Honoring ANZAC Legacy, Supporting Community, and Celebrating Culture
I’m delighted to begin this April edition of the Australian Indian Times by acknowledging a significant date in our calendar—110 years since Australian and New Zealand troops first landed at Gallipoli. ANZAC Day offers a time for us to reflect on the sacrifices made by both soldiers and animals. This year, I’ll be volunteering with the Lions Club of Inala for the March and Service at I.S.A Memorial Park, Inala. If you’d like to join us or need information on a nearby service, please don’t hesitate to reach out. On this day, many will also wear red and purple poppies and lay a wreath of remembrance.
The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) was established in 1914 in Egypt, consisting of the Australian Imperial Force and the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. The name “ANZAC” has remained a lasting symbol of the bond between our nations and the sacrifices made in both world wars and beyond. It’s also important to recognize the significant contributions made by Indian and British soldiers alongside the ANZACs. Around 16,000 Indian troops fought in the Gallipoli campaign, with approximately 1,600 losing their lives. Therefore, I encourage readers to take part or attend their local service.
This month, many have participated in the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave to raise awareness and funds for blood cancer research. Blood cancer affects over 150,000 Australians, and tragically, 17 lives are lost daily. Personally, I’ve seen the impact of cancer within my own family and among friends. Some have passed, while others continue to live with the trauma of their diagnoses.
I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize the efforts of Cr. Paul Jackson, Councillor for Division 5 in Logan, who raised over $2,000 by shaving his head and eyebrows in support of this cause and team that includes Cr. St Ledger, Cr. Bannan alongside others, and everyone in the community who has contributed to raising vital funds for cancer research. A special shoutout goes to our very own Prav and Bob Pillay from Cornerstone Law Office, who generously donating $515.50 towards Cr. Jackson shaving his eyebrows. These small acts of kindness make a huge difference in the lives of those affected by blood cancer by raising funds and awareness at the same time.
On a lighter note, I recently had the pleasure of attending the Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2025, organized by the Greater Springfield Indian Association (GSIA). The event brought together hundreds of attendees from across the state . Now in its third year, the festival has become a cherished Indian and local much loved event in our community.
Thanks to GSIA President Mukesh Dubey, the festival featured thrilling rides, games, multicultural food, and local crafts. The support from officials like Hon. Shaynne Neumann MP and Hon. Senator Paul Scarr has helped make the event a fantastic celebration of cultural diversity and community unity. I’m already looking forward to next year’s festival!
As we remember our shared history and look toward the future, it’s essential to continue supporting one another. Whether through honoring those who served or participating in community-driven initiatives, we can build a brighter, more connected future together.
Lastly, I’m excited to announce that the monthly surveys are back, following their success last year. Please take a moment to scan the barcode and share your feedback. If you have any questions or just want to connect, I’d love to hear from you.
