Newsletter of the Tamil Senior Citizens’ Association (NSW… uravu.pdf · Newsletter of the Tamil Senior Citizens’ Association (NSW) Inc. Mrpupaq~ nfzy;/ t ,uhkehjd; Editor: Col.

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Newsletter of the Tamil Senior Citizens’ Association (NSW) Inc.

Mrpupaq~ nfzy;/ t ,uhkehjd; Editor: Col. V Ramanathan

Volume 20 March 2009 Number 1

URAVU

Birthday Celebrants in the Community Centre

R Kandasamy 23 Jul

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E S Pararajsingham 2 Aug Thevakie Karunagaran 22Aug, Mary Paul 23 Aug Primrose Gnanasundaram 11 .Sep

Shiva Pasupati 26 Aug, V S Thurairajah 8 Aug, Ranie Thurairajah 31 Jul Our birthday choir

Saroja Nagarajan 3ep. Dr Bharathy 13Sep. Sri Rangeswari Bharathy 7Sep. Seetha Ramanatrhan 26Aug PEswaran 8 Sep, Rani Satkunannanda 24 Aug, S.Sanmugalingam 21 Sep

Rani VIJAYARATNAM 17 Oct. Swarnajothy PARARAJASINGHAM 27 Nov. Mr & Mrs KANDASAMY, Diamond Anniversary 14 Nov. Mr & Mrs THISSAIRASA, Golden Anniversary 25 Dec.

Nagalingam MURUGESU 22 Dec, Subramaniam DHARMAPALAN 26 Dec, Charles RAJENDRAM 1 Jan, Freddie RATNESAR 7 Jan

Murugupillai BALAKRISHNAN 28 Nov. Gnanambikai BALAKRISHNAN 11 Dec. Kanapathipillai THILLAINATHAN 13 Dec. Pathmawathy MAHADEWA 17 Dec.

Sugunaranjjitham THARMAPALAN 31 Dec. Sanmugam THARMAPALAN 27 Jan. Rita PONNAMBALAM 27 Jan. Navam PONNAMBALAM 23 Jan. Sivamany NADARAJAH 26 Jan.

Ambika SUBRAMANIAM 25 Feb. V M KANDIAH 16 Feb. Wesley CASINADER 23 Feb. Mr & Mrs MUDALIYAR. Diamond Anniverasry 4 Feb. Mrs S Karthigesu 5 Feb.

S R Chellappah, 25 Sep. Kuhamany VELSAMY, 16 Nov. Dr C Pathinatrher, 12 Mar

NSW Seniors Week Achievement Award The NSW Seniors Week Achievement Awards are designed to recognise the outstanding contributions of seniors living in NSW for the development of the community, for their leadership and for their initiative. Col. Vallipuram RAMANATHAN was awarded an achievement award by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care (DADHC), for outstanding contributions made to the community in the field of Community Service/Volunteering, at a ceremony in the City Recital Hall on Monday, 16 Mar 09. It is note worthy that Col Ramanathan was presented the Premiers Award in the year 2000 in recognition of his outstanding service to the community and to New South Wales. Also an award for Good Practice was made to the Association during his tenure as President, for forming community networks, establishing a diverse programme of activities and playing a supportive welfare role for the wider Tamil community in 1998. TSCA WEBSITE We have launched our website www.tamilseniors.org.au on Thai Pongal Day 2009 Charity A total of $ 3605 was credited to the Victoria Bush Fire Relief Fund in February 2009 from our funds and donations from members (as at 1 Mar 09) as follows: The Association 1000 Mr S & Mrs R Mudaliyar 200 Mr R & Mrs I Pillay 200 Mr S & Mrs P Arumugam 100 Mr S & Mrs S Dharmapalan 100 Mr T & Mrs S Ganesharajah 100 Mrs K Jeganathan 100 Pathma Mahadewa 100 Mrs N Nadarajah 100 Dr C & Mrs M Pathinather 100 Mr S & Mrs P Ponmailainathan 100 Mr C & Mrs H Rajendram 100 Col V & Mrs S Ramanathan 100 Mr G & Mrs N Santhiran 100 Mr P & MrsP Sithiranathan 100 Mr K Thillainathan 100 S Velupillai 100 Mr S & Mrs P Vijayaratnam 100 Mrs T Arunachalam 50 Mr Charles Dickens 50 Mrs J Jegendran 50 Mr N & Mrs S Murugesu 50 Mr E S & Mrs S Pararajasingham 50 Mr N & Mrs R Ponnambalam 50 Mrs S Ramanathan 50 Mr N & Mrs B Sanmugalingam 50 Mr N & Mrs I Satkunananda 50 Ambika Subramaniam 50 Mr S Thillaivanan 50 Mr K & Mrs P Thisairasa 50 Mr M S Kandasamy 40 Mr E & Mrs K Vijayaratnam 25 Mary Paul 20 Elmo Xavier 20

Total 3605 Exercise classes Exercise classes are conducted by a qualified instructor on Thursdays, 1.30 to 2.30 pm. Any one interested please contact Mr Murugesu 9763 1125 JULY Members Day – Thursday, 24 July Wills and Trust by Steve Valtas of the Butlers Law Group. Members’ Get Together – Thursday 31 July Xtpak; - ifg;gzp Mfpatw;wpd; fz;fhl;rp epå rt[j; nty;*; |j;j gpuirfs; r';f m';fj;jtu;fshy; xG';Fbra;ag;gl;l Xtpak; - ifg;gzp Mfpatw;wpd; fz;fhl;rp 31 07 2008 tpahHf;fpHik Kw;gfy; 10/00 kzp Kjy; 12/00 kzptiu *;uhj;gPy;l; rdrKf kz;lgj;jpy; rpwg;ghf eilbgw;wJ/ r';fj; jiyth; jpU f re;jpud; mtu;fs; jiyikapy; eilbgw;w ,t;itgtj;jpw;F gpujk tpUe;jpduhfr; rKfkspj;jpUe;j *;uhj;gPy;l; khefurig nkau; khz;g[k[pF nghy; gnuhd; mtu;fSf;F r';f cWg;gpduhd jpU F r jpiruhrh mtu;fs; kyu;khiy mzptpj;jijj; bjhlu;e;J nkau; fz;fhl;rpia k';fy tpsf;nfw;wp j;jpwe;Jitj;jhu;/ jpU f re;jpud; mtu;fs; nkau; cl;gl epfH;r;rpf;Fr; rKfkspj;j midtiua[k; tuntw;W ciuepfH;j;jpdhu;/ kz;lgthapiy my';fupj;j fz;ftu; nfhyj;ija[k; gytifahd Xtpak; kw;Wk; fz;fhl;rpg; bghUs;fisa[k; ghu;itapl;L kfpH;t[w;w nkau; mtu;fs; mtw;iw Mf;fpa r';f cWg;gpdiu kpft[k; ghuhl;o ciu epfH;j;jpdhu;/ ,ijaLj;J vy;nyhUf;Fk; njePUk; rpw;Wz;ofSk; tH';fg;gl;ld/ r';fj;jpd; cgjiytu; jpU epfy*; ,uhrehafk; mtu;fs; ed;wpa[iu tH';fpaijj; bjlu;e;J fz;fhl;rp ,dpnj epiwntwpaJ/ August Members’ Day – Thursday, 28 August

‘Storming the Bastille’ ‘,oj;Jiuj;jy;’ Mf*;L 28 tpahHd;. m';fj;jtq jpdk; - ,oj;Jiuj;jy;/ ,j;jpdj;jpy; gy m';fj;jtqfs; ghuhl;ly;fisa[k; mwpt[iufisa[k; tH';fpdq/ Saturday – 30 August ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The seventeenth Annual General Meeting of the Association was held on 30th August 2008 in the Homebush Boys High School hall at Homebush.

ELECTION OF OFFICE BEARERS The Returning Officer declared the following elected, to the Committee of Management for the year 2008/2009:

President: Mr. G Santhiran Vice President: Two nominations were received. Dr.G.C.Pathinather was elected. Secretary: Col. V Ramanathan Asst Secy: Mr P Pandchacharam Treasurer: Mr.K Thanga-Raja Asst Treas: Mr. R Jegendran

Executive Members: 9 Nominations were received for 8 positions and the following were elected:

1. Mrs. B Lakshmanan 2. Mrs. T Mylvaganam 3. Mrs. Mary Paul 4. Mr. S Ponmailainathan 5. Mrs. A Subramaniam 6. Mrs. P Thisairasa 7. Mr. S Velupillai 8. Mr. E Vijayaratnam

Returning Officer: Mr. A Sivathondan was elected. Auditor: Mr. A Sivathondan was elected.

Disciplinary Committee Ex Officio: G Santhiran Past Presidents/Vice Presidents: Shiva Pasupati and Samy Pasupati. Members: Dr. V S Karunagaran and N Ratnasabapathy. Mz;Lg; bghJf;Tl;lk; Mf*;L 30 nky;tUnthh; epfH; Mz;L 2008-2009f;F eph;thf rigapduhfj; njh;e;bjLf;fg;gl;ldh;~ 1/ jiyth; jpU/ f re;jpud; 2/ cg jiyth; lhf;lq f gjpehjq; 3/ brayhsh; nfzy;/ t ,uhkehjd; 4/ cg brayhsh; jpU/ g g";rhr;ruk; 5/ bghUshsh; jpU/ f j';f uhrh 6/ cgbghUshsh; jpU/ , b$nfd;jpud; 7/ rig m';fj;jth; 1/ jpUkjp/ g ,yf;Rkzd; 2/ jpUkjp jp ikapy;thfyk; 3/ jpUkjp/ nkup nghy; 4;/ jpU/ R bghd;ikiyehjd; 5/ jpUkjp/ m Rg;gpukzpak; 6/ jpUkjp/ g jpiruhrh 7/ jpU. br ntYg;gps;is 8/jpU/ v tprauj;jpdk; njh;jyjpfhhp ~jpU/m/rptbjhz;ld; bjupt[ bra;ag;gl;lhh; fzf;fhsh; ~jpU/m/rptbjhz;ld; bjupt[ bra;ag;gl;lhh; Members’ Day – Thursday, 25 September

INNER WEST COMMONWEALTH CARELINK and

CARER RESPITE CENTRE

Commonwealth Carelink Centres, freecall 1800 052 222, will link you to community services in your area, or anywhere in Australia. Call us to find out about the range of services and respite programs which can support you in your own home. We understand the importance of providing information which meets your needs; is confidential, efficient and up-to-date.

Commonwealth Carer Respite Centres, freecall 1800 059 059, can help carers to arrange temporary relief of their caring responsibilities during an emergency. Carers may be caring for older people or people with a disability who may be parents or siblings, other family members, friends and neighbours. Respite gives the carer a break from their caring responsibilities especially in the following situations. − Emergencies: 24 hours support. Call 1800 059 059. − Short Term Crisis Recovery Respite

− Young Carers at Risk: when caring interferes with your primary or secondary education. − Support to Ageing Carers: consideration for Carers over 65 years of age who care for a younger person (0-65) with a disability. − Vacation Care: Extra support for parents caring for a child with a disability during the school holidays. − Support with locating and arranging Residential Respite: Care may be provided in the home, as an outing, in a centre based group environment or in a residential facility. A freecall to 1800 059 059, will link you to your local Carer Respite Centre in your area, or anywhere in Australia. To reach us directly or from a mobile phone please dial (02) 9799 6440. (Normal call charges will apply). EXCURSION Saturday, 4 Oct 08. OUR TOUR OF CANBERRA FLORIADE AND PARLIAMENT On Saturday the 4 th of October 2008 at about 6.45 AM, some of us Tamil Seniors assembled at the Strathfield Square . The bus of the tour operators COMEALONG TOURS arrived at 7.00AM. All of us took our seats in the bus and proceeded to Homebush bus stand to pick up another group of our members . They too took their seats. Rama our tour leader counted the number of persons seated in the bus . He looked puzzled as one seat was vacant. Our vice president also joined the count he too found one seat vacant. Rama quickly checked the list of members who have paid for the trip and found it to be 57 whereas there were 58 seats in the bus. Rama's face brightened and with a smile he greeted everyone and instructed the driver to start, and our journey commenced. Our bus drove past meadows and open fields where sheep and cattle were gracing. The morning sun rose slowly from the horizon, we admired the sun falling on the green landscape of Australia. The driver stopped the bus in one of the lovely parks in Mittagong where our breakfast consisting of sandwiches, tasty cutlets, tea and coffee were served. After the breakfast our bus drove direct to the Canberra Commonwealth Park the location of the FLORIADE. Floriade is a flower and entertainment festival held annually in spring from September to mid October in the Commonwealth Park in Canberra. Variety of flowering bulbs of tulips of different colors, shapes and fragrance are meticulously arranged and grown in beds spreading to vast area. We walked along the flower bed admiring the nature's artistic creation. Floriade started in 1988 as a celebration of Canberra's 75th birthday and Australia’s bicentenary of European settlement. Every year there was a theme and this year's theme is "Films that shaped the Nation” We were strictly instructed by our leader Rama to return to the bus by 1.00 PM. We all returned on time like the obedient sheep and took our seats in the bus. The bus took us to another park overlooking a lake where our lunch was served in buffet style with salad, cold meat,

bread, sandwiches, dessert, wine, tea and coffee. We sat in the benches and tables in the park and enjoyed our lunch as if on a picnic. After the sumptuous lunch we proceeded to the Parliament building. The parliament building is built at the apex of capital hill in the centre of Canberra on 32 hectares of land. The white marble building in modern Architecture is imposing and dignified distinctly of Australian character surrounded by well laid landscaped gardens, turfs, pools and fountains. The design of the building was by American architects Michell, Giurgola and Thorp selected out of 350 proposals submitted by International Architects. The building was built in 1988 to meet the requirements of Federal Parliamentarians for next 200 years. The building is 300 meters long and 300 meters wide and covers 2500 square meters, This is one of the largest buildings in the southern hemisphere. There are 8340 spaces and 4700 rooms and 2000 car parks. The flag pole that is supported with legs spanning the building has become the symbol of the Parliament and of Canberra. Australian paintings past and present are exhibited on the walls of the public areas. We were told that there are 5000 paintings in the collection of the parliament. There is an enormous tapestry in the great hall which reflected the bush environment of the parliament. We joined one of the conducted tours of the interiors of the building. We were taken first to the Great Hall where official functions and, receptions to visiting dignitaries are held. From here we were taken to the House of Representatives. On the ground floor there were 150 seats arranged in a horse shoe shape for the Members of Parliament and a high podium seat for the Speaker. On the upper floors there were balconies in four levels with seats for the public. From here we were taken to the Senate Chamber. It is also similar to the House of Representatives but with 76 seats for the Senators. From the parliament we proceeded to GOLD GREEK VILLAGE where miniature models of important buildings and gardens from various countries around the world are exhibited. Added to this Rose Room Gallery featuring 34 roomed doll house, miniature steam train are attractions. Unfortunately we were late to arrive at this location .We arrived at 3.30 PM and they close at 4.15 PM. We were very sad .Knowing our feeling Rama promised to arrange soon another trip specially to see this spectacular display. We all boarded the bus for our return journey home. There was silence in the bus all appeared tired after the long walks. Rama could not bear to see a dull atmosphere in the bus. He shouted and called our court singer Thisairasa to the mike and asked him to sing. He in his deep voice started singing an old favorite song. Ponmailainathan followed with a classical stuff. Rama invited the ladies to entertain us with their melodies. They did. Nearly 10 of them came forward and some sang in praise Lord Siva and Ganesha and some in praise of Lord Jesus. In between Rama came out with Baila songs for which many joined. We were surprised to see so much of talent among us. Time flew without our knowledge and the bus flew without our noticing the speed and came to a halt again in a park for the evening tea and biscuits.

The Bus started and the sing song too started and continued till we reached Homebush by about 7.30 PM. and Strathfield Square at 7.45PM. We all thanked Rama and Seetha and the Driver of the coach for the enjoyable tour.

V S Thurai Members’ Day – Thursday, 23 October Dr Ranbeer Kaur a dentist from the Sydney Dental Hospital spoke on dental health. Her talk centered on oral health and its relation to general health. Emphasis was placed on oral hygiene and denture hygiene techniques in order to prevent disease. The disease process was also explained as well as the consequences and possible treatment. In case of trauma to teeth, Dr. Kaur gave advice on what emergency measures to take in order to give the tooth the best possible chance of vitality. She also enlightened the audience on factors such as poor nutrition and dietary choices, smoking, effects of medication that could interact and result in changes to the oral environment, and possibly increased susceptibility of certain diseases such as caries, periodontal disease, fungal infections and changes to tissues in the mouth. Due to her experience in the specialist field of Special Care Dentistry, she also discussed techniques for carers in caring for people with dementia and patients who are resistive to care in order to provide the most effective care possible. Show bags with – toothpaste, Interdental gum massagers, dental floss, tooth paste, dry mouth moisturer, notes on how to brush your teeth etc were handed out to all the attendees. A MINI BRIDGE TOURNAMENT organised and sponsored by the Bridge playing members was finalised and awards distributed on 30 Oct 08. Champions G Santhiran & N Murugesu 1st Runner up S C Dickens & K P Esvaran 2nd Runner up K Jegendran & S Thillaivanan jPghtsp rpwg;g[ kjpa nghrd tpUe;J 30 mf;nlhgq; jPghtsp gw;wp jpUkjp ghyk; y+;kzd; mtqfs; Mw;wpa ciuapd; RUf;fk;/ ;jkn*hkh n$hjpqfka ;- mjhtJ ,UspypUe;J xspf;F tHp elj;Jf vd;gJ xU giHa ntjg; ghly;/ cwt[ fye;J cz;L kfpGk; xsp epiwe;j ehisf; Fwpf;Fk; gz;oifna jPghtspj; jpUehshFk;/ ;cz;lhyk;k ,t;t[yfk; ; - ,e;j cyfk; ed;F thGfpwJ vjdhy; vd;W tpaf;fpd;whq xU r';f fhyj;Jg; g[ytq ,uz;lhz;LfSfF Kd;dq/ ;,e;jpuq mkpH;jk; ,iatjhapDk; jkpaq cz;ldq ,ynu ;- ,e;jpudplkpUe;J mkpH;jk;-rhth kUe;J-bgw;whYk; ,g;bgupnahq ,Ug;gjdhnyna ,e;j cyfk; ed;F thGfpwJ vd;W g[fH;e;J ghLfpwhq/ - jpUts;Stq cyf khe;jiu. md;g[ilahq md;gpyhq vd. ,Utifapduhfg; gpupf;fpd;whq/

;md;gpyhq vy;yhk; jkf;Fupaq;.; md;g[ilahq vd;g[k; cupaq gpwqf;F ; vd;w jpUf;Fws; ,tq jk; ,ay;gpid tpsf;FfpwJ/ ,e;j md;ig tsqf;Fk; gz;oifna jPghtsp/ giHa gif. tpnuhjk;. kdf;frg;g[ . vy;yhtw;iwa[k; kwe;J brhe;jKk; Rw;wKk; / ez;gUk; ,dpatUk;. mz;il maytUk;/ xd;W To kfpGk; ehspJ/ thz ntof;iffspy; rpWtqfSk;/ bgupatUk;/ FJ}fypf;Fk; ehs;/ tpUe;njhk;g[k; ehs;/ bgupnahiu tz';fp Mrp bgw;W ek;ik nkk;gLj;jpf; bfhs;Sk; ehs;/ flt[sq;f;F rpwg;nghL tHpghL bra;a[k; ehs;/ tpj tpjkhd ,dpg;g[ epiwe;j gyfhu tiffisr; bra;J gfpqe;J ,d;g[Wk; ehs;/ ;g[we; Jha;ik ePuhyika[k; mfe;Jha;ik tha;ikahy; fhzg;gLk;; ; vd;w ts;Stq thrfj;Jf;fpz';f vz;bza; KGf;Fk; ePuhlYk; jPghtspapy; Kf;fpa tplk; bgWfpd;wd/ gz;oifbad;why; mjw;bfhU fij cz;ly;yth/jPghtspf;Fk; mHfpabjhU fij cz;L/ ,aw;if md;id bgw;w gps;is eufhRud;/ mtd; ,aw;if ts';fis rPuHpj;jhd;/,aw;ifia mtkjpj;jhd;/ flt[sq rPw;wj;Jf;fhshfp aHpe;jhd;/ ePz;l ,Uz;l ehl;fSf;Fg;gpwF xsp epiwe;j tpot[ fhyk; gpwe;jJ vd;W ,aw;if md;idna kfpH;e;jhs;/tpsf;Ffis tupirahf Vw;wp ,e;j ehis btF tpkupirahff; bfhz;lhL';fs; vd;whs;/ ,Jnt jPghtsp gpwe;j fij/ jPg Mtsp vd;gjd; bghUs; tpsf;Ffspd; tupir vd;gjhFk; jPghtspia Kd;dpl;L Vw;gLj;jg;gl;l kjpa nghrd tpUe;J bfhz;lhlg; gl;lJ/ Vwf;Fiwa 150 m';fj;jtu;fs; g';nfw;wdq;/,g;nghrdj;jpw;F rpyu; RitkpF fwptiffisr; bra;J md;gspg;g[r; bra;jpUe;jik vy;nyhuhYk; bkr;Rk;goahd brayhftpUe;jJ/ r';fj;jpd; bgz;m';fj;jtu;fs; rpyu; czt[ gupkhWk; bghWg;ig Vw;Wj; jpwk;glr; bra;jhu;fs;/ mWRit czt[z;l jpUg;jp vy;nyhuplKk; fhzf;̋ oajhf ,Ue;jJ/ Deepavali Lunch 30 Oct 08 Significance of deepavali – by Balam Lakshmanan Thamasoma Jyothirgamaya—lead me from darkness to light-is a very ancient prayer originating from rigveda and we have a festival of lights called Deepavali or Diwali a very popular festival marked by great celebrations at home and in the community. Love and trust are the two hallmarks of this festival. The sangam literature of the Tamils speaks a lot about this love and trust, sharing and caring which starts in the family and reaches out to the community and society at large. Two thousand years ago one poet of the Sangam period sings in praise of this aspect. He says -- undaalamma ivvulakam indirar amiztham iyaivathaayinum thamiyar undalum ilare—the world exists in glory, the reason being given is that even if the nectar of the celestials granting long life is available , there are people who would not dream of enjoying it by themselves . They will share it with others. This is the keynote of the festival of Deepavali. The literal meaning of Deepavali is a row of lights. The external expression of the festival is in keeping with the light of love and trust, that lights up and expands the heart of people. On this day old quarrels are forgotten, friendship is forged and children are pampered, lots and lots of sweets new clothes and fireworks are shared with everybody. Every festival has a story behind it and this festival is no exception. There is a fascinating legend for

Deepavali. Mother earth had begotten a son called Narakasuran who became such a tyrant abusing nature and its creatures, that the mother herself could not bear it any longer. She sends out entreaties in deep prayer to the great God Narayana and gets him killed . She considers it a great act of mercy and wants it to be a day of celebration. A delicious buffet lunch of home cooked food was provided at our members’ get together on Thursday, 30 Oct 08. Over 150 members enjoyed this lunch. Deepavali – visit to the Jesmond Nursing Home tpahHf;fpHik. etk;gq; 6 Mk; jpfjp m';fj;jth; rpyh; b$*;kd;l; guhkhpg;g[ ,y;yk; brd;W m';Fs;stUf;Fg; gyfhuk; tH';fpanjhL Tl;Lg;ghly; epfH;r;rpapYk; g';Fbfhz;ldh;/ fkpy*; gjpehjq; fPnghl; thrpj;jhq;/ bry;tp mnk=h ehfnyhnfe;jpudpd; khztpfshy; jPghtspf;Fg; bghUj;jkhf Xq; mHfpa jPg eldk; Mof; fhz;gpf;fg;gl;lJ/ On Thurday, 6 Nov 07, at 10.30 am a few members visited Jesmond Nursing Home and entertained the inmates serving short eats and group sing songs. The background music for the sing song was provided by Camillus Pathinather on the keyboard.. NOVEMBER BAHA’I TEMPLE VISIT We visited the Baha’i Temple on the 9th of November. We were met by the Temple volunteers at the Pennant Hill railway station and taken to the serene spectacle of a calm and resplendent structure off the Mona Vale road in Ingleside. The bus was filled to capacity. We seniors numbered about 20. When we reached our destination we were treated to a very healthy and rich tea and snacks. The hosts were very friendly and made us feel very welcome. After tea we were escorted to the temple premises. It was a nine sided structure with symbolic meaning attached to it. Prayers were offered by lay persons in all the religions including Hindu and Christian readings from the holy books By 12 noon this was over and we were again treated to a fine buffet lunch. Thereafter we visited their bookshop wherein were found artifacts for children, books on the universality of the Baha’i faith. Around 2.00 pm after a group photograph we were dropped back at the Railway station. It was a very educative trip showing us the multitude of faiths can be moulded into one which is sorely needed in this age of conflict and hatred We did indeed experience the tranquility and serenity of the Bahai house of worship in spring time. There we witnessed the oneness of God, His prophets and humanity being observed by those who believed in the Bahai faith. I will recommend you visit this once to experience its beauty

Santhi Members’ Day – Thursday, 27 November

Caroline Trinh from Vision Australia made a presentation:. Glasses do not correct many eye conditions. Some common ones include: Macular Degeneration (AMD), Cataracts, Glaucoma, and Diabetic Retinopathy. Cataracts occur as an ageing process of the lens. The normally transparent lens becomes opaque and does not allow the light to fully enter the eye. Blurred vision, glare and double vision are some symptoms that you may notice with a cataract. The main cause of a cataract is UV light, although cortico steroids and being diabetic will increase your risk of developing them at an earlier age. AMD affects your central vision which is responsible for detailed and colour vision. There are 2 types of AMD: Dry and Wet. Dry AMD is a slow progressive break down of cones cells in the macula. This results in a gradual decline in your ability to see detail. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels start to grow under the macula resulting in a rapid loss of vision in most cases. There is no pain associated with either types of AMD. The classic early sign is that straight lines appear crooked. Vision Australia assists people to gain a better understanding of their vision impairment and make the most of their remaining sight. Advice about using magnification, lighting and contrast is given to assist people with activities like reading, writing and recreation. Services are free and there are satellite clinics available all over Sydney. They include: Campbelltown, Mt Pritchard, Enfield, Pennant Hills, Penrith, UNSW and Sydney Eye Hospital, Forestville and Hornsby. If you are struggling with reading, writing or everyday activities, call 1300 84 74 66 for an appointment. DECEMBER Christmas Celebrations – Saturday, 20th December ej;jhh; bfhz;lhl;lk; rdp jprk;gh; 20 jkpH; |j;j gpuirfs; (ep r nt) r';fj;jpd; ej;jhq; ,d;dpir Muhjid tpHh rdp jprk;gh; 20/ gp g 5/00 kzpf;F fhp';ld; tPjpapy; cs;s fhp';ld; nfhapy; kz;lgj;jpy; rpwg;ghf eilbgw;wJ/ jpUkjp wPw;wh rj;jpa|qj;jpapd; ,iwtzf;fg; ghlYld; Muk;gpj;j ,d;dpir Muhjidapy; r';fj;jpd; jiytq; jpU f re;jpud; mtq;fs; tuntw;g[iu epfH;j;jpdhq;/ jpUkjp ehspdp gj;knjth. jpU gh mHfuj;jpdk;. jpUkjp nkup nghy;. Mfpnahq; Kiwna 1Mk; 2Mk; 3Mk; jpUKiwg; ghf';fis thrpj;jhqfs;/ bjhlq;e;J Mission Australia Fellowship ,d; ghlfq; FGtpduhy; xU ,dpa ej;jhq; ghly; ghlg;gl;lJ/ Sydney Tamil Christian Fellowship ,d; rpnu=;l ghlfq; FGtpdq; ,uz;L ,dpa ghly;fisg; ghodhq;fs;/ fdlhtpypUe;J tUif je;jpUe;j jpiruhrhtpd; ngj;jp bry;tp bwbgf;fh "hdu";rDk; xU ej;jhq; ghliy ,dpikahfg; ghodhq;/ Bro. Jitto nrdhjpuhrh ej;jhq; bra;jpia tH';fdhq;/ rKfkspj;j vy;nyhUk; ,ize;J “Hark the Herald”, “Silent Night” vd;w M';fpyg;ghly;fisg; ghor;

rpwg;gpj;jnjhL jkpH; |j;j gpuirfspd; r';fr;brayhsq; nfzy; t ,uhkehjd; mtqfsJ ed;wp ciua[ld; ,d;dpir Muhjid epiwbta;jpaJ/ mjiidj;bjhlq;e;J Mya kz;lgj;jpy; njePq; tpUe;Jk;. ej;jhq; gg;gh tUifa[k;. gupR tH';fYk; ,dpJ ,lk;bgw;W epiwbta;jpaJ/ 2009 JANUARY Monday – 12 Jan The Business council of Kiama extended a courtesy to the Tamil Seniors Citizens’ Association by offering a free coach trip to Kiama.The trip originated opposite Homebush primary school with a full compliment of 57 passengers and coach captain Paul of Kiama Scenic Tours at the wheel.It was a jolly bunch of people who went on this trip. As the journey commenced we had religious prayers for a safe journey followed by hymns from Hindu and other Christian denominations which was quickly followed by love songs from the movies, popular Tamil and English songs and the ever popular bila. Some generous people had brought savoury and sweet short eats, which was passed down the coach. We had a short break at Ortfords lookout for a stretch and nature relief, the view from the lookout was magnificent and we were once again on the road towards Kiama.There was never a dull moment and everybody was full of fun clapping and singing till we reached our destination. On arrival at Kiama captain Paul gave us a tour of the town and also pointed out the various business establishments that sponsored our trip and then dropped us off at the old fire station which was also our pickup point. We had about 5 hours to scout the town and people wandered off in all directions either individually or in groups, it was decided that we would meet at one of our sponsors The Harbourside Brighton restaurant at 1.00 pm for lunch.As we wandered we crossed into each other and exchanged pleasantries about how much we were enjoying the day. We assembled at the Brighton as prearranged ordered our drinks and enjoyed them in the balcony with the fresh cool sea breeze blowing on our faces. The waitresses informed us when lunch was ready and we moved into the dinning room and were offered a choice of four mouth watering menus, we ordered according to our individual taste and everybody commented on how fresh ,tasty and the value for money. We boarded the coach at 3.00pm and were driven to the blowhole, Some were able to view the blow hole in its fury at high tide unfortunately some missed out at low tide. The return journey was as lively as the outward trip, Charles Rajendram proposed a vote of thanks to Col.Ramanathan and his supportive wife Seetha for organising the trip, a hat collection was taken up for coach captain Paul.

We all returned after a very enjoyable day and hoping that we will have many more days like this in the future.

Elmo Xavier Thai Pongal celebration - 17 Jan 09 Thai Pongal celebrations were cancelled due to the precarious situation in the Vanni. Members’ Day – Thursday, 22 January Mr Velupillai Satchithananthan – Handyman’s advice around the house. kwtd;g[yt[ f rr;rpjhde;jd; rdtup khj m';fj;jtu; jpdj;jd;W eilbgw;w Tl;lj;jpy; kwtd;g[yt[ f rr;rpjhde;jd; mtu;fs; @thH;tpay; nehf;f';fs;@ vd;Dk; bghUs;gw;wp ciuahw;wpdhu;;/ |j;j Fokf;fs; clypy; jsu;r;rpa[w;whYk; cs;sj;jhy; ,sik tdg;g[ld; thH;f;ifapy; nrhu;tilahJ jkJ rKjhaj;jpw;F gad;jUk; tz;zk; jkJ Fwpf;nfhs;fis epiwt[bra;tjpd; mtrpaj;ij typa[Wj;jpa mtu; fle;j 10 tUl';fshf jhd; mwp"u; rpyupd; cjtpa[ld; mauhJ ciHj;J 12 jpUKiwfisa[[k; mz;ikapy; kpd;dk;gyj;jsj;jpy; (Websitey;) xg;ngw;wpa mUk;bgUk; gzpgw;wp tpsf;fpdhu;/ 12 jkpH;j; jpUKiwfisa[k; 18 bkhHpfspy; bkhHpbgau;j;jJld; 18246 ghly;fSf;Fk; bghHpg;g[iu. Fwpg;g[iu. ghly; ghlg;bgw;w jy tuyhW. ghliy mUspnahu; tuyhW Mfpatw;iwa[k; ,izj;J kpd;dk;gyj;jsj;jpy; je;Js;shu;/ cyfpy; ve;jg; gFjpapy; ,Ue;Jk; xUtu; goj;Jg; gad;bgWkhW Mf;fg;gl;l ,g;gzp xU kpfg; bgupa rhjid vdj; jkpH; cyfk; nghw;Wfpd;wJ/ mj;Jld; ghly;fs; ghlg;bgw;w nfhapy;fspd;; gl';fisa[k; ghu;f;fKofpwJ/ kzpthrfg; bgUkhdpd; vl;lhk; jpUKiwg; ghly;fisa[k;(jpUthrfk;. jpUf;nfhitahu;) ntW gy ghly;fisa[k; ,ira[ld; nfl;ft[k; KofpwJ/ 18246 ghly;fSf;Fk; M';fpyj;jpy; Transliteration brag;gl;Lf; fUj;Jld; tps';Ftjhy; cyfpy; thGk; jkpH;g; gps;sfs; ,yFthf ,g; ghly;fisg; bghUSzu;e;J gof;f KofpwJ/ mj;Jld; bka;fz;l njtu; ,aw;wpa rpt"hdnghjk; Kjy; ckhgjp rpthr;rhupahu; ,aw;wpa r';fw;g epuhfuzk; tiu gyupd; Mf;f';fSk; jug;gl;Ls;sJ/ www.thevaaram.org vd;w ,e;j kpd;dk;gyj;jpw;Fr;; (Websitef;F) brd;W ghly;fisg; ghu;j;Jk; ,ira[ld; nfl;Lk; gad;bgwyhk;/ FEBRUARY Members’ Day – Thursday, 26 February kzthH;tpd; itutpHh md;iwa jpdk; r';fug;gps;is tp*;tehj Kjypahq; - ,uh$uhn$*tup jk;gjpfspd; kzthH;tpd; itutpHh bfhz;lhlg;gl;lJ/ mtq;fs; m';fj;jtq;fSf;Fr; rpw;Wz;ofs; tH';fp kfpH;tpj;jhq;fs;/ gy;Rit epfH;r;rpfs; md;iwa jpdk; m';fj;jtq;fspd; ciuahly;. ,ira[ld; ghly;. ftpij. eifr;Rit. nghd;w gy;Rit epfH;rprfs; rpwg;ghf eilbgw;wd/ gy;Rit epfH;rpfisr; r';fj;jiytq; fzgjpg;gps;is re;jpud;

Muk;gp itj;jijj; bjhlqe;J bghd;ikapiyehjd;. etk; bghd;dk;gyk;. gj;kpdp ul;ndrq;. rhe;jkyq; ghyRg;gpukzpak;. gy;itj;jpa fyhepjp ,sKUfdhq; ghujp. rpwp u';nf*;tup ghujp. fe;ijah uhn$e;jpud;. thRfpnjtp kfhnjtd;. fzgjpg;gpsis jpy;iyehjd;. ,e;jpuh gps;is. rhs;*; uhn$e;jpuk;. n&hg; uhn$e;jpuk;/ nkup nghy;/ rPjh uhkehjd;/ mk;gpfh Rg;gpukzpak;. gz;ojehafp jpiruhrh. rhKnty; jpiruhrh. vy;nkh nrtpaq;. bry;iyah ntYg;gps;is. ntYg;gps;is rr;rpjhde;jd;. btw;wpnty; njtuh$d;. Mfpnahq; j';fs; jpiwikfis btspf;bfhzq;e;J j';fs; g';fspg;gpig ey;fpdhq;fs;/ MARCH BENSOC Annual General Meeting - Saturday, 21 March. The Annual General meeting of the Tamil Seniors Citizens’ Benevolent Society will be held at 9.30 am in the Carrington Church Hall, 13 Carrington Avenue (only about 350 meters from the Strathfield station), Strathfield 2135. All members of the Society are requested to make it a point to attend and support your Board of Trustees and ensure we have a quorum, and please encourage other members to attend. Nominations, to the Board of Trustees, close at 1.00 pm on Wednesday, 11 Mar 09. Seniors’ Week Sun – Sun 15– 22 March

Members’ Members’ Day – Thursday, 26 March

Tournaments to highlight the seniors’ Week are in progress and will be completed by Thursday, 19 March 2009. An anonymous friend of the late Mr Ponnuthurai has donated $150 in his memory to award a trophy for the Bridge Tournament. Outdoor Competitions Soft Ball Cricket match at 9.30 am on Thursday 26 March 2009, in the Airey Park, Bates St, Homebush (adjoining the Community Centre). Members wishing to participate should please give in their names by Thu, 19 Mar 09 to Mr Jegendran 9891 3428 or Mr N Murugesu 9763 1125. Awards ceremony – 26 March Awards ceremony will be in the Community Centre at 12.30 pm. Fellowship Lunch at 1.00 pm. All members and guests are invited to attend and enjoy the games, and fellowship lunch at $ 5.00 to follow. Please book your lunch as you would for a Members’ Day by 7.00 pm on Tuesday, 24 Mar 09.. Building Fund Classical Vocal Concert 28th March 6.30 pm Homebush Boys High Mr E Vijayaratnam is taking great efforts to collect funds for the building fund. To make his dreams come true thereby benefiting the Tamil Community, a classical concert by the renowned vocal expert Ahilan Sivanandan accompanied by Balaji Jaganathan on the violin and Janakan Suthanthiraraj on the Mirudangam will be performed. The President requests all seniors to support

this project since we are in the midst of deciding if we can afford to continue using the Boulevarde premises. Contact Vijayaratnam on 97643715 to offer any assistance you can as well as sell tickets and give publicity. Get all your friends to make this venture with a vision a grand success. APRIL Daylight saving end at 3.00 am on Sunday 5th April 2009. Please note to put your clocks back by one hour before going to bed on Saturday, 4th April 2009. gfw;bghGJ ngZifapd; Kot[ 5 "hapW 5 Vg;upy; mjpfhiy 3/00 kzpf;F ngZifapd; Kot[ 4 rdp Vg;upy; ,ut[ fofhu Ks;spid xU kzp gpd;itf;f kwe;JtplhjPh;fs;/ HINDU NEW YEAR - Tuesday, 14th April 08 10.30 am Special Prayers and religious rites at Sydney Murugan Temple on Tuesday, 14th April to usher in the Hindu New Year. All Seniors and well wishers are invited to get Lord Murugan’s Blessings. irtg; g[j;jhz;L tHpghL irtg;; g[j;jhz;L vjpq tUk; Vg;uy; khjk; 14 Mk; njjp brt;tha;f;fpHik gpwf;fpd;wJ/ md;W fhiy 10/30 kzpf;F rpl;dp KUfd; nfhapypny eilbgwtpUf;Fk; tpnrl g{ir Muhjidfspy; jkpH; |j;j gpuirfs; r';fj;jpdUk; MjuthsUk; fye;J KUfd; mUisg;; bgw ntz;lg;gLfpwhqfs;/ Members’ Day – Thursday, 23 April Caroline Trinh from Vision Care will make a presentation on Diabetic Retinopathy and Glaucoma. May GRANDCHILDRENS’ DAY – Saturday, 16 May m';fj;jtqfspd; ngug;gps;isfs; jpdk;; n&hk;g[=; Mltq caq; ghlrhiy kz;lgj;jpy; rdpf;fpHik 16 nk . 2009 ,y; khiy (4/45) 5/00 Kjy; khiy 7/00 tiu bfhz;lhlg;gLk;/ Grand Children's day will be held in the Homebush Boys High School 4.45 for 5.00 pm on Saturday, 16 May 2009. All members are kindly requested to co-operate and participate in the celebration and make it a success. The Day will include items like singing, dancing, performance of musical instruments, recitation of poems delivering orations etc. As we anticipate a large number of participants and as the duration of the function shall not exceed two (2) hours, we propose to observe the following limitations: 1. Only one item (either one child or combined group of children) of each grandparent will be permitted to participate. MORE THAN ONE GROUP OF Grandparents may combine to present an item. 2. The Grandchild should be under 18 years of age. 3. The maximum time permitted for each performance shall not exceed 10 minutes, in the case of a group item the time shall not exceed 15 minutes.

4. To provide variety in the program a sub-committee will be appointed to determine the number and selection of participants. Entries close am on Thursday, 7 May 2009. For further particulars please contact Messrs S Velupillai 9749 9691, Col Ramanathan 9875 4217 May Members’ Day – Thursday, 28 May Members’ Handicraft Exhibition June Membership Fees 2009/10 Members are reminded that membership fees for the year 2009/2010 are due by 1st July 2009. Payment: Membership Fee may be paid by cash or cheque drawn in favour of “Tamil Senior Citizens’ Association” or it may be deposited to the TSCA’s account bearing no. 062 256 10173352 at Commonwealth Bank and the deposit slip or copy (with your name on it) mailed,emailed or handed over to:

Mr. K Thanga-Raja Treasurer TSCA 28 Kessel Ave Homebush 2140 9746 0545. Members’ Day – Thursday, 25 June Womens’ Day July Members’ Day – Thursday, 23 July Our President speaks August Members’ Day – Thursday, 27 August

‘Storming the Bastille’ ‘vLj;Jiuj;jy;’ m

Annual General Meeting – Saturday 29 August 09 September Members’ Day – Thursday, 24 September A presentation on “Quality Use of Medicine" by Dr. Vijay Ramanathan. CONDOLENCES We offer our deepest sympathies to: The family of Mr. Ponnudurai RAJARATNAM on his demise on 11 July 2008. His remains were interred in the Castle Hill cemetery on 15 July 2008. Col Vallipuram and Seetha Ramanathan on the demise of their brother/brother in law Dr. Vallipuram NAGARATNAM in Toronto on 26 July 2008. His remains were interred in Canada on 30 July 2008. Miss Thanalakshmy Muthiah on the demise of her mother Mrs. Thanagaratnam MUTHIAH on 15 August 2008. Her remains were interred on 18 Aug 08 in the Macquarie Park Cemetery & Crematorium

The family of Mr. Nagalingam PONNUTHURAI on his demise on 15 Aug 08. His remains were interred in the Rookwood Crematorium on 19 Aug 08. Mrs. Selvaranee Solomon on the demise of her husband Rev. Spaulding Paul Kirubal SOLOMON on 27 Aug 08. His remains were interred on 1 Sep 08 in the Rookwood Cemetery. Mr. Edward Gunasingham on the demise of his mother Sornamma ASIRVATHAM on 10 Sep 08. Her remains were interred in the Rookwood Cemetery on 13 Sep 08. Mrs. Nesadevi Canagasingham on the demise of her brother in law Mr A.V.Arulampalam on 21 Jul 08. His remains were cremated on 22 Jul 08 in Adelaide. A Thanks Giving Service in his memory was held on 21 Sep 08. Mr. Leslie and Mrs. Nesadevi Canagasingham on the demise of their brother/brother in law Mr. Philip J Carpenter CANAGASINGHAM on 16 Sep 08 in Canada. His remains were interred on 20 Sep 08. The family of Mr. Edmund Vincent CHRISTIAN on his demise on 19 Sep 08. His remains were interred in the Castlebrook Cemetery, Rosehill on 23 Sep 08 Mr S Skandakumar on the demise of his father in law Mr. Senathirajasegaram GANESARAJAH on 27 Nov 08. His remains were interred in the Northern Suburbs Crematorium on 29 Nov 08. The family of Rajapackiam AMBIKAIPAHAR on her demise on 4 Dec 08. Her remains were interred in the Northern Suburbs Crematorium on 9 Dec 08. Perampalam Yogaratnam on the demise of his wife Manoranjitham YOGARATNAM on 9 Dec 08. Her remains were interred in the Northern Suburbs Crematorium on 13 Dec 08. Mrs. Rita PONNAMBALAM and Mr. Navam PONNAMBALAM on the demise of their brother and brother in law Dr. John SUPRAMANIAM in Singapore on 11 Dec 08. His remains were interred in Singapore on 15 Dec 08. Mrs. Pathmavathy Arumainayagam and Mrs. Puvaneswary Ponmailainathan on the demise of their sister in law Mrs.Valliammai KANAGASABAI of Karugampanai on 2 Dec 08 in Colombo. Her remains were interred in the Galkssa Crematorium on 7 Dec 08. Mrs. Puvaneswary Arumugam and Sinnathamby Arumugam on the demise of their brother and brother in law Ambalavanar JEGANATHAN in Uduvil on 23 Dec 08. Hiis remains were interred in the Poovodai cemetery on 24 Dec 08. Mr. Thuraiappah Visuvanathan on the demise of his wife Mrs. Jeevanayaky VISUVANATHAN on Friday, 6 Feb 09. Her remains were interred in the Macquarie Crematorium on Monday, 9 Feb 09. MILESTONES Mr. Sivaguru Mylvaganam and Mrs. Wijeyaledchumy Mylvaganam celebrated their Daimond Wedding Anniversary (14 Nov) in the Community Centre on 20 Nov 08.

Mr Samuel and Mrs. P Thisairasa celebrated their Goden Wedding Anniversary (25 Dec) in the Community Centre on 18 Dec 08. Mr. Sangarapillay Visvanatha ann Rajarajeswary Visvanathan MUDALIYAR celebrated their Diamond Wedding anniversary (4 Feb) in the community centre on 26 Feb 09. NEW MEMBERS We welcome the following members into the Association: 1049 WICKRAMABASKARAN Kandasamy Mr 1050 MATHER Ratnapoopathy Mrs 1051 AHILANANDAN Rajamalar Mrs 1052 VIVEKANANDAN Nagalingam Dr 1053 SIVAPATHAM Muttucumaru Mr 1054 VARATHARAJAH Chandra Mrs 1055 BASTIAMPILLAI Jules Andrew Brault Mr 1056 BASTIAMPILLAI LilyTeresa Selvaranee Mrs 1057 SANTHIAPILLAI Issac Mr 1058 SANTHIAPILLAI Josephine Mrs 1059 KUMARIAH Kumaradevi Mrs 1060 PARAMESWARAN Venasithamby Dr 1061 PARAMESWARAN Radha Mrs 1062 NAVARATNAM Priyadharshini Mrs 1063 SABARATNAM Sakunthala Mrs 1064 RATNASINGHAM Sittampalam Mr 1065 RATNASINGHAM Kamaladevy Mrs 1066 KUNASEELAN Kanapathipillai Mr 1067 KUNASEELAN Chowthamini Mrs 1068 NADESAN Thangarajah Mr 1069 JEYARAJAH Samuel Mr 1070 ARUMUGAM Kathiresapillai Mr 1071 ARUMUGAM Pakkiyaretnam Mrs 1072 VALASUBRAMANIAM Santhamalar Mrs 1073 PATHMANATHAN Arumugam Mr 1074 PATHMANATHAN Kamaleswary Mrs 1075 SIVARAMALINGAM Selvarani Mrs 1076 SUBRAMANIAM Jayamany Mrs 1077 PANCHADCHARAM Kalaivany Mrs 1078 GOWRISHANKARAN Vaidialingam Mr 1079 KANDAIYA Christopher Mr 1080 JEBARETNAM Karunai Ammah Mrs 1081 KATHIRAVELU Nageswari Mrs 1082 JAYASEELAN Lily Saradadevi Mrs 1083 BALASUBRAMANIAM Mandalanayagam Mr 1084 BALASUBRAMANIAM Buvaneswary Mrs 1085 SELVARAJAH Antony Santhiyapillai Mr 1086 SELVARAJAH Philomina Mrs STATISTICS The Association has 806 active members on its register and the Benevolent Society has a total active membership of 638 members on its register of which 19 are Provisional Members, as at end of February 2009.

Handicraft Exhibition 2008

Confronting the Storming of the Bastille

Annual General Meeting 30 August 2008

Polling booths, Guarding the ballot boxes Counting the votes cast

Your Management Committee 2008/2009 Seated: R Jegendran K Thanga Raja. Dr G C Pathinather. G Santhiran. Col.V Ramanathan.P Panchadcharam.

Standing: Mrs. P Thisairasa.Mrs. M Paul. Mrs. B Lakshmanan. E Vijayaratnam. S Velupillai.. S Ponmailainathan. Mrs A Subramaniam. Mrs T Mylvaganam.

Lunch in memory of the late Mr. Nagalingam Ponnuthurai Visit to Kiama

Visit to the Bahai Temple

Col. V Ramanathan Seniors’ Week Achievement 2009 Awards winner

The Floriade - Canberra