Sofitel or Oaks: get ready to make some long-lasting memories


By Rama Gaind
As we turn our attention to booking holidays, getting the best accommodation package isn’t always easy. How about looking at whether you want to live the French way at the Sofitel or experience the Oaks difference?
The Sofitel Brisbane Central draws inspiration from local culture and tradition while celebrating innovation and the French art-de-vivre to offer a one-of-a-kind, luxurious hotel experience.
‘All the comforts of home but better’ are on offer at the Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites, with special packages on studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom options.
Indulge without lifting a finger over Easter as you celebrate a fun time of the year at the Sofitel Brisbane Central in Turbot Street. Create special memories over the ultimate feast with food stations laden with fresh seafood, salads, meats, internationally-inspired hot dishes, desserts and more. Alternatively, celebrate a memorable occasion in the luxurious surrounds of Club Millésime and be treated to an exquisitely curated four-course set menu with matching wines.
The refined ambience of a fine dining restaurant was an upscale experience with attentive staff and impeccable service. I still recall the memorable, joyful-inspired, open-kitchen, delectable dining experience on the 30th floor. I felt especial, chic and indulged. It was an enchanting time!

General manager Kayte Staraj has invited us to indulge ourselves in life’s simple joys. “Bienvenue to Sofitel Brisbane Central, our five-star luxury hotel in Brisbane City. We invite you to live the French way, indulging in and celebrating the pleasures of life,” Kayte said.
During those cheerful few days, we appreciated exceptional views from one of the best luxury hotels in Brisbane, overlooking the iconic Anzac Square, the city’s exquisite skyline, as well as, the famed Sunshine Coast hinterland.
The hotel is centrally located within walking distance of Queen Street Mall, Eagle Street Pier beside the Brisbane River, South Bank Parklands and the Convention Centre. It also has direct access to Central Station with easy transportation to the airport, Brisbane Entertainment Centre and the Gold Coast.
Brisbane is the place to be with a vibrant cultural scene in the inner city and close-by neighbourhoods of South Bank and Fortitude Valley bursting with an exciting array of restaurants, bars and cafés.
Whether you’re looking for some lively beach days out with the family or simply want to soak up the sun by lazing poolside — Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites have many deals to please!
With travel open until 31 March 2024 and 42 properties to choose from across Australia and New Zealand, Oaks has your holiday sorted. Book now to get special deals.
Arguably one of the most stunning locations in Queensland, the Sunshine Coast is only a 60-minute drive north of Brisbane. Known for its sparkling coastline, hinterland, boutique shops, fresh seafood and unlimited water activities, it is the perfect spot for couples and families all year-round.
Ranked as one of the top 10 family resorts in Australia, Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort is a must-stay destination for your next vacation. With sweeping lush tropical grounds, a fun-filled waterpark, a resort-style pool, a putt-putt golf course, and more, there’s a wide range of activities for kids of all ages.
Searching for the ultimate chance to unwind? Then head for the Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort. Home to one of the largest swimming pools in Australia, choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments packed with all the comforts of home.
Set among palm-fringed pools and lush gardens, the recently refurbished Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort features a blend of contemporary and traditional Balinese design. This iconic Kingscliff resort is a comfortable retreat. With the idyllic Tweed Coast on your doorstep, it’s easy to explore everything Casuarina and Kingscliff have to offer.
Get motivated and book your holiday so you can pack your bags, create that fresh holiday playlist and — don’t forget your swimsuit, sunglasses and sunscreen — as you explore somewhere new!


PM Modi chairs day-long meeting for the last time before the announcement of the election schedule. He will also tour five states in the next three days.

Brisbane (13/01/2024) – The vibrant spirit of Pongal, the traditional South Indian harvest festival, illuminated the South Bank Piazza in Brisbane as the Queensland Tamil Mandram and Thaai Tamil School organised a spectacular celebration. The event was made possible with the generous support of title sponsors Tradern Australia and ARBT Prefab, and many other sponsors witnessed the participation of esteemed guests, including Hon MP Charis Mullen, Councillor Angela Owen, Senator Paul Scarr, Councillor Trina Massey, making it a truly memorable occasion.



January 26th, Australia Day, is now synonymous with citizenship ceremonies across this glorious country. Likewise, the Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) is synonymous with the successful execution of various multicultural events and hosts a Citizenship Ceremony this Australia Day.
A Citizenship Ceremony is a significant occasion that marks the welcoming of a new cohort to the diverse tapestry of our nation. Traditionally, local councils commemorate Australia Day by orchestrating such ceremonies, uniting individuals from all backgrounds to partake in the solemn recitation of the pledge of commitment – the culminating step in their journey towards Australian citizenship. For the Varnam Cultural Society, this marks our inaugural hosting of the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony.
In the early morning hours, Varnam Cultural Society members convened with enthusiasm to meticulously prepare for the ceremony at the local Springfield Lakes State School. They were soon joined by Hon. Milton Dick, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Federal Member for Oxley and Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability & Multicultural Affairs, State Member for this Jordan electorate.
Hon. Teresa Harding, Mayor of Ipswich, Cr, accompanied the distinguished ministers—Paul Tully, representing Division 2 as an Ipswich Councillor, and Cr. Nicole Jonic, also from Ipswich City Council, is serving as Councillor for Division 2. By approximately 8:15 AM, the atmosphere was imbued with joy as the new citizens arrived to partake in the final stage of their journey towards Australian Citizenship.
The ceremony commenced with a vibrant opening by Rajarajan Thennavan, President of the Varnam Cultural Society, extending a warm welcome to all attendees on their joyous occasion. Hon. Milton Dick MP, as the Presiding Officer, adeptly presided over the ceremony with grace and dignity, elevating the experience into a truly memorable occasion for our new citizens. Guiding the proceedings, he administered the pledge to the new citizens. Hon. Charis Mullen MP delivered an inspiring speech, instilling a sense of unity and pride among all present.












Maathar Sangam group successfully held a meet-and-greet event on 19 November 2023.
As agreed at the last AGM, once these quotes have been received, the MC, in discussion with the Temple Relocation Committee (made up of ordinary members and MC representatives), will call an SGM to seek the decision of the members.
As part of the efforts to have a greater engagement of the community members in the association, the MC plans to organise meetings with our community members in groups.