The Mayor's Column
The East Timorese have long struggled for independence, and over the years have fought off Japanese invasion during World War 11 and overturned Portuguese colonisation only to be overrun by Indonesia. Although independence has recently been achieved, the people have suffered and it will take a long time for the country to recover.
In recognition of the deprivation of the people of East Timor (Timor Leste), local government areas in Australia have been encouraged to set up Friendship Relationships with areas of Timor Leste. The activities of the Friendship Relationships are wide ranging and include supporting democratic governance to material aid such as educational materials, medical equipment, tools, library equipment and bicycles.
Eleven Sydney Councils and others in Australia have joined so far and Mosman Council recently unanimously resolved to support the initiative as well.
The Council has resolved to set up a Friendship Relationship with an area of Timor Leste and will be seeking advice on which area is best suited to Mosman and will investigate the possibility of supporting the Topu Honis Children’s Home in Kutet Ambenu, East Timor. The Council will also invite local schools to become friendship schools with those in the selected area of East Timor; and to hold a public meeting with appropriate speakers giving our community the opportunity to participate.
To get the ball rolling there will be a free public screening of the film A Hero’s Journey at 7.00pm in the Council Chambers on Friday 18 May. This is the story of the East Timorese struggle for independence from Indonesia, the hero being the resistance leader and then first President of the Democratic Republic, Xanana Gusmao. President Gusmao is the host and guide throughout the documentary, speaking in four languages: English, Portuguese, Indonesian and his native Tetun. He reveals his Timor through his eyes and from his heart, and we hear the touching and inspiring stories of the Timorese people – old men, widows and children. To attend the screening of A Hero’s Journey please make a booking by calling 9978 4257.
I believe there is strong community support for a Friendship Relationship Programme between Timor Leste and Mosman and that whilst we can support and help alleviate suffering we can also benefit as a community from a sharing of cultures and ideas. I hope many Mosman residents become involved.
Cr Denise Wilton, Mayor of Mosman