Report and pics: Colin Fernandes
Daijiworld Media Network – Melbourne (SP)

Melbourne, Apr 14: The Mangalorean Catholic Association of Victoria (MCAV) organized a family day-out for the community members at the beautiful Jells Park, Wheelers Hill, in the south-east of Melbourne, on Saturday April 10, 2010.

Picnic provides a golden opportunity for the members of a community to meet one another, renew their bonds of friendship and rejuvenate their sense of community culture. The well-attended MCAV Family day-out was no different.

Bert Naik, founder-president of MCAV, welcomed the attendees. He spoke of the importance of fellowship among the members of the community, and how MCAV has provided a great platform for nurturing such fellowship.

MCAV has been built on the firm foundation of a constitution, and provides every member an opportunity to gain many managerial skills – so very critical in today’s world, by being part of the committee.

There was some apprehension that the gathering clouds would play spoil-sport. However, the day remained very pleasant, with a steady, cool breeze.

Elias Mascarenhas, a former committee member of MCAV, planned and conducted several games including the Lemon and Spoon race, hitting the pot etc. Adults and kids alike participated in the games with great enthusiasm.

The event generated a lot of laughter, and of course, a lot of good-will among the participants.

MCAV provided a free, delicious, lunch and refreshments to the members.

Allen Mendonsa (secretary), welcomed the new members of MCAV. He also announced that the next event, the MCAV Annual Dance, an eagerly awaited occasion each year, would be held on July 10, 2010.

The event came to an end with a ‘thank you’ note from Colin Fernandes (vice president) for the support extended by the community members to MCAV. Colin thanked volunteers who made the event possible. He reiterated the message that greater gains could be made by the members by joining the committee.