Tree of Life Issue 5

Assyrian Aid Society - Australia

Issue 5, 2010 TT RR EE EE

OO Cycling event Melbourne - Sydney May 2009 Full story on page 15

FF 10th Year Anniversary Celebration

LL II FF EE

Help Us To Help Them www.assyrianaidsociety.org

Our Mission

To use all possible legal means to generate and acquire funds in terms of cash and assets to be used for The Tree Of Life the benefit of Assyrians in Bet-Nahrain. These contributions will ensure and sustain their self-sufficiency through creation and devel- opment of businesses, edu- cational institutions, health, THE ASSYRIAN AID SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA agricultural industries and social infrastructure. Assyrian Aid society committee members 2009-2010 Inside this issue:

President Column 3

Financial Reports 4

Activity Repot 6 Assyrian Aid Society - Iraq

Completed projects in 13 June Jako Shoushan Tower Nora Michael George Adam Sarhad Hanna Iraq to date and list of (President) (Treasurer) (Secretary) Hozaya cash donators Monthly Direct Debit 14 contributors & money boxes donations

Melbourne -Sydney Cy- 15 cling Fundraising Event

10th Year Anniversary 17 Celebration Elbrah Chawshin Edmond Kelaita Issa Kelaita Albert Shlemon Amir Lazar

Assyrian Sports & 19 AAS— AU Volunteers: Romeo Hanna, Janet Kenna, Mary Chawshin, Addad Rafeale, Annabelle Cultural Club Chawshin, David Chibo, Sirwan Gorgis, Mukhlis Khamo , Ashur Yako

Mr. Yonadam Yousep 20 Welcome to our fifth annual edition of Tree of Life. We would like to extend our gratitude to all Kanna the contributors who donate funds to the Society on monthly basis and to all individuals and As- syrian organisations for their donations. We also sincerely thank Assyrian businesses listed in this edition for their contribution supporting Tree of Life Assyrian Radio Programs 22 CORRESPONDENCE

Frequently Asked 23 PO Box W144, Questions Fairfield west, NSW 2165 Office address; Fairfield Community Centre Assyrian Business 24 3/25 Barbara Street, Fairfield Directory PHONE: (02) 8764 0819 FAX: (02) 8764 0819

Fairfield High School - 27 E-MAIL: [email protected] Letter from Principal WEBSITE: www.assyrianaidsociety.org

Direct Debit Request 29 Assyrian Aid Society – Australia encourages readers of Tree of Life to participate by forwarding Form any feedback. We would like to further encourage all Assyrian businesses to contribute in supporting the Annual Tree of Life publication. Assyrian Businesses - 31 Advertisements Page 3

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

By Mrs. June Jako

This is the fifth issue of the Tree Of We are aiming to raise the level of awareness of the As- Life, and it gives me great pleasure to syrian community living in Australia, of the needs of their greet and thank all the contributors, brothers and sisters in the homeland and to take a part in supporters and friends of the Assyrian providing them with support and assistance so they can Aid Society for their magnificent and stay in the homeland and not flee their forefathers land. crucial support. We hope for this ongoing network of support and contri- Without this support and assistance butions to grow so that we can continue to assist our glori- the Assyrian Aid Society would not ous people in our homeland. have been able to continue its essential and valuable work to provide I am proud and honoured to be part of AAS-Au and to financial aid and other forms of sup- work in such a great organization, hand in hand with a port to our people in their homeland wonderful team. and the land of our ancestors Beth- Nahrain.

Prevailing situations and causes be- yond control highlighted the need to raise all possible assistance for our Assyrian people in our beloved land Beth-Nahrain; hence the consequent establishment of the Assyrian Aid Society in Iraq and other parts of the world including here in Australia.

The Assyrian Aid Society (AAS) has gallantly and enthusiastically stepped forward to cover for the essential daily life needs of the Assyrians in Iraq, providing for infrastructure such as housing, irrigation canals and schooling. Mrs. June Jako pictured third from the Left at a Fundraising event held The Assyrian Aid Society additionally at Assyrian & Sports Cultural Club May 2009 provides pharmaceutical and medical supplies for pharmacies in the majori- ty of Assyrian towns villages as well as supplying essential household goods to all our people in need.

The Assyrian Aid society also helped in establishing training and rehabilita- tion centres for youth to impact on them relevant life skills.

The Assyrian Aid Society is seeking to become an international organization and to become accepted as a United Nation Consultative.

Assyrian New Year Festival (Kha bet Nissan) held at the Assyrian Sports & Cultural Club pictured to the right Mrs. June Jako with Miss Elbra Chawshin. Page 4

FINANCIAL SECTION

nesses and institutions. A special Mosul funds appeal generated Direct Debit Scheme $2,470 from Assyrian individuals including $500 received from St The AAS of Australia has implemented many methods of rais- Gewarges Charitable Association. ing funds in order to improve the lives of Assyrians living in our homeland. These methods have been in many ways suc- Additionally money boxes collected from Assyrian individuals cessful but the most consistent and secure method to date has and owners of businesses for the financial year end 2009 to- been the direct debit scheme, adopted by the AAS of Australia talled $4,178 including money box collections from the follow- in March 2000. ing businesses; A&A Continental Foods, Shayna Café & Mesopotamia's Groceries. The benefits to the contributor are numerous: In July 2008, a function was held by Zowaa Corporation in hon-  Convenient and time-efficient, as the contributor nomi- our of Romel Esho & George Hasado at the Assyrian Sports and nates a bank account and specifies an amount that is au- Cultural Club in Fairfield Heights. At the function, and as special tomatically debited every month; guests, the Assyrian Aid Society committee members had been giv- en the opportunity to raise funds from the individuals at the party  Contributor has the ability at any time to request an in- with great success. crease/decrease/cessation of the direct debit;  No fees are charged to the contributor’s bank account; In October 2008, approximately 770 Assyrian families were fleeing Mosul to safer regions as a result of terrorist attacks. Assyrian Aid  The AAS provides the contributor with an annual state- Society – Iraq had the task of providing food, shelter and clothing ment of the amounts donated by the contributor; and to those displaced families. A Special Mosul Appeal was held by AAS-Au, with the help of the Assyrian media, and AAS-Au received $2,470 in donations from Assyrian individuals and organisations  AAS provides updates to the contributor on complete

AAS - Iraq projects. In April 2009, the Kha Bet Nissan festival was held at Fairfield City

show ground in Sydney, organized by the Assyrian Australian In order for the AAS to collect direct debit funds, the contrib- National Federation. AAS-Au took part in the event which ena- utor follows certain simple steps: bled us to sell various products such as Assyrian books plaques,

CD’s, posters with frames and jewellery. Additionally AAS-Au re- complete a one-off direct debit form; ceived cash donations from the Assyrian community at the Kha Bet  Ensure sufficient funds are available for the monthly direct Nissan festival. debits; and In May 2009, AAS-Au took part in the Kha Bet Nissan festival held  Notify the AAS of Australia immediately of any changes to at the Assyrians Sports and Cultural Club in Fairfield Heights and bank details. organised by Assyrian Sports & Cultural Club Ltd. ------

In May 2009, AAS-Au held a special cycling event place from Mel- The present total numbers of direct debit contributors, at bourne to Sydney held by Assyrian Aid society committee member year ending 30th June 2009 for AAS-Au is as follows (please Youash Tower joined by his brother Joseph Tower. The Ride note: numbers are variable from month to month): took 9 days in total. A welcoming party was held at the Assyrian

Sports and Cultural Club. The cycling event raised $26,326 in to- Total 116 tal; this includes sponsorships, donations and sales of raffle tickets. The present total funds received on a monthly basis at year AAS-Au would like to give special thanks to its major sponsor for ending 30th June 2009 for AAS-AU is as follows (please note: the event the Assyrian Sports & Cultural Club for their enor- amounts are variable from month to month): mous donation of $3,000 and for their unlimited support throughout the entire event. Total (monthly) $2145.00 Projects completed in 2008 – 2009 AAS-Au Fund raising for year ended June 2009

 October 2008: AAS-Au was able to send an amount of Fund Raising Methods Au$14,534.89 to AAS-Iraq for the Mosul appeal, assisting . The July 2008 - June 2009 reporting on the graph displayed families fleeing from Mosul to safer regions. below shows the various methods of fund raising by AAS-Au. One of the primary methods includes monthly direct debit  February 2009: AAS-Au was able to send an amount of which has been taking place on a continuous basis year after Au$10,000 to AAS-Iraq to assist with part of the Educa- year, collecting funds from Assyrian individuals & businesses tion expenses for the academic year from 2008-2009. via electronic banking. The graph also shows that AAS-Au received substantial  May 2009: AAS-Au was able to send an amount of amounts in donations. These donations were received from Au$30,000 to assist with part of the Education and Dormi- Assyrian and non Assyrian individuals and from Assyrian busi- tory expenses Page 5

Financial Reporting ASSYRIAN AID SOCIETY - AUSTRALIA FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR THE PERIOD ENDED All funds raised and received by AAS-Au, including funds al- located to projects in our homeland as well as expenses in- 30TH JUNE 2009

curred during each financial year, are audited by a certified 2009

TOTAL accountant in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. At each annual general meeting, financial performance and INCOME $ financial position statements for the financial calendar year are presented to the Assyrian community. Sales - Books 240 Committee Membership 260 The total funds raised by the AAS-Australia since its Tree of Life April 2009- Sponsorships 636 inception in 1999 and until 30 June 2009 is as follows: Tree of Life April 2009- Sales 25 Products- CD's, Assyrian posters, Wallets 1,185

Money Box's 4,178

Monthly Other Income 126 Donations - Direct debits $ 167,992.00 Cash 3,533 Cash/cheque $ 84,849.95 Special - Mosul Appeal 2,470 Direct Debit 25,275 Activities $ 125,843.28 Activities 1,362 Melb-Syd Cycling 26,326 Total collected $ 378,685.23 Interest Received 38

TOTAL INCOME 65,654 If you have any queries or concerns regarding the details of this financial report please don’t hesitate to contact the AAS - Au Treasurer, Shoushan Tower. Her details are located in EXPENSES

the Committee members section of this issue. Auditors Fees 1,000 Bank Charges 745 : Purchase - Money Box's 225 July 2008 - June 2009 Cycling event 3,556

Internet 315 Direct Debit conributors 25,275.00 Insurance Public Liability 1,076 Postage 414 Cash/Cheque donations 6,003.00 Printing & Stationary 2,283 Project - Mosul Appeal 14,535 Activities Project - Education & Dormitory 10,000

Project - Education & Dormitory 30,000 Donation Money Boxes 4,178.00 Purchase - Others 1,509 Sundry 72 Sales TOTAL EXPENSES 65,728 (CD's,Plaques,Books) 1,551.00

NET OPERATING SURPLUS(DEFICIT) -74 Tree of Life April'09 661.00

Melb-Syd Cycling 26,326.00 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 30TH JUNE 2009 Other Activities 1,362.00 34,078.00 CURRENT ASSETS

Total Collected $65,356.00 Cash at Bank 6988 GST Receivable 811 July 2008 - June 2009 TOTAL ASSETS 7,799

40000 CURRENT LIABILITIES 35000 30000 TOTAL LIABILITIES 25000 NET ASSESTS 7,799 Dollars 20000

15000 ACCUMULATED FUNDS 10000

Retained Surplus Opening Balance 7873 5000 Retained Surplus(Deficit) Current Year -74 0 Direct Debit Cash/Cheque Activities contributors donations TOTAL ACCUMULATED FUNDS $ 7,799

Page 6

سيعتا د عوذرانا اتوريتا اللجنـــة الخيريــة اآلشــورية ــ العـراق

ASSYRIAN AID SOCIETY – IRAQ

AAS-I Activities Report 2009

Introduction:

As it is known, founding of the Assyrian Aid Society in Iraq in 1991 was a result of the tragic con- ditions that our people gone through, and because of the economic embargo imposed on Iraq in general and the blockade imposed by the former regime on the northern region in particular, the bad economic situation, unemployment and poverty. As a result of these and other reasons, the idea of establishing the Assyrian Aid Society was necessary as a supportive society to our people, especially in the northern region of the country.

It is worth mentioning that the role of the Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq increased more and more in supporting our people after the fall of Saddam region in 2003, and as determined result for other needs due to the security and economic circumstances that Iraq is going through, in addition to the expansion of the geographical patch to include most of the governorates that our people are centralize: Nineveh Plain, Baghdad and Kir- kuk.

Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq Departments:

1. Aids and Humanitarian Affairs 2. Health (Medical and Therapeutic Aids) 3. Assyrian Education and Dormitories 4. Construction 5. Administration and Financial

First: Aids and Humanitarian Affairs Dept.:

In 2009, Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq implemented the following relief programs:

AASI implemented the following relief programs in 2009:

 A relief program for (239) families in Baghdad for distributing financial aids for the families who returned back to their houses, in addition to helping the injured and some patients, by the support of Assyrian Aid Society of Sweden, for the period Jan. 20th, 2009

 A relief program for (500) families in Duhok City Center, Nineveh Plain and Sulaymani- ya, by the support of the Assyrian Universal Alliance (AUA) from the period Mar.4th till Mar. 14th, 2009 Page 7

AAS-I Activities Report

 A relief program for (2000) families in Nineveh Plain in: Qaraqosh, Karemles, Bartella, Ba'asheqa, Telkeif, Batnaye, Tellisquf, Shekhan, Alqosh, Sharafiya and Mosul Dam by the support of SALT Foundation Inc\ Holland, from the period Mar. 18th till Mar.26th ,2009  A relief program for (85) families in Duhok Governorate: in Sarsing, Sardarav and Ba- darish villages by the support of Sister Hatune Foundation, for the period Jul. 1st, 2009,

 A relief program for (225) families in Nineveh Plain (Khazna village) funded by Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq, for the period Aug. 14th, 2009.

 A relief program for (370) families, (270) families in Barwari Bala villages and (100) families in Duhok Governorate, by the support of SALT Foundation Inc\ Holland, for the period Sep.6th, 2009

 A relief program for (24) damaged families due to the explosions of Al-Tahira Church in Ni- neveh Governorate, Hay Al-Shifa', funded by Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq, for the period Dec. 20th, 2009

It's worth mentioning that our society will continue implementing these programs for 2010 to help needy families and refugee.

As above mentioned those programs were implemented by Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq by the financing and supporting of:

 Assyrian Aid Society of America  Assyrian Aid Society of Sweden  Assyrian Universal Alliance (AUA)  SALT Foundation Inc., Holland  Sister Hatune Foundation

Aids:

Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq was able to help many people as:

 Offering financial aids for (68) cases and buying medicines for them.  Sending some patients outside the Homeland for treatment, by the support of Assyrian Aid Society of America and the Assyrian Medical Society.  Helping about (300) needy families.  Distributing financial aids for (37) families in different areas in Baghdad and Ni- neveh Plain, by the support of Sister Hatune Foundation.  Distributing (200) agricultural instruments for the farmers in different villages in Duhok governorate.  Buying chairs and tables for the church of Babilo village in Duhok governorate.  Buying chairs and tables for the church of Bebad village in Duhok governorate.  Buying plants for Mar Narsai Church in Duhok. Page 8

 Buying gifts for the children of the Assyrian Language session held in Baz village.  Supporting the inhabitants of Mar Yaqo and Shiyoz villages by buying them drinking water.  Supporting Shiyoz Kindergarten.  Supporting an orphanage in Baghdad.

Supporting the Civil Society Organizations:

Assyrian Women Union:

Assyrian Women Union in Dohuk - Iraq

Supporting the Assyrian Women Union in Duhok, Erbil and Nineveh Plain as follows:

 Continue supporting the Day Care Centres in Erbil and Duhok.  Supporting the Assyrian Women Union in Duhok for holding a nursing session (for first aids) in Bakhitme and Deralok villages and Erbil Governorate.  Supporting the Assyrian women Union in distributing Christmas gifts for the children in Duhok Governorate and surrounded villages.

Chaldoassyrian Youths and Students Union:

Supporting the Chaldoassyrian Youths and Students Union in Duhok, Erbil and Nineveh Plain as follows:

 Contributing in buying heating fuel for the Union's headquarter in Barwari Bala Area.  Contributing in furnishing, repairing and rehabilitating the Union's headquarter in Duhok.  Furnishing Sharafiya Youth and Students Union in Nineveh Plain.  Holding the Third Narsai David Football Championship for the students of the AASI Dormi- tories, with the participation of (22) Teams. This Championship was held for Kha B'Nisan festivals.  Holding Martyr Samir football Championship in Deralok village in Aug.  Supporting the Union to hold their scout camp for the students in Sapna Area.  Supporting the Union to hold their convention in Nineveh Plain.  Buying furniture for the Union's headquarter in Enishke village.  Supporting the Union's headquarter in Zakho area.

Other Societies:

Supporting the Cultural, Social and Athletic centers as follows: Supporting Alqosh Cultural Society in holding its cultural activities.

Page 9

Second: Medical and Therapeutic Aids:

Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq Pharmacies continue to offer their medical services to the people living in Nineveh Plain and Sarsing, at very low prices, and sometimes free of charge especially to needy people. These pharmacies are located in:

Sarsing Alqush Tellisquf Batnaye Karemles

Third: Assyrian Education Dept.:

Assyrian Primary Schools in Duhok, Erbil, Pharmacy at Tellisquf Nineveh Plain and Kirkuk :

 Paying transportation expenses of the lecturers who give lectures outside their living areas in the schools which are outside Duhok Governorate.  Supplying the schools of some of their needs (buying computers, printers and copy machines) and giving petty expenses to the administrations of the schools according to our capabilities.  Paying salaries for (4) cleaners in the primary schools for the academic year 2008-2009  Paying all the transportation expenses for three months and a half for the academic year 2008-2009  Paying lectures fees for the lecturers of the primary schools in Baghdeda and Bartella.  Paying the salary for the lady who is supervising the transportation process in Baghdeda.  Paying transportation expenses for the teachers in Duhok Governorate and surrounded areas.  Honoring all the superior pupils in all the Assyrian Primary Schools  Paying monthly bonus to the storekeeper of the Assyrian books in Erbil.  AASI bears the expenses of transporting the Assyrian Education curriculums and distributing them to the Assyrian Schools.  AASI bears the expenses of typesetting the Assyrian Education curriculums which are changed by the Ministry of Education.  AASI bears the expenses of copying the Assyrian Education curriculums till Ministry of Education bears this process.  Paying salaries of the teachers who give lectures in the Assyrian schools and who are not officially employed by the government.  Supporting Jam Rabatke School in Nahla Area in rehabilitating its building.  Buying a mini bus for transporting the students of Bakhitme village to Bahra School in semel village and the students of Shameil high school in Sheyoz. Page 10

 Buying a coaster for transporting the students of Nohadra and Shorash primary schools.

Assyrian High Schools in Duhok, Erbil, Nineveh Plain and Kirkuk :

 Paying transportation expenses of the lecturers who give lectures outside their living areas in the schools which are outside Duhok Governorate.  Supplying the schools of some of their needs (buying computers, printers and copy machines) and giving petty expenses to the administrations of the schools according to our capabilities.  Paying salaries for (2) cleaners in the high schools for the academic year 2008-2009  Paying the transportation expenses for the students of the high schools till Ministry of Education pays them.  Paying all the transportation expenses for three months and a half for the academic year 2008-2009  Paying transportation expenses for the teachers of the high schools in Duhok Governorate and surrounded areas.  Honoring all the superior pupils in all the Assyrian High Schools  Paying lectures fees for the lecturers of the high schools.  AASI bears the expenses of transporting the Assyrian Educa- tion curriculums and distributing them to the Assyrian Schools.  AASI bears the expenses of typesetting the Assyrian Education curriculums which are changed by the Ministry of Education.  AASI bears the expenses of copying the Assyrian Education curriculums till Ministry of Education bears this process.  Paying salaries of the teachers who give lectures in the Assyrian schools and who are not officially employed by the government.  Supporting Hezanke High School in Nahla Area in rehabilitating its building.

Universities:

 Paying transportation expenses for the students of Languages college\ As- syrian Language Department in Baghdad  Paying the salaries of one of the Assyrian Language teacher in Languages College in Baghdad.

Dormitories:

 AASI covers the expenses of Housing and Feeding (110) students, most of them are Internally Displaced People (IDPs), especially from Nineveh Plain Page 11

including the Assyrian Education students. In addition to (5) teachers and (5) employers, for the academic year 2008-2009 (till the end of June)

 AASI covers the expenses of Housing (94) students, most of them are Inter- nally Displaced People (IDPs), especially from Nineveh Plain including the Assyrian Education students, for the academic year 2009-2010

 Undertaking the expenses of Medication, comforts and also giving financial aids to some needy according to their request.

FUNDING:

We depend in covering the teaching process costs mainly on AAS of Ameri- ca and AAS branches in Europe, Aus- tralia and New Zealand Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany. Assyrian National Council of Illinois in America

Fourth: Construction Dept.:

Buying water pump and pipes to Belmand village in NahlaArea. Repairing the Generator of Jam Rabatke Village in Nahla Area. Contributing in conduction electrical net for Bararish village to the houses. Contributing in conduction water pipes to Kinda Kosa village in Mangish Area Rehabilitating the Dormitories building by the support of the Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Germany. Other Activities:

 Distributing Sport clothes (1941 T-shirts, shorts and socks) and (122 T-shirts) which were donated from Assyrian Aid Society of America, Those clothes were distributed as follows: 1. All the Teams of the Chaldoassyrian Youths and Students Unions in Duhok, Erbil, Kir- kuk, Baghdad and Nineveh Plain. 2. Duhok Youths Center Team 3. Senharib Club Team 4. Peris Club Team 5. Athletic Activity Directorate Team\ Duhok 6. Kurdistan Bara-Olympic Society Team\Duhok 7. Mar Khnana Church Team 8. The Independent High Electoral Commission Team 9. Zakho District Team 10. Semel District Team 11. Mar Georges Church Team 12. Sapna Area Team 13. Nassibin High School Team 14. Assyrian Women Union Team 15. Dormitories Team 16. Nahla Area Team 17. Gilgamish Team in Syria

Page 12

By a special fund from the Assyria foundation in Holland, Mr. Matay Arsan, in coordination with the Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq, distributing Christmas gifts to the children of Nineveh Plain as follows:

Bartella : 1500 gifts Bahzane: 700 gifts Karemles: 800 gifts Baghdeda: 2500 gifts Sanharib: 3500 gifts Finally Through this report, we, as Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq, would like to present our appreciation and thanks to all of our supporters (Assyrian Aid Societies worldwide, non-Assyrian Friends, Organizations and Churches), those who tried and are still trying to assist our Nation to stand and be powerful through its Edu- cation and Culture.

Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq income for 2009

Item Amount in $ From 1 119,363 Remaining from 2008 2 235,384 Assyrian Aid Society of America 3 62,200 Assyrian Aid Society of UK 4 45,028 Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany

5 28,746 Assyrian Aid Society of Australia

6 17,627 Assyrian Aid Society of New Zealand 7 211,686 SALT Foundation 8 18,767 ANCI

9 6,780 Sister Hatune Foundation

10 9,000 Evangelical Church in America 11 2,759 Assyrians Without Boarders from Sweden 12 11.133 Different

$768,483 Total Income

Assyrian Aid Society of Iraq outcome for 2008

Ite m Amount in $ Details 1 469,846 Assyrian Education 2 67,852 Dormitories 3 271,851 Aids and Relief 4 31,000 Civil society Organizations 5 15,572 Administration $856,121 Total Outcome $768,483 Total Income $87,638 Deficit for 2010 Page 13

Cash/cheque donation AAS received from individuals and organisations Successfully completed AAS projects in

Northern Iraq to date Individual Oshana Anton Organisations &

Dommara Aprim Institutions •Project Name Amount $ & Douglas •Roofing Bishmeye 11,342.67 Duriad Aziz St Mar Zaia Ancient •School bus 10,000.00 Alie Azzo Church of East Dore •Roofing 20,080.30 Hazim Bakos •School computers 9,643.77 Liai Benymi St Gewerges Charitable •School funding 8,000.00 Hirmiz Bityou Association •Emergency funds 25,000.00 Vivian Bouris •Funds to Iraq (teaching Cost) 14,877.90 Hugh Brodie Ron Kramer Association n •Telisqof Project replaced by 50,000.00 Robert Daniel Relief fund program Victoria Daniel Assyrian Sports and Cul- •Building Rooms 20,000.00 Hormiz Esho tural Club and Hall Mullabarwan & Sardwara Panna Gabriel •Relief fund program 13,095.00 Jacqueline Georges Zowaa Corporation •Building houses Dehe village 9,309.75 Remoe Hanna •Teaching Cost 19,875.45 Nabel Karem Assyrian Chaldean Syriac •Pharmacies Batnaye, Telisquf, 12,622.91 Edmond Kelaita Council of Australia Baghdeda, Bartela Mariam Kelaita •Teaching Cost 11,974.61 Notali Kelaita Travelworld Mount Druitt •Fleeing Refugees 10,000.00 Surma Kelaita •Education Expenses 10,000.00 Janet Kenna •Education & Dormitory Expenses 10,601.08 Mariam Khamis Sorya khamis •Relief Fund Mosul Appeal 14,534.89 Ramon Matti Assyrian Aid Society regrets •Education expense 10,000.00 Fraidon S Miraza spelling errors or omissions academic year (2008-2009) Angela Moushlouf •Education & Dormitory Expenses 30,000.00 & Francy Fawzi Odisho Total funded projects $320,958.33 Benyamin Oraham Raya Poulis Edward Rowell Immanuel Sada Y Shalalo Aoken Shamon Alan Sheeta Daniel Sobi Soro Soro Daniel Tower Andi Warda Sanhareeb Yawanes Wilson Younan Ashour Younerm Najeba Yousif

Refer page 14 for listing of individuals and organisations donating funds for money boxes.

Page 14

Direct Debit contributions July 2008 – February 2010

The individuals listed below donate via their nomi- Diyana Yakwo Youlia Younan nated bank account on monthly basis. This method Dr David Youkhnis Sergio Yuail of fund raising activity is the most efficient way in Walod Youkhanis Vivan Zaya collecting monies from individuals. & Jwan Alfred Younan Assyrian Aid Society distributes money boxes Sydney Zaia Mikhail Melinda Younan Fouad Adam Youram Younan to individuals & organizations within the As- Shlemon M.Minyanish syrian community as a fundraising activity. George Adam Fraidon Mirza Emmanuel Yousif Joseph Adam The names mentioned below are individuals Judith Mirza Remon Zaia and organizations that have contributed to Ninos Albazi Gygees Zarib Nichalos Al-Jeloo Marlin Nano AAS by way of donation filling the money Narsi Narsi James Zaya boxes with cash. Jenny Amir Sandralla Zia Oshana Antoon Nissan Nikho Money Boxes collected July Helen Anvia Bahram Nissan Sussan Zindo Sargon Ashak Lewis Nwia Evon Zomaya 2008 - February 2010 Anwar Atto Zaya Odicho Yaco E Khamees & Fawzi Audisho Ibrahem Odisho Evlen S OdisoZac Individuals Khushaba Auraha John Odisho Toma & Diyana Jack Beggins Organisations & Sam Barcham Klodia Odisho Yakwo & Philip Institutions. James S Barkho Khanna Barutha Marilyn Oshana Vivian Bouris Nada Pauls Melbourne Buck Buster Shayna Café Zaia Andrew Bazi David Chibo Stephan Benjamin Younan Petrus Nimrod Dawood Hirmiz Bityou Agnes Poles Doris Chibo Yul Dinkha Mesopotamia's Bubkey & Jason Khanna Chibo Zuhir Edesho Groceries Ellbra Chawshin Carlos Rafeale Lida B. Daniel Hellen Envia Jan Darmo George Sarkis Miriam Daniel Wilson Eshaya A&A Continental Kleames Dawod Hannibal Shabaz Steve Daniel & Anna Foods Nissan Dawood Mahir J Shabo Peter Elia Wilson Eshaya Noweya Dawood Zayya D Enwiya Pure Kebabs Casey Dinkha Rosa Shalalo B. Gabriel Samuel E.Shalalo Shamiran Givargis Youkhan George Loui Dinkha & Abraham Yul Dinkha Zuhair A Shamon Edmund Geoges Assyrian Sports & Berjineh Elia Elias Shamoon Joseph Gorges Romeo Hanna Cultural Club Edmund Georges Jacoub Shamuel Fahad Hanna Adsen Iesho Georges Georges Benyamin S. Shiba Sarhad Hanna Sankher Isaac Nohadra Kebab Warina Georges Samir Shiba George Jamaly Cindy Isaac Younan Ibrahem Ashur Shimon Samir S Kamber June Jako Adsen Iesho Shlimon Shlimon Sami Kamber Edmond Kelaita Aneeta Iesho Sargon Kamber Sankhero Isaac Himler Y Shlimun Sorya Khamis Armenouhi Stephan Shamoail Kamber Jason Kochou Jacklin Issavi Awia Khnanya June Jako Nadia Stephan Atour Merza Kamilia Khoshaba Warda Kanno Edward Talia John Mirza Amir Khoshaba Youshia Kanoon Silvana Tamar Agha Judy Mirza Nadal Kunda Edmond Kelaita Dawood S Toma Shamiran Mirza Elias Mansoor Diana Khezeqia Mona Toma Angel Mousholof Basim Markhay Jeena Khnania Tomy Toma & Farancy Salim Maroki Natalie Khokaz Zaya B Toma Helen Nozat Shiba Mushi Cynthia Kindo Younia RTomas Ramsen Oraham Baylet Odicho Sam Kindo James Tonias Edward Rowell Bushra Rasho Charles Kochou Susan Tower Immanuel Sada Isha S. Rehan Emmanuel Lazar Youash Tower Hannibal Shibaz Aras Sadik Robeka Lazari Youno ATower Zuhair Shimon Oraham Tilya Adib Matti Emmanuel Warda Edward Talia Vienna Toma Rimon Matti & Helen Youno Tower Alin Yaqo Assyrian Aid Society Levon Menashi Shmouel Warda Bob Varda SleimanYohanna regrets any spelling Ninos Menashi Adison Yaacub David Warda Edward Youkhana errors or omissions. Nora Michael John Yacco Esho Warda Page 15 Melbourne to Sydney In early May, 2009 The Assyrian Aid society undertook an extraordinary fundraising project coinciding with As- syrian New Year celebration for the year 6,759; and the Assyrian Aid Society’s 10th anniversary in Australia.

This fundraising project was a first for an Assyrian organisation in Australia: a At the outset there were three main objectives to this event, these cycling event that covered the distance were: from Melbourne to Sydney, our committee member Youash Tower accompanied by  To raise awareness of the Assyrian community to the work of AAS his brother Joseph Tower were the main -Au and to cement AAS-Au as the main fund raising organisation riders who cycled the entire distance over in Australia. nine days. They were then joined by Han- nibal Shabaz on the last day of the tour.  To raise $30,000 for this event in order to send emergency funds The team on the road consisted of the two to Iraq. brothers: Youash and Joseph, cycling and well looked after by June Jako, Elbrah Chawshin from the Committee.  To set the scene for a community based annual cycling events, the first of which to be in late 2010 this year. The rest of the Committee were or- ganising from both cities: Sydney and Mel- The Tour

bourne for the promotion and the special th events in start and finish. The tour began in Melbourne on May 9 2009 and arrived in Sydney, nine days later at the Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club, th This was an incredible event, as it Fairfield on Sunday 17 May 2009, where a rapturous welcoming attracted the interest of most Assyrian me- festival was held by the collaboration of the Assyrian Aid Society dia outlets in Sydney and Melbourne, the and the Assyrian Sport and Cultural Club for the riders and the advertising and media campaign ensured crew. maximum exposure for the organisation and its objectives. The entire Committee The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club has been a support- was committed to the success of this ing pillar to the Assyrian Aid Society since its establishment ten event; and just like bees, everyone one years ago. On this occasion this great Assyrian Club excelled: worked hard at their assigned tasks achiev- they doubled the donation requested by the Assyrian Aid Society, ing an outstanding result. they made available the club premises for various media interviews, provided the club premises for a fund raising function. and finally hosted the welcoming festival for the riders. This incredible level of support is dearly appreciated.

The route took the Hume Highway all the way from Mel- bourne to Sydney with minor detours along the way. The journey was very interesting as it went through many large and small towns showcasing much of Australia’s young history of a nation grappling with organised unions and legendary heroes like Ned Kelly. It took the crew through historic towns of Wodonga in Victo- ria and Gundagai in NSW, along with many small villages that have much character and charm. Page 16

Southern Highlands—Sydney was getting The cycling was broken up into approximately 100 closer. On the last day, another Assyrian kilometres per day, some days were longer than others, but rider along with a support vehicle, joined most days. The crew took off about 7.00am after a light them for the last day. breakfast and stopped a couple of times along the way for refreshment and energy giving food; arriving at an pre- The last day was truly remarkable. determined destination by lunch time. After lunch and a well As the riders left Mittagong and joined the deserved rest, the crew would explore the town or in some Freeway, they experienced their first flat tyre cases the farm. only to have two more flat tyres. Luckily the Map of the ride riders were well prepared with spare parts and even had spare bikes to ensure that

equipment failure would not be a reason for the ride not to finish.

As the riders approached the outer suburbs of Sydney, the finish line was be- Tour details: coming a reality. They kept riding in heavy traffic and as they approached the outskirts Day One: Saturday 9th May, of the Fairfield district, they noticed young start from Campbellfield Plaza, Melbourne Assyrians in car driving past and cheering Arrive at Seymour………………………….….. 92.2km them on. As they approached Fairfield Day Two: Sunday 10th May, leave from Seymour Heights and made their last turn to the As- Arrive at Benalla..………..………………..……. 103km syrian Sports and Cultural club, the sound Day Three: Monday 11th May, leave from Benalla and music and crowds cheering erupted. As Arrive Wodonga……………………...…...….….. 110km they looked up they saw the enormous Day Four: Tuesday 12th May, leave from Wodonga crowd almost smothering the finish line. The Arrive at Holbrook...………………………....….. 70.3km sound of Dowla & Zorna almost drowned out Day Five: Wednesday 13th May, leave From Holbrook the excited cheers of the welcoming crowd. Arrive at Gundagai………………………………. 117km The riders and the crew were absolutely de- Day Six: Thursday 14th May, leave from Gundagai lighted. It seemed all the pain, the difficulty Arrive at Yass……………………………...…….. 101km and the danger of this amazing tour melted Day Seven: Friday 15th May, leave from Yass away in a sea of excitement and jubilation. Arrive at Goulburn…………………..………….. 82.7km Day Eight: Saturday 16th May, leave from Goulburn Arrive at Mittagong……………………..………. 84.7km Day Nine: Sunday 17th May, leave from Mittagong Arrive at Sports and Cultural Club Fairfield Heights, Sydney………………...... 87.1km

The crew, cyclists and support were not only doing their daily routine but often at night they were giving radio interviews. Throughout the trip the Assyrian people were informed on the location of the riders. The last couple of riding days were getting very exciting as they approached the Page 17

10 Year Anniversary celebration of the Assyrian Aid Society- Australia With Special guest Mr. Napoleon Pato President of Assyrian Aid Society—Iraq

The year 2009 marked the Ten Year Anniversary of the establishment of the Australian branch of the Assyrian Aid So- ciety. AAS-Australia (AAS-Au) was established as a means of addressing the dire situation that Assyrians in Iraq found themselves in following the Gulf War in the 1990’s. Since that time, AAS-Au has contributed to improving the lives of Assyrians abroad. The aim of AAS-Au is, and always has been, to raise funds for the benefit of Assyrians in modern day Iraq; what many Assyrians know as ‘Bet Nahrain’.

To mark this milestone, the social political and religious in- An opening speech was ad- AAS-Au organised an anniver- stitutions and Assyrian media dressed by Mr. Sam Warda sary party at the Assyrian including fundraising organiza- President of Assyrian Aid Soci- Sports and Cultural Club who tions. Among the esteemed list ety - Australia, followed by se- kindly offered their function to of guests included past AAS- cond speaker Mr. Ninos host our event. At the anniver- Au Committee members over Khoshaba, NSW state MP and sary party, AAS-Au had the the ten period who devoted vol- finally our guest of honour Mr. pleasure of welcoming distin- untary time to the this cause. Napoleon Patto president of guished guests such as Coun- Assyrian Aid Society Iraq. sellors from the Fairfield seat Hundreds of eager members of of the Liberal Party, Mr Andrew the Assyrian community were Our charming MC’s were Rohan, Mr Zaya Toma and Mr in attendance at the main hall joined by the entertainment to Joseph Adam. New South of the Assyrian Sports and Cul- put on a dazzling evening. The Wales state MP Mr Ninos tural Club, to support our anni- main evening entertainment Khoshaba, Member of the New versary event. The event was was Wilson Esha and Flora Si- South Wales Legislative As- hosted by our MC’s for the mon, Assyrian musicians. sembly and New South Wales evening, our very own AAS-Au There was music, dancing and Labor party member for Fair- Committee members Albert a brief charity drive during the field Mr Joe Tripodi and, the Shlemon and Nora Michael. evening, where AAS-Au Com- Iraqi consulate Mr Muhsin The night was an absolute suc- mittee members joined the Younis Al-Samaraee and our cess. crowd to recruit more direct guest of honour, the President debit contributors. of the Assyrian Aid Society- The celebration began with the Iraq, Mr Napoleon Patto. Australian national anthem followed by Assyrian national an- We were joined by various rep- them and finally the Iraqi na- resentatives of the Assyrian tional anthem. Page 18

The aim of our Anniversary party was AAS-Au committee wishes to thank all of those in attendance to celebrate ten successful years of at the event, those who contributed through their most gener- the Assyrian Aid Society-Australia. In ous efforts and donations. Most especially the Committee the spirit of charity, we simultaneous- would like to thank the Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club and ly raised funds and worked to in- the monthly direct debit contributors who accepted the chal- crease our pool of direct debit contributors. Direct debit contributors lenge and signed up to AAS-Au worthy cause. have allowed AAS-Au to sustain its The attendees were rewarded with a great night filled with continuous assistance to Assyrians champagne, cakes and prizes ranging from Assyrian artwork in Iraq throughout the years. It to a Sydney Harbour cruise. seemed only fitting to advance the recruitment of direct debit contribu- The AAS-Au looks forward to another ten great years of char- tors at the ten year Anniversary cele- ity and success. We’re hoping that you will be there to join us bration. in celebrating our twenty year anniversary.

Most importantly was to raise the level of awareness among the Assyrian community in Australia and to continue to remind us all that the need for our people in Bet Nahrian is enormous and endless.

Mr. Napoleon Patto with one of prize winner’s at 10th Year Anniversary Page 19

Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club

The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club was founded in Australia in the early 1960’s by Assyrians who had migrated to Australia. The Club was established in memory of the proudly known As- syrian sports and Cultural Club in Baghdad, Iraq (Bet-Nahren).

Since its establishment, the club has been a social gathering place for the Assyrian community in Sydney’s South West, as well as a well known location for people to come together and celebrate occasions such as Assyrian New Year, weddings and many other national and social occasions.

In 1990, the Club officially leased its own premises on The Boulevard in Fairfield Heights to continue its work toward prosperity.

In 1991, The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club held a great festival in celebration of Khab Nissan, Assyrian New Year, in Fairfield that marched from down town Fairfield to the Club’s premises on The Boulevard. It was a great day for all of those in attendance; hundreds joined the march and walked side by side with many great chariots carrying the great symbols of Assyria such as the chariot of Shamiram, lamaso, the Hanging Gardens and many others.

The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club also had its own soccer team which won the Ethnic Cup twice in a row in the 1980’s. This was considered a great achievement for Assyrians in Sydney. The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club was the first in Australia to initiate, what is known today as the Assyrian Cup in soccer, where many of our Assyrian soccer teams are able to have a friendly game together.

In the year 2000 the club officially owned its own premises, where it proudly stands today on Stanbrook Street, Fairfield Heights. This was thanks to the commitment of Assyrians who volunteered their time and efforts to bring the Club to the successful position that it is in today.

The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club have always been and always will be a home for all Assyrians; it has been a great supporter of Assyrian Organisations, Churches and charities. The Club also supports other non- Assyrians groups and charities, acting in the true spirit of a community club.

The Assyrian Sports and Cultural Club has been the major supporter for the Assyrian Aid Society, Cancer Council of Australia and many more. The Assyrian Sports & Cultural Club has been very supportive of Assyrian charities and organisations, proudly donating to many Assyrian organisations to advance the As- syrian cause both here in Australia and abroad. For instance, in 2009, the Club graciously hosted the 10 year anniversary party of the Assyrian Aid Society-Australia as well as offered a generous donation to go towards assisting the Assyrians in Iraq.

This year marks the 10th Anniversary of the new building of the Assyrian Sports & Cultural Club. We look forward to celebrating how far the Club has come from its humble beginnings.

The Club has served the Assyrian community in so many ways. It is a place where people come to socialise, celebrate their Christenings, engagements and weddings. It is a place where we as Assyrians can call home.

The message from the current president of the club, Mr Assur Jako, and under the guidance of the current Board of Directors is the promise to continue to strive and build on the strong foundation they have been building on since 1999. They thank the Assyrian community for their continued support and encouragement; and we, as the Assyrian Aid Society in Australia, thank the club for their continued support and wish them a very happy 10th Anniversary.

Page 20

Biography of the Secretary General of the Assyrian Democratic Movement Mr. Younadam Kanna Member of the Iraqi Parliament 2006

Name:Younadam Yousef Kanna. DOB: Anbar, 1951.  One of the founders of the  April 2003 a member of an Assyria Democratic Movement, opposition conference in - Academic achievement: 1979, and secretary-general of Baghdad. the movement now. Founding  August 2004 Member of the  1975 Bachelor of Civil Engineer- member and participant in National Congress, which ing University of Sulaymaniyah. many conferences of the Iraqi emerged from the expanded 1976 - 1982 Consulting Engi- opposition: Interim National Council. neering Company - Sokrea French  1986 support of the Iraqi  Head of the Al-Rafidain list in - Kirkuk irrigation project. people conference - Tehran. Iraq's national elections in 1992 - 1999 Minister of civil 1989 member of the Joint Ac- January 2005. Member of the Works and Housing - the Kurdi- tion Committee - Damascus. Constitutional Amendment stan Regional Government Iraq /  1989 member of the political Committee. Arbil. Leadership of the Iraqi Kurdi-  Founding member and Presi 1999-2001 Minister of Industry stan Front. dent of the Iraqi Institute for and Energy - the Kurdistan Re-  1991 founding member of the Peace IIP gional Government Iraq / Arbil. Iraqi opposition Conference -  Member of the Presidency of  July 2003 - June 2004 Member Beirut the National Council for of the Iraqi Governing Council -  1992 Member of the Salah al- Peace and Solidarity in Iraq. Chairman of the Construction and Din Conference and Shaqlawah  Associate member of numer public services. Conference. ous conferences for civil socie-  August 2004 - December 2004  2004 - 992 President of ty organizations (the National Member of the Interim National Chaldo Assyrians Nation in the Conference Chaldean Syriac Council - Chairman of the Con- Kurdistan Regional Parliament. Assyrian ) struction and public services.  1999 Member of the New  October 2003, conferences  2005 Member of the Iraqi Nation- York Conference of the Iraqi support Iraqi women's move- al Assembly - Chairman of the opposition. ment, the Brussels Confer- Commission services and recon-  2000 Member of the London ence of the federalism 2005, federalism seminar Tokyo struction. conference of Iraqi opposition. 2005, International Confer-  March 2010 elected member of  2002 Member of the London ence for Women in Jordan Iraqi parliament (Head of Al- conference of Iraqi opposition, 2005, and others. Rafidian List 389) and a member of the Coordi- nating Committee for the opposition, the Commission 65. Political card: Member of the Committee on  Activist against the Baathist re- Coordination (65) Conference in Salah al-Din - Arbil gime since 1970.

Page 21

انظيزج انذاذيح نهظكزذيز انؼاو نهحزكح انذيًمزاطيح االشىريح انظيذ يىَادو كُا ػضى

انثزنًاٌ انؼزالي 2006

االطى : يىَادو يىطف كُا .

انرىنذ : االَثار 1951 . انرحصيم انذراطي : تكانىريىص هُذطح يذَيح 1975 – جايؼح انظهيًاَيح . اطرشاراخ هُذطيح – شزكح طىكزيا انفزَظيح –يشزوع ري كزكىن . * 1982 – 1976 وسيز االشغال واالطكاٌ – حكىيح الهيى كزدطراٌ انؼزاق / ارتيم . * 1999 1992- *وسيز انصُاػح وانطالح - حكىيح الهيى كزدطراٌ انؼزاق / ارتيم . 1999-2001 ذًىس 2003 – حشيزاٌ ػ 2004ضى يجهض انحكى – رئيض نجُح االػًار وانخذياخ انؼايح . * أب 2004 – كاَىٌ االول ػ 2004ضى انًجهض انىطُي انًؤلد – رئيض نجُح االػًار وانخذياخ انؼايح . * ػضى انجؼًيح انىطُيح انؼزاليح – رئيض نجُح انخذياخ واالػًار . 2005 * انثطالح انظياطيح : َاشظ ضذ َظاو انثؼث انؼُصزي يُذ ػاو 1970 . * يٍ يؤطظي انحزكح انذيًمزاطيح االشىريح 1979 ، وانظكزذيز انؼاو نهحزكح حانيا . * ػضى يؤطض ويشارن في يؼظى يؤذًزاخ انؼًارضح انؼزاليح . * يىذًز َصزج انشؼة انؼزالي – طهزاٌ . 1986 * ػضىيح نجُح انؼًم انًشرزن – ديشك . 1989 * ػضىيح انميادج انظياطيح نهجثهح انكزدطراَيح انؼزاليح . 1989 * ػضى يؤطض نًؤذًز انؼًارضح انؼزاليح – تيزوخ . 1991 * ػضى يؤذًز صالح انذيٍ ويؤذًز شمالوج . 1992 * رئيض انكرهح انكهذواشىريح في تزنًاٌ الهيى كىردطراٌ . 1992 2004- * ػضى يؤذًز َيىيىرن نهؼًارضح انؼزاليح . 1999 * ػضى يؤذًز نُذٌ نهؼًارضح انؼزاليح . 2000* ػضى يؤذًز نُذٌ نهؼًارضح انؼزاليح ، وػضى نجُح انرُظيك نهؼًارضح ، نجُح 65 . 2002* ػضى يؤذًز نجُح انرُظيك )65( في صالح انذيٍ – ارتيم . * َيظاٌ ػ 2003ضى يؤذًز انؼًارضح في لصز انًؤذًزاخ – تغذاد . * أب ػ 2004ضى انًؤذًز انىطُي انًىطغ انذي اَثثك يُه انًجهض انىطُي انًؤلد . * رئيض لائًح انزافذيٍ انىطُيح في اَرخاتاخ كاَىٌ انثاَي ػ . 2005ضى نجُح صياغح انذطرىر . * ػضى يؤطض ورئيض يكزر نهؼًهذ انؼزالي نهظالو *IIP ػضى رئاطح انًجهض انىطُي نهظهى وانرضايٍ في انؼزاق . * ػضى يشارن في يؤذًزاخ ػذيذج نًُظًاخ انًجرًغ انًذَي ) انًؤذًز انمىيي انكهذاَي انظزياَي االشىري اكرىتز 2003 ، يؤذًزاخ دػى * حزكح انًزاج انؼزاليح ، يؤذًز تزوكظم نهفيذرانيح 2005 ، طيُار طىكيى نهفذرانيح 2005 ، انًؤذًز انذوني يٍ اجم انًزأج في االردٌ 2005، وغيزها . ػضى انثزنًاٌ انؼزالي انًُرخة ) رئيض لائًح انزافذيٍ 389 ( 2010* Page 22

Assyrian Aid Society - Australia would like to thank you for your continuous support

ASSYRIAN RADIO PROGRAMS

Day Time Program Station

Sunday 4-6pm Assyrian Voice of Freedom 2GLF FM /89.3

Monday 10-12pm Voice of Atour (Bra Kala d Atour) 2000FM 98.5 The Cradle of Civilization Magazine

6-8pm Assyrian Church of East (Youth Group) 2GLF 89.3 FM

6-7pm Voice of Atour (Bra Kala d Atour) 2000FM 98.5 Tuesday The Cradle of Civilization Magazine

Wednesday 7-8pm Ur-Ashur 2GLF 89.3FM

FRIDAY 6-8pm Echoes of Nineveh (Bra Kala d Nineveh) 2GLF 89.3FM

8-9pm Assyrian Radio SBS 97.7 FM

8-10pm Assyrian Voice (Bra Kala et Sawra) 2GLF 89.3 FM

Saturday 4-6pm Assyrian Church of East (Youth Group) 2GLF 89.3 FM

Page 23 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

competently according to the position community-based organisations- AAS- they have undertaken with full reporting Au is working with these organisa- procedures with every activity they un- tions with the aim of creating avenues dertake. The committee works as a team of mutually beneficial arrangements and are all dedicated to the long-term success of this worthy cause.  Assyrian-owned businesses- these businesses are usually targeted by a Under which legal Authority does number of other charities and most the organisation operate and what is do contribute. However AAS-Au is of its legal structure? the view that ―charity begins at The Assyrian Aid Society is a charitable home‖ organisation operating in six countries in AAS-Au is a registered association with the Department of Fair Trading- New four continents, namely the U.S.A, Great  Australian-based charities and govern- Britain, Sweden, Australia and New Zea- South Wales Australia’s consumer protec- ments- AAS-Au seeks advice and oth- land. These organisations raise funds indi- tion agency. For its constitution, it has er material assistance from these vidually for the benefit of Assyrians living largely adopted the guide provided by the bodies in Iraq through the Assyrian Aid Society- department with some notable excep-

Iraq. tions. AAS-Au is also a registered charita- Allocation of funds: AAS-Au operates independently from its ble organisation under the charitable sister societies and is not aligned to any Fundraising Act 1991 with the Depart- The Assyrian Aid Society- Iraq (AAS-I) political or theological organisation. It is ment of Gaming and Racing- New South proposes fully-costed projects. These pro- guided entirely by its constitution and the Wales Australia. posals are distributed to all the Assyrian related decisions of its members. Aid societies for selection. AAS-Au selects Assyrian Aid societies in other countries the project that it considers to be appro- Who established The Assyrian Aid have different structures to suit the gen- priate, taking into consideration all the eral and tax laws of their governments. Society-Australia Incorporated? issues concerned, such as urgency, size For example The Assyrian Aid Society- and the amount that is needed to be Assyrian individuals with some knowledge America has a company structure with by- raised. Regular feedback from AAS-I is laws and company directors. of Assyrian Aid Societies in other coun- provided and the final result is then com- tries established AAS-Au. These individu- municated to all the contributors of AAS- als, attracted to the concept and im- When drafting the constitution the com- Au. pressed with AAS-I outstanding success mittee included clauses that entitle AAS- in contributing to such a worthy cause, Au to be tax exempt. Although an annual Funds are not sent to individuals or fami- decided to establish one in Australia in lodgement of accounts is required, a tax lies but directly through the committee of 1998. return is not applicable. An ABN has also AAS-I for project/s that have been select- Members of the committee share the been granted to AAS-Au. ed by AAS-Au. This is AAS-Au’s main dif- basic view that the Assyrian language and What are its operational objectives ferentiation from other fund raising insti- culture are very precious not only to the tutions. Assyrian community but also to the hu- There are 2 main functions being the rais- man race. In many respects our language ing of funds and the allocating of funds and culture form the basis of the most explained hereunder: advanced western societies in the world. Raising of funds: AAS-Au’s mission statement states, ―To Operational Structure of the Com- use all possible legal means to generate mittee and acquire funds in terms of cash and assets‖. Its primary objective is therefore The membership of AAS-Au is limited to the Assyrian community living in Australia committee members who are not office and its secondary objective is the other bearers of any other charitable, political, charitable organisations and governments. religious or community organisation. For the purpose of fund raising AAS-Au has divided this market into the following The committee is made up of 3 office segments: bearers, being the president, secretary, and treasurer. Their powers and respon-  Income receiving individuals- AAS-Au sibilities are explained in the constitution. attempts to reach everyone in this category to make a modest fixed The day-to-day operation of the commit- monthly contribution tee is similar to a modern organisation where members are required to perform  Assyrian religious, political and other Page 24

Assyrian Business Directory

Business: ADIL TAILORING Business: BI-RITE ELECTRICAL Address: SHOP 8-104 SOUTH Address: 81 WARE ST MALL ARCADE WARE FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9754 2890 Telephone: 9723 0509 Contact: ODEY Mobile: 0422 142 691 eMail: [email protected]

Business: ADIL RESTAURANT Business: BUILD 4 U AUST. PTY LTD Address: 1/47 SPENCER STREET Address: PO BOX 303 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 BONNYRIGG NSW 2177 Telephone: 9723 3866 Mobile: 0402 100 067 Contact: YOHANAN GEORGE Business: ALADIN SWEETS eMail: [email protected] Address: CNR WARE & HARRIS ST FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Business: CAFE SHAYNA Telephone: 9724 7435 Address: SHOP 65A MIMOSA ROAD BOSSLEY PARK NSW 2167 Business: ALNAKHEEL MARKET Telephone: 8786 0022 Address: 5 WARE ST eMail: [email protected] FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9755 0040 Business: COACH DRIVING SCHOOL Contact: AMJAD YOUSIF Address: 27 HARRIS ST FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Business: ALVIRA LIMOUSINE HIRE Telephone: 9609 2438 WEDDING CARS Mobile: 014 726 777 PO BOX 184 Contact: S GEORGE FAIRFIELD NSW 1860 Telephone: 9726 8518 Business: DE COSTI SEAFOOD Mobile: 041 150 657 SHOP54,345VICTORIA AVE CHATSWOOD NSW 2067 Business: BABYLON GROCERY Telephone: 9904 7347 Address: 4/30 NELSON STREET Contact: Douglas Aprim FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Email: [email protected] Telephone: 9755 9283 Website: www.decosti.com.au

Business: BABYLON HEALTH Business: DENTAL SURGEONS GROCERY STORE Address: 24 HARRIS STREET Address: 5-30 NELSON ST FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9755 1476 Contact: DR. NABIL MATTI & Business: BARI SMASH PTY LTD DR.MARIA YOHANAN Address: UNIT2/14 ELIZABETH ST WETHERILL PARK, NSW 2164 Business: DIAMOND VIDEOPRODUCTIONS Telephone: 9756 2572 Address: 117 WARE STREET Contact: ASHOUR FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 8764 1140 Business: BENOLENO CAFE Mobile: 0424 147 412 Address: 77 WARE STREET Contact: ESSAN JAMEL FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9723 0860

Page 25

Assyrian Business Directory

Business: EZY FIX PLASTERING Business: MARICKA MARKET Mobile: 0412 203 709 Address: 52 SPENCER ST Contact: ATHEER TOMA FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9724 4844 Business: FAIRFIELDPLAZA FRUIT & Mobile: GROCERY Contact: JAMAL ELISHE Address: SHOP 9/4 STATION ST eMail: [email protected] FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9755 9201 Business: MIRAMAR RECEPTION CENTRE Mobile: 0422 342 873 Address: 41-43 SMART ST Contact: FAFID ELIAS FAIRFILED NSW 2165 Telephone: 9723 5078 Business: GAZOZ JEANS Mobile: 0425 300 458 Address: 59 WARE ST Contact: MATTHEW FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 eMail: [email protected] Telephone: 9755 1771 Business: MISTY BLINDS Business: HAIRDRESSER JOHNY Telephone: 9729 2080 Address: 4/13 NELSON STREET Mobile: 0418 965 362 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Contact: RENNIE Telephone: 9728 9090 Mobile: 0401 532 926 Business: NAPOLEON HAIRDRESSER Business: IWASCO PERFUME & GIFTS Address: 6/28 NELSON ST Address: SHOPE 14/104-106 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 WARE ST Telephone: 9725 73 55 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9724 1030 Business: NASH GROCERY Mobile: 0433 510 787 Address: 64/72 WARE STREET Contact: KHALID IWAS Telephone: FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 eMail: [email protected] Business: NATIONAL MANAGEMENT PTY Business: JAWAN TILING Address: 18 NEWCASTLE ST Mobile: 0401 370 650 WAKELEY NSW 2176 Contact: FAWZI Telephone: 9725 1519 Mobile: 0409 188 918 Business: LAWTIME LAWYERS Contact:: SEMON Address: SUITE1/89A THE CRESCENT Business: NAZAR HAIRDRESSERS & FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 SUPPLIES Telephone: 9755 9000 Address: 119 WARE ST Contact: ROMEL BADAL FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 eMail: [email protected] Telephone: 9728 2660 Mobile: 0402 294 075 Business: LIGHTING PLUS ELECTRICAL Contact: NAZAR Address: SHOP 2/40 HARRIS ST FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Business: NINVEH VIDEO Telephone: 9728 2029 Address: 26 HARRIS ST Mobile: 0412 211 484 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Contact: RAYAN SOUBHI Telephone: 9726 9380 eMail: [email protected] Contact: Elina

Page 26

Assyrian Business Directory

Business: NOROUZE RESTAURANT Business: S S SHICANE HAIR Address: 8/7 NELSON ST DESIGN FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Address: SHOP 63 A SPENCER ST Telephone: 9754 1118 FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9755 5580 Business: PARADISO RECEPTIONS Mobile: 0401 564 007 Address: 3 BARBARA ST Contact: JIM OR JARMAN FAIRFILED NSW 2165 Telephone: 9754 1666 Business: SAMBELLO MENSWEAR Mobile: 0411 446 607 Address: SHOP G26 NEETA CITY SMART ST Business: PURE KEBAB FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Address: F57 STOCKLAND MALL Telephone: 9727 4444 WETHERILL PARK NSW Business: SIMON DIAB & Telephone: 9609 1822 ASSOCIATES Contact: MOSES Address: SUITE 12, LEVEL 1, 410 CHURCH ST Business: R & F PROPERTY PARRAMATTA NSW SERVICES PTY LTD 2150 Address: 5/63A BRENAN ST Telephone: 9630 7000 SMITHFIELD NSW 2164 Contact: SAMIR SHIBA Telephone: 9724 0344 eMail: [email protected] Mobile: 0407 816 481 Contact: FRED AURAHA Business: STUDIO 2000 Address: 1 BARABRA ST Business: RAEDADEL (Entertainer– Singer) FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Mobile: 0430 089 456 Telephone: 8764 0771 eMail: [email protected] Mobile: 0412 021 225 Contact: BASMA Business: RAED'S DRY CAR WASH Telephone: 9728 1585 Business: SUNSHINE COFFEE &EETS Mobile: 0401 425 940 Address: 63 SPENCER ST Contact: RAED FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9755 9824 Business: RAFID ELIAS GROCERY Mobile: 0414 494 640 Address: 9/4 STATION STREET Contact: SORO YOUSIF FAIRFIELD Telephone: 9755 9201

Business: RICHARDSON & WRENCH FAIRFIELD Address: 8/13 NELSON ST FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Telephone: 9723 6188 Mobile: 0404 287 922 Contact: JOHN LYE eMail: [email protected]

Page 27

Assyrian Business Fairfield High School

Directory Email: [email protected]

Business: SWEET BEANKA Web Address: www.fairfield-.schools.nsw.edu.au Phone: 9727 2111 Address: 212 THE BOULEVARDE Facsimile: 9724 3496 FAIRFIELD HEIGHTS NSW 2165 The Assyrian Aid Society - Australia Telephone: 9604 9464 Thank you for our recent meeting to introduce the As- Mobile: 0422 182 134 syrian Aid Society – Australia. I see great possibilities from further contact and work together. Business: TIAMAS HOUSE PIZZA & PASTA Also, thank you for the opportunity of introducing Fair- Address: CNR THE BOULEVARDE & field High School to your readers. The importance of FAIRFIELD HEIGHTS our school to the wider Assyrian Community is linked to NSW 2165 the fact that currently 46% of our student population is Telephone: 9723 3766 of Assyrian background. Currently Fairfield High School comprises 970 students. The Intensive English Business: TONY YOUSIF BUTCHERY Centre has approximately 150 students who have re- Address: 261 BOULEVARDE cently arrived in Australia. Many of the current students FAIRFIELD HEIGHTS in the Intensive English centre are also from Iraq and of NSW 2165 Assyrian background. Mobile: 0434 261 360 Contact: TONY YOUSIF Fairfield Local Government Area is renowned as having a large multi-cultural population. There are a large Business: TOP CARE SHOE REPAIRS number of the world’s cultural groups represented in Address: KIOSK 1, FAIRFIELD the area and so it is in the high school as well. We FORUM SHOPPING have approximately 67 cultures represented at the FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 school. Our concentration of Iraqi students is an inter- Telephone: 9727 7676 esting feature of the school and the local area. Mobile: 0420 580 590 Contact: GUS We have attempted to utilise special community links such as youth workers who are able to help us better Business: VODAFONE SELECT address the needs of our students. The school con- Address: SHOP 88, STOCKLAND stantly strives to find community linkages that provide SHOPPING CENTRE for better understanding of the needs of our students, WETHERILL PARK their community and the needs of the new families that NSW 2164 have arrived in Australia – into the Fairfield area. Telephone: 9756 5507 eMail: Wetherill- The school’s site of 15 hectares is located very close to [email protected] the Fairfield Central Business District. This places the school in the unique position of having the community Business: WALLY’S TILING SERVICES access the school as required – in fact many newly ar- 0421237 379 rived families take it for granted that they can enter the school grounds and seek assistance for their children. Business: WILLIAM'S WELDING Our Intensive English Centre, often the first point of SERVICES contact for our students. Address: PO BOX 3046 EASTLAKES NSW 2018 I would like to extend an open invitation for any of your Telephone: 96623374 readers to contact the school if they are interested in Mobile: 0449 257 709 knowing more about our school community. I am cer- eMail: [email protected] tainly looking forward to working more with your organisation and having you work with our school community Business: ZAYED PLUMBING – students and parents. Mobile: 0433 419 911 Robert Mulas Principal Fairfield High School Page 28

Supporting the Assyrian Aid Society-Australia

Without the regular financial support from individual Assyrians; there would be no Assyrian Aid Society today. The 140 or so regular financial supporters have been doing so for many years, they all filled-in a simple form (on the following page) which allows the society to withdraw a small amount every month from their bank account, at no cost to them.

This type of contribution is used by most international and national charities, such as Unicef and Greenpeace. We contend that our charity is just as important: because by helping our people in Iraq will not only make their lives better; it will ensure the preser- vation of our beautiful language and culture where it they evolved and have been held by a string for many thousands of years.

It is the moral duty of all Assyrians living in Australia to be supportive of this or any other Assyrian charity that assists our people in Iraq. Their situation is desperate; and ours is fulfilled in a society that has everything going for it. Why wouldn’t we help them? They are the people, most of whom at one time or another, had a choice to leave Iraq for the prosperous west; but they chose to stay in their homeland and by doing so defended our rights: as the indigenous people of Iraq. In return they experienced hardship, uncer- tainty and more recently many wonderful people were killed.

We are not asking you to break the bank: just $10 or $20 per month, that’s all. Your contribution will go a long way to help families in distress. How easy it is to spend this money with unnecessary things? How much would your life be more content or complete when you know that not all of what you spend is for you and your family: but a small portion goes to people you don’t even know; in the mean time, you’re helping preserve your language and culture where they were borne.

Many people help their relatives by sending funds directly; this is very important and must continue. Yet this will not satisfy the whole community: there are many people that have no helping relatives. What happens to them? Many people are fleeing the big cities going back to their villages for safety. Who is going to look after them? How can we, here in Australia, live with ourselves knowing that there is a real need from our community back in Iraq; and not help.

Turn to the next page you will see a simple form, complete what you can, tear it and send or fax it. We’ll call you to confirm your details; you can change or cancel the amount by a single telephone call anytime. PagePage 29 2 ASSYRIAN AID SOCIETY-AUSTRALIA

ABN 30 508 399 430 DIRECT DEBIT REQUEST

I/We request you, the Assyrian Aid Society-Australia Incorporated (USER ID 125763), to arrange for funds to be deducted from my/our account at the financial institution shown below, according to the schedule specified below.

Name/s ———————————————————————————————————

______

Contact ______

Address ______

______

———————————————————————————————————-

Signatures ______

______

Date of agreement _____/____/______

______

Name & Branch of ______Financial institution ______

______

BSB Number

Account Number

Date of commencement _____/_____/______

Debit $______from my/our account every month

Amount in words ______

PO Box W144 Fairfield West NSW 2065 Phone 02 8764 0819 Fax 02 8764 0819 E-MAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.assyrianaidsociety.org

CONTRIBUTOR DDR SERVICE AGREEMENT

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU This document outlines our service commitment to you, in respect of the Direct Debit Request (DDR) arrangements made between Assyrian Aid Society Australia Inc. (USER ID 125763) and you. It sets out your rights, our commitment to you and your responsibilities to us together with where you should go for assistance.

INITIAL TERMS OF THE ARRANGEMENT In terms of the Direct Debit Request arrangements made between us and signed by you, we undertake to periodically debit your nominated account for the agreed amount you wish to donate to assist Assyrian people in Bet-Nahrain.

DRAWIING ARRANGEMENTS the first drawing under this Direct Debit arrangement will occur on the last day of every month or the day of the month you wish to nominate if any drawing falls due on a non-business day, it will be debited to your account on the next business day following the scheduled drawing date we will give you at least 14 days notice in writing or by telephone when changes to the initial terms of the arrangements are made. This notice will include any changes made to the initial terms if you wish to discuss any changes to the initial terms, please contact the treasurer, Shoushan Tower on 0406 105 904, or write to us to:

Assyrian Aid Society Australia Inc. PO Box W144 Fairfield West NSW 2165

YOUR RIGHTS CHANGES TO THE ARRANGEMENT If you want to make changes to the drawing arrangements, contact the treasurer, Shoushan Tower on 0406 105 904

These changes may include:

 Deferring the drawing; or  Altering the schedule; or  Stopping an individual debit; or  Suspending the DDR; or  Cancelling the DDR completely

INQUIRIES Direct all inquiries to us, rather than to your financial institution, and these should be made at least 5 working days prior to the next scheduled drawing date. All communication addressed to us should include your account number. All personal information held by us will be kept confidential except that information provided to our financial institution to initiate the drawing the to your nominal account

DISPUTES if you believe that a drawing has been initiated incorrectly, we encourage you to take the matter up directly with us by contacting the treasurer: Shoushan Tower on 0406 105 904, or write to us to:

Assyrian Aid Society Australia Inc. PO Box W144 Fairfield West 2165

If you do not receive a satisfactory response from us to your dispute, contact your financial institution who will respond to you with an answer to your claim: within 7 business days (for claims lodged within 12 months of the dispute drawing) or within 30 business days (for claims lodged more than 12 months after the disputed drawing)

You will receive a refund of the drawing amount if we cannot substantiate the reason for the drawing.

Note: your financial institution will ask you to contact us to resolve your disputed drawing prior to involving them

YOUR COMMITMENT TO US It is your responsibility to ensure that:  Your nominated account can accept direct debits (your financial institution can confirm this); and  That on the drawing date there is sufficient cleared funds in the nominated account; and  That you advise us if the nominated account is transferred or closed.

If your drawing is returned or dishonoured by your financial institution, we will contact you to let you know what has occurred and, as we will be paying a default fee, we will request that you ensure the smooth passage of future donations.

Page 31

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