AFTER 10 years in a refugee camp on the Thai-Burma border, a member of the persecuted Karen minority calls Australia home.
Taw Doh Moo, of Laverton, is one of 68 new arrivals or children of migrants whose inspiring stories feature in a book being launched for Diversity Week (March 16-24).
He came to Australia by plane with his wife and three children.
“When I came here, there were about 16,000 in the camp.”
The book contains stories from residents who migrated to Australia between 1950 and last year, or second-generation migrants.
“Mainly they asked about how did you come here, who did you come with, and did you arrive here by plane?,” Mr Taw Doh said.
“What’s impressed you? What were the impressive things for you when you arrived here?
“What activities are you involved in, in the community, and what are the challenges when you are here?
“And do you ever miss your relatives?”
About a third of Hobsons Bay residents were born overseas, three-quarters of them having non-English-speaking backgrounds.
The book launch is on March 21 from 6-8pm at Laverton Community Hub, 95-105 Railway Avenue.
The event also features short films, entertainment and refreshments.
People are asked to RSVP for catering purposes, to Hobsons Bay Libraries on 1300 462 542 or go to libraries.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
Eight short films will be screened at Newport’s Substation for Colourfest, Australia’s multicultural film festival. Films will be showing on March 20 at 10am, 1pm and 6pm, and March 23 at 1pm.
Each screening is an hour and the event is free.
More details: 9932 1000 or email arts@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
