Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – Time to celebrate and reflect

The holiday season is upon us—a perfect time to reflect, celebrate good times, make peace with negative experiences, and come together as a community to share kindness and gratitude. I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to all Year 12 graduates for reaching this significant milestone and to every student who completed the year.
Last month, A highlight for me was once more presenting the “Esperanza Award” (Esperanza means “Hope” in Spanish) to two very deserving recipients in grades 11 and 12. They never gave up on furthering their education despite life’s challenges. This award, sponsored by my mum and me in my late auntie’s name – holds a special place in our hearts. I also completed my Rite Journey and was presented with the STAR Award, a prestigious acknowledgment chosen by both my peers and teacher. This award is given to one student who excels in the program. This was only possible thanks to the support and guidance I’ve received from the Deo and Brisbane Indian Times Family. Much of this growth is thanks to my mentor, JD Deo, and wife Shanjeshni Deo. Their unwavering commitment to family, community, youth, and empowering others has inspired me to dream big, act boldly, and face challenges with courage, especially writing articles that lay the truth on the table about what our readers are feeling.
I dedicate this honor to JD Deo, his family, my family, the Brisbane Indian Times family, and the broader community that has shaped my journey in the last 12 months.
JD’s mentorship has also given me the confidence to contribute to the Brisbane Indian Times, a platform where I aim to bring meaningful articles to our readers. Two quotes come to mind when reflecting on JD’s leadership and the impact he has had on our community:
1. “As we look ahead to the next century, leaders will be those who empower others.” — Bill Gates
2. “Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be one.” — Marcus Aurelius
Reflecting on the past year, it’s clear that our readers value meaningful and trustworthy media. Your feedback has highlighted the importance of addressing key issues like domestic violence, the cost of living, housing, and cultural preservation—concerns that affect all ages. Your voices guide our work, and I remain committed to fostering these important conversations and connecting with readers while volunteering or being active with our multicultural community. The best gift was being told by readers how much they love the content in the Brisbane Indian Times and my articles.
During the holidays, I will be practicing my cricket with the renowned cricketer John Bell, whom I recently joined at the WPC Cricket Trivia night. As a young person, I recognize that many youths are still struggling with their mental health, especially during the festive season. So, these holidays, feel free to join me on the cricket fields.
As a small gesture of thanks, I’m offering a $40 gift voucher. To enter, simply share in 50 words or less why you enjoy reading, participating in, or watching the Brisbane Indian Times. Be creative with your entry. This is my way of giving back to the community that has supported and inspired me. Scan the barcode with your phone. The winner will be contacted and provided with all the details. Link: https://us17.list manage.com/survey?u=e2a27a9d91a2076e4df41b4e0&id=b109983889&attribution=false
While the holiday season is a time of joy, it can also be challenging for some. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. I will be volunteering with local organizations and churches throughout the Christmas period, and many services are available to provide assistance, whether it’s housing, emotional support, or community aid.
On a lighter note, our local area is brimming with festive events to bring us together. Don’t miss the City of Logan Christmas Carols on December 7 at the Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct—a free family event filled with music, fun, and holiday cheer.
As we wrap up the year, thank you for being part of this wonderful community—I look forward to continuing our journey together in 2025.

Important Numbers:
• Emergencies: Call 000
• State Emergency Service (SES): 132 500
• Power Issues:
o Ergon Energy: Faults – 13 22 96 | Emergencies – 000
o Energex: Faults – 13 62 62 | Emergencies – 000
• Other Key Services:
o Homeless Hotline: 1800 474 753
o Lifeline: 13 11 14
o Salvation Army: 13 72 58
o Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
o DVConnect Men’s Helpline: 1800 000 636
o 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732

In Truckers, We Trust

Do many Australians ever pause to consider the brave truck drivers who cover the vast 7.6 million square kilometres of our island continent? As we sit down to enjoy a meal—whether it’s a hearty plate of vegetables, lamb, beef, or exotic meats—do we think about the hardworking truckers making that meal possible?
While we are savouring our delicious food, a tired, sweaty, and dehydrated trucker could be stranded in the desert, hundreds of kilometres from help. It’s not unusual for truckers with their heavy road trains to be stuck for hours, or even days, waiting for auto mechanics or parts to arrive. Often, parts are flown in from cities, transferred to smaller planes, and delivered to the nearest airstrip. From there, they are driven for hundreds of kilometres to reach the stranded trucker, who can only hope the parts are the right ones.
But why is this the case? Shouldn’t these massive trucks be in perfect condition before embarking on long, rugged journeys across the country?

It’s important to clear up the misconception that all roads in modern Australia are sealed. As of February 2024, of Australia’s 817,000 kilometres of roads, less than 50%—only 355,000 kilometres—are sealed. The remaining 462,000 kilometres are unsealed, rugged, bone-jarring, corrugated roads, many of which stretch on for hundreds of kilometres. These roads include dry, dusty deserts, waterlogged surfaces, and slippery sand dunes that are nightmarish for vehicles without proper tires or traction. These harsh conditions cause the truck frame, engine, and cargo to shake violently, not to mention the discomfort for the truckers themselves.
We city dwellers often complain when we hit a pothole in the pavement, yet many of Australia’s rural roads are in such poor condition that even bridges are impassable to the massive trucks bringing food and goods to our tables. Think about it: While we enjoy the luxury of multimillion-dollar river walkways, many remote communities across the continent rely on truckers to bring essential supplies like food, medicine, and educational materials.
Take the infamous Pentecost River crossings in the Kimberley, for example. These remote areas, with their difficult road conditions, have been the same for centuries. The same routes were once traversed by the Indian Cameleers in the 1800s, who carried goods and explorers through this vast, unforgiving land. In these isolated regions, farms are often larger than countries like England or New York State, and some properties are as big as entire Pacific Islands. It takes truckers days—sometimes weeks—to reach these outposts with the vital supplies needed to keep these communities running.
And let’s not forget the incredible women who also drive these long, lonely roads. Women truckers like Sandeep Kaur and Heather Jones have proven themselves as leaders in this industry, taking on roles as drivers, navigators, auto mechanics, safety officers, and even chefs. They juggle their work with being loving mothers, wives, and pet owners. These women, just like their male counterparts, face all the challenges of the road, and we honour them for their contributions.
Couples who drive together as a team are common, and for them, it’s not just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Spending days on end together in a truck fosters strong relationships and is a testament to the power of teamwork. For solo drivers, like the seasoned Steve Grahan, their pets often accompany them as loyal companions, making the lonely journey a little less isolating.
Australia depends on its truckers. When they stop, Australia stops. So, in deep gratitude, we say, “In Truckers, We Trust.”
(And don’t forget to tune in to the Trucker TV program on your local TV station or YouTube.)

Indian Eminence in Post-Modern US Politics and Community: A Remarkable Journey

The prominence of Indians in post-modern American politics and society stands in stark contrast to the humble beginnings of the first known Indian to set foot on U.S. soil. A 1635 Virginia land record describes this individual as “an insignificant speck”—a far cry from the significant influence Indian Americans hold in today’s political landscape. This first Indian, referred to only as “Tony” (obviously not his ethnic name), is recorded as the first Indian to arrive in the then British Colony. While the details of his departure from India are unclear, some researchers suggest that he may have travelled with a group of around 20 Indians from London, as part of the indentured labour trade, a practice common at the time. This human trade tradition, although initially exploited, would later extend to Queen Victoria hiring an Indian servant, Mohammed Abdul Karim, in the 19th century.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the relationship between India and the United States has evolved significantly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for instance, was one of the first world leaders to extend his congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump in 2016, a gesture that demonstrated the growing diplomatic bond between the two countries. Modi’s enthusiastic tweet, “Heartiest congratulations, my friend Donald Trump, on your historic election victory,” was an emblem of the unique partnership forming between the two nations, underscoring a shared sense of pride, patriotism, and the global influence of Indian communities worldwide.
The Indian American influence in U.S. politics became even more evident during the 2024 elections. A diverse group of Indian American leaders from various political, business, and academic backgrounds played key roles in both the campaigns and in subsequent appointments to the Trump administration. These figures from the Indian diaspora have worked their way into influential positions, helping shape the political discourse and strategy on both sides of the aisle.
On the Democratic side, the most prominent Indian American figure is Vice President Kamala Harris. Raised by her Indian mother, who instilled a deep connection to their Hindu roots, Kamala Harris stands as a trailblazer in U.S. politics. Her mother’s influence and the family’s commitment to Hindu rituals were significant parts of Kamala’s upbringing. In a previous issue of The Australian Indian Times, we explored her Indian roots and Hindu faith journey, shedding light on how these cultural ties have shaped her approach to politics and governance. While Kamala Harris swore her inaugural oath as Vice President on a Christian Bible, her Hindu background remains an integral part of her identity and an inspiration for millions of Indian Americans. Harris’ ascent to the second-highest office in the United States is a testament to the growing influence of Indian Americans in shaping U.S. politics.
Another rising star in American politics is Usha Chilukuri Vance, born in 1986 to Indian immigrant parents. Usha, now the wife of Vice-President-elect James David Vance, is set to become the second lady of the United States. Throughout the election campaign, there were playful debates, fuelled by social media, about the differences between Telugu and Tamil heritage. Kamala Harris, with her Tamil Brahmin roots, and Usha Vance, with her Telugu heritage from Andhra Pradesh, both represent the rich diversity of India. Their involvement at the highest levels of U.S. political power serves as a proud moment for the Indian community, highlighting their growing presence and influence in American society.
Billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy also represents a key figure in this new Indian American political era. Originally a Republican Party Presidential aspirant in 2024, Ramaswamy later endorsed Donald Trump and played a crucial role in his campaign. A monotheistic Hindu and fluent Tamil speaker, Ramaswamy hails from a family of immigrants from Palakkad, Kerala. His rise to prominence, culminating in his appointment to the newly created Department of Government Efficiency, reflects the continued integration of Indian American leaders into key political positions. The department’s focus on reducing government spending is an example of the practical, business-savvy approach that many Indian American leaders bring to the U.S. political sphere. By advocating for cuts in federal spending, including slashing foreign aid and streamlining the Department of Education, Ramaswamy and his colleagues seek to make government more efficient and responsive to taxpayers.
One of the most notable nominations in the Trump administration is that of Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu to serve in the U.S. Congress. Although not of Indian descent, Gabbard’s use of the Bhagavad Gita during her congressional oath and her open embrace of Hindu values has made her a strong symbol of Indian influence in American politics. Gabbard’s name, Tulsi, derives from the sacred plant in Hindu tradition, and she is viewed as a representative of the spiritual and cultural bridge between India and the United States. Recently, questions about her past inclusion in the “Quiet Skies” program—an algorithm-based surveillance system designed to track and screen passengers—have sparked debate, but these challenges have not diminished her standing in the political landscape.
In this post-colonial era, the growing influence of Indian Americans in U.S. politics is undeniable. As the relationship between the two countries deepens, Prime Minister Modi, along with his American allies, will continue to play a critical role in fostering global diplomacy. The voices of Indian American leaders are now integral to the American political discourse, shaping policy and bringing a diverse range of perspectives to the table.
In the coming years, we can expect even greater representation and influence from Indian Americans in U.S. politics, a journey that has come a long way from the days when the first Indian, “Tony,” was considered an insignificant speck. Today, Indian American politicians and leaders are shaping the future of the United States, demonstrating the power of the global Indian diaspora and its significant role in modern American politics.

Shree Sanatan Dharam and Hindu Association of Queensland

On October 19, 2024, Shree Sanatan Dharam and Hindu Association of Queensland hosted a vibrant Diwali celebration, drawing together the community in a joyous festival of lights. The event was honoured by the presence of Mayor of Logan City, Councillor Jon Raven, who joined in the festivities, emphasizing the importance of cultural diversity and community unity.

President Pundit Anant Sharma and his dedicated team organized an unforgettable evening filled with traditional rituals, cultural performances, and delicious Indian cuisine, truly embodying the spirit of Diwali. Attendees enjoyed captivating dance shows, live music, and the enchanting lighting of Diya’s, all of which created a festive atmosphere.
The successful event not only celebrated the triumph of light over darkness but also strengthened the bonds within the community. A heartfelt thank you to Pundit Anant Sharma and the entire team for their hard work in making this Diwali celebration a memorable experience for all!

GOPIO Gold Coast had our Diwali Mela 2024

GOPIO Gold Coast had our Diwali Mela 2024 on 6th October at the Robina Community Centre. It was full of vibrant performances and an amazing variety of ethnic clothes/jewellery/home decor and delicious food.
The Diwali event was graced by the presence of Hermann Vorster – LNP for Burleigh, Councillor Dan Doran, Multicutural Community Leaders and the multicultural community of Gold Coast.

Our appreciation for the amazing performances by Vinitha Rajkumar’s Rhythm India School of Dance, SK Dance Mania Brisbane, Bhangra Barbies and Diya Mohanda. Thank you for entertaining us.
Thanks to our sponsors
John-Paul Langbroek, Must Home, SLR Trans and Global Convenience Cash and Carry.

Uttar Pradesh Association of Australia (QLD Chapter) and AusIndia Business Network had great Diwali celebration

Its with utmost happiness we would like to share with you that Uttar Pradesh Association of Australia (QLD Chapter) and AusIndia Business Network had great Diwali celebration on 25th Oct 2024. UPAA-QLD was founded by Ms Tanvi Goel back in December 2022 and she is acting President of UPAA- QLD as of now, She is also founder of AusIndia Business Network and very active community leader from past 13 years. UPAA is so proud to announce the Executive Committee members who is working tirelessly to bring all UP members together. To start with Mrs Anjali Kaushik as Vice President, Mrs. Sonam Agarwal is Secretary, Mr Vinod Kaushik is Treasurer, also in Sub-Committees, Cultural Coordinator is Mr Rahul Dwivedi and Event Coordinator position is led by Ms Sneha Gautam. We are proud to have Mr Ganesh Despande and Mr Srikar Reddy as Official Advisors.

In last around 2 years team is able to gather more than 100 people of UP community and over 200 members of AIBN group.
Event was held at Indian Brothers Annerley and was adorned with colorful lights, rangolis, and diyas, which added to the festive atmosphere.
The celebration began with a traditional Lakshmi puja, followed by games, performance by Annesha and Nihasvi from Sargam Music Academy and Poonita, DJ who played popular Bollywood songs. One of the most popular fashion show and amazing games were played by all ages. The game was played with great enthusiasm, and the winners were awarded prizes.

The event was graced by many delegates including a well-known personality in Indian Diaspora, Mr Ganesh Despande( Secretary of Indian Council of Australia, President of BRIMM, Mr Srikar Reddy from Telengana Association Of Queensland, Mr Ashish Dhull from Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, Mr Manish Saini and Mr Pushpinder Oberai from ICGC etc
The event was not only sponsored but generously supported by many sponsors including AusIndia Travel, Commonwealth bank, My Narada, Loaney, Filtered Properties. We were proudly partnered with Marigold Events by Ambi, , Trendy India, Ethnic Essence, Kamalz Indian Fashion, Prudent Reality Solutions, Kppro, Salt and Spice, Rhia Jewellers and supported by BRIMM, TAQ, ICAQ, Move Sense, Indian Council of Australia, DJJS, Sourthen Soul Foods, Platinum Events Services Gold Coast, Bhartiya Samaj, Brisbane Indian Times, and Australian Indian Radio Global Indian TV, Indian News and 7 seas TV and also Mayur Brahmbhatt Photography who beautifully captured the event.

The event was full with lots of prizes for kids and adults, it was a fun-filled event with a sumptuous dinner and UP style DJ dance party by DJ Deep
In conclusion, the Diwali celebration in UP style was a grand success. It brought together people from different communities and cultures to celebrate this joyous occasion. The event was filled with music, dance, food, and fun games that added to the festive atmosphere. It truly captured the essence of Diwali – spreading happiness and joy.

Hindu Society of Queensland- Gayatri Mandir

The Hindu Society of Queensland celebrated Diwali at the Gayatri Mandir on October 26.
The evening was filled with joy, culture, and community as the Festival of Lights- Diwali was celebrated. The festivities will include traditional prayers, the lighting of Diya’s, and vibrant performances showcasing Indian dance and music. Delicious Indian cuisine served to celebrate Diwali.

ISCA’S 25 Years of Togetherness & Seniors Day Celebrations

It was an extra special celebration for Indian Senior Citizens Association on Seniors Day event on 20th October.
Members gathered to also celebrate a significant milestone of 25 years of community, togetherness and shared experiences. The anniversary event, held at 200 Nemes Rd, Runcorn brought together current members, past participants, and community leaders to reflect on a quarter-century of connection and support.

Founded in 1999, the Seniors Association began as a small group of individuals seeking companionship and a platform to engage with like-minded people. Over the years, it has blossomed into a vibrant community of 97 paid members. Offering a variety of programs and activities aimed at promoting wellness, socialization, and friendship. The anniversary celebration featured a heartfelt ceremony where senior members shared their favourite memories and experiences from the past 25 years.

The event also recognized the founding members, volunteers, donors and sponsors whose dedication laid the groundwork for the association’s success. Local dignitaries expressed their gratitude for the association’s contributions to the community and acknowledged its role in fostering intergenerational connections.
Members, family and friends came in full force, enjoying the beautiful celebration, with music, dance performances and cutting of anniversary cake accompanied with a delicious lunch. Remembrance pens marking “25 Years of Togetherness” were gifted to guests. The event was free for all members and non-members alike. New members are welcomed with open arms. Executive members are already showing excitement planning for the end of year celebrations to be held on 7th December.