Maltese Community Council of Victoria, Inc.

477 Royal Parade | Parkville Victoria 3052 | Australia Phone: (03) 9387 8922 Fax: (03) 9387 8309 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mccv.org.au MCCV News Editor: Dr Edwin Borg-Manché No. 118 March-April 2013 www.mccv.org.au Community pressure yields two more one-hour Maltese radio programs on SBS

After three-and-a-half months of persistent canvassing and negotiations led by Maltese community leaders in Melbourne and Sydney as well as Malta's High Commissioner in Canberra and the Consul- General in Melbourne, SBS announced yesterday that two one-hour Maltese radio programs will be broadcast commencing on 29 April 2013 in addition to the two which were originally included under the new schedule, giving a total of 4 one-hour programs per week. Last November SBS had published the new radio schedule in which the Maltese programs fared the worst among all existing  Saturday at 2.00 pm – SBS 2/FM languages with a savage cut of 7 programs, analogue (also on digital radio/TV) down from 9 hours to 2 hours per week. Maltese radio programs are also available The latest SBS decision represents a over the internet as follows: doubling of Maltese programs from the  Internet Live and On-Demand – http:// original revised schedule and a respectable www.sbs.com.au/maltese result for the Maltese community. SBS also  iPhone and Android app – SBS Your In this Edition agreed to move the broadcast of one of the Language app programs back to Saturday afternoon,  Podcasts of program segments – http:// • President’s Column: The SBS Saga: 2 arguably the most popular timeslot among What did we get for our trouble? Maltese listeners. www.sbs.com.au/podcasts/your- • Notes from Council Meetings After the publication of the revised SBS language/maltese. 3 radio schedule last November, the Maltese SBS advised the Maltese community • Prominent Maltese Community 4 community had come together in a show of leaders at a recent meeting that the Leader passes away unity to apply pressure on SBS. additional two hours will be funded from Representations to SBS came from all • MHA Event Feb 2013: The ANZACs 5 within the existing radio budget. SBS also and Malta quarters and took the form of letters of indicated that funding of the additional two • MHA Event Mar 2013: The Sacred support and emails from numerous members hours on SBS 3 digital is guaranteed only for Music of Malta’s National Composer of federal and state parliaments, local two years (until the end of the 2014/15 Nicolò Isouard councillors and Maltese associations, many financial year). The funding situation will be posts left by angry Maltese community reviewed at the end of the two years. • Generation AusMalta (GAM): A Con- 6 nection to Australian/Maltese Youth members on the SBS website and Facebook The allocation of hours on the analogue page, as well as letters and articles published radio schedule will also be reviewed • Landslide victory for Labour in 7 in the Maltese newspaper in Australia, The following the 2016 Census. Under the Final Malta's General Elections Maltese Herald. A petition with over 3,000 Selection Criteria, published in June 2012, signatures, organised by the Maltese • New Labour Cabinet appointed in 8 SBS announced plans to review all Malta Community Council of Victoria, was sent to languages and the allocation of hours after the Minister responsible for radio and each Census to ensure the SBS Radio • Government promises new chapter 9 communications, Senator Stephen Conroy, Schedule continues to reflect the makeup of in Malta’s political history and to the SBS Board. Australia and fulfils its obligations under the • Resignation request made to CMLA As a result of the latest SBS decision the SBS Charter. 10 members withdrawn Maltese programs on SBS radio from 29 In addition to the Maltese radio programs, April will be broadcast as follows: SBS recently agreed to broadcast two • Inquiry into Migration and Multi- culturalism in Australia  Tuesday at 12 noon – SBS 3 digital only television news bulletins from Malta per (digital radio/TV) week in Maltese produced by Malta's Public • Tnedija ta’ ktejjeb fuq il-ħajja ta’ 11 Broadcasting Service. From 4 April 2013 Dr Joe Abela  Thursday at 12 noon – SBS 3 digital both TV programs are being broadcast on • Reskeon Maltese Association only (digital radio/TV) SBS TWO channel on Thursdays and member activities  Friday at 12 noon – SBS 2/FM Sundays at 8.00 am, eliminating the need • Community Calendar 12 analogue (also on digital radio/TV) for repeat programming.  March-April 2013 • N o . 1 1 8 • MCCV News The President’s Column The SBS Saga: What did we get for our trouble?

After several weeks' of canvassing, negotiations, signing of efforts. In particular, I thank the High Commissioner for Malta, petitions, and writing emails and letters of support, SBS has Mr Francis Tabone, the Council of NSW, particularly Mr Fred finally delivered its verdict in relation to what the Maltese Fenech, President, and Mr Lawrence Dimech, Vice President, language program is going to look like as from 29 April. the presidents of the various organisations, and in particular Mr For the last 20 years, the Maltese community has benefitted Joe Attard, the members of the federal and state parliaments, from a generous allocation of radio time on SBS: 9 hours of local councillors and all those who sent letters, emails, posted programming per week. Suddenly, in November of last year, comments on the SBS Facebook page and in other ways the community was faced with a bombshell: the programs showed their displeasure with the SBS decision. would be cut down to 2 hours per week, a reduction of 78 per However, the saga hasn't quite ended here. cent! Funding of additional Maltese programs The reason that SBS gave was that the number of persons We were advised by SBS at the latest meeting that the speaking Maltese has now fallen from around 56,000 to 34,000, additional two hours will be funded from within the existing a reduction of 40 per cent. They argued that these statistics put radio budget. SBS also indicated that SBS commits to funding us in a category with other ethnic groups whose numbers the additional two hours on SBS 3 digital for two years (until ranged from 20,000 to 40,000 and who also were allocated two the end of the 2014/15 financial year), the funding situation hours per week. will be reviewed at the end of the two years and the additional We argued strongly that firstly, compared to other ethnic hours on SBS 3 digital cannot be guaranteed past the end of the communities of the same size, the Maltese community had 2014/15 financial year. significant needs which were not being met. Secondly, we also While we understand that no organisation can over-stretch argued that slashing the number of hours so drastically so its resources beyond the available funds, we would object most suddenly was inequitable. Thirdly, we objected strongly to the strongly if the Maltese language programs would be subject to fact that no real consultation with the Maltese community took revision in isolation. We believe that any re-scheduling should place prior to the announcement of the new program schedule affect all programs and not limited to Maltese on a 'last in, first last November. out' policy. We argued against this funding treatment, as The Maltese community united in condemning this action by selecting the additional two Maltese programs for a different SBS. We wrote to the SBS Board complaining strongly against treatment from the rest could only be perceived as a form of this unilateral action and the lack of consultation which ignored discrimination. We argued that the review of the funding the special needs of the Maltese community. Posts on social situation of the Maltese programs should be part of the overall media and a barrage of emails to SBS crowded the cyberspace, schedule review after the 2016 Census. sent by Members of Parliament, Maltese associations, We believe strongly that the greatest inequity in the whole individuals, both Maltese and others from all over Australia. revised schedule is the excessive program time allocated to the For the first time in Australia, a petition of over 3,000 six largest communities, which have been given two hours per signatures organised by the MCCV was sent to the Minister day, and which therefore has resulted in the allocation of 34 per responsible for radio and communications, Senator Stephen cent of total time available, with the other 68 ethnic Conroy, and to SBS. communities having to share what's left over. What did we get for our trouble? Naturally, we will need to fight for the retention of the On Friday 12 April, after three-and-a-half months of additional two Maltese programs for another year past the end negotiations, and two weeks before the new radio Schedule of the 2014/15 financial year and until the 2016 Census review, takes effect, the final decision of the SBS Board was when the time comes. announced. In effect, we obtained another two one-hour Next SBS radio schedule review programs, in addition to the two which were originally announced. This is an increase of 100 per cent on what we had, What can the Maltese community do to ensure fair and therefore represents a very significant achievement on our representation and a reasonable share of SBS radio time in part, particularly in view of the intransigence of the future? As long as SBS will continue to put highest priority on administrative body at SBS, and the acknowledged difficulty of census data, it is unlikely that we will be able to maintain this changing schedules once these have been announced. In level of programming in the future. addition we managed to retain the much desired program on It is essential to ensure that we emphasize the extent of Saturday which had disappeared in the original revised Maltese language use. To claim that all Maltese speak English schedule. "well" or "very well", as claimed by the vast majority of I believe that four hours of SBS Maltese radio program Maltese in the last census, is equivalent of asking for a massive represent fairly our position within the Australian community. reduction of radio time in future. Of the 43,000 persons born in Unfortunately, the two extra programs will be broadcast on Malta only about half admit to speaking Maltese at home. This 'digital/TV only' as opposed to 'analogue' (FM) radio. This is has been one of the main reasons for our problems, and we not ideal and will involve a considerable degree of education of should do our utmost to ensure that a fairer picture of our needs our ageing community in relation to accessing these programs. is clearly given in future censuses. I believe we have done as well as could be expected. I wish Prof. Maurice Cauchi to publicly thank all those who became involved in these MCCV President

Page 2 M C C V N e w s • No. 118 • March - A p r i l 2 0 1 3 Notes from MCCV Council Meetings MARCH 2013 APRIL 2013 The following items were discussed at the Council Meeting held on The following items were discussed at the Council Meeting held on Wednesday 6 March 2013: Wednesday 3 April 2013: Melbourne City Council Matter. MCCV President Maurice Cauchi, Melbourne City Council Matter. Providing an update on this mat- Vice President Victor Borg, PRO Edwin Borg-Manche and Fr. Edwin ter, Vice President Victor Borg said that the barrister engaged to Agius met with the barrister who is helping the MCCV in dealing with assist us has now provided the MCCV with an opinion stating that the issue that had been raised by the Melbourne City Council we have a very strong case under “continuous rights” to hold social regarding noise levels from the Maltese Centre. The advice given by functions at the Maltese Centre in the evenings. Two statutory dec- the barrister is that MCCV has a very good chance of proving that the larations have been prepared to be signed by Fr Tarcisio Micallef premises have been used for the purpose of social events for the last and Victor Borg confirming that such social functions have always 15 years. A sound engineer was brought in to have a look at the hall been held at the Maltese Community Centre from the time it was and advised on steps that should be taken to minimize noise levels. He built in the early 1980s. Mr Borg also referred to the sound level has proposed that a sound machine be bought and installed to set noise control solution recommended by the Sound Engineer to put the levels to an acceptable decibel level that, when reached, the electricity Hall on a separate circuit when installing a sound controlling ma- to the amplifier would automatically cut off. chine. The Council agreed that more information should be ob- tained about the equipment that needs to be purchased so that the Bishop Joseph Grech Fund. Advertisements will be placed in the solution can be implemented without further delay. Leader newspaper of the Western suburbs as this means of advertising proved fruitful when used by the Maltese Language School. Other Bishop Joseph Grech Fund. At the Fund’s Committee meeting means need to be employed to make the Maltese community aware of held earlier this evening it was decided that the Bishop Joe Grech the award of this scholarship. A meeting will be organised for the Memorial Scholarship be advertised in the local Leader newspaper Bishop Joseph Grech Fund to discuss the above. hoping that some young people will nominate. To raise funds for this scholarship a luncheon will be held at the Maltese Centre on SBS Radio Petition. The MCCV has been able to obtain over 3,000 Sunday 4 August. The Fund stands at about $37,500. signatures for the SBS petition. The Maltese High Commissioner, Mr. MCCV Community Awards 2013. Affiliated associations and mem- Francis Tabone, had a meeting with SBS in Sydney. The Maltese bers of the MCCV Executive Committee were reminded that nomi- community was to be advised of the outcome by end February but nations for the MCCV Community Awards for 2013 must be for- nothing further has been heard so far. Mandi Wicks from SBS had warded to the MCCV Secretary by not later than 30 June 2013. proposed a meeting with MCCV, Maltese Consul General and the High Commissioner to discuss the matter further. No meeting date has SBS Radio Petition. After several discussions with SBS and other yet been set. Two letters received from two members of parliament parties involved in this matter, the Council is very optimistic that who had made representations to SBS on behalf of the Maltese the number of Maltese radio programs will be more than two pro- community had attached to them a response that the MPs had received grams per week. from SBS which was virtually the same letter that the MCCV had Malta Migration Museum. MCCV President Prof Maurice Cauchi received from SBS. said that this museum is now a reality and anyone visiting Malta is Federation of Maltese Living Abroad The FMLA committee has encouraged to go to see it at the Migrants Commission building in decided to extend membership to non-incorporated associations and Valletta. Mr Joe Stafrace has worked very hard to obtain funds for 3 this amendment to its constitution had been approved by the members computer consoles for the museum. The Council recognizes his of the federation. Individual membership is also allowed, but efforts and thanks him for his achievements. Joe Stafrace presented individual members in a region form a virtual organisation which is two cheques each for $6,000 to cover the purchase of two consoles, only entitled to one vote as a group. For more information one should one sponsored by the family of Joe Stafrace in honour of the visit the FMLA website which is maintained by Edwin Borg-Manché. Stafrace brothers who served in the war and later migrated to Aus- tralia, and the other by the Newport Maltese Association. The Migration Museum in Malta. Joe Stafrace, who is managing the fund Council thanked the Stafrace family and the Newport Maltese Asso- raising, reported that he has managed to engage enough sponsors to ciation for their generous sponsorship. Joe said he will continue cover the costs of 3 computer consoles and 85% on a fourth one. He is with his efforts to find sponsors for the third console. A memorial confident this will soon be 100% covered. The Council is grateful to plaque will be placed on each console. Joe Stafrace also thanked Joe who has done a great job and is to be commended for it. As Joe Edwin Borg-Manché for assisting him in the production of the Stafrace will be in Malta shortly, the Council requested that he present sponsorship brochure. the cheques for these 4 computer consoles to Fr Vella and a New Executive Committee Member. At the start of the meeting photograph taken for the record. MCCV President Prof Maurice Cauchi on behalf of the Council Maltese Programs on Channel 31. Channel 31 has ceased the welcomed Joanne Ellul who has accepted to be seconded to the transmission of the Maltese program. On a motion proposed by Victor Executive Committee in the position as Assistant Secretary. She Borg and seconded by George Saliba the Council agreed that a letter will be looking after the MCCV accounts while Paul Borg is away be sent to Joe Montebello to thank him for his work in bringing a on holiday.  regular Maltese program from Malta for many years. Maltese Language School. The Saturday Maltese Language School MCCV News would like to know if they can use our premises at Sunshine for The MCCV News is published by the Maltese Community Council Maltese classes on a Friday night. As the premises are not being used of Victoria every two months to inform the Maltese community at that time the premises will be made available to the School. There about activities, news and information that would be of interest to it. are 20 students enrolled for VCE this year.  Contributions should be forwarded to the Editor either by email at [email protected] or alternatively by post to: The Editor—MCCV News, Maltese Community Council of Victoria 477 Royal Parade, PARKVILLE VIC 3052

Page 3 March-April 2013 • N o . 1 1 8 • MCCV News Prominent Maltese Community Leader passes away

The Maltese Community Council of In 1985 Tony was made a Member Victoria and the Maltese-Australian in the General Division of the Order of community mourn the sad loss of one Australia for service to the Maltese of its prominent leaders, Anthony Community. A year later he received Bonnici AM, BA, LL.B (1930-2013), the Hellenic award for successfully who passed away peacefully on 24 spearheading the resistance of ethnic March 2013 after a long illness, aged communities to the amalgamation of 82 years. the Special Broadcasting Service with On Thursday 11 April 2012 a public the Australian Broadcasting memorial service was held at St Paul’s Commission (1986). Chapel in Parkville to commemorate In 1987 Tony was appointed by the the memory of Tony Bonnici. Mass was Hawke government to the Committee concelebrated by Fr Edwin Agius mssp, "to Advise on Australia's Immigration Fr Dominic Degiorgio and Fr Carm Policies" which included a visit to Borg. Mr Chris Bonnici, the eldest son North America (Canada and the United of Tony Bonnici, delivered a eulogy. States) to examine and report back to He thanked the MCCV for holding the the Committee on those countries' memorial service that was well immigration legislation and programs. attended. He authored a number of publications Mr Victor Borg, MCCV Vice relating to legal and migrant issues. President, who had known Tony since Tony was extremely proud of his their days as law students at Melbourne Anthony Bonnici AM, BA, LL.B- Maltese background and made every Photo supplied by Martin Bonnici University, spoke about his friendship effort to ensure that younger members with Tony over many decades and of the community learned about their and the Leederville Technical School in Tony’s great foresight and significant parents' culture and traditions. Perth, Western Australia, and later achievements for the Maltese studied at the University of Melbourne, Tony had also been involved with community in Victoria and for the graduating in Arts in 1960. He joined Radio ZZZ and supported the efforts of ethnic communities in Australia. the Education Department as a school Dr Joe Abela, the first Maltese The gathering was led by the Consul teacher and completed departmental language broadcaster on Radio ZZZ General for Malta in Victoria, Mr teacher-training. and Radio 3EA. Charles Mifsud and MCCV President In 1960 he was commissioned with While fighting his failing health, Professor Maurice Cauchi, and included the rank of pilot officer in the Royal Tony continued to practice his members of Tony Bonnici’s family, his Australian Air Force Reserve. profession as a barrister-at-law. He was widow, Mrs Bonnici, his sons Chris and the first barrister of Maltese Martin (his youngest son, Julian, was In 1961 Tony enrolled at the background to be admitted and practice overseas) and his daughter Anthea, University of Melbourne Law School. law at the Victorian Bar. He specialised other members of the MCCV Executive Shortly thereafter he secured in the areas of family law, immigration Committee, Presidents and members of employment as a research assistant with law and personal injuries. He was a affiliated associations and former the Board of Studies in Criminology at formidable opponent in court and a colleague members of the Victorian Melbourne University. In 1966 he great advocate for fairness and natural Bar. The service was followed by light graduated as Bachelor of Laws and was justice. He fought to ensure that those refreshments at the Maltese Community admitted to legal practice. born overseas were not disadvantaged Centre next door. Tony's involvement in the Maltese because of their ethnic background or Profile community in Victoria included his role limited knowledge of the English as President of the Phoenician language. Tony, as he was known to his Association (1967), President of the He was an avid reader and enjoyed a friends, had provided great leadership Maltese Community Council of to the Maltese Australian community in good bottle of wine. He was idolised by Victoria (1968-1974), Chairman of the his four children, Christopher, Anthea, Victoria. During his six years as MCCV Ethnic Communities' Council of President, Tony had established the Martin, and Julian, and will be sadly Victoria (ECCV) (1988-1989) and missed by all those who knew him. organisation and structure of the senior deputy chairman of the community and formalised its processes Federation of the Ethnic Communities Farewell and rest in peace, Tony!  and procedures to the benefit of the Councils of Australia (FECCA). community. In 1981 Tony was appointed by the Born on 2 December 1930, Tony Fraser government to the Board of the arrived in Australia from Egypt as an Special Broadcasting Service. He 18-year-old in March 1949. He remained a member of the Board until attended the Austral Coaching College, 1987. Page 4 M C C V N e w s • No. 118 • March - A p r i l 2 0 1 3

MHA Event — February 2013 The ANZACs and Malta

By Agnes Cauchi

At the MHA Event for February 2013 recover. In fact, Malta was Malta's Consul General in Victoria, Mr called the "Nurse of the Charles Mifsud, was the guest speaker on the Mediterranean". Some 250 little known topic of Malta's connection with ANZACS died in Malta and the ANZACs. Mr. Charles Mifsud had first are buried there, mostly at the given this talk in November last year at the Pieta cemetery, which is only Shrine of Remembrance, St Kilda Road, opened to the public by special Melbourne. permission on ANZAC day. During the two world conflicts Malta gave At first the wounded its valued part in defeating the enemy. The soldiers were taken to Egypt, connection between Malta and ANZACs is but the hospitals filled quickly MHA President Mrs Frances Bonnici thanking Mr Mifsud hardly ever observed. The connection started and they had to find another in the First World War during the Gallipoli place. Malta was chosen, though the Island was and ships in Malta. They contributed to the Campaign in 1915 and continued right until unprepared for this. Schools were converted to defeat of the enemy on its attacks on Malta. the 1950s. serve as hospitals and camp hospitals were set It was an ANZAC who piloted the Malta, situated in the centre of the up too. Between July and September of 1915, Sunderland which transported the George Mediterranean, has always held a strategic around 2000 soldiers were nursed in Malta. Cross medal to Malta. position. Malta was a British naval because of During WW2, the ANZACS were also Every year on ANZAC day, there is a its strategic position in the Mediterranean and linked with Malta. Malta assisted the ANZACS service at the Pieta Cemetery. Among the the good dockyard facilities that it offered. of the 8th Army in North Africa. They left distinguished guests, the Australian High During the Gallipoli campaign in World from Malta my air and sea towards Egypt to Commissioner for Malta and the New War I, thousands of wounded British and hamper the German convoys supplying the Zealand counterpart preside over it.  ANZAC soldiers were taken to Malta to German army. Also, there were ANZAC pilots

MHA Event — March 2013 The Sacred Music of Malta’s National Composer Nicolò Isouard

Left: Nicolò By Agnes Cauchi Isouard.

Right: Frà On Tuesday 12 March 2013 Frà Professor Prof. Richard Richard Divall was guest speaker at the MHA Divall Event held at the Maltese Centre, Parkville. The presentation consisted of two parts: the Below: The first part was about music in Malta under the audience Knights, with a special focus on the Maltese composer Nicolò Isouard. The second part consisted of a playback of the sound tracks of the televised concert of sacred music by Nicolò Isuard, performed at St John's co- cathedral in Valletta and conducted by Prof Divall. Before the Knights came to Malta, there was already a music life in Mdina, especially in the cathedral of St Paul. However, the Knights brought a musical establishment to St Lawrence's church in Birgu (Vittoriosa). For revolutionary with strong French sympathies. There are six or seven operas which everyone 200 years, music composition flourished in The Isouards were also members of the knows about in Paris. He offered 37 Malta. Maltese priests were sent to Naples to Freemasons. The son took after his father and compositions to the Grand Master of the time. study music, among them we find a certain was also an agnostic. His father sent him to He was well-liked. Grixti and Balzan. Grand Master de Vilhena France to study music. Then he was sent to a Isouard made friends with the French even built a baroque opera house five storey military college. Meanwhile, the French when they arrived on the Island. When the high. Some operas were performed there for Revolution intervened and Nicolò was sent French were banished from the Island, Nicolò the benefit of the Italian Knights who always back to Malta. From there, he went to tried to escape to France on a French ship favoured operas. Unfortunately, all music of Palermo to study music under well-known which was captured by the British. Luckily that era is lost, except for some sacred music. composers. for Nicolò, he was simply sent back to Malta. Nicolò Isouard (1773–1818) is considered What was he like? By all accounts Isouard His sacred music survived. Dun Gwann to be a national composer of that era. He was was charming, good-looking and very Azzopardi, the curator of the museum in born in Valletta of a French father and a credible. He always believed in himself. He Mdina, has collected his works and he wrote a Maltese mother. His father was a wrote numerous operas and sacred music. book in Maltese. 

Page 5 March-April 2013 • N o . 1 1 8 • MCCV News

GENERATION AUSMALTS (GAM): A Connection to Australian/Maltese Youth

By Rita Ellul Generation AusMalts (GAM), in partnership with the MCCV, is working to promote an appreciation of Maltese heritage and culture in Australian-Maltese youth (5 – 25 Nisġa Cook-Off Merħba Exhibition years). We are taking small steps, but If you have a Maltese culinary GAMmers might also be interested even small steps will eventually reach interest, love cooking with your in an exhibition to celebrate the their destination. family, or just like Maltese food Maltese culture being developed by It has been great to watch the (and who doesn’t?), tell us about on Hobson’s Bay City Council. activity steadily grow on the GAM the AusMalts Facebook page. The exhibition, to be called Facebook page. Posting of images of Better still, get a family team Merhba, will include: Malta often results in comments and together and enter the 2013 Nisga ‘Likes’. It’s a great way to get young  A photography wall made up of Cook-Off. The date for this year’s people talking about Malta and photos taken by local community Cook-Off is Sunday, 13 September Maltese culture, and perhaps provoke members and which highlight the 2013. their curiosity and inspiration to find Maltese heritage of immigrants out more about their heritage. In 2012 this event was won by the who settled in the Hobson’s Bay Generation AusMalts team, led by area GAM is currently planning its Rita Catania. We are looking for a activities for 2013. Coming up over  Live story telling sessions. new AusMalts team to take us to a the next few months will be: There will also be a large map of back-to-back win! Malta on display and visitors to the  A series of cooking classes for So start practising your pulpetti exhibition are invited to mark the children (July) and stirring that stuffat with your Maltese village of their heritage.  Children’s literature celebration mum, your nanna (grandma), your Merhba Exhibition will run from (August) żija or your tifel (son) or tifla 14 to 28 June 2013 at:  Annual Children’s Christmas (daughter)! Party (December). Louis Joel Arts and Community Register your team at Nisġa: Centre http://nisga.org/page/2/ Further details about these activities 5 Sargood Street, Altona. will be in the next MCCV newsletter. The launch of the exhibition will take place on Friday, 14 June from 6pm. (RSVP to attend the launch by Thursday, June 13 by contacting the Hobson’s Bay City Council Arts and Culture Unit on 9932 2001).  To connect with Generation AusMalts and express any ideas, you can communicate with us via the following links: Facebook: www.Facebook.com/GenerationAusMalts Twitter: Twitter.com/@GenAusMalts Email: [email protected]

Participants at the 2012 Nisġa Cook-Off Page 6 M C C V N e w s • No. 118 • March - A p r i l 2 0 1 3 Landslide victory for Labour in Malta's General Elections

After serving for the past 15 years Dr Gonzi said he had no doubt that the in opposition, the Labour Party won a PN would contribute its share for the landslide general election victory in country to continue to move forward the General Elections held in Malta on and to create jobs. He thanked all those 9 March 2013, sweeping to power who had worked with the government with 55% of primary votes (170,642 as well as those who had worked in the votes) and a margin of 37,163 votes, Nationalist Party. the largest obtained by a party in He thanked all those who had voted for Malta's post-independence history. the PN and said his message was one of The Nationalist Party won 43% courage. "Stay positive, continue (133,479 votes). The third party, believing in the country which can Alternattiva Demoktarika (AD), won overcome the rough weather which 1.8% (5,573) but none of their engulfed other countries. The PN will candidates will be elected. need to re-examine itself, re-establish Labour won a parliamentary its roots and renew itself," he said. majority of nine seats, the biggest He said he would not participate in the since 1955. Current predictions are process for the election of a new leader that the new Labour government will of the party but would do his part to have 39 seats in parliament to the Dr Joseph Muscat ensure that the party was modernised. opposition's 30, after a proportionality Malta’s new Prime Minister Historical perspective of electoral win adjustment of two additional seats for the PN. The massive margin of 36,475 votes The election result became clear the do." He promised that he would work as hard obtained by Labour in Saturday's election was morning following the voting. In the counting as he could for no one to feel a stranger in his the largest obtained by a party in Malta's post- hall at Naxxar there were euphoric scenes of own country. "We will show that we believed independence history. The margins between Labour party agents hugging each other with what we campaigned for," he said. the political parties have varied substantially, tears in their eyes. Fireworks were let off in He urged his listeners to help ensure that particularly in recent elections. some localities. The election results confirmed this was a government which would not cut what the pre-election polls has been clearly itself off from the people. He expressed The Labour Party's biggest victory was in indicating, a comfortable Labour victory. particular gratitude to young people for 1945 when it won 76.2 percent of the vote, but that was an unusual contest, with the PN Dr Lawrence Gonzi conceded defeat after having been protagonists, not spectators. and the Constitutional Party having refused to the first sample of votes as the sorting of "Now extend the arm of friendship for take part, insisting that Malta should first be ballot papers started. He telephoned Joseph everyone," he stressed to cheering. given a new constitution. That was the Muscat to congratulate him. PN Leader to step down general election which saw Dom Mintoff The new Prime Minister, Dr Joseph Muscat, Nationalist Party leader outgoing Prime elected for the first time. said he was 'humbled' by the result but Minister, Dr Lawrence Gonzi, announced that The second best electoral result for the promised to work with the Opposition and he assumed complete and total responsibility Labour Party was in 1947 with 59.9% of the give the people Malta for all the Maltese. A for the general election defeat and will be vote (compared to 18% for the PN, its worse large crowd of Labour Party supporters stepping down from the party leadership. He result, conditioned by the post-war situation). assembled outside Labour headquarters in confirmed that he would not be a candidate The difference between the parties was Mile End, Hamrun, beeping their horns and when the party held the election of its leader 44,104 votes. waving party and Maltese flags. and deputy leader as it was required to do in The PN did best in 1932 when it won Governing for all Maltese terms of its statute after a general election. 59.8% of the vote after a general election He also told a press conference yesterday Dr Muscat made his long-awaited which was delayed by constitutional that the party accepted the people's verdict. "I appearance on the balcony of Labour upheaval. headquarters yesterday afternoon to shoulder total and complete responsibility for Closest Results acknowledge the applause and cheers of what has happened," Dr Gonzi said. thousands of people gathered at the Mile End Dr Gonzi said he was not completely The closest general election result was in in Hamrun. Introduced as Malta's prime surprised by the extent of the election defeat, 2008 when the PN got 49.34% and the MLP minister, Dr Muscat said Labour was elected but it had been difficult to make a complete got 48.79%, meaning that no party got an as a movement, and would govern as a assessment because of the large number of absolute majority. It was also close in 1981, movement. undecided voters. with the PN winning 50.91% to Labour's 49.07%. "The sun has not risen for half of Malta, but "I promise that my colleagues and myself for Malta as a whole, both for those who voted will continue to serve the people and their The PN had a five-seat parliamentary for change as well as our fellow Maltese who country. This country had potential and can majority after the 1998 and 2003 general did not," he said. overcome its challenges. We will continue to elections (35 to 30), the biggest since 1966 when the PN had 28 seats to Labour's 22 "This was not a Malta for the victors, but work for the country's progress, this time when the Chamber had 50 seats. The Malta Tagħna Lkoll (Malta is for all of us), he from the Opposition. We will serve with difference varied after previous elections but said to applause. This was the strongest honesty and loyalty," Dr Gonzi said. in those cases more than two parties made it mandate given by the people to a government Dr Gonzi congratulated the Labour Party to parliament.  since independence. It was a mandate which and its leader Joseph Muscat on their victory. was so strong that it humbled him," said Dr "He is now the prime minister, and he Muscat deserves respect and recognition as the person "The people have loaned us their trust to who has to lead the country in the challenges represent them all and that is what we will which it faces. The burden is a heavy one," he said. Page 7 March-April 2013 • N o . 1 1 8 • MCCV News New Labour Cabinet appointed in Malta

On Wednesday 13 March 2013 the members of new Cabinet were sworn in at a ceremony held at the Palace in Valletta presided over by President Dr George Abela, with Prime Minister Dr Joseph Muscat, the Chief Justice Dr Silvio Camilleri and the Attorney General Dr Peter Grech in attendance. The guests included the families of the new ministers and parliamentary secretaries. The Cabinet is composed of the Prime Minister and fourteen Ministers as follows: Joseph Muscat - Prime Minister — Responsible for Cabinet Office, Internal Audit and Investigations, Public Administration, Strategic Policy Coordination, Management Efficiency Unit, Information, Planning, Policy The new Labour Cabinet meeting at the Auberge de Castille, Valletta and Priorities Coordination, Malta Environment and Planning Authority, Roads, Coordination of Road building, Konrad Mizzi - Minister for Energy and Government Printing Press, Lands, Land maintenance and landscaping. Water Conservation — Responsible Registry, Joint Office Anton Refalo - Minister for Gozo for Development of Alternative Energy Louis Grech - Deputy Prime Minister and Responsible for Gozo Affairs (excluding Sources, Energy Policy, Malta Resources Minister of European Affairs — Responsible Health services and Education) Authority, Enemalta Corporation, Water for relations with the European Union EU Policy, Water Services Corporation Helena Dalli - Minister for Social Internal Coordination, EU Presidency 2017, Godfrey Farrugia - Minister of Health — EU Funds and Programmes Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties — Responsible for Social Dialogue, Responsible for Health Services Regulation George Vella - Minister of Foreign Affairs Civil Liberties, Equality, Data Protection, and Standards, Health Services, Occupational — Responsible for relations with Foreign and Non-Governmental and Voluntary Health and Safety Commonwealth Countries, Relations with Organisations, Competition and Consumer PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES International Organisations and Institutions, Affairs, Medicines Authority, Industrial and The following eight parliamentary International Economic Relations, Maltese Employment Relations. Communities Abroad secretaries were also sworn in and will work Chris Cardona - Minister for the under the various ministers. Karmenu Vella - Minister of Tourism — Economy, Investment and Small Business — Responsible for Tourism, Tourism Studies, Michael Farrugia, Parliamentary Responsible for Economic Policy, External Secretary for Planning and Administrative Cultural Heritage, Restoration, External Trade, industry and investment promotion Transport, Airport, National Library, National simplification within the Office of the Prime Government Investments, Small Business and Minister. Archives, Culture and the Arts, National the Self-Employed, Cooperatives, Trade Orchestra, Theatres, Valletta 2018 Local Services Ports, Maritime Affairs, Promotion Ian Borg, Parliamentary Secretary for EU Government of Financial Services, Information and Funds and 2017 EU Presidency within the Evarist Bartolo - Minister of Education Communication Strategy, Digital Economy Ministry for EU Affairs. and Employment — Responsible for Childcare Marie-Louise Coleiro - Minister of the Josè Herrera, Parliamentary Secretary for and Early Education,Compulsory Education, Family and Social Solidarity — Responsible Local Government and Culture within the Higher Education (including MCAST), Life- for Social Policy, Family Policy, Child Ministry of Tourism. long Learning, Examinations, Public Policy, Social Housing, Social Security, Stefan Buontempo, Parliamentary Libraries, Employment and Training, Pensions Solidarity Services,Policy Secretary for Research, Innovation, Youth Research and Innovation, Centre for concerning Persons with Disability, Elderly, and Sport within the Ministry for Education Development, Research and Training, Science Community Care and Employment. and Technology Policy, Youth, Sport and Roderick Galdes, Parliamentary Secretary Sport complexes. Emmanuel Mallia - Minister of Home Affairs and National Security — Responsible for for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Leo Brincat - Minister for the for Defence, Armed Forces, Police, Rights within the Ministry for Sustainable Environment, Sustainable Development and Immigration, Airport Security, Correctional Development, the Environment and Climate Climate Change — Responsible for Climate Services, Probation and Parole, Civil Change. Change Policy, Environmental Policy, Waste Protection, Citizenship and Expatriate Edward Zammit Lewis, Parliamentary Management Strategy, National Parks, Affairs, Central Visa Unit, National Identity Secretary for for Competitiveness and Afforestation and the Countryside, Rural Management, Courts of Justice, Attorney Economic Growth within the Ministry for the Development, Agriculture, Horticulture, General's Office, Notary to Government, Economy, Investment and Small Business. Fisheries, Aquaculture, Animal Welfare Broadcasting, Public Broadcasting Services Veterinary Services Franco Mercieca, Parliamentary Secretary Edward Scicluna - Minister of Finance — for Active Ageing and Disability Rights Joe Mizzi - Minister of Transport and the Responsible for Budget Office, The Treasury, within the Ministry for Family and Social Infrastructure — Responsible Inland Revenue, Indirect Taxation, Customs Solidarity. for Manufacturing and Servicing, and Excise, Contracts, Financial Services Owen Bonnici, Parliamentary Secretary for Construction and Maintenance, Oil Regulation, Malta Statistics Authority, Justice within the Ministry for Home Affairs Exploration, Cleansing, Coordination of Major Relations with Central Bank and National Security.  Government Projects, Internal Transport,

Page 8 M C C V N e w s • No. 118 • March - A p r i l 2 0 1 3 Government promises new chapter in Malta’s political history

The 12th legislature since Independence Following the election of the speaker, the opened on Saturday 6 April 2013 in Valletta, Prime Minister moved the appointment of with the government promising in the Nationalist MP Mr Censu Galea as Deputy President's 'Speech from the Throne' that it Speaker. The motion was seconded by the will usher in a new chapter in Malta's political Leader of the Opposition. history. The new speaker then presided over the The ceremony started with Mass of the swearing in of the Members of Parliament. Holy Spirit at St John's Co-Cathedral. The President's Speech MPs then walked to the Palace, applauded by The government's programme was people who stood behind police barriers in outlined in a 24-page speech read by Republic Street. President Dr George Abela that was to spark Mass of the Holy Spirit considerable controversy, with the The ceremony started with a Mass of the Opposition claiming that the tone and Holy Spirit, led by Archbishop Mgr Paul wording of the speech was highly insulting Cremona. Those present included the outgoing President Dr George Abela reading the speech to them and to the Office of President. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr with Speaker Dr Farrugia in the background address was mostly a reproduction of the Michael Frendo. The two parties were led by governing party's electoral programme. their respective leaders, Prime Minister Dr But the government was not reciprocating. In the days following the event, Joseph Muscat and Opposition Leader Dr It appeared to want to tease and even suggestions were made by the President that Lawrence Gonzi. challenge the opposition, as was the case with a change in process ought to be considered In his homily Mgr Cremona said that the appointment of the coordinator of the so that the speech is read out by the Prime Parliament should serve for the MPs to lead Constitutional Convention, a pity since the Minister rather than the President to avoid and administer the country to the best of their Opposition had had a lot to offer in this sector. similar embarrassing situations that may abilities, knowing that as human beings they The government had also not consulted the demean the Office of President. can commit mistakes. Who leads needs a Opposition in the appointment of the Speaker. In the speech, the government said the bigger dose of love towards others than those This was in sharp contrast to what happened in time of pique, partisan politics and arrogance who are at the receiving end of their the past. The former government had offered in the government and all levels of the leadership, Mgr Cremona said. the Speaker's chair to the Labour opposition. administration must become a thing of the Forgiveness is a great value, he added, and He as prime minister had also always sought past. It also promised to keep in constant without it people will be hindered from consensus on all constitutional appointments. touch with the ordinary people and to work fulfilling their functions to the best of their The present government consulted the in serenity for the country's progress. abilities. He drew a comparison between the social partners on the chairmanship of the Malta had also fallen back on its washing of the feet on Maundy Thursday, by MCESD, the majority objected, and it steam alternative energy targets because they were which one is of service to others. Politicians rolled over them. With regard to parliament, based on a wind farms project which had must also respect and be of service to the the prime minister did not even have the also fallen back considerably and might not people they represent. courtesy of consulting him. even be viable, the government added. It Election of Speaker Dr Gonzi insisted that in view of its big would therefore invite the private sector to At the start of the inaugural parliamentary majority, the Speaker should have been partner it in a aggressive investment in solar session, Dr Anġlu Farrugia was sworn in as appointed from within the government energy, while studies into wind energy Speaker of the House of Representatives majority. The constitution itself spoke of how would continue. following a motion moved in the new the first preference in the appointment of the The President said the government Parliament by Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. Speaker should be to appoint the Speaker from wanted to see the highest standards of public Lawrence Gonzi strongly objected to the the government. Such an appointment should administration and it wanted to see new motion and the appointment was made after a not have been used by the prime minister to public confidence in politics and politicians. division, with 39 votes in favour and 30 make friends with the person whom he had Ministerial pay would be reviewed by against. In his speech, Dr Gonzi said the 'politically assassinated' - to use Dr Farrugia's independent persons and any change would Opposition objected to the appointment, own words. come into force in the next legislature saying this was a mistaken decision about Dr Gonzi said the Opposition would The enactment of a Whistleblower Act which the Opposition had not been consulted continue to respect the Chair because Dr and a law to oversee party funding would be and something which sowed division. Farrugia was not to blame for what was priorities. With regard to civil liberties, the Dr Gonzi said this country needed unity, happening. government said a bill to allow marriage for not division in such important times. He said Replying, Prime Minister Joseph Muscat people who changed their gender would be the Opposition was reiterating that it would be said the message sent by the people on March moved shortly. The government would also constructive and it would cooperate with the 9 had not been heard by the Opposition. He move legislation on cohabitation and civil government for job creation, sound finances had expected disagreement, but he had unions between people of the same gender. and better quality of life for the people. expected a more positive start to the Concluding his speech, Dr Abela said The Opposition's actions in parliament legislature. The Opposition had spoken like that this was a government that was would be based on what it believed to be in the end of the world was near. committed to writing a new page in Malta's the interests of the country. He said the The government remained ready to work political history. It would extend a hand of Opposition had collaborated with the with the Opposition. Labour was elected on friendship to everyone and it would remain government over the past days such as in the slogan 'Malta Tagħna Lkoll' ('Malta committed to the promises it made before the changes of protocol on Freedom Day and the belongs to all of us') and he hoped the election.  parliamentary programme. It had agreed to Opposition would let its members join nominate a deputy speaker after the then government institutions so that they could opposition refused in the past three years. work in the national interests.

Page 9 March-April 2013 • N o . 1 1 8 • MCCV News Resignation request made to Inquiry into Migration CMLA members withdrawn and Multiculturalism in Australia In an interview on the Maltese program on SBS Radio broadcast on Thursday 28 March 2013 new On Monday, 18 March 2013, the Joint Foreign Minister, Dr George Vella Standing Committee on Migration of (right), confirmed that there was a the Parliament of the Commonwealth of misunderstanding when the request Australia tabled its report on the inquiry into for resignation was made last week Multiculturalism in Australia to members of the Council for entitled Inquiry into Migration and Maltese Living Abroad (CMLA). Multiculturalism in Australia. Dr Vella said that they were Chapter 2 of the Report provides a brief appointed according to law for history of the migration to Australia, three years and their appointment resulting in the cultural diversity that was not a political one. The currently exists. Australia is now "one of the members were selected from world's top three culturally diverse nations. Maltese communities around the When Australians with one or both parents world and they were also made by the former organised for the start of the new millennium. born overseas are included nearly 45 per government with the consensus of the then Dr Vella said that conferences took place in cent of the population has a close overseas Labour opposition. 2000 and 2010, and as most of what was agreed connection." It also states that "Today, over CMLA members were formally advised on at the 2000 convention was not acted upon 260 languages are spoken in Australia, by Friday 19 April 2013 that the request for the during the period between the two conventions, people of 270 different ancestries". submission of resignations has been withdrawn. lately there has been a push for things to In 1978, the Galbally Report was published, which was the first national Last month the Government had requested happen. There has been a very strong consensus policy on multiculturalism in Australia. The the members of the Council for Maltese Living between the former government and the then key principles of this report emphasized the Abroad to submit their resignation. The opposition, which led to the passing of the legislation setting up the Council for Maltese right to equal opportunity, the right to retain Secretary of the Council, Ms Doris Zammit, had one's culture, and the right for migrants to informed the members by email that this request Living Abroad with unanimous support in parliament. expect special services to be provided in the was being made pursuant to the issuing of a first instance. Minister Vella said that the functions of the circular requiring members of all boards to Re citizenship, "Australia now has one of resign without affecting the boards' continued Council are many. While the way the Council was designed cannot be said to be the most ideal the highest take up rates of citizenship operation, until the relevant Minister makes a among Organisation for Economic Co- because to find a way that ensures proportional decision on their composition. This was in line operation and Development (OECD) representation of all Maltese abroad is difficult, with usual practice of reviewing political countries, with nearly 80 per cent of the appointments when there is a change of the Maltese in Australia are well represented on Australian population being citizens". the Council in terms of both numbers and the government. The migration program includes persons people representing them. However, Minister Vella clarified that from all over the world. The top countries someone, probably by oversight, requested the Minister Vella said that there will be no from which migrants have come to Australia resignation of the Council members. He said changes as far as the Council for Maltese Living over the past year were India (29,018), that the Office of the Prime Minister has sought Abroad is concerned. He has just had a briefing China (25,509), UK (25,274) and the advice of the Attorney General's Office, on by the Council's Secretary on the Council's Philippines (12,933). the basis of that advice he has recommended work so far. He said that several proposals and A new multicultural policy, The People of that the request for resignations be withdrawn suggestions have been made, giving a sense that Australia, was launched in February 2011 so that the members will continue to serve on there is life in the Council. Dr Vella said that by the then Minister for Immigration and the Council for their 3-year term of this Council is here to stay and has its own Citizenship, the Hon Chris Bowen, based on appointment. importance. Certain things can be improved and four principles: he expects that Council members will react by Asked whether the Labour government has  It celebrates and values the benefits of different priorities as far as the Maltese living providing their feedback and suggestions. cultural diversity abroad are concerned, Minister Vella said that, Dr Vella referred to the issue of establishing a  It gives a commitment to a just, when he had his first meeting with the Maltese Cultural Institute, which will have a inclusive and socially cohesive society presence around the world. There are several ambassadors to give them a briefing on how the It welcomes the economic, trade and ideas coming in about this Institute and we need  government intends to proceed in foreign investment benefits which arise from the affairs, he stressed that there will be continuity to find a way on how it would work and be resulting multicultural nation funded. with the foreign policy of the previous  It promotes understanding and government. He said that the Labour Minister Vella said that the objective is to acceptance, while rejecting intolerance government wants to build on what had been send a message to the Maltese diaspora around and discrimination. done by the previous government, bearing in the world that they are still "Maltese like us" Among key initiatives announced are the mind that most of this had been done with and have a close affinity of their country of establishment of a new Australian consensus with the Labour opposition, now in origin. The Maltese living in Malta are Multicultural Council (AMC), to overseas government. constantly thinking of them and want them to be and monitor policy implementation; the As regards the Maltese living abroad, the involved when the government makes several strengthening of the Government's Access Minister said that he is proud that he had been decisions that may directly or indirectly affect and Equity Strategy; the establishment of a instrumental early in the piece, as can be them. This is the idea behind the establishment new National Anti-Racism Partnerships and witnessed by Mr Victor Borg, when the of the Council. He said that he will be doing his Strategy between key Government Minister had suggested to him in the late 90s best to meet the expectations that were set when agencies; and prioritisation of Multicultural Arts and Festivals grants funding.  that a conference on a large scale should be the Council was established. 

Page 10 M C C V N e w s • No. 118 • March - A p r i l 2 0 1 3 Tnedija ta’ ktejjeb fuq il-ħajja ta’ Dr Joe Abela

Minn Paul Vella Nhar il-Ħadd, 24 ta’ Marzu 2013, il-Grupp Letteratura Maltija tal-Victoria, organizza t- tnedija ta’ ktejjeb fuq il-ħajja ta’ Dr Joe Abela, kitba tas-Sur Joe Axiaq. Dan inżamm fis-sala taċ-Ċentru Malti ta’ Parkville. Kien programm sabiħ ħafna imżewwaq b’tifkiriet minn dawk li kienu jafuh, poeżiji tiegħu, li ħafna minnhom instema’ jaqrahom hu Joe Axiaq, l-awtur tal-ktejjeb Prof. Maurice Cauchi stess u affarijiet oħra. Wara li Paul Vella semma’ lil dawk preżenti Is-Segretarja tal-Grupp, is-Sinjura Rosemary jittama li aktar ’il quddiem forsi jkun hemm poeżija ta’ Dr Abela mill-vuċi tiegħu stess, Attard, li mexxiet il-programm, tat merħba lil pubblikazzjoni oħra aktar dettaljata. Huwa talab “X’qed tagħmel bħalissa”, kien imiss lis-Sur dawk kollha li kienu preżenti u qalet fi x’kien se jekk hemm xi ħadd li kien midħla ta’ Dr Abela, Manuel Casha li tkellem fuq l-esperjenza tiegħu jikkonsisti l-programm. Għall-ewwel hija u forsi għandhom xi dokumenti li forsi ħadd ma ma’ Dr Joe Abela. Huwa beda biex qal li waqt li għamlet apoloġija mill-President, Dr Victor sema’ bihom, jgħadduhomlu biex ikun jista’ Dr Abela kien qiegħed jipprepara wieħed mill- Sammut, li ma setax jattendi minħabba li kellu xi jinkludihom fil-ktieb u wara jerġa’ ewwel programmi bil-Malti fuq 3EA fl-1975, attivita` tal-familja u wara ntroduċiet lis-Sur Joe jagħtihomlhom. Manuel kien urieh poeżija li kien għadu kemm Axiaq, l-awtur tal-ktieb, li kien l-ewwel kelliemi. Wara tkellmet is-Sinjura Marie Louise kiteb u Dr Abela qallu biex jagħmilha fuq il- Is-Sur Axiaq tkellem fuq Dr Joe Abela u l- Anastasi, Viċi-President tal-Grupp, fejn tkellmet programm u jaqraha Dr Abela stess imma talab ħajja u l-karriera tiegħu. Is-Sur Axiaq beda biex fuq is-snin 70, meta ġie ffurmat il-Grupp lil Manuel biex jagħmillu ftit kordi tal-kitarra fl- qal li fil-15 ta’ Marzu, Dr Abela għalaq 22 sena għalkemm qabel ma ġie magħruf formalment. isfont. Din il-poeżija, “Il-Mewġ” ġiet mejjet. Huwa qal li madwar sena u nofs ilu beda Tkellmet fuq meta semgħet għall-ewwel darba l- ippreżentata wkoll waqt id-diskors ta’ Manuel jikteb artiklu fuq Dr Abela li għall-ewwel ħaseb vuċi ta’ Dr Abela, li kien l-ewwel xandar ta’ Casha, li kienet mill-vuċi tal-istess Dr Abela. li se tkun kitba qasira u mhux se tkun daqshekk programmi Maltin fuq ir-radju komunitarju 3ZZ. Manuel qal li wara dan l-esperiment ġie mitlub dettaljata. Kien Prof. Maurice Cauchi li tkellem Tiftakar sewwa meta kienet qed iddawwar id- minnu biex jirrekordjaw aktar poeżiji ta’ Dr ma’ Joe Axiaq u qallu li tkun ħaġa tajba jekk dak dial tar-radju biex issib il-programm tas-soltu u Abela bil-mużika ta’ Manuel Casha fl-isfont. li kiteb jinġabar fi ktejjeb għaliex b’hekk dak li ssaħħret x’ħin semgħet lil Dr Abela jgħid bil- Wara li Manuel spiċċa d-diskors tiegħu, smajna kiteb żgur li jibqa’ miżmum. Prof. Cauchi ħa Malti: “Dan hu Guze` Abela jistidinkom għal żewġ poeżiji oħra mill-vuċi ta’ Dr Abela: ħsieb li jirranġah għall-pubblikazzjoni filwaqt li xandira bil-Malti”. Hija qalet li kienet għamlet “Mumenti” u “Lill-Gamiema” l-Grupp Letteratura Maltija ħa ħsieb l-ispejjeż kuntatt miegħu u offriet is-servizzi tagħha. Għal aktar tagħrif dwar dan il-ktejjeb, biex ġie stampat. Is-Sur Axiaq qal li huwa għadu Marie Louise spiċċat billi qrat poeżija ta’ Dr ċemplu lis-Segretarja tal-Grupp Letteratura sejjer biex jikteb fuq Dr Abela b’aktar dettal u Abela, “Lix-Xemx Nieżla”. Maltija, Rosemary Attard (03) 9338-3920. . Reskeon Maltese Association member activities By Paul Vella Trip to Mornington Beach Reskeon Seniors BBQ On Sunday, 24th February, a group of 40 Reskeon Seniors Group organised a members and friends of Reskeon Maltese barbecue for all members on Thursday, 21st Association enjoyed a trip to Mornington March, at the park of Edwardes Lake, Beach. Reservoir. This was attended by about 100 The coach left the car park of St. Joseph members. the Worker Church, in North Reservoir and We were always lucky on our last events headed for Mornington, travelling through the when we had good weather on the day. On new freeways. The trip took just over one and this All week had good warm days but for a quarter hours. Above: Mornington bus trip. Thursday the forecast was rain, strong wind On arrival, Coach Captain, Terry, Below: Seniors’ BBQ. and thunderstorms. Although few members organised free tea and coffee and biscuits for were worried about this, almost all of them the members. As always, members brought a turned up. lot of goodies with them to share around. Members of the committee were at the After this, members went for a walk down park at around 9.30 am to prepare a few to the beach. Being a nice warm 32 degree day, things and as the weather looked promising in some even had a swim in the lovely sandy the morning, cooking started at around 10.45 beach. However, though the weather forecast am. we had a lot of members helping on the included storms in the afternoon, the storms barbecues and cooking was done in a very never happened. short time. For lunch, members went to different pubs By 12 noon all members arrived and food or eateries along the main strip of shops. After started to be served. Members were served more walks to the beach or to the shops, with two sausages and a steak, salads and members boarded the coach around 3.30 pm bread. Red and white wine and soft drinks arriving home at 5 pm. were served with the meal and everyone was All members enjoyed this day out. We invited to help themselves. Seconds were would like to thank Coach Captain, Terry, for offered after all members were served with the way he looked after us.  their meals. Later on dessert was served consisting fresh fruit. 

Page 11 March-April 2013 • N o . 1 1 8 • MCCV News

For up-to-date and more detailed information, click event link below Community Events Calendar or visit our website at www.mccv.org.au

Date Title Venue Suburb

Sat 27 Apr Celebration of Maltese heritage in the City of Rockbank Community Rockbank 12.30 pm - 4.00 pm Melton Hall

Sun 28 Apr Mother's Day Dinner - Newport Maltese Melrose Receptions Tullamarine Seniors Group

Sun 28 Apr Mother's Day Lunch - San Gejtanu Society St Martin de Porres Avondale Heights 12.00 pm Inc. Church

Wed 01 May MCCV Council Meeting Maltese Centre Parkville 7.00 pm

Sat 04 May Feast of the Cross/Mothers Day function - St Melrose Receptions Tullamarine 6.00 pm - 12.00 am Helena Maltese Australian Social Club Inc.

Sun 05 May Feast of St George Preca 2013 - Pilgrimage St Patrick's Cathedral East Melbourne 12.30 pm to Monument - Society of Christian Doctrine (MUSEUM)

Wed 08 May Mother's Day Dinner - Maltese Language Galli Estate Restaurant Plumpton 6.30 pm Teachers Association Fund Raiser Event

Wed 08 May Feast of St George Preca 2013 - Maurice Society of Christian Sunshine North 7.30 pm Mifsud Memorial Mission (MUSEUM) Doctrine - Preca Centre

Sat 11 May Feast of St George Preca 2013 - Eucharist Society of Christian Sunshine North 10.00 am - 3.00 pm Adoration (MUSEUM) Doctrine - Preca Centre

Sat 11 May Mother's Day Eve Dance - Our Lady of St Mary MacKillop Church Keilor Downs 6.30 pm - 11.30 pm Grace Assn Vic.

Sun 12 May Feast of St George Preca 2013 - Mass St Paul's Chapel Parkville 6.00 pm (MUSEUM)

Sun 19 May Members Meeting - San Gejtanu Society Inc. St Martin de Porres Avondale Heights 2.30 pm Church

Sun 26 May Get Together - Reskeon Maltese Association Maltese Centre Parkville 2.00 pm

Wed 29 May MCCV Executive Committee Meeting Maltese Centre Parkville

Thu 30 May Your Brain Matters: A Guide to Healthy MCCV Sunshine Office Sunshine 10.30 am - 11.30 am Hearts & Minds

Wed 05 Jun MCCV Council Meeting Maltese Centre Parkville 7.00 pm

Sat 08 Jun Activity Fun Night - Newport Maltese Maltese Centre Parkville Seniors Group

Sun 09 Jun Pokie Trip to NSW - San Gejtanu Society nc. - -

Fri 14 Jun - Fri 28 Exhibition Celebrating Maltese Culture - Louis Joel Arts & Altona Jun Hobsons Bay City Council Community Centre

Tue 18 Jun Your Brain Matters: A Guide to Healthy Maltese Centre Parkville 10.30 am - 11.30 am Hearts & Minds

Mon 24 Jun Fair Go For Pensioners Coalition - Annual AMWU Carlton South 10.00 am - 12.00 pm Affiliates Meeting

Wed 26 Jun MCCV Executive Committee Meeting Maltese Centre Parkville

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