United Indian Associations Inc. held its annual dinner and Celebrations of Indian Republic day and Australia Day on 20 Jan 2012. The event was well attended by over 450 people from 19 various organisations that form part of UIA. The event highlighted the unity and strength of the organisation providing a great opportunity for the Indian Australians to enjoy and celebrate the national days of India and Australia.
UIA President Mr Amarinder Bajwa in his opening remarks thanked many dignitaries and parliamentarians from federal and state governments that had gathered in strength to support the community and UIA.
Mr. Bajwa congratulated HSC high achievers of the year 2011 applauding their efforts and hard work to make the parents and communities proud and reiterated that these students represent the culture, values and hopes of all to serve the country and the communities that they represent.
Touching upon the history of Republic Day and Australia day Mr. Bajwa reminded about the national significance of the national day and its celebrations by UIA and UIA’s dedication towards social integration and development and being proud Australians with the rich culture and legacy of the Indian background.
Federal Member of Parliamentarians that attended the event included The Hon Chris Bowen, The Hon Julie Owens, The Hon Michelle Rowland, The Hon Phillip Rudduck and The Hon Laurie Ferguson. State MP’s included The Hon Linda Burney, The Hon Victor Dominello, The Hon Greg Smith, Hon Dr Geoff Lee, Hon Matt Kean, Hon Barbara Perry, Hon Amanda Fazio, Hon Robert Furolo and Hon Tony Issa. All speakers highlighted the growth of India and significance of the relationship between India and Australia and applauded the efforts by UIA team in social development and representing the Indian diaspora in Sydney.
Consul General of India in Sydney Mr. Amit Das Gupta attended and addressed the gathering along with Consul Mr. Gautam Roy.
UIA presented HSC High achiever awards to 25 students from the communities, 4 Life time Achievement Awards, 6 Community Service awards, 3 Friends of India Awards and 1 young achiever award was bestowed upon the seniors and people of eminence from the Indian diaspora.
| Lifetime Achievement Award | |||
| Neville | Roach | ||
| Arun | Jagatramka | ||
| Harish | Velji | ||
| Dr Stepan | Kerkyasharian | ||
| Community Service Award | |||
| Dave | Passi | ||
| Dr. Nagamma | Prakash | ||
| Sumati | Advani | ||
| Logessan | Pillay | ||
| Late Mrs. Leelamony | Pillai | ||
| Friends of India | |||
| Robert | Redfern | ||
| Brian | Laul | ||
| Rabbi Dovid | Slavin | ||
| Young Achiever Award | |||
| Soumil | Chibber | ||
The list of students that were awarded with the HSC High Achiever awards is attached herewith. The event presented cultural dances by Marathi Association and songs by singers. The sponsors to the event were also presented with certificates of appreciation and included Bank of Queensland, Billus Indian Restaurant, Select Insurance, Gold Star Learning and Commonwealth Bank. The event was well received by the community leaders of all organisations and many individuals.
Certificate of Appreciation were also bestowed upon the cast of a short film produced in Australia by a group of local actors and artists named “The Jury”. A launch of the promotional website for the Indian events PromoteURevent.com.au was also made during the general announcements.
