CEREMONY... New Committees oath-taking: From left to right – Cathy Javier (President) , Mayette Martin (Vice President), Emmie Stenhouse , Guille Colonia (Secretary), Rebecca Reid, Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Gennie Ewert, Jessica Carminati, Welda Bunny, Emma Nacion Prasad, Emily Venn, Roise Read, Ticia Perez (sorry just half of her body) Back: From left to right – Peter Lucas, Trevor Ewert, Mark Bunny (Treasurer) and Jeremy James. Photo: Supplied
THE Filipino Australian and Friends Association Inc. (FAFA) once again hosted a successful and vibrant celebration! On Saturday, September 21, 2024, over 100 guests gathered at St. Paul’s African House to celebrate FAFA’s 42nd Anniversary and witness two special oath-taking ceremonies, conducted by the honourable Philippine Consul General in Victoria Maria Lourdes Salcedo.
The evening was filled with excitement from start to finish, leaving attendees delighted with a night full of entertainment and memorable moments. Guests were treated to a diverse array of performances, including captivating dance presentations, soulful singing, an engaging ukulele rendition, and a fun-filled raffle draw.
The event’s highlights included the formal oath-taking of FAFA’s new committee members, most of them wearing Filipiniana dress, a dual citizenship oath-taking ceremony, and the prestigious Award for Athletic Achievement. Ryan Thomas is humble previous student from Notre Dame College Shepparton who won seven medals at Vancouver and Kelowna, has made us all proud. The beautifully crafted decorations and welcoming table setups added to the event’s festive atmosphere, making it a truly special occasion.
The night would not have been complete without delicious food and desserts, generously provided by the committees and for bringing a plate of food to share from the attendees – showcasing their specialties and generous donors of two lechons – roast whole pig on a spit (charcoal). Many guests went home with take-away, and the dance floor was alive with energy as everyone celebrated.
Organisers said that FAFA’s 42nd Anniversary was a testament to the strength and unity of the community, showcasing culture, talent, and spirit. They extend heartfelt thanks to all attendees, performers, donors, and special guests for making this event unforgettable.
CEREMONY… New Committees oath-taking: From left to right – Cathy Javier (President) , Mayette Martin (Vice President), Emmie Stenhouse , Guille Colonia (Secretary), Rebecca Reid, Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Gennie Ewert, Jessica Carminati, Welda Bunny, Emma Nacion Prasad, Emily Venn, Roise Read, Ticia Perez (sorry just half of her body) Back: From left to right – Peter Lucas, Trevor Ewert, Mark Bunny (Treasurer) and Jeremy James. Photo: SuppliedACHIEVEMENT… Awarding of the Athletic Achievement: From left to right – Cathy Javier, Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Thomas Ryan, Edith Ryan and Mick Ryan. Photo: SuppliedHAPPY TIMES… Isem Isem (One of the native dialects meaning Smile Smile) dancer. From left to right – Mayette Martin, Rosie Read, Cathy Javier, with guest Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Rebecca Reid, Jessica Carminati. Photo: SuppliedFUN EVENING… One Way Ticket dancer: From left to right – Mayette Martin, Janet Pilal, Olivia Bermudez, Dithche Lopez, Bibiana Sto Domingo, Viv’s Natale, Frecy Jhane Stevens and the Emcee: Cecilia Babano Cash (left) and Entertainer/Singer: Romy Samuel (right). Photo: SuppliedCELEBRATE CULTURE… Sayaw sa Payong (Umbrella dance) dancer: From left to right – Tricia Perez, Genie Ewert, Marissa Wyatt, Emma Nacion Prasad, Emily Venn, Bernie Mojica Capili and Welda Bunny. Photo: SuppliedFLORAL… Bulaklakan (Flower dance) dancer; From left to right – Guilly Jones, Olivia Bermudez, Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, Viv’s Natale, Emmie Stenhouse and Rosie Read. Photo: SuppliedPERFORMANCES… Pillin mo ang Pilipinas (Choose the Philippines): From left to right – Bernie Mojica Capili, Gennie Ewert, Emma Nacion Prasad, Tricia Perez, Emily Venn, Marissa Wyatt, Welda Bunny. Photo: SuppliedMUSICAL MOMENTS… Ukelele Rendition group: From left to right – Maria Benita Lacuin, Cathy Javier and Delma Broughton. Photo: SuppliedSPECIAL EVENT… Organisers said that FAFA’s 42nd Anniversary was a testament to the strength and unity of the community, showcasing culture, talent, and spirit. Over 100 people attended on the night. Photo: Supplied
