Pics: Cyril DSilva
Melbourne, Sep 11: On Sunday September 10 mass was held at Our Lady of Lourdes, Seven Hills and was concelebrated by Fr Prakash Cutinha who flew down from Melbourne. The social secretary Rowena Sequeira ensured the mass went ahead smoothly and without a glitch. The choir was conducted beautifully by Neil Mascarenhas, who also played the guitar accompanied by Brendon Moras on the keyboard along with Jolyene Moras, Dina Moras, Brian Ferrao and Daphne Rodrigues. The Indian Consul General B Vanlalvawna attended the mass along with Federal MP’s David Clarke and Kevin Conolly.
Treasurer Dolphie Mascarenhas and Anil Pinto trialled the new technology to validate ticketing which was very well received by the attendees. The cultural programme was kicked off by general secretary Joylene who was also the MC of the day. The children excitedly showered petals on the statue of our mother Mary, which was also followed by a prayer and singing of hymns.
Joylene invited the president Cyril D’Silva to say a few words. Cyril welcomed the attendees and introduced the committee. With a growing number of younger people now deciding to join the committee, Sydney definitely has a great future. Trustee Stanley D’Cruz then welcomed David Clarke to say a few words. David being a strong supporter of MCAS and Indians in Australia, gave a fiery speech which was welcomed with a resounding round of applause. He was then presented a plaque by trustee Hubert Castelino, vice president Savio Monis along with Cyril and Stanley.
A cultural dance to the tune of Manglur Amchem by Neha D’Souza, Roopa Menezes, Nelson Lobo and Arjun Sequeira was very well appreciated by the crowd. As usual a brilliant skit performance by Richie Rebello, Joylene and Neha left the crowd roaring with laughter.
Lunch was as usual a feast fit for a king managed by Michael Fernandis and other volunteers. The committee members and their families prepared great food in typical Mangalurean tradition which included pork and sannas, chicken curry, beans and chana and what less than vorn to help the sweet tooth.
Local mortgage specialist John Menezes helped sponsor the event and a number of great prizes were won by the attendees. The programme concluded with a baila and the crowd promised to meet again next year.