newsletterThirty-three AFK members gathered in the boardroom at the Clayton Utz Offices in Sydney to continue discussions about the projects aligned to our core purpose of "helping to create a positive future for Kastellorizo, recognising our proud heritage, and giving something back to the island of our forefathers."The setting provided the perfect forum to discuss many exciting ideas. I would even be bold enough to say that the professional environment contributed to so many members wanting to give assistance, because of their passion and vision of what is possible if we all work together.
It was wonderful to see a range of ages represented with the youngest being Elisse Zarimis, a 23 year old providing ideas for younger people with Kastellorizian links. After further discussions with her, she is keen to reach members of her age group explaining that AFK can offer them enrichment, stimulation and fun. An interactive website function with Social Networking may encourage younger members to participate more actively.
One of the many highlights of the meeting was to see many innovative ideas contributed during discussion time. For example, Tanny Mangos suggesting that we download historical information onto ipods for young people to use during the Youth Festival Week or any week they happen to find themselves on Kastellorizo. In fact, you may also find that this will be popular with adult audiences. Andrew Johnstone, another member offered to work on the Heritage Trails with other people from Sydney who would then liaise with Nicholas Pappas about the historical accuracy in readiness for July 2009. Work is currently underway for the completion of the Heritage Trail. It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm that has been generated to fulfil our aims and for members to contribute their skills.
Members were treated to a preview of the artwork from the Artist in Residence, Dr Platon Alexiou, showing different historical periods of Kastellorizo that will be on display in Perth and Sydney and available for sale in May 2009. These images will form part of the illustrated history book for children that is a work in progress. Sydney participants at the meeting Tanny Mangos, Denise Lazarus, Amanda Frazis and Christine Lynch are keen to assist with the art exhibition planned for Sydney. If one had any doubts about the purpose of the meeting in Sydney, then they were dispelled with the outcomes achieved on that day and the continuing work for the completion of many projects.
Another suggestion is to collect ‘pre-loved' laptops to donate to the school on Kastellorizo. Another idea is to collect English/Greek dictionaries for students on the island. Betty Mouzak, the Principal, is keen for both of these ideas to happen. If you can assist us in any way, please let AFK know at mazzmacc@tpg.com.au
A Preventative Dental Hygiene Program for students is being considered since the success of John Andronicos' talk at the school on Kastellorizo. He also attended to both boys' dental needs while they were in Australia on Student Exchange in 2008. Once again, this generosity highlights one of AFK's aims of contributing our skills for the betterment of young people on the island.
Plans are underway for a Film Festival on the island during the months of July and August. If you have any suggestions whether they are Greek or Australian films that would be suitable, AFK wants to hear from you. Emanuel and Anne Foundas have offered to purchase the Projector and Home Cinema package in High Definition for AFK to ensure quality viewing. Once again, such generosity is making the Film Festival viable for 2009.
The launch of "Filia" AFK's first quarterly newsletter for 2009 asks all of you who receive it to tell us what you would like to read in ongoing publications. We have three more editions for this year. If you would like to write an article for any of the forthcoming editions, please contact me, because we want to hear your views, even if you suggest an idea that you would like explored. In Nicholas Pappas' explanation of the original publication of "Filia" he mentioned that the aim was to develop and promote the islands of Kastellorizo from all points of view. The coincidence is that 100 years later Australian Friends of Kastellorizo has the same vision and purpose for the island.
- Marilyn Tsolakis