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.
By Pushpa Vaghela
In the journey of life, especially in leadership, many of us have found ourselves asking, “Why do I have to go through this route?” It is human nature to desire ease and predictability, but more often than not, God’s chosen path for us involves unexpected twists and challenges. For leaders, learning to trust in God’s route is not just about enduring hardship—it’s about developing the very essence of who we are: our character and our sense of responsibility. This philosophy lies at the heart of The Leadership Kingdom, a leadership development initiative designed to guide individuals through personal and professional growth with God as their compass.
Embracing God’s Route
The Leadership Kingdom, which I founded, focuses on helping people understand that God’s route is always intentional. We all have dreams and visions, much like Joseph in the Bible. When Joseph was a young boy, he had a dream that his family would bow down to him—a vision of greatness bestowed upon him by God. Yet, as Genesis 37:9-10 shows us, God didn’t reveal the entire path to Joseph. If He had, Joseph may have run the other way. After all, who would willingly choose betrayal by their own brothers, being sold into slavery, unjust accusations, imprisonment, and years of being forgotten?
But this is where God’s wisdom shines through. He doesn’t just deliver us to our destination; He molds us along the way. If Joseph had known every detail of his route, he likely would have remained a shepherd, happy in the familiarity of his life. However, the trials Joseph endured were not for nothing. Each trial honed his leadership skills, deepened his trust in God, and prepared him for his destiny as a great ruler in Egypt. In The Leadership Kingdom, we teach that every step along God’s chosen path—whether pleasant or painful—has a purpose in shaping who we are meant to become.
Developing Character and Responsibility
One of the fundamental beliefs in The Leadership Kingdom is that leadership is not something we are born with. We must cultivate the qualities that make us effective and compassionate leaders. God’s route, though often difficult, develops two critical traits in us: character and responsibility.
Character is the foundation of leadership. In today’s fast-paced world, where shortcuts and compromises are often glorified, leaders need unwavering character to stand firm in their values. Character is not built in moments of ease; it is forged in the fires of adversity. Just as Joseph learned humility and patience through his hardships, so too must we learn to endure trials with grace and integrity.
Responsibility, on the other hand, is the outward expression of character. To be a leader is to bear the weight of decisions, actions, and the well-being of others. Many wish for leadership roles but shy away from the responsibilities they entail. Just as Joseph was entrusted with managing Egypt’s resources during a famine, leaders today must take ownership of their roles, understanding that their actions have far-reaching consequences.
In The Leadership Kingdom, we emphasise that leadership is about service. It is about taking responsibility not just for your own success, but for the success of those around you. Whether in the workplace, the community, or within your family, leadership is a calling to serve with humility, wisdom, and diligence.
Trusting God’s Timing
Another key element of The Leadership Kingdom’s teachings is understanding and accepting God’s timing. In our fast-paced world, where instant gratification is the norm, waiting can feel like a burden. But God’s timing is perfect, even if we don’t always understand it at the moment. Joseph waited many years in slavery and prison before he was finally elevated to a position of power. During that time, God was not only preparing him for leadership but also preparing the world around him to receive him as a leader.
The same is true for us. Sometimes, we feel ready for the next stage of our lives, but God asks us to wait. In those moments, we must remember that waiting is not passive. It is an active process of preparation. God is shaping us, molding our hearts, and aligning circumstances in ways we may not see. At The Leadership Kingdom, we encourage leaders to trust in this divine timing, knowing that every season has a purpose.
Faith in the Process
Many of us find ourselves at crossroads, unsure of the path ahead and hesitant about the challenges we face. But as leaders, we must have faith in the process. The route may be difficult, the challenges daunting, but if we trust in God’s plan, we will emerge not only stronger but also more equipped to fulfill our purpose.
The Leadership Kingdom is built on the belief that leadership is a journey of faith. God leads us on a path designed to refine our character and increase our responsibility. This journey is not meant to be easy, but it is essential for those who wish to lead with purpose and integrity. Just as Joseph’s trials prepared him for greatness, so too will our own challenges prepare us for the roles we are destined to fulfill.
In Summary Leading with Purpose
As leaders, we must embrace God’s route, knowing that it is shaping us into the individuals we are meant to be. At The Leadership Kingdom, we teach that true leadership requires a willingness to be molded by God’s hands. It requires patience, faith, and a commitment to growth. The journey may be long, and the path uncertain, but in the end, it leads to a life of purpose, service, and fulfillment.
God doesn’t just show us where we are going; He prepares us for the journey. The Leadership Kingdom is here to support individuals on that journey, helping them grow into the leaders they are called to be—leaders who are shaped by character, driven by responsibility, and guided by faith.
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.
“Take the rights path” is this year’s theme for World AIDS Day (WAD) on December 1st, highlighting the critical importance of protecting the human rights of those affected by HIV. This focus on human rights is a key element in the global efforts to end AIDS by 2030.
In Australia, the rights of people living with HIV are safeguarded by the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, and laws relating to confidentiality. Individuals living with HIV in Australia can work in nearly all occupations and are generally not required to disclose their HIV positive status, except in a few specific circumstances:
• Health workers performing exposure-prone procedures
• Applying for certain types of insurance
• Joining the military
• Donating blood
At the end of 2022, there were an estimated 28,870 people living with HIV in Australia, with 555 new HIV notifications (Source: Annual Surveillance Report 2023: HIV). Although there is no cure for HIV, it can be managed effectively like other chronic health conditions. To ensure the best outcomes, it is important to:
• Get diagnosed early. HIV testing is simple, yet 7% of people living with HIV in Australia remain undiagnosed. Additionally, people born in overseas have higher rates of undiagnosed cases and late diagnoses (Source: Annual Surveillance Report 2023: HIV). You can get tested through your GP, a community testing centre (rapid.org.au) or by ordering a free HIV home self-test kit at www.hivtest.au or www.rapid.org.au or purchasing one from www.atomohivtest.com ($29.99 plus postage & handling).
• Start treatment early. HIV treatments are highly effective. In Queensland, all people, including those on temporary visas (after living in Queensland for at least 3 months), can access free HIV treatment and care. For more details, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/health/condition/mens-health/hiv/hiv-aids. Effective treatment keeps HIV at undetectable levels (Undetectable = Untransmissible or U=U), meaning it cannot be passed on through sex. This is known as Treatment as Prevention (TasP).
• Use protection to reduce risks. Condoms, PrEP and PEP are available to prevent HIV transmission through sex. Since HIV can also be transmitted through infected blood, it is important to be cautious of risks such as tattooing, body piercing, unsterile medical or cosmetic procedures.
For more information, visit www.eccq.com.au/bbv or contact our team at 38449166.
If you are in Cairns, you can contact h Damian Garozzo-Vaglio at Cairns Sexual Health Services by calling 4226 4760 or emailing [email protected].
7 November 2024
Melbourne, Australia – In a landmark moment that underscores the growing partnership between India and Australia with the recent five-day visit of India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, to Australia to formally inaugurate the new Consulate General of India in Brisbane.
Gaura Travel’s founder, Mr. Abhishek Sonthalia, was invited to attend this significant event and facilitated travel arrangements for Dr. Jaishankar’s delegation, reflecting Gaura Travel’s commitment to supporting the Indian community in Australia. This engagement is not only a proud achievement for Gaura Travel but also a recognition of the company’s dedication to strengthening connections for Indians residing in Australia.
Dr.Jaishankar’s engagements with Queensland leaders were marked by discussions on advancing trade, economic cooperation, and investment. Dr. Jaishankar’s address to the Indian diaspora highlighted the importance of the QUAD alliance, emphasizing its role in fostering a stable global order that benefits both India and Australia.
With nearly one million Indians now residing in Australia, including 125,000 in Queensland alone, the potential for deepening this bond has never been greater. The Indian community plays a vital role in the economic and cultural landscape of Australia, with Brisbane accounting for an impressive 75% of Australia’s exports to India.
“This historic visit is a testament to the thriving India-Australia relationship, and we are proud to be part of this journey,” said Mr. Sonthalia. “At Gaura Travel, we remain dedicated to connecting the Indian community with loved ones back home and fostering the shared values that unite us.”
For over 17 years, Gaura Travel has been a trusted name for travelers seeking seamless journeys to India. Today, the company stands as a bridge for the Indian diaspora, providing exclusive flight deals and travel services tailored to the unique needs of its community. Gaura Travel’s commitment to excellence has earned it the trust not only of its customers but also of its airline partners, underscoring the company’s role as a leader in the travel industry.
About Gaura Travel
Gaura Travel has been providing exceptional flight deals to India for over 17 years, serving more than 300,000 customers across Australia. They partner with leading airlines to bring you the best deals. Their ATIA Accreditation and numerous awards, including the Highly Commended Award at the 2023 IABCA Australia India Impact Awards, reflect their commitment to excellence.
For more information, call their 24/7 customer support on 1300 359 463 or visit their website at gauratravel.com.au
Gaura Travel
Your Best Way Home.
Pujo 2024
Introduction and Uniqueness of Oikotan Durga Pujo 2024
Oikotan Inc. recently organized their fourth edition of their biggest festival on the 12th and 13th of October 2024 at the Albany Creek Community Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. “Durga Pujo” the biggest turnout till date with more than 500 plates for food served in two days, guest performer, Ujaan Mukherjee who performed on both the days and the introduction of Kolkata street food.
What makes Oikotan Durga Pujo 2024 one-of-a-kind is the homely feeling and as most participants, members and patrons have been calling it since inception – “Nijer Barir Pujo”. When all other pujo organized by other associations give the “baroari” feeling, it’s the vibe and the feeling of organizing/taking part of your own pujo that makes this pujo unique and makes us stand out from the rest.
Byte of Executive Team
The executive team comprises of the husband-wife couple in Shaona Hazra(President) and Animesh Das(Secretary) and Uttorio Datta(Treasurer).
“For us, Oikotan Inc. is a child that is born out of love and passion for our Bengali culture and tradition and the urge to create a piece of home away from home, Kolkata. We have had our share of ups and lows, but it is our utmost love and passion that help us nurture our child in Oikotan Inc, turn four. Although we envisioned and created Oikotan Inc., it is the love and support of the wider community that truly defined where Oikotan Inc. stands and how far we’ve managed to come. We owe it to our biggest supporters, patrons, all the volunteers, the amazing team and all the individuals who gave their heart and soul into curving a niche for us. Oikotan Inc. now belongs to all of them and we sincerely hope and pray that Oikotan Durga Pujo 2024 will turn out to be a stepping stone into something great to follow for us We are overwhelmed by the way everyone came forward in different capacities from setting up the decoration, cutting fruits to getting up early in the morning to prepare bhog for pujo and to prepare for their performances with utmost sincerity and commitment. We couldn’t have asked for anything more from this incredible group of people and the wider community. On behalf of the entire executive team, THANK YOU, team Oikotan and the Oikotan Inc. family!!!”
Decoration and Symbolic Protest in solidarity with R G Kar and the doctors
Since inception, we have always focused on certain theme as far as the decoration is concerned. However, this year was an exception. Celebrations were a little muted and the theme portrayed and conveyed a rather symbolic protest amidst the festivities. This was our way of showing that we stand with Abhaya and the protesting doctors back home.
People of the Pujo:
People from different walks of life and professions like hospitality, IT, Consultancy etc. came together to bring their varied ranges of skills and creativity and contributed in various different capacities to make this Pujo a success. From joining the rehearsals months in advance to preparing and serving 100s of plates of Kolkata style street food, such community members have been involved in every little process to make it a grand success. Samir Das who is also a chef at a very popular restaurant, was the main driver behind introducing Kolkata Street Food at our Pujo. While ,Saikiran and Jayati Basu did the heavy lifting in serving all of the amazing food, Saswati Basu Chatterjee was the main anchor behind all of the rituals on stage ensuring everything was done flawlessly and with utmost devotion.
Our priest is a Processing Manager at a construction services company dedicates his full devotion over the two days trying to observe and follow a shortened version of the Pujo while ensuring all rituals and traditions are followed to the best of the abilities.
Participants and important Dignitaries:
Oikotan Durga Pujo 2024 saw great representation from the wider Indian community in Usha and Umesh Chandra, founder of GOPIO(Global Organization of People of Indian Origin), representation from Multicultural Affairs of QLD government and from the City of Moreton Bay council.
Pujo Rituals, Food and Kolkata Street Food
At Oikotan, Day 2 is when we observe Shosthi and Saptami pujo. The highlight of these rituals is definitely “Kolanbou Snan” where the female members conduct a special ritual outside the community centre on the lawn While day 2 is when Ashtami, Anjali and Nabami puja are conducted followed by Dashami Puja and Boron. Highlight of day 2 was definitely bhog er kichuri which is cooked by our muslim brother and caterer from Bangladesh. It’s a trip down the memory lane as we are reminded of our home back in Kolkata and the familiar Ashtami r lunch. This is followed by Shandhi pujo where 108 pradip was lighted by our participants and members. Finally concluding the celebrations with bidding farewell to Maa and her children and shidur khela which is what the women and the female members of our community look forward to the most.
No puja is complete without the familiar and the nostalgic street food of Kolkata. While quintessential Bengali spread comprising of khichuri, beguni, chutney and mishti brought smile to the faces of the participants at lunch along with the star of the show, mutton for dinner, the main attraction this year were phuchka, momo and malai cha. A chef and also an important member of Oikotan, Samir Das cooked up a storm in the kitchen churning out hundreds of plates of momos, phuchka and about 200 cups of cha over the two days.
Cultural Program
It was packed two nights full of some amazing acts including group dance, skit and singing.
This year, we witnessed some mind-blowing singing, dancing, audio and short drama. From the flirtatious neighbours as portrayed by our founder members Saswati and Animesh to a tribute to the Bangla rock bands by another founder member, Uttorio. The main act was however a tribute to Abhaya and a show of symbolic protest through a dance drama featuring the president, Shaona and other debutants, Moly, Aanchol and Avantika. It was an act depicting crime against women and the need to protect and respect womanhood and promote women empowerment. This year, we brought back and hosted Ujaan Mukherjee who performed on both the days churning out the famous dance numbers. The participants enjoyed thoroughly while singing out loud and getting on stage to dance alongside.
Excerpts from Participants/Dignitaries:
Dignitaries:
Councillor Cath Tonks:
“I joined with Oikotan Inc. for one of the biggest festivals for Bengalis, Durga Puja. This festival is held over 10 days and celebrates Goddess Durga’s triumph and a victory of good over evil.
Well done to all involved, thank you for sharing your culture and beliefs with music, colour and vibrancy, it’s always a pleasure to spend time with you all.”
Participants:
1. “We love Oikotan it’s like a Nijer barir pujo … I am blessed””
2. “What an amazing event and celebration. Until next year. Thank you team Oikotan Inc.”
3. “Cheers to our (Team Oikotan) harmony and spirit!”
Multicultural Association of Caboolture and Surrounds Inc (MACS). The not for profit event, 25th Multicultural Fiesta and Diwali Festival of Lights, saw huge participation from people of all ages and backgrounds with over 2000 people in attendance.
The free event at Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine was particularly enjoyed by kids and families with three inflatable rides to jump around, participation in stage activities, Henna and face painting marquees, fireworks, giveaways and best dressed audience prizes from our sponsors and lots of space for children to run around.
RJ Ari interviewed the local Councillors, community leaders, sponsors and the general public to get a perspective on what multiculturalism means to them. Unity in Diversity and the strong need for not for profit organisations to work together certainly emerged as common themes with increased government focus sought for sustained multicultural initiatives.
Dance and musical performances graced the stage throughout the day and the audience were left mesemerised by dancers and musicians from different cultures. Our team of volunteers and the MACS Committee members were given lots of positive feedback about the well organised event. The attendees really appreciated the range of food options and the musical fireworks to top up a great day out with family and friends.
MACS Inc acknowledges and thanks the City Of Moreton Bay and Multicultural Affairs Queensland for their continued support and encouragement for our efforts to create a culturally vibrant and inclusive Australia through free to community multicultural events. Multicultural events are certainly becoming an integral part of the Australian way of life and we invite members of the community, volunteers and sponsors to join hands with us for future events. For information or interest please email [email protected].
#DiwaliInOxley2024 – a multicultural fest, was an amazing success, with the support and blessings from our local community, businesses, leaders, elders, performers and the volunteers.
The event was held at Oxley Bowls Club, on Saturday, 19th Oct 2024, from 4:00 pm till 9:00 pm. Diya-lighting was done by all the dignitaries as a precursor to start of performances.
This year’s unique proposition was the involvement of over 100 multi-cultural performers and 20 unique stalls.
The performances included a dance group from NSW, Mexican dance group, belly-dancing, acrobatics, yoga, Nepalese songs, Indian classical and bollywood dance and music, mum and tots dance, multiple fashion shows, among others.
Food variety was lip-smacking with samosas, paani-poori, masala chai, tikki, waffles, dosas, tikka, momo and lots more…
Among the political leaders who attended the event were:
Julie-Ann Campbell, Jess Pugh, Lisa Baillie, Cr Sarah Hutton, Cr Nicole Johnston, Kevin Burns, Trang Yen
There was an impromptu dance too with the guests including some of the political leaders.
Police Liaison Officers from the Cross Cultural Liaison Unit from Upper Mt Gravatt Police Station also attended the event.
Multiple Raffle prizes were donated by local businesses which was won by the audience, kids and adults combined.
The climax for DiwaliInOxley was an awesome display of fireworks, and took the legacy of the last 3 years ahead.
The event was covered by multiple local media channels including well known publication JD Media group.
The audience came from far and wide, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast, Lockyer Valley, Redlands, Chermside and North Lakes, and the amazing local suburbia members from Oxley and adjoining suburbs. Based on all the food stalls’ inputs and our estimate, the estimated audience number for this event is close to 1500.
Sharmeen Thomas & Ash Raina, the local residents and organisers of DiwaliInOxley festival could not have been happier with the amount of love, support & participation received from local businesses and community.
Sharmeen runs a bridal makeup (Sharmeen Thomas Makeup & Henna as well as The Bollywood Host).
Ash runs a software development firm (KPPro) and a software SaaS product for Critical Incident Management (SafeTAG / RaiseDM) from the suburbs of Oxley.
Suborna Tapan Paul family celebrated their second annual Durga Puja in Brisbane, attracting devotees from Gold Coast and Toowoomba on Ashtami. Begun in 2023, this home-based celebration has quickly become a beloved community event, blending tradition and togetherness, and offering attendees blessings, joy, and a deep sense of shared heritage.
We are told that our kids will come to parents with begging bowls in the hope that their parents’ will bail them out for a house deposit.
Many will tell you this has all to do with the consumption of lunches and breakfasts of avocado and toast and wild irresponsible living. But I am not so sure. You would have to consume a crapload of avocado and bake a crapload of bread before you go through an entire house deposit.
No. This is because the rate of house price rises, and wage inflation are not precisely what you call synced. This means house prices are like a runaway express train, and wage rises are as slow as a tortoise.
Don’t get me wrong. Wage rises are good, but compared to house prices, they are crap. This means that banks want more extensive deposits before they lend, forcing children to knock on parents’ doors.
Parents especially those from India are deemed as mean and cruel if they do not support their children and give them their hard-earned savings. If you have one child giving your child a sizeable pot of money may be doable. If you have 3 children, it might be a bit hard.
But I look at house prices and think we live in an insane world—and I bet you do, too. So much so that despite setting up my kids for the financial future, I think it is only a matter of time before both my kids come to me with a begging bowl.
At the time, I hope I do not listen to my wife, who is as sentimental as any mother, and I hope I do not listen to whatever is left of my heart either. I hope and pray that I listen only to my brain and do what I tell all my clients to do when they ask me for advice about giving kids their money.
Why do I say this? Well, we become gooey like a warm chocolate dessert when it comes to our kids. Logic goes out of the window, and we become governed by our hearts when logic is needed.
That is because I am finding that all those warm and gooey parents have worked out that warm and gooey does not work for them and now need to move to something stiffer.
This is not because their children have become nasty, run away with money, or even refused to pay it back. In many cases, your kid will not be the problem. It could be their partners.
Because of this, many lawyers become involved. When that happens, you could be throwing not just a deposit but a chunk of money at legal fees as well.
When kids come to their parents with a begging bowl and ask for money, parents tend to give it. There is rarely a discussion of gifts or loans, and there is almost no chance that any of it is put on paper.
Generally, I will always tell clients that if their child asks for money, they should document it as a loan, even if they do not intend ask for it back.
The problem is that many will not follow this advice. Why? That is because parents become emotional when it comes to their children.
I say this because once money is given without paperwork, it is hard to get back. If you want it back, you must go to court (hence the many lawyers), and it is likely that in court, it will be deemed a gift. If it is deemed a gift, there is a chance you may have donated the money not to your child but to someone you may not actually like.
I know what you are thinking. When would that happen?
Well, picture this.
Your son is lovely and decides to marry an equally lovely girl. They are so adorable that you are 100% in favour of their marriage. Soon after, they come to you for a house loan. And because they are so lovely, you give them $100,000.
A few years pass, and 2 equally lovely grandchildren are born.
Unknown to you, the couple started having problems and decided to divorce.
You now decide that you would like your $100,000 back. But your ‘now not so loverly daughter-in-law’ argues it was a gift, and you try to argue it was a loan. Your son backs you up on this, too.
So, in court, the judge will ask the logical questions: If it was a loan, where is the loan documentation? Are there any emails suggesting it was a loan? Has interest been paid?
Without this, the judge would conclude that the amount was a gift and that gifts cannot be claimed back. And this ultimately means you have gifted your not-so-lovely, soon-to-be-ex-daughter-in-law a minimum of 60% as she also has custody and needs to look after the grandchildren. It is entirely possible that your ex-daughter-in-law gets the house, and your son ends up living with you again with you being $100,000 poorer. This is exactly what happened to one of my clients, so do not think it will not happen.
However, this does not only apply to giving money to purchase a home. We often see it in succession plans where parents consider passing down their business. If shares in the business are gifted to the child who subsequently splits from their partner, the business ownership could be divided, too.
My prediction is that as more kids come to their parents for a handout, more parents will get caught out. If you don’t want to get caught out do the logical thing and arrange some loan documentation.
Written by Hitesh Mohanlal, Chartered Accountant
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