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John Pandazopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Minister Assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs, announced today that the Board of Trustees of the Council for the Parliament of the World’s Religions has selected Melbourne, Australia as the preferred city to host the 2009 Parliament of the World’s Religions event, the world’s largest multi-faith gathering. The selection of Melbourne is subject to the completion of the financial plan, the final stage of the bid process

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15 September 2006
Buddhist Council of Victoria and Buddhist Education in Public Schools Programme
Afternoon Tea

Sangha Members and Temple Representatives from many traditions gathered together for an afternoon tea party and hear of updates and activities on Chaplaincy, Youth, Special Projects, Buddhist Education Programme and Interfaith Dialogue.

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1 May 2006
Download the latest BCV Newsletter May 2006 (pdf)

New Governor Sworn In
At a ceremony on 7th April in the Ballroom at Government House, Professor David de Kretser, AO, was sworn in as Governor of Victoria, and the Honourable Justice Marilyn Warren, AC, as Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria. Lauran Chan, Chair of the Buddhist Council (BCV) of Victoria and Brian Ashen co-ordinator Public Relations BCV joined VIPs from across the Victorian community to attend this special occasion.

Lunch hosted by BCV Chair Laura Chan
BCV committee members and special guest George Lekakis, Chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission enjoyed lunch at a China town restaurant in May this year (2006). Sub-committee members from Education and Chaplaincy also attended. George offered support and encouragement to the Buddhist community and offered much advice on multicultural issues. On behalf of the BCV Laura thanked George for his ongoing support. BCV past Chair Brian Ashen and his wife were invited by PM John Howard and Mrs. Howard to lunch with HM Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton. The invitation was a special recognition by the Federal Government of the Buddhist Council of Victoria.

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Over a period of 3 weeks chaplains, counsellors and volunteers from four major faiths offered support to 4,500 athletes, officials and workers at the 18th Commonwealth Games Athletes Village Religious Services Centre (RSC).  The Buddhist room was supported by three sangha - Ven Santhindriya, Ven Wimalananda and Ven. Chi Kwang. They were assisted by Buddhist counsellor and room convener Brian Ashen.  The 'Village' was abuzz with elite athletes from 71 countries. Also many VIPs would just drop in with only a few minutes notice, such as HRH Prince Edward, PM John Howard and Victorian Premier Steve Bracks. There were also a couple of ‘no-shows’ from British PM Tony Blair and USA’s Condeleza Rice.  The biggest moment was a visit from HRH Prince Phillip, while HRM Queen Elizabeth was outside the door have a stroll down the street. Prince Phillip showed great interest in the Religious Service Centre and was introduced to all chaplains, counsellors and volunteers present. Brian Ashen showed Prince Phillip the Buddhist room. His Royal Highness looked in and remarked that it seemed a little quiet. Brian gave some Buddhist advice, "They come and they go Your Highness, they come and they go."  After Prince Phillip left us the whole staff of the RSC ran out the door to get a glimpse of the Queen.

Overall the RSC was a focal point for interfaith understanding and interaction.

Many thanks to organisations who helped with resources. The Kagyu Evam Institute, Seon Centre, BLIA, Dharma Drum Mountain, North Victorian Buddhist Assoc, Buddhist Vihara of Victoria and the Buddhist Council of Victoria.

© 2006 Buddhist Council of Victoria