youth and Women's Officer
National Ethnic and Multicultural Broadcasters' Council
PO Box 1144, Collingwood VIC 3066
Tel: (03) 9486 9549 | Fax: (03) 9486 9547
Email: youth@nembc.org.au
Contact Details: 9486 9549 or youth@nembc.org.au; More information: http://www.nembc.org.au/projects/youth/radioactive.html
2010 MULTICULTURAL AGED CARE SEMINAR SERIES
PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME SEMINARS ARE AT A DIFFERENT VENUE
Wednesday 7 July -Making Your Will - Misty Ord, Office for the Public Trustee; Arranging an Enduring Power of Attorney - Sue Graham, Public Advocate of the ACT; and Making an Advanced Care Plan - Emma Awizen, Respecting Patient Choices Coordinator, The Canberra Hospital At City Hellenic Club, 13 Moore Street, Canberra 2601
Wednesday 14 July - Financial Issues for Seniors - Glenn Klein, Centrelink At Riley Hall, Pilgrim House, 69 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra 2601
Wednesday 21 July - Mixing Western and Traditional Medicines – Jo McMahon, National Prescribing Service At City Hellenic Club, 13 Moore Street, Canberra 2601
All seminars from 9.30am-12.00pm
Bookings Essential - No charge - Please call Ailsa Turrell 6205-4794 or email ACTHealthCPP@act.gov.au
Ailsa Turrell
CPP Officer, Aged Care Assessment and Liaison Unit
ACT Health, GPO Box 825, Canberra ACT 2601
Tel: 02-6205-4794 Email: ACTHealthCPP@act.gov.au
MINISTER URGES CANBERRANS TO PREVENT HOUSE FIRES THIS WINTER AND STAY ALIVE
Media Release.. Published: June 4, 2010
Canberrans need to be conscious of fire risks around the home with the arrival of winter for 2010, Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Simon Corbell, said today while launching the 2010 winter fire safety campaign. The campaign ‘Stay Safe, Stay Alive this winter’ is a high profile campaign urging Canberrans to prevent dangerous house fires that typically occur during winter.
"Last winter the ACT experienced a 19% reduction in residential structure fires, compared to the 2008 winter season, which is a good result for the territory," Mr Corbell said. "Many of the fires from last year could have been prevented and it is essential that everybody in the community is able to identify possible fire risks and stop them happening before they cause damage or even loss of life."
The campaign was launched during an ACT Fire Brigade training exercise where a house, earmarked for demolition, was set alight under controlled conditions, showing how quickly a home can be destroyed by fire. The 2010 winter home fire safety campaign, developed by the ACT Fire Brigade in partnership with NRMA Insurance , will run for three weeks and include radio, television, press and internet advertisements featuring the key message of ‘Stay safe, stay alive this winter'.
"Actions like installing smoke alarms, not putting clothes over heaters, not leaving food cooking on the stove, and cleaning the lint in washing machines and dryers are all ways to prevent fires in the home," Mr Corbell said. "I would encourage everyone to look at the list of tips to stop house fires, and hopefully we can further reduce the amount of house fires in the ACT this winter."
The full list of tips is available at http://www.firebrigade.act.gov.au/
‘At risk’ groups and the Flu
More people are eligible for free vaccine this year under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) including:
- Everyone aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and over
- Pregnant women, and
- Everyone aged 6 months and over with an underlying medical condition making them more likely to become very ill with the flu, or suffer severe complications.
What can I do to stop the spread of the flu?
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water (or alcohol rub)
- Stay at home from work or school if you have flu symptoms
- Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough
- Clean surfaces regularly
- Have a flu shot - Immunisation is the best protection against flu
Flu Brochure in 14 community languages – Immunise Australia
The brochure contains information on influenza and the new eligibility groups for free influenza vaccine for the 2010 influenza season. It has been translated into: Arabic, Chinese, Croatian, Dari, Farsi, Greek, Italian, Khmer, Korean, Macedonian, Serbian, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese.
Contact Details:
Health Care Interpreters phone 6205 3333; Translating and Interpreting Service phone 131 450
More information: To download brochures, please visit: Immunise Australia Program
CANBERRA RANKED AMONGST THE WORLD
’S MOST LIVEABLE CITIESMedia Release - Published: May 27, 2010 - Section: Jon Stanhope, MLA
The results of a new survey just released has proven what most Canberrans already know; we live in one of the world's most liveable cities, says ACT Chief Minister Jon Stanhope.
The Mercer Worldwide Quality of Living Survey ranked Canberra 26th globally, the fourth highest ranked Australian city behind Sydney (10th) and Melbourne (18th) and Perth (21st).
"This is a great result for Canberra. This survey puts us well ahead of other Australian cities such as Brisbane, Hobart and Adelaide," Mr Stanhope said. "It also shows we are streets ahead of many of the great cities of the world such as New York, San Francisco, Barcelona, London, Singapore and Tokyo."
This is the first time Canberra has been included in this survey which ranks cities on a variety of criteria including its economic stability, infrastructure and transport facilities, crime rates and its relative strength in areas of education, the environment, housing, sporting facilities and even the range and quality of restaurants, theatres and cinemas. "We are particularly pleased that Canberra was ranked 21st in the world's top 100 eco-cities.” "This is a strong endorsement of the government's ongoing commitment to maintaining Canberra's strengths as a beautiful city in a bush setting with our clean air, our parks, our first-class schools and healthcare. These are the same messages we use in promoting Canberra globally through the Live in Canberra program and the survey results will be a great addition to our already strong case to attract new skilled workers to the city. "While these results are welcome, the Government also recognises that some Canberrans are doing it tough and we remain committed to helping those who need a little extra support. It remains our goal that everyone in Canberra can enjoy living in such a special city and community," Mr Stanhope said.
The Mercer Worldwide survey ranked Vienna in Austria as the world's most liveable city and Calgary in Canada as the number one eco-city. The annual survey evaluates 420 cities worldwide based on 10 categories.
Walk in to Treatment for MINOR INJURY or ILLNESS
Walk-in Centre
OPENING 18 MAY 2010
For
Colds & Flu
Cuts & Abrasions
Bites & Stings
Minor Illness
Minor Injuries
This is a FREE service… NO appointment necessary !!
We are OPEN 7am – 11pm, every day of the week.
Please Note: children under 2 years and those who have complex health issues should visit their GP.
Walk-in Centre: www.walkincentre.act.gov.au
SAVE ENERGY & MONEY WITH A FREE HOME HEALTH CHECK
3 steps to a healthier home - BOOK A HOME HEALTH CHECK NOW
Register Your Household - It only takes a minute to fill in the form and book in for your FREE enviro saver Home Health Check.
Receive Your Free Home Health Check - Our professional assessor will visit you at a time convenient for you. It’s that easy, and it’s free!
Enjoy the Benefits - By reducing your energy and water consumption you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
For more information visit: www.envirosaver.com.au or call 1800 813 660
Message from High Commission of India, Canberra
PRESS RELEASE
Tourist Visa:
Tourist visas are generally issued for a period of six months with multiple entry. These rules have recently been changed; according to the latest instructions, if a foreign national applies for a Tourist Visa frequently i.e. within one month of expiry of the previous visa, the processing time of the Tourist visa would be longer in such cases and may take up to 45 days from the date of application.
Long Term Tourist visas are issued for a period up to 5 years to the nationals of France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Mexico.
A 10 year Tourist visa is available only to US nationals.
According to the latest guidelines, it is stipulated that there should be a gap of at least 2 months between two visits of foreign nationals who are issued with Tourist Visas. The stay on each visit should not exceed 180 days in the case of UK nationals, and 90 days in the case of nationals of the other countries entitled to a long term tourist visa.
In case a visit to India is to be made within this 2 month period, special permission would be required. After processing such cases an endorsement would be made on the passport permitting two to three entries, depending on the detailed itinerary and supporting documents (ticket bookings) submitted by the applicant. A fee equivalent of A$25 would be charged for this service. In all such cases, the applicant should register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival in India. Immigration authorities in India have also been delegated with this power.
For more information please visit the website of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) www.mha.gov.in and www.vfs-in-au.net
websites of our Visa Service provider.
All Tourist visas are non extendable and non convertible.
Tourist Visa on Arrival:
It has also been decided to issue Tourist Visa on Arrival to applicants of five countries, namely Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand and Singapore.
A Tourist Visa on Arrival would be valid for 30 days with a Single entry and would be available only at airports at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata.
A Tourist Visa on Arrival is allowed for a maximum of two times in a calendar year, with a minimum gap of two months between each visit.
A fee of US$60/- or equivalent in Indian rupees would be charged from all applicants including children.
It should be noted that the Tourist Visa on Arrival should not be resorted to as a matter of routine. It is only for applicants of these countries, who are unable to apply for a regular visa at an Indian Mission due to some reason.
As far as possible, the usual Tourist Visa should be applied for.
Canberra
January 7, 2010
Unregistered Migration Agents
Take care when choosing a migration agent
In choosing a migration agent:
- Check they are registered and able to practice lawfully in Australia. See the Office of MARA website www.mara.gov.au or contact the office on 1300 22 62 72
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions – do not assume anything
- Get two or three quotes before deciding
- Check out the Migration Agents Code of Conduct www.mara.gov.au
- How long have you worked in the industry?
- What is your experience in the area where I need help?
- What services will you provide me with?
- How much will it cost?
If you have any problems with your registered migration agent, you can make a complaint to the office of MARA. For serious offences, the Office can take away their registration.
New website launched for Indian alumni, students in Australia
Thursday, February 18, 2010, (ANI)
New Delhi, Feb 18 (ANI): A new networking website has been launched for Indian alumni and students in Australia - www.MyOzNetwork.com
Buzz up! This is another initiative supported by the Australian Government to enhance the experience of international students in Australia. www.MyOzNetwork.com is designed to provide past, present and future Indian students in Australia with their own networking portal online, the Australian High Commission said here in a media release.
Features of the website include individual member pages, blogs, discussion forums and the capacity to share videos, photos, news and events.
Speaking at the launch of the website on 17 February, Australia's High Commissioner to India, Peter Varghese, said "a feature of modern education is the long-lasting networks it creates between students. Those studying overseas should seize the opportunity to build a global network of friends and acquaintances."
"We want this website to assist students in getting the information they need to have a productive and happy time in Australia and to build a network of friends and colleagues that will stay with them throughout their professional lives." He added "I encourage all past and present Indian students in Australia to log onto www.MyOzNetwork.com to see how the website might be useful to them."
Speaking at the launch, Australian alumni said they had found studying in Australia a rewarding and enriching experience. They welcomed the establishment of www.MyOzNetwork.com to help them maintain their networks and build new ones.
The website was launched at a Gala Event at the Shangri La Hotel in New Delhi on 17 February 2010.
Your Emergency……… Our Emergency
Emergency Services Agency (ESA) Community Newsletter - Edition No 3 2010
xin chào (hello in Vietnamese)
Welcome to another edition of our ESA newsletter. Time is just running away, and here we are in the middle of winter already. I hope everyone is snuggling up, keeping warm and have considered all neccessary safety measures when it comes to electrical and gas heating. Most importantly making sure you have working smoke alarms in your home.
These past few months we have been really emphasing to the community about keeping your home safe in regards to working smoke alarms in case of a fire. I have been passing this information on when meeting with various CaLD communities throughout Canberra. The Vietnamese Seniors Group is one of these groups. They have been very eager to learn and understand more about what they can do if there was a fire in their homes.
An evacuation plan was also highlighted to the groups and many of the individuals were never involved in an evacuation so the information provided about the home evacuation plan was received with appreciation as they will now actively practise it in their homes with families and friends.
Please read through some of the facts I have added below with hope this is helpful for everyone. The information provided in this newsletter is critical for the community as it will help Us, Our family and Our community to understand prevent, prepare and respond to different emergency situations.
TIMELY WINTER REMINDER
I would like to remind everyone, winter is here. Hopefully you have all checked your smoke alarms and electrical heating as this can be another reason for a fire accident in your home. If you do have difficulties with your smoke alarm in battery replacement or need to install smoke alarm, please contact your local fire brigade remember they can only install the battery operated smoke alarm.
HOME FIRE SAFETY
WORKING SMOKE ALARMS SAVE LIVES
Smoke alarms that are properly installed and working correctly greatly increase the survival rate of occupants of a building in the event of a fire. There are two types of smoke alarms available for residents on the market, the ionisation smoke alarm and the photoelectric smoke alarm. The photoelectric smoke alarm may be more effective in detecting smouldering fires. The ACT Fire Brigade recommends that as your ionisation smoke alarm becomes faulty or nears its expiry date (usually ten years) you consider replacing it with a photoelectric smoke alarm.
1. Smoke alarms should be installed in or near bedrooms or where people sleep.
2. If you have a multi level home, a smoke alarm should be installed on each level.
3. Smoke alarms should be tested monthly.
4. Keep the smoke alarm clean; vacuum the cover and vents of the alarm regularly.
5. If your smoke alarm should go off accidentally open doors and windows and use a newspaper or magazine to fan the smoke away from the alarm.
6. Batteries should be replaced once a year at the end of daylight saving.
7. Install the smoke alarm as per manufacturer’s instructions.
8. A 240 volt smoke alarm with battery backup and interconnected with other smoke alarms are a preferred option.
9. Smoke alarms for the deaf and hard of hearing are also available.
10. Smoke alarms should be compliant with the Australian Standard.
11. When your smoke alarm activates, if safe, investigate and if necessary follow your home evacuation plan.
Know two ways to escape your home, have a meeting place next to the mail box away from entrance to the drive away. Practise your plan.
IF YOUR COMMUNITY GROUP WOULD LIKE ANY OF THE ABOVE EMERGENCY SERVICES STAFF TO COME AND GIVE A TALK, PLEASE PHONE ELENA SIONE ON 6205 9781 or email elena.sione@act.gov.au TO MAKE ARRANGEMENTS
The CALD project has been funded by the Attorney-General’s Department.
Elena Sione
ESA CaLD Liaison Officer
liaison@act.gov.au; elena.sione@act.gov.au; www.esa.act.gov.au
Contact: 6205 9781 or 0466 150 582
XIX COMMONWEALTH GAMES
3-14 October 2010
DELHI
GUIDELINES FOR INDIAN STUDENTS
WISHING TO STUDY IN AUSTRALIA
Visit High Commission of India website
Déjà vu Canberra
Dance & Yoga Classes
(New to Canberra)
Starting from 5th September 2009 on Saturdays and Sundays
Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman House Arts Centre, Batman St Braddon
As in most cultural aspects of India, their dance has diverse folk, contemporary and classical forms. These influences are often allied with regional styles, narrative forms, and the wonderful mythology of Indian legends. While Bollywood has popularised some new styles of Indian dancing, there is a lot more to Indian dance than that.
Now in Canberra you can enjoy the delight of both Classical and Contemporary Indian Dance, not just for people wanting to maintain their Indian traditions, or have their children keep alive their culture, Indian dance is a wonderful pursuit no matter what your cultural background and you will be welcomed with traditional Indian warmth.
The fun and fitness of Dance & Yoga Starting from 5th September 2009, we are running classes on Saturdays & Sundays at the popular Ralph Wilson Theatre, Gorman House Arts Centre, Batman St Braddon ACT 2612
Please send us an email if you would like to register for any of our classes, dance@dejavucanberra.com , or contact by phone on the following numbers: Between 8 am to 8 pm: 0422938668; 8 pm onwards: 0434089517 or visit: www.dejavucanberra.com
OPEN FRIDAYS FOR STUDENTS @ Indian High Commission
From 11am till 5pm every Friday
The doors of the High Commission of India, the Consulates and the Honorary Consuls are always open to visitors, especially to the Indian community. In order that all Indian students know that there is an open door for them to come and discuss their problems, the High Commission, the Consulates and the Honorary Consuls have designated every Friday, from 11 am till 5 pm, an Open Day for students, when any Indian student can walk in, without prior appointment, to meet the High Commissioner, Consuls General, the designated Student Welfare Officers and Honorary Consuls and discuss their problems and grievances.
Thanks and regards,
V.K.Sharma
Deputy High Commissioner
High Commission of India
Canberra
Tel: + 61 2 62731106
Fax: + 61 2 62734917
HAS MADE CANBERRA PROUD…
VOTE OF THANKS J
Hello listeners of Radio Manpasand,
I've made it to the TOP and WON the IndianLink Idol 2009 competition. I would like to specially thank the people of Canberra and the listeners of Radio Manpasand for the immense support that has been shown.
Hope I can sing for all of you someday J
Musically yours,
ARUN Basu
To listen to some of Arun's songs you can visit www.arunrocks.webs.com
H1N1 Influenza ’09 Vaccination Program
ACT Health is participating in the national roll out of pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine. The vaccine, called Panvax® H1N1, will be available from General Practitioners in the ACT from 30 September 2009. The nationally agreed priority groups for this vaccine include:
o Health care workers;
o Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people;
o Pregnant women;
o Individuals with moderate to severe obesity;
o Children (aged 10 years and over) in special schools;
o Parents and guardians of children aged 0 to 6 months; and
o Those considered vulnerable to severe infection with H1N1 (aged 10 years and over).
The vaccine will be initially offered to those in the nationally agreed priority groups. Flexibility exists, however, for vaccination to be given opportunistically to concerned individuals or family members of vulnerable people.
People in priority groups who are unable to see a GP should ring the Community Health Intake line on 6207 9977 to make an appointment at a clinic.
Panvax® H1N1 is a one dose vaccine for people aged 10 and over. It may take up to two weeks for individuals to develop immunity to H1N1 influenza ’09. Further information regarding vaccination for those aged 9 years and under will be available following the conclusion of clinical trials in children.
Members of priority groups and other concerned individuals should discuss the vaccine with their health care provider. For more information on the Panvax® H1N1 vaccine visit the ACT Health website at www.health.act.gov.au
Dr Charles Guest
Chief Health Officer
30 September 2009
Blood Donations Urgently Needed All Day This Month
The Australian Red Cross Blood Service urgently needs blood donations this month. Our stock levels are falling due to
Winter colds and flu and increased hospital demand.
No matter what your blood type, we need you now!
Please call 13 14 95 if you can help us save lives during Winter season.
THANK YOU!!
http://www.donateblood.com.au/
HINDI Speaking VOLUNTEERS Needed URGENTLY !!
Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services (MARSS) urgently needs volunteers to assist with translating and interpreting services. Some of the recently arrived migrants from India speak Hindi and need assistance as they have a limited understanding of English.
If you are willing to spare a few hours to help these migrants MARSS would love to hear from you. Please contact MARSS by e-mail comwork@tpg.com.au or ring 6248 8577.
LIVE SMART: MULTILINGUAL LIVING SKILLS WEBSITE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Live Smart is a new multilingual living skills website for young people and their workers. The website provides living skills info in 6 languages (Arabic, Amharic, Dinka, Swahili, Karen and English) and features an interactive ‘make your own budget’ tool. The website is a resource you can use in your work with young people as they learn about housing, managing mobile phone bills, getting legal advice and staying happy and healthy. Look out for recorded interviews with young people – they’ll be added to the site by the end of June.
For more info, visit Live Smart at: http://www.livesmart.net.au/
Message from Department of Immigration and Citizenship
Changes to the Citizenship Test
Why is the citizenship test changing?
A review of the Australian citizenship test was undertaken to help the government examine the content and operation of the citizenship test to make sure that it is achieving its purpose of providing an effective pathway for residents to become Australian citizens.
See: www.citizenshiptestreview.gov.au
Also, SEE ATTACHMENT here for questions and answers regarding changes to the citizenship test.
More information is available on the citizenship website: www.citizenship.gov.au
ARE YOU READY FOR DIGITAL TV??
Between 2010 and 2013 analog free-to-air TV signals are being switched off and replaced with digital-only signals. How will this affect you? Find out here.
To keep receiving free-to-air TV after the digital switchover in your area you will need a television that is capable of receiving digital signals (if you don’t have one already).
There are two options for you:
Option 1 - Get a digital set top box to convert your existing analog TV
Option 2 - Upgrade to a television with an in-built digital tuner
What this means is you do not have to get a new TV if you do not want to. But, if you have an analog TV, you will need to get a set top box.
For more information visit: http://www.digitalready.gov.au/ or email: switchover@dbcde.gov.au or Call our information line: 1800 20 10 13
freeview
more for free
freeview will give viewers
more moments,
more channels,
for free
freeview is
free-to-view
no monthly fees or
ongoing costs
what is freeview?
Australia is switching to digital television.
freeview is the brand name for the collection of
digital tv channels from Australia’s free-to-view networks.
It isn’t any one channel or service – rather it is a suite of channels.
For more information visit: www.freeview.com.au
Home Energy Action Kits available from ACT Libraries
If you are interested in reducing energy costs and taking action against climate change, the Home Energy Action Kit can help you. The Kit can be borrowed from ACT Libraries and will enable you to perform an energy audit of your home and develop your own Home Energy Action Plan.
The Kit contains equipment, instructions and worksheets that will assist you to find practical ways to save energy around your home and to reduce your energy bills.
After using the Kit, if you would like more assistance, call the Home Energy Advice Team on 6260 6165 to discuss the option of having a professional ACT Energy wise audit.
Message from Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
Interpreting Services Available at Pharmacies
Did you know that free telephone interpreting services are available at pharmacies? The service is provided through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
TIS National provides telephone interpreting services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and has interpreters speaking more than 160 languages and dialects.
More information about the service is available at: http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/help-with-english/help_with_translating/
If your pharmacy is not registered for this service, please ask them to call 131 450. It will only take a few minutes for the pharmacy to get registered.
The registration form for pharmacies is also available at: http://www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/help-with-english/help_with_translating/_pdf/pharmacy-application.pdf
Doctor's priority line: General practitioners and specialists in private practice also have access to free interpreting through TIS National on 131 450
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India - Canberra Centre
That person who is awake in those that sleep…
We are proud to inform that our annual membership and enrolment for the Chapter has started in July 2009.
Annual Benefits include:
1. Approx 20 CPD Hours - recognized by CPA, Australia and ICAI (India)
2. Benefit of mutual membership with CPA Australia and ICAA on successful completion of required units
3. Networking for improving Technical knowledge, Better awareness of Job market benefits
4. Free professional email with domain of yourname@icai.org.au.
5. Assistance from other members to help while you are on work.
6. Speaking/Presentation opportunities at Chapter CPD meetings.
7. Better acceptance of ICAI membership in market place.
8. Concessional charge for annual events.
9. Topics on Taxation, Australian Shares & Derivatives, Carbon Trading, Payroll & Other State taxes, Financial Planning, Financing and invest & saving opportunities discussed and presented regularly by professionals
Website: www.icai.org.au
For further details please contact: Basu Banka: 0408504467
MEASURE UP
Why Measure Up?
1 in 2 Australian adults is overweight. And, irrespective of your height or build, if your waistline is getting bigger it could mean you are at increased risk of chronic diseases like some cancers, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
In 2005, 7.4 million Australian adults or 1 in 2 was overweight or obese, and, irrespective of your height or build, if your waistline is getting bigger it could mean you are at increased risk of developing a chronic disease such as some cancers, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Being overweight causes excess fat around your waist to coat your organs. Even a small deposit of this fat increases the risk that you will have serious health problems.
For more information why and how you should measure up please visit: www.australia.gov.au/MeasureUp
Need assistance in becoming an Australian Citizen?
Help is now available through the Citizenship Support Grants Program (CSGP).
· Advice on how to apply for citizenship
· Tutorial sessions
· A practice test
· Referrals to other services
www.citizenship.org.au or info@citizenship.org.au
Vanessa Giles
Citizenship Coordinator, Citizenship Support Grants Program (CSGP)
SE NSW & ACT Region, QMLC
(02) 6257 2144; vanessa@citizenship.org.au
Countdown to 2013 Centenary Celebrations
CANBERRA 100 (1913 - 2013)
It’s now less than four years until Canberra’s biggest birthday party yet, celebrating 100 years since Lady Denman officially named our city “Canberra”. Planning is well under way to make 2013 a year to remember for all Australians.
On 12 March 2013 Canberra will celebrate 100 years since its naming as the National Capital of Australia. Planning is underway for a year of memorable celebrations to mark this special anniversary not only for Canberrans but for all Australians.
The Centenary of Canberra will create lasting legacies in many forms, to take our city confidently into the next century. At the centre of the centenary program will be the community, local and national. You are encouraged as Canberrans and Australians to celebrate the Centenary of Canberra in your own way. It could be with your family, your school, your community or within...
For more information on the Centenary of Canberra visit: www.canberra100.com.au
