ARCHIVED MEDIA RELEASE
PA/21/2002 23 November 2002
Oz Haat - a crafts fair at the Australian High Commission
Over 20 community organisations were invited to showcase their wares and raise funds as part of "Oz Haat" - a haat organised on the lawns of the Australian High Commission today.
A multi-dimensional craft and cultural fiesta, Oz Haat is an exhibition and sale of the work of Indian community organisations supported by the Australian High Commission.
On display at the exhibition were stalls of patchwork and embroideries from SEWA, Gujarat and SCRIA from Haryana, in addition to woven durries, brass and wood items, hand-embroidered soft furnishings and clothing, carpets, cards etc. There were also cultural performances, patchwork and embroidery demonstrations, mehendi, manicures and pedicures. Food lovers had an opportunity to sample both Australian and Indian treats.
The Australian High Commissioner, Ms Penny Wensley AO, who opened the haat, said: "the day has been a great success, for the High Commission, and for the community groups. We plan to make this an annual event."
The community organisations that took part in the exhibition have received assistance under the High Commission's Direct Aid Program (DAP), which funds grassroots development programs covering a range of areas, such as education, health, income generation and the environment. The Haat is also supported by the South Asia Community Assistance Scheme (SACAS), one of the mechanisms of Australia 's bilateral development cooperation program with India, and administered by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID).
Money from sales of products will go back directly to community groups.
For further information, please contact Ms Clare Duffield, Third Secretary, on telephone 6888223, ext. 219.