One change to Australia’s immigration process that was snuck into Budget 2020 is the requirement for partner visa applicants to sit an English language test, which feels eerily similar to the White Australia Policy from decades ago.
These new changes would require anyone who wants to come to Australia on a partner visa to prove they speak good enough English, and if their loved one in Australia is a permanent resident rather than a citizen, …
Where do I belong?
If you’re a first-generation ‘anything’ you’ve probably fielded the “Where are you from?” question all your life. Unlike a lot of people, this question has never actually bothered me, but I understand why it bothers others. I’m the over-sharing type and love to teach people about my identity.
But what is my identity? This is a question I’ve only recently realised I haven’t fully come to terms with. I …
LET US KNOW
THE Community Diary and Weekend Planner offer free entries to not-for-profit groups, organisations, clubs and schools in the wider Mackay region.
Email details of your event, under the subject ‘Community Diary’ to heidi.petith@news.com.au
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7
– MANDALA rock art workshop hosted by Earth Designs by Fi, sponsored by Mackay Regional Council and Arts Qld, 6.30-8.30pm, The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George St. Tickets $15. Book via website.
– VOYAGE of Botanical …
The parents of an Australian toddler killed by the port explosion in Beirut have spoken publicly for the first time, revealing their desperate attempts to get to hospital after their son was injured while sitting in his highchair.
Toddler Isaac Oehlers was struck by glass while sitting in his highchair in an apartment 700 metres from the blast Mother Sarah Copland says a kind stranger stopped on the road amid the chaos and drove them…Behind dark sunglasses, a man in a grey suit sits cross-legged on a stage, a stringed instrument called a tambura in his lap.
He leans towards the microphone and before a crowded cafe in the hills of Perth, sings songs from the mountains of Afghanistan.
“Playing tambura, it is about freedom. I’m playing to make happiness for people,” he tells SBS News.
Asad Alizada arrived in Australia seven years ago. He is a former Afghan …
National dress: Members from 22 multicultural Catholic communities were represented in the entrance procession.
CATHOLICS from 22 multicultural communities processed into St Stephen’s Cathedral wearing national dress for the Multicultural Mass celebrated by Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge last Sunday.
Coronavirus restrictions had taken a toll on the large numbers usually present at the Mass while the typical festivities like the food exhibition were unable to go ahead.
Even so, almost 100 people gathered for the …
THERE’S plenty of COVID-safe events taking place on the Coffs Coast over the next week (October 3 – October 9). Here’s your weekly go-to guide.
Oktoberfest at Moonee Beach Tavern
What: Moonee Beach Tavern is celebrating Oktoberfest with a German-themed menu for lunch and dinner, Beck’s stubbies on ice and Paulaner Pilsner on tap, German music, games including beer pong for adults, and art activities for the kids.
Where: Moonee Beach Tavern.
When: Saturday, October …
LET US KNOW
The Community Diary and Weekend Planner offer free entries to not-for-profit groups, organisations, clubs and schools in the wider Mackay region.
Email details of your event, under the subject ‘Community Diary’ to heidi.petith@news.com.au
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
– CURIOUS Affection three-day workshop intensive in drama and performance for people with and without disability 15 years and older. Participants will explore a world where beauty is not ruled by notions of perfection by responding …
THERE’S plenty of COVID-safe events taking place on the Coffs Coast over the next week (September 26 – October 2). Here’s your weekly go-to guide.
Benny Black on the deck
What: Indie-rock performer Benny Black draws influence from and successfully fuses elements of vintage and modern rock and blues to create his own unique sound. His music is reminiscent of world famous bands like The Black Keys and The Strokes, and he’s just released his …
Good Day Sunshine, Remix Hotel, Set Up Groundbreaking COVID-Safe Measures
Two of the first festivals to stage after restrictions lifted in some Australian states implemented COVID-safe measures that were praised for their ingenuity.
When the Good Day Sunshine in Western Australia had to shift from late March to Oct. 31, Ross Macpherson, CEO of events promoter and artist management firm Macro Music, devised a strategy to keep its 5,000 patrons within …
