The 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games and championships held at Gold Coast, Australia was an event not to be forgotten by all International Athletes and sportsmen competing in 25 different sports in Various Masters category.
Sports included Soccer, Rugby, Athletics, Tennis, Badminton, Table tennis, Netball, cricket, Squash, Archery, Basketball, Baseball, Boxing , Futsal, Golf, Gymnastics, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Powerlifting, Swimming, Volleyball, Water Polo, Touch Rugby and Ten Pin Bowling.
Most of the Games were held in Gold Coast and Brisbane.
This Games is Held every 2 years and participants come from some 30 different Countries. Ganga prasad again represented Australia in Athletics and competed in 15 Athletics events and won 10 medals in total. 5 Gold, 2 Silver and 3 Bronze and had finished with highest medal winner at Athletics Track and Field Championship.
Winning medals by Ganga from Brisbane were achieved from 100m , 60m , Discus, Javelin, Hammer Throw, Shot Put, Long Jump, Triple Jump, High Jump and Weight Pentathlon. Most Sportmen had a great and successful Championship in Gold Coast.
The next Games is in 2026.
Australian Indian Times congratulates Ganga Prasad on his Milestone achievements to date.
I say this as within the Itaukei -traditional Fijians ,(62%of the population ) or Indo Fijian ( 34% of the population) diabetes in both men and women is amongst the highest in the world , there is much obesity (40% adult women and 30% adult men ), prostate cancer is the biggest killer of men, other cancers for women and the excessive drinking of Kava, the traditional Fijian drink of hospitality and communal bonding, is leading to domestic violence and the breakdown of families. There are also concerns about the health of children who are not getting an adequate healthy diet
On my last visit to Fiji in September of this year to Lautoka I met a Filipino female dentist and in Sigatoka an Indo Fijian Church Pastor who both expressed concerns about the health of the people that they were meeting.
The dentist said that in the villages in which she held regular dental and health clinics, the lack of finance meant that villagers would, at times do not eat healthily and have a diet of noodles, bread and cheap sweet, canned drinks. A problem was that they were not growing or eating many vegetables. As a result, both the parents and the children had bad teeth. The dentist should know about these health problems as, several times a year, she visits villages with a team of volunteers to do health clinics.
One thing she noticed was that it was mainly women and children were in attendance at their night clinics as, sadly the men, who probably needed the most treatment were too busy drinking Kava.
The Indo Fijian Pastor had also seen declining health in many overweight people he had met in both nearby villages and Sigatoka, as a result of a diet Indians love that is high in sugar, salt and oil.
Both the dentist and the Pastor also noticed that other problems were that people were neither exercising, as they were too lazy, or also not eating traditional healthy foods. Those in Sigatoka were often choosing fast food ‘take aways” rather than cooking at home
They said that “It seems that People are over eating like there is no tomorrow!”
When I was at a Church lunch in Sigatoka, I was amazed how much food that both and men and women ate that was quite unhealthy!
In response to these health concerns, this Christmas both the dentist and the Pastor are going to give out food parcels of value Aus $ 60 to needy families, containing flour, rice, oil, sardines dhal milk and washing soap for clothes.
That is a great, practical response to a community health problem.
So, what can we learn from this in Brisbane as we approach the long, hot Christmas summer season?
Simply don’t over eat or drink this summer but eat healthily, with plenty of vegetables, fruit, water and limit those Christmas foods high in oil, sugar and salt.
Above all, don’t get lazy and overweight in the summer heat but do some regular exercise with a friend.
I certainly will be eating healthily and exercising regularly over Christmas getting ready for the challenges of 2025 and a return trip to Fiji in February.
By Peter Lane Rai
November 28th 2024
A Harmonious Effort: Fundraising Music Concert for Shirdi Sai Baba Community Center in Brisbane
Thankyou so much everyone for your kindness and generosity. we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your participation and support for the music concert dedicated to raise funds to build Shirdi Sai Baba Community Center in Brisbane.
Its with utmost happiness we would like to share with you all that Tanvi Goel from AusIndia Travel and Mr Chandra Kanchana from Sai Sansthan Brisbane along with well known local Singer Chandan Das managed to raise much needed funds for temple. Tanvi Goel is also founder of AusIndia Business Network and Uttar Pradesh Associations of Australia-QLD and very active community leader. Mr Chandra Kanchana is one of the founder of Shirdi Sai Sansthan Brisbane Ltd which was established on 25th Jul 2015. The main objective of Sansthan since its inception was to build a place of assembly for our beloved Sadguru Shri Shirdi Saibaba in Brisbane and also serve the local community. While Chandan Das is very passionate about singing since his high school says and performs in almost all main Indian events. His radiant voice is often compared to that of the Legendary Kishore Kumar.
Event was held on 7th Dec 2024 at Star Theatre, Wynnum State High School and was adorned with mesmerizing songs, yummy food, amazing raffle prizes and beautiful performance by Zain Champs and Anu Sharma from Tapori Sqaud and Australian Indian Threatre which added to the festive atmosphere.
Thankyou to our Presenter Narada Sharma- My Narada, three Anonymous Gold sponsors, our silver sponsers Amar Alluri from Purple Cow, Hemant Dua – Nexus Migration Services, Krunal Acharya from Loaney Loans. Thankyou to our Media Sponsors Global Indian Tv, Australian Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio and 7 seas Tv. It was well captured by our Photography Partners Mayur Bhambhatt from Mayur Bhambhatt Photography and Rajesh Bekal ji from Yutori Moments. Event is also supported by Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sanasthan, AusIndia Business Network, Uttar Pradesh Association of Australia-QLD, Rhythm India Club, ICAQ, Telangana Association of QLD Inc, Platinum Event Services Gold Coast, Trendy India, Kamalz Indian Fashion, Kashish Collections and Bharti Gitay J.
Thankyou to all Musicians and Singers(Chandan Das, Anuja Paralikar, Sharad More, Pranav Paudel, Tejas, Pravind Prasad, Vatsal Thakar & Paramjeet Namdhari). Special thanks to our Mcs Anu Sharma, Zain Chams, our Marketing Coordinator Khushbu Kaushik, and all our Hard working Volunteers from Sai Sansthan.
In conclusion, the fundraiser was a grand success. Thank you once again for your support and for making this event memorable. We look forward to your continued involvement and support in future events.
Dear reader, it is with joy that we bring you the word of God. The joy of Christmas is here again as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. When Jesus was born, an angel appeared to some shepherds and told them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people, for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
When Jesus was on earth, He became a light to everyone who came across Him. He came to offer us a way to have a personal relationship with God, and He let His light shine brightly everywhere He went.
In the scriptures we read (Luke 1v78-79), “Our God is merciful and tender.
He will cause the bright dawn of salvation to rise on us.
And to shine from heaven on all those who live in the dark shadow of death,
to guide our steps into the path of peace.”
Jesus truly loved people, and they felt better after spending time with Him. They found in Jesus that He listened to them, had compassion for them, healed them, and brought joy and life to each situation.
In Matthew, chapter 5 it reminds us that Christians are the world’s light. As believers, Jesus lives inside us so we can shine the light of His love on everyone around us. Weather at work, in the mall, and even among friends and family members who don’t have a relationship with God.
Here are some ways we can do so this Christmas.
4 Choose to be happy and full of joy everywhere you go.
4 Take time to reach out to someone who seems lonely or is going through a difficult time at work.
4 Send a message to someone, that you are thinking of them and praying for them.
4 Surprise your neighbour or someone you know who is struggling with a gift to make their Christmas more special.
Every day, especially during this special season, you can use your gifts, time, resources, and talents to share that light and serve and brighten someone else’s life. We are all busy with so many responsibilities, yet we can share the love of Jesus with someone. For some of us, it could mean wearing a smile or brightening someone’s day with a laugh.
But perhaps this season, you may be the one who is going through a difficult time with your finances, health, relationships, etc. Then, it’s best to spend time with Jesus and allow Him to strengthen you. A simple prayer could look like, “Dear Heavenly Father, by faith, I place all my fears, worries, and difficulties into your hands. I believe you are more powerful than all the opposition I am facing now, and you can do anything and everything.”
Then, move forward and make someone else’s day. It is easy to turn inward and shut down, especially during a painful time. This is what the enemy wants you to do, but one of the best things you can do is to reach out and help someone else. The scripture says what you make happen for others. God sees that, and in return, He will bless your life, where you will feel His presence, joy, and strength in an even more excellent way.
After all, this is what Christmas is all about. Just as Jesus came to love and serve all of us by giving us the greatest gift, His very life, we can give of ourselves because His life and light dwell inside us. It’s our time to shine!
God bless you and your families, and may you extraordinarily experience the joy of Christmas. Ps Suresh Dass Joseph [email protected]
Vision Protects You: Embracing God’s Purpose for Your Life
By Pushpa Vaghela, Founder of The Leadership Kingdom
As we navigate our busy lives, it’s easy to become consumed by various demands, distractions, and expectations. Yet, in the midst of the noise, there is one essential truth that can transform how we live: vision protects us. It grounds us, refocuses our energy, and aligns our lives with a higher purpose. For those of us who seek to live a life aligned with God’s will, understanding our vision is not just beneficial—it is essential.
The concept of vision is not just about setting goals or having dreams; it is deeply rooted in understanding God’s purpose for our lives. As a leader, I’ve come to realise that a clear vision is what differentiates a life of fulfillment from one of aimless wandering. It is the compass that directs us, helping us avoid the temptation of trying to do everything at once.
Vision Protects Us from Overcommitting Many of us are guilty of overextending ourselves, trying to be everything to everyone. In our eagerness to prove our capabilities, we may end up participating in activities that, although well-intentioned, pull us away from our true calling. But having a clear vision keeps us grounded. It helps us prioritise what truly matters, ensuring that our efforts align with our God-given mission.
Take the apostle Paul, for example. Although Paul had a deep love for the Jewish people—his own people—his vision was to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. In his letter to Timothy, he clearly states, “For this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a teacher of the true faith to the Gentiles” (1 Timothy 2:7). Paul’s unwavering focus on his vision allowed him to fulfill his mission without getting sidetracked, even by causes that were close to his heart.
Paul’s vision was not only his guide but also his source of motivation: “I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome” (Romans 1:15). He did not allow himself to be distracted by things that fell outside of his God-given assignment, even if they seemed good or noble on the surface.
Knowing Your Gifts and Staying Within Them
One of the reasons we become overcommitted is that we try to do things outside of our unique gifts and calling. God has equipped each of us with specific talents and strengths to fulfill our personal visions. If we focus on tasks we are not gifted in, we risk depleting our energy, leaving us too exhausted to focus on what we are truly called to do. This is where many people find themselves burnt out, because they have strayed from their core purpose.
Jesus Himself modeled this principle. Though He performed many miracles and served people in countless ways, He never lost sight of His ultimate purpose. Even when one of His closest friends, Peter, tried to dissuade Him from His mission, Jesus stayed firm. When Peter said, “This shall never happen to you!” in response to Jesus speaking of His death (Matthew 16:22), Jesus corrected him. Although Peter’s intentions were good, they did not align with the vision Jesus was sent to fulfill.
This is a powerful lesson for us. Sometimes, even those closest to us may unintentionally steer us away from our vision. That’s why it’s so crucial to remain connected to God’s purpose and to seek His guidance continually.
The Transformation of Heart and Mind
Living with a vision is not just about external actions; it involves a deep internal transformation. It changes the way we think, believe, and live. For those who are believers in Jesus Christ, our vision is ultimately rooted in our identity as citizens of heaven. We are called to live in a way that reflects God’s reign on earth, allowing His principles to guide our actions and decisions.
This mindset shift is what allows us to live with true purpose. It’s not about accumulating wealth, fame, or success in the world’s eyes, but about aligning our lives with God’s eternal plan. The kingdom of God is not merely a distant future reality; it is a present-day calling that impacts every aspect of our lives. It is about letting God reign in our hearts and letting His love flow through our actions.
Living Out God’s Vision in Everyday Life
How can we put this into practice? Here are a few practical steps:
• Spend Time in Prayer and Reflection: Regularly seek God’s guidance to understand His vision for your life. Spend time in prayer, asking for clarity and discernment.
• Identify Your Unique Gifts: Reflect on the talents and passions God has given you. How can you use these gifts to serve others and fulfill your vision?
• Stay Focused on Your Mission: Once you have clarity on your vision, resist the temptation to take on activities that do not align with it. Saying “no” can be challenging, but it’s necessary to protect your purpose.
• Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Be intentional about building a community of like-minded individuals who will encourage you to stay true to your vision. Their support will help you stay on course when challenges arise.
• Trust in God’s Timing: Remember that fulfilling your vision is a journey, not a race. Trust in God’s timing and remain faithful in your efforts, even when results are not immediately visible.
Conclusion
Vision is not just a plan; it is a divine calling that protects and guides us. By aligning our actions with God’s purpose, we find fulfillment and joy, even amidst life’s challenges. As we approach the festive season, let’s take the time to reflect on God’s vision for our lives and recommit ourselves to walking in His path.
At The Leadership Kingdom, we are committed to empowering individuals to discover and live out their God-given vision. If you would like to learn more about how we can support you on this journey, please reach out to us.
Contact The Leadership Kingdom:
Phone: 0497 998 829 [email protected]
Hepatitis C – What is it, how can you get it and can it be cured?
Hepatitis C is an infection caused by the hepatitis C virus. This virus like hepatitis B affects the liver and therefore, it is important to check if you have ever been infected.
How can you get infected with hepatitis C?
Infections generally happen through contact with an infected person’s blood. This includes through:
• The use of unsterile medical/dental equipment – this is less likely in Australia due to strict infection control practices.
• The reuse of needles including those used for acupuncture, cosmetic procedures and injecting drug use.
• Tattooing where the ink and equipment may be contaminated with blood and the equipment is not sterilised – this includes cosmetic tattooing such as eyebrow tattooing.
• Sharing razors and other personal hygiene equipment such as toothbrushes and nail clippers that may be infected with blood.
People living with hepatitis C generally will not know they have the infection until it starts to cause damage to their liver including cirrhosis and liver cancer – this can take many years. It is important to know that not all people are tested for hepatitis B or hepatitis C when they migrate to Australia. So, it is better to test for the virus through a simple specific blood test.
Where can you get tested?
• All GPs can do the blood test.
• Sexual health clinics and the Queensland Injectors Health Network- QuIHN (www.quihn.org) ph: 1800 172 076. (No Medicare Card required for testing and do not have to be an injecting drug user past or present).
Is there a cure for hepatitis C?
Yes: there is a cure. It is medications for 8 or 12 weeks, with minimal or no side effects.
Where can you get medications to treat hepatitis C?
• All GPs can prescribe medication to cure hepatitis C.
• Specialists and trained nurse practitioners can also prescribe the medication.
• Being cured will not protect you against future infections if you come into contact with infected blood.
ECCQ is currently undertaking research with the Kirby Institute for Point of Care Testing (rapid finger-prick testing) for both hepatitis C and hepatitis B for migrants. If you would like to have this free confidential testing (no Medicare Card required) you can scan the QR code in this article or contact us.
If you would like more information about hepatitis C or hepatitis B or want to find out where you can get tested, please contact us at the Love Health Program at ECCQ on 3844 9166 or email [email protected]. For information in your language, you can visit our website at www.eccq.com.au/bbv
If you live in Cairns, please contact: Faith Bassett Phone: 07 42264769 or mobile 0405123691 Email: [email protected]
Health and Wellbeing: Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) – How Much Do You Know?
STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, are on the rise in Australia, including in Queensland. For example, the most common bacterial STI, chlamydia, had 16,648 notifications in 2020 in Queensland, increasing to 19,361 in 2023. Similarly, gonorrhoea notifications increased from 4,884 in 2020 to 5,470 in 2023, and infectious syphilis cases rose from 737 to 1,026 during the same period (source: www.health.qld.gov.au).
If left untreated, these infections can cause serious health issues, including infertility (in both males and females), pelvic inflammatory disease, and ectopic pregnancy. In particular, syphilis can lead to long-term damage to the brain, heart, eyes, and nervous system. Pregnant women with syphilis are at risk of stillbirth, miscarriage, and passing on syphilis that can cause permanent damage to their babies, including blindness, deafness, and disability.
Symptoms of STIs
Some individuals may experience symptoms such as:
• Blisters, lumps, sores, or rashes in the genital area or inner thighs
• Testicular pain (in males)
• Lower abdominal pain, pain during or after sex, or bleeding between periods (in females)
• Unusual discharge or bleeding from the penis, vagina, or anus
• Pain or difficulty when urinating
However, many STIs are asymptomatic, making regular sexual health checks essential, especially if you:
• Change sexual partners, particularly at the beginning or end of a relationship
• Have had unprotected sex
• Have multiple sexual partners
Special Considerations for Pregnant Women
In Queensland all pregnant women undergo HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis testing at the start of pregnancy, even if they’ve had only one partner, to protect their health and prevent transmission to their baby. Retesting for syphilis is done at 26–28 weeks and again at 36 weeks gestation to avoid serious health issues for both mother and baby.
Mpox (Monkeypox)
Mpox, another STI of concern, has seen rising cases in Queensland, with 69 identified between January 1 and September 27 this year. Mpox can spread through intimate contact, and free vaccines are available for those at high risk, including:
• Sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (cis and trans), and their sexual partners
• People living with HIV
• Sex workers
• Certain healthcare workers and laboratory staff
For more details, visit the Queensland Government’s health page on Mpox.
Where Can You Get Tested?
General practitioners (GPs) and sexual health clinics across Queensland offer STI testing. You can find your nearest sexual health clinic at https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/sex-health/services/find-service#qld .
Remember, your doctor may ask personal questions, but it’s important to answer honestly to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Your information will remain confidential. Your sexual partners will need to be contacted if you have been diagnosed with an STI. It is important for them to be tested to prevent further transmission. This can be done anonymously by an experienced nurse or doctor or specialist contact tracer for you, or by yourself. You can also use websites to let your sexual partner know: https://letthemknow.org.au/ or https://www.thedramadownunder.info/ (for men who have sex with men).
For more information, visit our webpage www.eccq.com.au/bbv or contact our team.
If you are living in Cairns, you can contact Damian Garozzo-Vaglio at Cairns Sexual Health Services by calling 4226 4760 or emailing [email protected].
The Indian Senior Citizens Association’s Christmas Function, held at Runcorn State School was a heartwarming celebration of holiday cheer, community spirit, and cherished traditions. It brought together association members and friends from across the area to enjoy an afternoon filled with delicious food, entertainment, and goodwill.
Seniors and friends were delighted by the variety of entertainment, including dance performances by local Punjabi dance groups.
Local dignitaries also attended, including Councillor Kim Marx and Senator Paul Scarr, both spoke about the importance of celebrating the seniors in the community. “Our seniors are the backbone of our community” Senator Paul Scarr said. “Events like this are a beautiful reminder of how much they contribute, and we are proud to honour them”.
The Christmas function was not only a time for celebration but also an opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces and feel the spirit of Christmas and create the mood for a great holiday season.
The event was sponsored by Ram Care Services and MLP Senator Paul Scarr. The association also acknowledged and thanked their media partners, JD Media Group and Radio Brisvani for their continued support in making the event a huge success.
JURY GRAND PRIZE FOR ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT, BEST YOUTH FILM TO BOONG AT 17th ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS
Gold Coast, Australia: Dea Kulumbegashvili’s April has had a stunning double win at the 17th Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA). The gripping cinematic drama took home the APSA for Best Film, with the APSA for Best Performance going to Ia Sukhitashvili for her phenomenal portrayal of a Georgian Ob Gyn providing women’s health services.
Ia Sukhitashvili was at the prestigious APSA ceremony in Australia on Saturday night to accept both awards. The event was held at The Langham, Gold Coast, on the traditional land of the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh language region.
The international film event, held in strategic partnership with Jewel Private Residences, honours the cinematic excellence of 78 countries and areas of the Asia Pacific, and films that best reflect their cultural origins and the diversity of the vast region.
April is the second feature for Dea Kulumbegashvili, who was a recipient of an MPA APSA Academy Film Fund grant for early development of the film, which is produced by David Zerat, Ilan Amouyal, Luca Guadagnino, Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Archil Gelovani, Gabriele Moratti and Alexandra Rossi.
In a particularly strong year for women’s stories, the International Jury awarded its Jury Grand Prize to All We Imagine as Light, the highly acclaimed second feature from India’s Payal Kapadia. The Prize, selected at the discretion of the jury, was awarded to this story of two working-class nurses amidst the nocturnal landscape of Mumbai.
Best Youth Film also goes to a female director from India, Lakshmipriya Devi, and producers Alan McAlex, Vikesh Bhutani, Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar and Shujaat Saudagar, for Boong, the heartwarming story of a young boy in remote Manipur who goes on an adventure to reunite his family.
The APSA for Best Animated Film has been won by The Missing (Iti Mapukpukaw, Philippines). The film, a groundbreaking adult sci-fi animation, is a personal tale from director Carl Joseph Papa who accepted the award on the night.
Best Documentary Film at the 17th APSA has been won by No Other Land (Palestine, Norway), directed as a group by Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham, and giving their perspective on the violence and destruction surrounding them. The film is currently in theatrical release in Australia and the UK.
Georgian director Tato Kotetishvili was awarded the APSA for Best Director for his debut feature, the dark comedy Holy Electricity (Georgia, Netherlands), which sees cousins selling neon crucifixes door to door in Tbilisi, in a cinematic ode to the city and its people.
From Türkiye, the tense legal thriller Hesitation Wound (Tereddüt Çizgisi, Türkiye, Spain, Romania, France) has seen writer/director Selman Nacar win the APSA for Best Screenplay for his second feature, the story of a fiercely intelligent female defence attorney facing mounting professional, personal and moral challenges.
Winning Best Cinematography is French cinematographer Michaël Capron (Blue Is the Warmest Colour) for Mongrel, the contemplative Taiwanese drama that puts the unseen life of an undocumented Thai carer in the spotlight.
New Zealand’s prolific producer, actor and APSA winner Cliff Curtis is the recipient of the prestigious FIAPF Award, determined by APSA founding partner FIAPF–International Federation of Film Producers Associations, and awarded for outstanding achievement in film in the Asia Pacific region.
FIAPF President Luis Alberto Scalella said, “Cliff Curtis’ impressive career has been built on a strong commitment to screen storytelling that truly speaks to all audiences, both within the New Zealand screen industry, and internationally. His support for emerging Indigenous filmmakers from New Zealand has enabled the production of many compelling films, and he is a producer known for bold and demanding choices in the stories he chooses to tell.”
FIAPF Award winner Cliff Curtis said “A good meal feeds the body for that day a great story sustains the hearts and minds of generations past, present and future. My heart is filled with gratitude for the privilege of working alongside the artists, collaborators and mentors whose works have made this award possible. Thank you to FIAPF and to APSA for recognising Asia Pacific voices and bringing us together to share our stories of humanity, courage and purpose.”
The three previously announced winners were all in attendance in Australia to accept their awards: Neo Sora received APSA’s Young Cinema Award in partnership with NETPAC for Happyend and Nepali director Min Bahadur Bham’s accepted the Cultural Diversity Award forShambhala. Georgia’s Data Chachua accepted his APSA for Best New Performer for Panopticon, a film which also stars APSA Best Performance winner Ia Sukhitashvili.
All three of these awards were presented by the soon-to-launch Top 51 World Filmmakers Club, of which the three winners become members. A dynamic hub for creativity, encouraging innovative collaborations and cultural exchange among global filmmakers, the Top 51 World Filmmakers Club will be located on the 51st level of The Langham, Gold Coast, and will launch in early 2025.
Unprecedentedly, the winners of the 17th edition of APSA have been for films almost exclusively by first- or second-time filmmakers. Amongst some of the winners at the 17th APSA are renowned filmmakers mentoring this next generation, Luca Guadagnino for April and Hou Hsiao-hsienfor Mongrel, creating continuity, connection and growth for the region’s cinema. This is one of the aims of APSA – for its established and growing Academy, already comprising many of region’s leading auteurs and emerging talent, to help celebrate and amplify the talented creative voices of a new generation as they share their stories.
The 17th APSA International Jury was headed by President Pen-ek Ratanaruang (Thailand), one of Asia’s leading film directors and screenwriters, alongside Crazy Rich Asians star Chris Pang (Australia), Papua New Guinea and New Zealand producer Kerry Warkia, Korean filmmaker, educator and policymaker Park Kiyong, and Kazakh producer Yuliya Kim.
The APSA Youth, Animation, Documentary International Jury, determining the winners in those three categories, was led by President of Italy’s Udine Far East Film Festival Sabrina Baracetti, joined by Japan and US-based producer Alex C Lo, Indonesian program director Gugi Gumilang and Australian actress Jillian Nguyen.
Also announced during the 17th Asia Pacific Screen Awards Ceremony are the four recipients of the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund grants of US$25,000 wholly supported by the MPA (Motion Picture Association) Asia Pacific.
Following the incredible tenure of Andrew Pike OAM as Chair of the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund Jury, Hong Kong curator Kiki Fung headed the Jury in 2024 and was joined by Indian director Ridham Janve and Singaporean film and TV producer Tan Si En.
The recipients are producer Estelle Fialon for animated documentary Outside Kabul, producer Yulia Evina Bhara and writer/director Makbul Mubarak for Indonesian feature Watch It Burn, cinematographer Robbin Yuchao Feng and director Qiu Jiongjiong for Chinese feature Fuxi: Joy in Four Chapters and producer/writer Aiko Masubuchi with writer/director Neo Sora for youth feature A Trip to Australia.
All APSA nominees, Nominations Councils and Jury members are inducted into the prestigious APSA Academy presided over by Australian screen legend Jack Thompson AM PhD. In 2024 the Academy will total more than 1,650 of the region’s leading filmmakers.
Chair of the Asia Pacific Screen Awards Tracey Vieira said “Tonight we celebrate cinematic stories from 24 countries and areas of Asia Pacific and I congratulate all the winners of the 17th Asia Pacific Screen Awards. As the next generation of filmmakers comes to the fore, with a record-breaking number of emerging filmmakers, the stories on screen represent the most diverse collection of voices ever heard at APSA.
“Through the expertly crafted storytelling of the winners, we are able to explore a more expansive view of the world around us, amplifying the compelling voices, experiences and lives of those otherwise not often seen: nurses, carers, lawyers, women’s health workers and children.
“Thanks to our growing partnerships with AW Jewel, The Langham, the City of Gold Coast, Screen Queensland, the MPA, The Post Lounge, Top 51 World Filmmakers Club and Screen Australia, the future of APSA and the filmmaking it celebrates looks brighter than ever,” she said.
Jewel Private Residences General Manager Yutao Li said “I heartily congratulate the winners of the 17th Asia Pacific Screen Awards. Like APSA, AW Jewel prides itself on celebrating excellence and it has been an incredible experience to welcome these talented filmmakers from all over the region to come together here at Jewel Private Residence and The Langham, Gold Coast. It is an honour to embrace the cultural and geographical diversity of these cinematic stories. Uniting us all, this rich sense of place is echoed in APSA’s 2024 theme of ‘Land’, and the architecture of three Jewel Towers, representing the local land and the gemstones found within. I believe many meaningful connections have been made.”
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said, “Congratulations and well done to all this year’s APSA winners, presented at the Langham here on the Gold Coast. To have such a talented group of international filmmakers gathering here to sharing stories and ideas highlights the Gold Coast’s growing reputation as an international screen location.
CEO of Screen Queensland Jacqui Feeney said, “Screen Queensland is a proud supporter of the Asia Pacific Screen Awards which continue to shine as a platform for cinematic excellence and cultural exchange across our region. We congratulate this year’s winners on their achievements in filmmaking and hope that the connections created here between local and international screen practitioners during the Forum help enrich many films to follow.”
Belinda Lui, President and Managing Director Asia Pacific, Motion Picture Association, said “Our goal is to support filmmakers in the early stages of script development and to provide the MPA-APSA endorsement to attract further interest in their projects. Over the past 15 years, we have supported 60 feature films, documentaries, and animation titles. Many have achieved success at festivals and awards, with some winning Academy, Emmy, and APSA Awards. The MPA APSA Academy Film Fund is now recognized as a valued and respected source of support for Asia-Pacific filmmakers with compelling and original stories. We look forward to seeing this year’s outstanding projects come to life on screen.”
Head of Global Production for The Post Lounge Bronwyn Ketels said “It has been an honour and a delight to spend time with each of these exquisite films in crafting and delivering the APSA ceremony packages. It is also wonderful to be working at the filmmaking hub of the Gold Coast, where we will be opening The Post Lounge’s newest state-of-the-art post-production facility very soon – further expanding our capacity to partner with and deliver technical excellence to the screen industry in Australia and internationally.”
The Asia Pacific Screen Academy in strategic partnership with AW Jewel, acknowledges the support of Major Partners, Top 51 World Filmmakers Club, luxury beachfront hotel The Langham, Gold Coast, Australia’s leading lifestyle, opportunity and filmmaking destination the City of Gold Coast, the state’s premier screen production and culture agency Screen Queensland, internationally acclaimed post house The Post Lounge and Motion Picture Association (MPA) Asia Pacific – the leading global advocacy organisation protecting and promoting the voices of Asia Pacific screenmakers.
17th Asia Pacific Screen Awards – WINNERS
BEST FILM
April
Georgia, Italy, France
Directed by Dea Kulumbegashvili
Produced by David Zerat, Ilan Amouyal, Luca Guadagnino, Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Archil Gelovani, Gabriele Moratti, Alexandra Rossi
JURY GRAND PRIZE
All We Imagine as Light
France, India, Netherlands, Luxembourg
Directed by Payal Kapadia
Produced by Thomas Hakim, Julien Graff
BEST YOUTH FILM
Boong
India
Directed by Lakshmipriya Devi
Produced by Alan McAlex, Vikesh Bhutani, Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Shujaat Saudagar
BEST ANIMATED FILM
The Missing (Iti Mapukpukaw)
Philippines
Directed by Carl Joseph Papa
Produced by Geo Lomuntad, Dan Villegas
BEST DOCUMENTARY FILM
No Other Land
Palestine, Norway
Directed by Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham
Produced by Fabien Greenberg, Bård Kjøge Rønning, Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham
BEST DIRECTOR
Tato Kotetishvili for Holy Electricity
Georgia, Netherlands
BEST SCREENPLAY
Selman Nacar for Hesitation Wound (Tereddüt Çizgisi)
Türkiye, Spain, Romania, France
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Michaël Capron for Mongrel
Taiwan, Singapore, France
BEST PERFORMANCE
Ia Sukhitashvili for April
Georgia, Italy, France
BEST NEW PERFORMER presented by TOP 51 WORLD FILMMAKERS CLUB
Recognising an exceptional debut or sophomore performance in a feature film.
Data Chachua for Panopticon
Georgia, France, Italy, Romania
CULTURAL DIVERSITY AWARD presented by TOP 51 WORLD FILMMAKERS CLUB
For outstanding contribution to the promotion and preservation of cultural diversity through film.
Shambhala
Nepal, France, Norway, Hong Kong, Türkiye, Taiwan, United States of America, Qatar
Directed by Min Bahadur Bham
Produced by Min Bahadur Bham
YOUNG CINEMA AWARD in partnership with NETPAC presented by TOP 51 WORLD FILMMAKERS CLUB
Awarded to an impressive first or second time feature director in recognition of the abundant emerging talent of the Asia Pacific.
Neo Sora for Happyend
Japan, United States of America
FIAPF AWARD
Determined by FIAPF–International Federation of Film Producers Associations for outstanding achievement in film in the Asia Pacific region.
Cliff Curtis
New Zealand
2024 MPA APSA Film Fund Recipients
Outside Kabul
Animated Documentary
Producer: Estelle Fialon (France)
Watch it Burn
Fiction Feature
Producer: Yulia Evina Bhara (Indonesia)
Producer/Director: Makbul Mubarak
Fuxi: Joy in Four Chapters
Fiction Feature
Cinematographer: Robbin Yuchao Feng (People’s Republic of China)
Director: Jiongjiong Qiu
A Trip to Australia
Fiction/Youth Feature
Producer: Aiko Masubuchi (Japan, USA)
Producer/Screenwriter/Director: Neo Sora
The Brahma Kumaris Shailer Park celebrated Diwali on 16th November. The Logan City Mayor Jon Raven, Shailer Park Councillor Mindy Russel were among the distinguished guests that attended the Diwali Celebration. The festival included a spiritual talk – “Significance of Diwali”, Meditation, traditional Indian dance, and music. Delicious Indian lunch and sweets were provided for those who attended. Our Guest Speaker was Raja yogini Manju Bhen from Gyansarovor, Rajastan, India. She has been practicing Raja Yoga for more than 40 years.
We at Brahma Kumaris Shailer Park provide free Raja Yoga Meditation, Positive Thinking and Anger Management Courses. Please contact us on 0414685144 or [email protected] for further information. brahmakumaris.org.au
The 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games and championships held at Gold Coast, Australia was an event not to be forgotten by all International Athletes and sportsmen competing in 25 different sports in Various Masters category.
5 Gold, 2 Silver and 3 Bronze and had finished with highest medal winner at Athletics Track and Field Championship.
I say this as within the Itaukei -traditional Fijians ,(62%of the population ) or Indo Fijian ( 34% of the population) diabetes in both men and women is amongst the highest in the world , there is much obesity (40% adult women and 30% adult men ), prostate cancer is the biggest killer of men, other cancers for women and the excessive drinking of Kava, the traditional Fijian drink of hospitality and communal bonding, is leading to domestic violence and the breakdown of families. There are also concerns about the health of children who are not getting an adequate healthy diet
As we navigate our busy lives, it’s easy to become consumed by various demands, distractions, and expectations. Yet, in the midst of the noise, there is one essential truth that can transform how we live: vision protects us. It grounds us, refocuses our energy, and aligns our lives with a higher purpose. For those of us who seek to live a life aligned with God’s will, understanding our vision is not just beneficial—it is essential.
Many of us are guilty of overextending ourselves, trying to be everything to everyone. In our eagerness to prove our capabilities, we may end up participating in activities that, although well-intentioned, pull us away from our true calling. But having a clear vision keeps us grounded. It helps us prioritise what truly matters, ensuring that our efforts align with our God-given mission.
The Indian Senior Citizens Association’s Christmas Function, held at Runcorn State School was a heartwarming celebration of holiday cheer, community spirit, and cherished traditions. It brought together association members and friends from across the area to enjoy an afternoon filled with delicious food, entertainment, and goodwill.
