Indonesian Students' Fundraising for Tsunami Relief Work


On Sunday, 16 January, the church grounds at St Francis' were alive with the rich musical sounds of songs and band music played by a representative group of our Indonesian Youth Community in Melbourne. Some of the young people were from the MUDIKA (Indonesian Catholic) Music Group, and others from the PutiHitam Production group - an organization whose main activity is to manage events in the field of art and culture.

Under the organizing skills and coordination of Daniella Praborini and Herman Andryanto, a full day's programme was put together which included a photographic exhibition and music / song items.

It was superb day, greatly appreciated by the vast numbers of people who attend Sunday Masses at St Francis'. The entertainment took place in the church grounds after each Mass, with the photographic exhibition lasting all day until 7pm.

Through donations made by churchgoers, and the selling of some of the photographs, a sizeable amount of money was raised for the relief work. As soon as the total amount is known, it will be announced.

The most enthusiastic response was after the 5.30pm Mass when a huge crowd of young people and family groups stayed on for the prolonged song session.

Hearty congratulations to all who participated in the preparations, the behind the scene organization, and the actual staging of this significant occasion. It truly is a credit to the young people that their initiative has proven to be so successful, and that their vigorous engagement in this project has been so successful to-date. They are planning some follow-up activities elsewhere in the City of Melbourne. Thank you to everyone!

… Selection of photos taken during the day …