Maltese Community Council of Victoria, Inc.

477 Royal Parade Parkville Victoria 3052 Australia MCCV newsletter Phone: (03) 9387 8922 Fax: (03) 9387 8309 Email: [email protected] Web: mccv.alphalink.com.au No: 106 March ‐ April 2011 Editor: Dr Edwin Borg-Manché Consultation with Maltese President of to make Community on Bill to set up Council for State Visit to Australia Maltese Living Abroad

On 1 February 2011 the Malta High On 14 January 2011 the Malta High Commission in Canberra announced that Commission in Canberra published an the , His Excellency Dr. Information Paper prepared by the Dep- George Abela, will be visiting Australia on uty Prime Minister and Minister of For- an official State Visit, accompanied by the eign Affairs, Dr Tonio Borg, relating to Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Tonio Borg. the establishment of a Council for Mal- The President will be welcomed by the tese Living Abroad and the Maltese Australian Governor-General in Canberra Cultural Institute. on 21 March 2011. He will be visting The paper, reproduced on page 5, Melbourne two days later. contains the main principles of a draft The Maltese community in Australia is Bill on the Council of Maltese Living looking forward to welcoming the President Abroad and the establishment of the in our midst. To us Maltese living on this Maltese Cultural Institute. The paper is continent, the visit of the President provides intended to serve as a basis for a consul- us with a unique opportunity to reconnect tation process on the proposal with the Maltese community. with our mother country and to honour the H.E. Dr George Abela incumbent of the highest public office on The High Commission has invited all the island. As the Prime Minister had remarked at community organisations and associa- Dr. Abela was elected as the eighth the time, the nomination of Dr Abela was a tions to participate in this consultation President of the Republic of Malta on the 4 historic moment which reflected unity and process and to submit their comments, April 2009 by a unanimously approved which had been welcomed by most of the proposals and suggestions to the Malta Parliamentary resolution proposed by the people. Dr Gonzi said that it was high time High Commission in Canberra by Prime Minister, Dr , and to appoint someone from the “other side” March 2011. seconded by the Leader of the Opposition, who can bring people closer together. The Maltese Community Council of Dr . In parliament Dr Gonzi said Dr Abela Victoria welcomes the issuing of the Dr Abela’s nomination marked an was nominated for the Presidency because paper and the consultation process. The important historical development and a new of his qualities and abilities for the Office. Minister is to be commended on follow- level of political maturity in Malta’s Throughout his life he had demonstrated ing through on his announcement at last constitutional history. For the first time a integrity and honesty in different spheres of year’s Convention. The setting up of a President was elected by the unanimous life. He loved his country and he loved his Council by law will mark a historic vote of both political parties represented in family, in what was a continuation of the watershed in the Maltese Government’s Parliament. Perhaps more significantly, it values of the Maltese people championed relationship with the Maltese Diaspora, was also the first time that the Government by the Fenech Adami presidency. Dr Abela raising it to a higher level.  of the day nominated a candidate for the also championed human dignity, solidarity, Presidency someone who belonged to the work as the ingredient which gave dignity In this issue opposition political party with different to the human being and he also gave • The President’s Column 2 political ideologies. deserved importance to Maltese culture, • Malta plays humanitarian role young people and sport.  • News from Council Meetings 3 The Maltese Community Council of Victoria • Dr George Abela—a brief profile 4 • Establishing a Council for 5 has the pleasure of hosting a Welcome Reception Maltese Living Abroad in honour of the President of Malta • Lillian Calleja awarded OAM 6 On Wednesday 23rd March 2011 at 6.00 pm • Maltese Historical Assn Event Venue: Taylors Lakes Reception Centre, 65 Melton Highway, Taylors Lakes • Publications with a Maltese 7 Connection Donation: $25.00 per person (includes finger food and drinks) Tickets from the MCCV Parkville office on (03) 9387 8922 • Natural Disasters in Aus & NZ 8 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011 The President’s Column Malta plays humanitarian role in Libyan crisis The Presidential Visit It has been announced that the President of Malta, HE Dr George Abela, will be making an official visit to Australia in March 2011. During this visit he will be coming to Melbourne. Dr Abela has a special connec- tion to this city, having spent some years growing up with his family in the suburb of Fitzroy during his childhood. What is the significance of such a visit? The Presi- dent is the head of the Maltese social structure as well After the rulers of Tunisia and the Libyan people in Libya." as of government. He is the representative par excel- Egypt were removed by popular At its monthly meeting held lence of the State of Malta and the Maltese people, and movements, Libya experienced a on 24 February, the MCCV therefore, the Maltese living in Australia should feel full-scale revolt in February Executive Committee discussed honoured and privileged when their President decides to 2011 with the unrest reaching the current crisis in Libya. The visit our shores. the capital Tripoli, where ac- Committee sent the following cording to some reports thou- message of solidarity and sup- Perhaps a more significant aspect from the point of sands of protesters have lost port to the President of Malta, view of Maltese living abroad is the fact that such a their lives after being shot at by the Prime Minister and Deputy visit strengthens ties between the mother country and the Libyan Armed Forces. Prime Minister: the country of adoption. It gives further meaning to the Eastern Libya, including the “At its monthly meeting held term “Greater Malta” which includes Maltese in Malta second largest city of Benghazi, last Thursday, the MCCV Ex- is said to be firmly in control of ecutive Committee discussed the as well as those living abroad. He is our President repre- the opposition, with the rebels current crisis in Libya and ex- senting us as Maltese citizens. organising themselves into a pressed its grave concern about Accompanying the President will be the Minister of functioning government. the potential adverse impact Foreign Affairs, the Hon Dr Tonio Borg. It is our inten- According to a media release that the turmoil prevailing in issued by the Malta High Com- that country may have on the tion, as the Executive of the MCCV, to take this oppor- missioner in Canberra on 1 population and Government of tunity to meet with the Minister to discuss issues which March 2011, Euronews reported Malta. are relevant and importance to the Maltese community that, as part of a full scale inter- Through local radio and TV in Australia. national operation, over the networks as well as the internet, previous seven days at least The MCCV has the pleasure to host a welcome re- the Maltese community in Victo- 8,000 foreigners with more than ria has been following closely ception in hour of the President. This will be held on 50 different nationalities be- the horrific situation unfolding

Wednesday, 23 March 2011 (see details on page 1). It tween them including fifteen in Libya. We are all anxiously is expected that many Maltese would be eager to take Australians, (among them per- monitoring further develop- this opportunity to meet with the President, an occasion sonnel from the Australian Em- ments. which does not happen very frequently. bassy in Libya), and five New Meanwhile, we have been Zealanders, were evacuated reading the latest news reports from Libya and brought to about the many expatriate CONTRIBUTIONS TO MCCV NEWSLETTER Malta. The Maltese government workers from several countries promptly set up a command The MCCV Newsletter is published every two months to being evacuated from Libya by centre to manage the crisis. sea and air via Malta to be inform the Maltese community about activities, news and provide Some of the persons evacuated information that would be of interest. repatriated to their respective did not have travel documents. countries. We cannot but feel Affiliated associations are encouraged to provide contributions, Deputy Prime Minister and proud that Malta is again admi- including notices for forthcoming community events, brief reports Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. rably playing a critical role that and photos on community events that took place since the publica- Tonio Borg said: "The more it has always been famous for in tion of the previous newsletter and short articles of interest to the difficult areas are the oil fields history, showing generosity, Maltese community. in the desert, and I say this· be- hospitality and compassion Contributions and correspondence should be forwarded to the cause there is not just one but towards other fellow human Editor either by email to [email protected] or by post to: there are a lot of installations... beings in time of need by facili- So those are more difficult to The Editor tating their safe evacuation. evacuate and we have not evacu- MCCV Newsletter On behalf of the MCCV Maltese Community Council of Victoria ated everyone." Executive Committee, I wish to 477 Royal Parade Malta's Prime Minister Dr. convey to you our message of PARKVILLE VIC 3052 Lawrence Gonzi said a quick solidarity and support and to conclusion to the operation assure you that our thoughts Contributions must be submitted by the following dates: would be essential. "We are and prayers are with you and  May-June 2011 Newsletter: Friday 15 April 2011 foreseeing a scenario where it all our brothers and sisters in  July-August 2011 Newsletter: Friday 17 Jun 2011 will be absolutely vital for us to Malta in this difficult time.”  provide basic essential needs for Page 2 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011 News from MCCV Council Meetings FEBRUARY 2011 MEETING MARCH 2011 MEETING The following items were discussed at the Council Meeting The following items were discussed at the Council Meeting held held on 2 February 2011: on 2 March 2011: Visit of the President of Malta Australian Census 2011 The Council welcomed the announcement of the forthcoming Later this year the 2011 Australian Census is due to take place. official visit to Australia by the President of Malta, Dr It is important that Maltese register their use of the Maltese George Abela, who will be in Melbourne on Wednesday 23 language at home in their survey forms. The Council plans to March 2011. He will be accompanied by the Minister of For- remind the Maltese community of this during Maltese lan- eign Affairs, Dr Tonio Borg. guage radio broadcasts. Home Visitation Scheme New MCCV Website The Council is keen to set up again a home visitation scheme The PRO, Edwin Borg-Manché, reported that work on the new where those who live alone can be visited by persons selected MCCV website is well advanced and the website is expected by the Council so as to maintain contact and see if they re- to be completed by the end of March. quire any assistance. All associations are requested to help VCGR Declaration Renewals identify such persons within their community who might require such assistance, now or in the near future, so that a The Treasurer, Paul Borg, reported that the MCCV renewed its register is built up and suitable enquiries made. declaration that it is still a community or charitable organisa- tion for the purposes of the Gambling Regulation Act, adminis- Order of Australia Award tered by the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation. The Council congratulated Mrs Lillian Calleja on the award This declaration allows the MCCV to conduct raffles, bingo of the Medal in the Order of Australia (OAM) on Australia sessions, fundraising events and sell lucky envelopes, subject Day 2011 for services rendered to the Maltese community. to the regulations. Any affiliated associations are urged to Lillian has been a hard worker helping the Council for many, check their status and renew their declaration as soon as possi- many years. She has been actively involved particularly with ble. Information Packs and Application forms can be obtained the Cultural Festival children concerts over the years. from www.vcgr.vic.gov.au, under application forms, commu- nity and charitable gaming, or by contacting the Minor Gam- Bishop Joe Grech Memorial Fund ing Unit on 9651 3630 or by email to the following address: It was also decided that it would be a good idea to com- [email protected]. memorate the ideals exemplified by the late Bishop Joe Introduction to Catholic Faith Grech by setting up a Fund, as proposed by Mr Christian Zahra, a former Federal MP, to encourage young Maltese- Fr Edwin Agius advised that he had been approached by a background persons to follow in his footsteps. In particular number of Maltese individuals who, for some reason, had not we would like to encourage Bishop’s Grech ideas of toler- been baptised by their parents and now wished to be assisted to ance, multiculturalism, love of Maltese culture, etc. The aim get baptised and introduced to the Catholic faith. He said that of the Fund is to raise sufficient money to be able to have an the MSSP is willing, open and delighted to assist these indi- annual scholarship which would enable the selected person to viduals and their families. Anyone who is interested may con- go to Malta for a few weeks to have a closer look at Maltese tact Fr Agius on (03) 9387 7433. culture. A suitable committee is being organised for this pur- Bishop Joe Grech Memorial Fund pose. Former Federal MP, Mr Christian Zahra, addressed the Coun- Migration Museum Fund cil about his proposal to set up the Fund. The Council decided Setting up a migration museum in Malta is seen as an impor- to set up a Foundation to commemorate the life and ideals of tant priority. The aim is to have a centre where information the late Bishop Grech by encouraging youth of Maltese de- can be obtained about Maltese migration to all parts of the scent to appreciate what he stood for. Bishop Grech was al- world. Without such a centre, our story, the story of migra- ways proud of being Maltese and kept strong links with Malta. tion will soon be lost. Associations will be asked to contrib- He was also most interested in the welfare of young persons ute to this fund to the best of their ability. A Dinner dance is whom he was always ready to help in any way he could. The being organised by the Council to help raise funds for the purpose of this Fund is to provide, on a yearly basis, a scholar- Migration Museum Fund. It will be held on Sunday 6 March ship to enable one or more young persons to visit Malta, to 2011 at the Maltese Centre in Parkville from 12 noon. appreciate at first hand Maltese culture, history and traditions. Youth Issues A committee charged with establishing the Fund was elected consisting of: Prof. Maurice Cauchi (MCCV President), Mr George Grima, addressed the Council on the needs of Mal- Christian Zahra, Fr Edwin Agius MSSP, Mr George Saliba, tese-background youth. He is in the process of setting up an Mr Paul Borg, (MCCV Treasurer) and Edwina Mallia (MCCV advisory system to help those requiring advice about obtain- Secretary). Contributions to this fund should be directed to the ing and retaining a job etc. The aim of the service is to in- MCCV with a note to the effect that these should be directed crease employment and career prospects, to create opportuni- to the “Bishop Joe Grech Memorial Fund”.  ties of finding a career path that meets the applicants areas of interest.  Page 3 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011 H.E. Dr George Abela — a brief profile

Foreign full time coaches, assisted by top Maltese coaches, were engaged to take charge of the National teams and courses in coaching and refereeing were held under the auspices of the European and international football bodies. The players of the National team were en- gaged for the first time on a full-time professional basis and the international matches of the Maltese team started to attract the wide support of the Maltese sporting public once again. Football nurseries all over the island were inaugu- rated. Dr. Abela represented the local Association in many committees of UEFA. He also sat as an arbitrator in the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland. Furthermore, Dr. Abela was also in- volved in the Kerygma Movement, where he acted for some years as Chair- man for the Campaign – Solidarity Through Sports, in aid of Philanthropic Institutions. In 1992, after ten years in the top echelons of the Maltese football, Dr. Abela was elected as Deputy Leader of the Malta in charge of The President of Malta, His Excellency Dr George Abela Party Affairs. In 1996, the Malta Labour Party won the general election. Subse- DR GEORGE ABELA was born in Medical Association of Malta and other quently, he was appointed as the legal , Malta on 22 April 1948 and is house unions. consultant to the Prime Minister and the son of a registered port worker. He For many years, Dr. Abela has been invited to attend cabinet meetings. was educated at the Lyceum and the deeply involved in the administration of Dr. George Abela served for a number University of Malta where he first ob- sports in Malta, particularly in football. of years as Director of the Central Bank tained his Bachelor of Arts degree in He first served as a treasurer in his vil- of Malta and as Executive Director for English, Maltese and History, and later lage football club, Qormi F.C., and later the Bank of Valletta p.l.c. He was also a on, his law degree. He then studied on as its President. In 1982, after serv- member of the Electoral Commission European Law and obtained his Magis- ing as Vice-President, he was elected to responsible for the running of the gen- ter Iuris Degree in 1995. He also holds the post of President of the Malta Foot- eral elections in 1987. He actively par- a Diploma to practise as a lawyer be- ball Association, which position he held ticipated in the Malta E.U. Steering and fore the Ecclesiastical Tribunals in for ten years. Action Committee (MEUSAC) in pre- marriage annulment cases. During his presidency and under his accession negotiations for membership Dr. Abela worked in private practice leadership, the local football association in the European Union, where he formed for thirty-three years specialising in witnessed major changes at its adminis- part of the core group focusing on the Civil, Commercial and Industrial Law. trative and technical level. Large infra- legal and social aspects of membership. He acted for twenty-five years as the structural investments were made in the After membership, he sat again on legal consultant of the General Work- resurfacing of the turf pitch at the Na- MEUSAC as the Labour Party represen- ers’ Union and he represented the tional Stadium Ta’ Qali, which became tative. workers’ interests, affiliated in four wholly managed for the first time by the Dr. Abela married Margaret nee’ separate trade unions, in the negotia- football association; new training Cauchi on the 23 May 1976 and they tions concerning the Air Malta rescue grounds with turf pitches were built; have two children: Robert who is a prac- plan in 2002. He also represented port floodlights were installed both at the tising lawyer by profession, and Maria, workers in the port reform of June National Stadium and in the adjoining who is a Communications graduate and 2007, hailed by the European Commis- training areas; a physiotherapy clinic specialising in “Canto Lirico” at the sion as a model in social dialogue to be and a fully equipped gymnasium were Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan, followed by other member states. He also opened. Italy.  also served as legal advisor to the

Page 4 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011

Establishing a Council for Maltese Living Abroad Information Note for Consultation As part of the outcome of the representation. However, the council and their effective participation in ‘Convention of Maltese Living Abroad’ members will be in duty bound to safe- their localities. Moreover, the Coun- held in March 2010, the Government of guard the interest of all Maltese who cil will be responsible for analysing Malta committed itself to the setting up live abroad. and verifying the problems which of a public institution to safeguard the The members of the council are to be Maltese Communities encounter, in- interests, rights and aspirations of the cluding those regarding living and Maltese living abroad. The Deputy Prime appointed by the Prime Minister in ac- Minister and Minister of Foreign Af- cordance with certain criteria. Thus, working conditions, professional and fairs, Dr. Tonio Borg, expressed his in- wherever in any of the countries men- educational training, as well as recog- tention to give this institution a legal tioned above there exists a federation of nition of qualifications obtained in basis through the enactment of a Bill in the various Maltese associations, its Malta. The council also is to put for- Parliament. opinion will be actively considered; ward any proposal, suggestion or rec- By means of this Information Note, where there is no such federation the ommendation on any legislation or the Government of Malta is seeking to opinion of the community council of administrative measure . It will be provide the general guidelines of the that town, region or state is to be responsible for promoting and encour- intended legislation with a view to initi- sought. Where none of these institutions aging studies and research on issues ate a consultation process among Mal- exist then consultations will take place which affect the Maltese Communi- tese Communities living abroad and seek with Maltese organizations who operate ties and persons of Maltese descent their views and recommendations. in the area. around the world, and even provide adequate support to achieve this ob- To this end, High Commissioners and Since shift and changes may occur jective. Ambassadors of Malta will be consulting regarding where Maltese communities representatives of Maltese communities choose to settle, changes in this scheme The council is to be consulted on abroad and by the end of March 2011, of representation may take place. How- any new legislation affecting the inter- seek their views on the principles of the ever, this has to be done through the ests of the Maltese living abroad and legislation to be proposed. In addition, publication of a legal notice which has may also contribute to such legisla- one may also submit suggestions and to be laid on the Table of the House of tion. recommendations directly to the Minis- Representatives. The council will be responsible to try’s website on email advise the Minister regarding any bill [email protected] Besides representatives from Maltese Communities, the council will have or issue which can affect the interests The aim of Government is to set up other members who are appointed by of the Maltese abroad, including any the Council as an advisory body. It the Prime Minister after consulting the transmissions of programmes for Mal- will be chaired “ex officio” by the Leader of the Opposition. These are to tese living abroad. Minister responsible for Foreign Af- be chosen from among persons who Any council meeting can also be fairs from time to time , since Maltese reside in Malta or have been living held through video and/or audio con- communities abroad are covered by the abroad or are familiar with the interests, ferencing or other means of communi- Minister` s portfolio. The Minister will rights and aspirations of the Maltese cation. However, once a year the not enjoy a right to vote in the Council. Communities abroad. The number of council has to meet in Malta. Gov- The Council will include a number overseas members will always be ernment will provide adequate finan- of members representing Maltese greater than that of the other members. cial assistance so that overseas mem- Communities abroad. These will be All members of the council have to bers will be able to attend such coun- chosen according to strength in num- be Maltese citizens although they may cil meeting. bers of these communities . Conse- hold a citizenship of another country. The council has to present an an- quently, it is obvious that the Maltese The main objectives of the council nual report on work carried out to the Community in Australia will have an will be to promote the quality of life of Clerk of the House and this will be adequate representation as well as the Maltese Communities abroad and laid on the Table of the House of Rep- those in Canada and in the United their individual members, to strengthen resentatives and discussed by the States. their ties with the political, cultural, Standing Committee of Foreign and One cannot ignore the relatively economic and social milieu in Malta, to European Affairs. large number of Maltese who reside in safeguard adequately the interests of the The Bill will provide the means so European countries particularly now Maltese Communities and their mem- that , independently from the council that Malta is a member of the Euro- bers, to facilitate the preservation of a for Maltese Living Abroad, a Cultural pean Union. The aim is to give ade- cultural and linguistic identity of the Institute will be set up so that finan- quate representation to Australia/New Maltese Communities, to promote the cial and human resources within the Zealand, Canada, United States of Maltese culture abroad particularly the Ministries of Culture, Education and America, and Europe. teaching of the Maltese Language as Foreign Affairs will be amalgamated It is obvious that there will be some well as to improve the integration of the in one institution to promote Maltese Maltese Communities without direct communities in their adopted countries Culture Abroad. 

Page 5 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011 Lillian Calleja awarded OAM on Australia Day On 26 January 2011, Australia Day, Lilian As a member of the Maltese Cultural Calleja was awarded the Order of Australia Festival Committee, Lillian took under her Medal (OAM) for her service to the Maltese umbrella the task of organizing the community of Victoria, Australia. Mrs Children’s Concert and to her credit these Calleja will officially receive the honour at a concerts have gone from strength to strength ceremony in April. to date. Lillian has searched and developed The Order of Australia is an order of the talent of some of our younger generation chivalry established by Queen Elizabeth II in with the Maltese Community and some of 1975 with the purpose of acknowledging them have actually made a name for Australian citizens for achievements and themselves in the entertainment world, in service. fact in 1990 Lillian was awarded the Manuel de Vilhena Award for her dedication and Lillian Calleja was born in Valletta, Malta outstanding work in teaching our young the on 15th April, 1931, the eldest child of 14 song and dance aspect of the entertainment children to Michael and Teresa Pace (both world with great success. deceased). Lillian grew up during the Second World War and, as a young teenager, In 2001 Lillian was awarded the “Citizen was in charge of her siblings. of the year” by the City of Brimbank in recognition of the outstanding community After the war Lillian went to school to Mrs Lillian Calleja contribution which she had made over many learn dressmaking and helped her family decades. financially by making wedding dresses and Communion from his Holiness Pope John teaching children how to be In 2004 Lillian was awarded the Victoria Paul II at the Flemington Race Course during Multicultural Commission Victoria’s Award seamstresses. In her 17th year she met and the Pope’s visit to Australia. then married Vincent Calleja in 1953. In for Excellence in Multicultural Affairs. Lillian has worked very hard with great 1954 she gave birth to a daughter Maria and Lillian will turn 80 this coming April 15 enthusiasm and sheer determination to on 9 February 1955 they migrated to and is still very active especially in the social provide welfare and organized social Australia. In 1956 Lillian had another child, activities in the Newport Maltese activities for its members, and her aim was Natalin, married to Raymond with two sons, Association and as the Maltese Multicultural with other to raise funds for our Community Adam and David. Festival Co-Coordinator for the Children’s Centre in Parkville. On their arrival in Australia they lived Concert.  with Lillian’s father in Newport, Victoria and were well known for the help they gave Maltese Historical Association’s February Event to the migrants when they arrived with no On Tuesday 15 February 2011 the Maltese factories blew up for the Maltese to realise family or accommodation. Lillian and her Historical Association held its first presen- that more safety precautions were needed father would welcome migrants in their tation for 2011. The speaker for the eve- home until they could find suitable while manufacturing fireworks. Fr Bu- accommodation. ning was Fr. Victor Buhagiar and the hagiar demonstrated how petards are topic was Fireworks in Malta: their Evo- made using cardboard cylinders. Since 1956 Lillian has worked tirelessly lution. for the Maltese Community, performing in The presentation ended with a film clip small operettas and shows in Brunswick Fr Buhagiar had a fascination with fire- showing a fantastic display of fireworks Town Hall and being involved in organising works since he was a young boy and this where new techniques in the art of pyro- Dinner Dances in local Masonic Hall in has not gone away as the audience could technics could be seen. Newport. Whilst doing this, she worked see the passion he still has for fireworks. Next presentation will be held on Tues- five days a week and, with the help of her Most males in his family were involved in day 19 April 2011 at 7:30pm at the Mal- husband, raised two children. the making of fireworks for the festa of the tese Centre in Parkville. The speaker for Between 1978 and 1981 Lillian was the village where he was born, Siġġiewi. He the evening will be Associate Prof. Clau- Vice President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the explained in great detail the techniques dia Sagona and the topic is Traces of Maltese Community Council of Victoria. In used to make the different types; how Mitras on the Maltese Islands. Dr Sagona 1981 she resigned from Vice President to other chemicals were introduced in the visits Malta quite frequently to conduct take up a position of Teacher’s Aide at the combination of the potassium, sulphur and archaeological diggings. Everybody is Sunshine Technical College assisting nitrate to produce colour in fireworks. It welcome to attend. — Frances Bonnici Maltese children in day-to-day education- took several death tragedies when firework related problems and communicating with to their parents about these problems. In 1989 she was awarded with the “Official Award Reskeon Maltese Association Maltese Ex‐Services Association for 10 years of Distinguished Service to the of Victoria, Inc. School” by Ms Joan Kirner, Minister of GET TOGETHER Education. At the Maltese Centre, Parkville Award of George Cross For the past 50 years Lillian has been a On Sunday, 20 March 2011, 2 pm volunteer member of numerous 69th Anniversary organizations such as Community Members of both Groups Commemoration Development, Social Activities, Fund are invited to attend Raising, Culture, Young Talent, Aged Care, We will remember Maltese actress At the Maltese Centre, Parkville Overseas Missions and Religious Organizations. The Missionary Society of Vitorin Galea and meet her family On Sunday, 10 April 2011, 10.45 St. Paul in Parkville, Victoria nominated Phone Phyllis Vella 9395‐3103 am Lillian to receive the blessing and Or Salvina Vella on 9460 –4404 Page 6 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011 Publications with a Maltese Connection

Charles Daniel Charlie Bezzina: Saliba: Ħtif ta' The Job— Ajruplani fil- Fighting Crime Mediterran. from the Frontline Il-Ħames Każi ta' Slattery Media Group Malta 2010 BDL Publishing 2010 Paperback 288 pp. Hardcover 176 pp.

Bejn wieħed u ieħor Charlie Bezzina was mis-sena 1970 sal-2000, one of Victoria's top homicide detectives. In kull xahar, x’imkien fid- his 17 years in the dinja, b’mod partikolari Homicide Squad, he fil-Mediterran, kien investigated more than hemm żewġ atti ta’ pi- 300 suspicious deaths, raterija including 150 murders - tal-ajru. Ħafna minn dawn kienu jsiru biex jinġabru somom among them the crimes of serial killer Paul Denyer, the killing kbar ta’ flus, għal għanijiet personali jew politiċi. Iżda minn of Melbourne gangland figure Alphonse Gangitano, the dawn il-każijiet il-ħtif tal-ajruplani evolva f’idea aktar mod- Silk/Miller police murders, the baffling disappearances of for- erna fejn l-ajruplan innifsu jiġi użat bħala missila. Għalkemm mer games how model Jacquie Ramchen and Sarah McDiarmid, illum l-atti ta’ piraterija huma ħafna aktar rari, il- and the death of former Test cricketer David Hookes. konsegwenzi tagħhom huma ħafna akbar. Il-biża’ mill-atti ta’ This is the never-before-told story of Bezzina's rise from a piraterija għadu jinħass f’kull livell, kemm miċ-ċittadini ko- sheltered childhood in a Maltese family in Melbourne's western muni kif ukoll min-nazzjonijiet. Għalhekk huwa importanti li suburbs, to a widely respected senior detective who served Vic- nanalizzaw dawn l-atti ta’ piraterija li saru fil-bidu, li kważi toria Police with distinction and unquestioned integrity for 37 kważi ħafna minnhom illum jidhru innoċenti, għaliex jgħin- years, culminating in his acrimonious and highly controversial una nifhmu l-motivi u l-mekkaniżmu wara l-ħtif tal-ajruplani departure from the force. u b’hekk jgħinuna nevitawhom jew niddefendu lilna nfusna Brimming with exclusive insights that only a seasoned detec- minnhom. tive can provide, The Job is an explosive and intriguing account Dan il-ktieb jagħti din l-analiżi billi jikkonċentra fuq of what it takes to be a criminal investigator at the highest level. ħames ajruplani maħtufa li llandjaw jew telqu mill-Ajruport Internazzjonali ta’ Malta, fil-qalba tal-Mediterran. In the Foreword to the book, prominent barrister Philip Dunn, L-għan oriġinali kien li jiġi mistħarreġ għaliex ċertu QC, refers to Charlie Bezzina as having grown up “in the west- postijiet madwar jew fil-Mediterran kienu suġġetti għall-atti ern suburbs, the son of doting Maltese parents. The early chap- ta’ piraterija tal-ajru aktar minn oħrajn. Iżda fir-riċerka fl-eluf ters describe the background and influence that made him the ta’ kliem li nkiteb u ntqal fuq dawn il-każi, l-awtur sab li man he is, encapsulating his entry into the police force, training ħafna mir-rakkonti kienu inkompleti jew foloz u għalhekk at the police academy and his early postings, ultimately to his becoming a senior Homicide Squad investigator.” l-ewwel għan kien li joħroġ il-verità bl-użu ta’ sorsi ppub- blikati, intervisti ma’ persuni differenti, gazzetti kontempo- Mr Dunn thoroughly recommended this book “as a revealing ranji lokali u barranin, rapporti, diskussjonijiet ma’ esperti tas insight into not only ‘the job’, but the fascinating and dedicated -sigurtà, rapporti tal-pulizija, procès-verbaux, rapport tal- man who did what the title also said — who fought crime from esperti tal-qorti, stqarrijiet fl-istampa u korrispondenza uf- the frontline.” fiċjali. Armat b’din l-informazzjoni, l-awtur ried jipprova li s-sigurtà u l-istabbilità fil-Mediterran, u għalhekk fl-Ewropa wkoll, ma tistax tintlaħaq jekk il-problemi fis-sigurtà reġjon- KONVENZJONI GĦALL-MALTIN LI ali ma jiġux indirizzati. Hemm rakkont ta’ kull ħtif mill-bidu JGĦIXU BARRA 2010 kwiet tiegħu sakemm tispiċċa d-drama, u kull wieħed ġie analizzat fid-dawl tal-problemi reġjonali kontemporanji li Il-Ministeru tal-Affarijiet mmotivaw lill-pirati. L-awtur jirrifletti wkoll fuq il-bidliet li Barranin għadu kif ippubblika saru fir-reġjun tal-Mediterran li wasslu biex in-numru ta’ ħtif id-diskorsi u l-karti li ġew ta’ ajruplani jonqos. Barra minn hekk dan il-ktieb juri wkoll ppreżentati matul il- l-akkwisti straordinarji li għamel il-Perit Dom Mintoff, Konvenzjoni għall-Maltin li il-Prim Ministru ta’ Malta indipendenti friska, li nnegozja Jġħixu Barra li saret f’Malta personalment it-tmien ta’ tlieta mill-ħames ajruplani maħtufa f’Marzu 2010. mingħajr telf ta’ ħajja. Dan il-ktieb jinsab ukoll għall-bejgħ bl-Ingliż: Hijacking in Il-volum li jinkludi indiċi, fih the Mediterranean. The Five cases of Malta. Għal aktar infor- 612 paġna. mazzjoni ara www.charlesdanielsaliba.com jew www.bdlbooks.com

Page 7 MCCV Newsletter  No 106 ‐ March ‐ April 2011 Natural Disasters cause severe devastation in Australia and New Zealand

FLOODS IN QUEENSLAND AND VICTORIA MAJOR EARTHQUAKE IN CHRISTCHURCH, NZ The severe devastation caused by extensive floods in large A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck the city of Christchurch, the parts of Queensland during December 2010 and January 2011 second-most populous city in New Zealand's South Island at and in the western and central regions of Victoria during 12:51 pm on 22 February 2011 local time causing widespread January 2011 made world news headlines. Pictures of the damage and multiple fatalities. The earthquake was centred flooded towns, overflowing rivers and stories of acts of brav- 2 kilometres west of the town of Lyttelton and 10 kilometres ery and personal tragedies filled the airwaves and the print south-east of Christchurch. In September 2010 the same city was and electronic media for days and weeks. rocked by another 7.1 magnitude earthquake, which had caused significant damage to the region but no fatalities.

It occurred on a single fault-line, which apparently has no In Queensland, the floods were a result of heavy rainfall underground connection to the four-part Greendale fault respon- caused by Tropical Cyclone Tasha that combined with a sible for the September quake. It generated a significant number trough during the peak of a La Niña event. The 2010 La Niña of its own aftershocks, many of which are considered big for a weather pattern, which brings wetter conditions to eastern 6.3 quake. Over 200 aftershocks were experienced in the first Australia, was the strongest since 1973. week, the largest measuring magnitude 5.9, occurring just under The floods affected an area of Queensland as large as 2 hours after the main quake. France and Germany combined. Three-quarters of the state of At least 161 people have been confirmed dead and more than Queensland was declared a disaster zone. Thousands of peo- 200 people have been reported as missing as at the time of writ- ple were forced to evacuate to safety in at least seventy towns ing, making the earthquake one of the deadliest natural disasters and over 200,000 people were affected. Thirty-five people in New Zealand's recorded history. The Government declared a lost their lives. Direct flood damage was initially estimated at national state of emergency for the first time in New Zealand's around A$1 billion, with the indirect impact on the Australian history. It is estimated that the earthquake could cost insurers economy estimated at about A$30 billion. US$12 billion. Generous donations have been pouring into the Premier's Buildings collapsed around Cathedral Square in central Christ- Disaster Relief Appeal Fund, which at the time of writing has church. Of the 1,000 buildings within the Four Avenues of the reached A$225 million. central city, only 600 were safe to enter. Christchurch Cathedral lost its spire, the tip of which had also fallen in earthquakes in 1888 and 1901, but much more fell during the latest earthquake. In Victoria, high intensity rainfall between in mid-January Police believe up to 22 people died in the collapse of the cathe- 2011 caused major flooding across most of the western and dral's tower. central parts of the Australian state of Victoria. Several fol- Christchurch Hospital was partly evacuated due to damage in low-up heavy rainfall events including Tropical Low Yasi some areas, but remained open throughout to treat the injured. caused repeated flash flooding in affected areas in early Feb- The six storey Canterbury Television (CTV) building col- ruary in many of the communities already affected by Janu- lapsed leaving only its lift shaft standing, which caught fire. The ary's floods. More than 51 communities were affected by the building housed the TV station, a medical clinic and an English floods and thousands had to be evacuated to safer grounds. language school. The floods devastated farms with 51,700 hectares of pas- A Maltese national who lives in Christchurch, George Spiteri, ture and 41,200 hectares of field crops flooded and 6,000 said in an interview on the Maltese Program of SBS Radio that sheep drowned. Initially damage was estimated at hundreds of he and his family had survived the quake. He described the terri- millions of dollars, however the damage was later revised at ble experience “like someone pulled the carpet from under your up to A$2 billion. The Bureau of Meteorology described the feet.” At the time of the quake, like everyone else, he was in a flood as “the worst flood in western Victoria in their history state of shock and waiting for news from his many friends who as far as our records go in terms of the depth of water and the worked in the CTV building which had collapsed. He was unsure number of places affected."  whether his large restaurant in the city had suffered structural damage.  Page 8