Talk to OLHC -Eltham

In August I gave a talk to the school children, at the request of the school, about the Malawi Support Group and pointed out that Malawi, with a population of  16 million (Australia has about out 23 million people), occupies an area  less than the size of Tasmania. Hence the country has limited resources 

 

One of the biggest differences I explained is  how much better off we are in Australia compared to Malawians  – as nearly half the people in Malawi earn only $1 a day. After talking about life in Malawi and the limited facilities in their sister parishes' catholic school when then all watched the video as per below -to enjoy the  joyful celebration of the inaugural mass in the new church largely funded by the MSG. 

 

I also read them a story I had composed. 

The children were wonderfully attentive and asked many thoughtful questions to subsequently raise $234 from their own efforts by doing odd jobs over the holidays. A further $25 was donated by the tuckshop. 

 

Over the years small regular amounts raised like this have all added up to make a big difference so that in monetary terms so far we have sent over well over  $100,000. But more importantly a story has emerged, united by a common thread of unity to embrace fellowship in fundraising  activities and in co- sharing the gifts and stories to learn more about one's respective customs and cultures.   

 

Open Door Singers Diamond Valley Choir’s First Concert

Recently the Open Door Singers Diamond Valley choir held its inaugural performance to a packed and enthusiastic house. Entry was by way of a gold coin donation and the proceeds were donated to the charity CAVE, who support young people in their reading and writing skills. Here are a few videos my daughter recorded on her iPhone.








Highly instrumental in getting the best in joyous musical expression was the leadership provided by the accomplished singer and acclaimed choral conductor Shaun Islip whose enthusiasm is highly contagious.

Shaun is the Musical Director of the not for profit organisation "Open Door Singers" which aims to foster and grow community choirs and is ably supported by his highly competent and lovely wife.