Author talk to focus on Timor-Leste struggles

A LOCAL group set up almost two decades ago to provide various types of support to a small town in Timor-Leste will hold an author talk on Friday 14 March to raise awareness for its cause.

The talk will feature Gabrille Samson and her memoir, Dancers on the Sea, Stories from Atauro Island, which covers Ms Samson’s time living and working in the country during its fight for independence, and will be hosted by historian and Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee (BMFC) member Natasha Joyce.

The BMFC is a volunteer-run group that maintains a long-term partnership between Bendigo and Maubisse, a mountain town which has a population of just over 6000.

“We focus on education, health, arts and culture, economic development, and infrastructure based on what the community tells us are their needs,” she said.

“Over the years, we’ve helped provide scholarships for hundreds of students, medical and dental support for the local hospital, sewing and arts programs for residents, and we’ve shipped over 40 containers of essential supplies.”

Ms Joyce said the talk is an opportunity to learn more about Timor-Leste and the committee’s friendship with Maubisse.

“(It) will take you inside the experience of living in Timor-Leste during a time of great political and social change,” she said.

“If you’ve ever been curious about what life is like (there), how communities rebuild after conflict, or how we in Bendigo can make a real impact, this is the perfect event to come along to.

“Plus, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people who are passionate about international friendships and community-driven change.”

The event takes place on Friday 14 March from 5.30pm at the Bendigo Library. Entry is free.

To find out more about the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee, visit bmfc.org.au.