Abbess Yi lai, Venerable Man Jue and a retinue of BLIAWA members called upon the City of Bayswater to deliver a donation of food items to be distributed to needy families over the Christmas season.

The spirit of Christmas as we know it is giving and remembering those less fortunate than ourselves.

Our small effort for the needy will make many faces shine, letting them know that there are many people who still care.

From Fo Guang Shan Temple and BLIAWA Abbess Yi Lai, Ven. Man Jue, Carol Sue and nine members were very warmly received by the Lord Mayor of Bayswater and his team of senior executives*(see note) and Council members Sonya Turkinston and Terry Gaunt. The Mayor practically rolled out their red carpet and put on some delightful cakes and hot drinks.

In her address, Abbess Yi Lai said, "We care, for we love Australia. Although we (our members and devotees) come from different countries(Brunei, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Burma, Hong Kong and Taiwan) and diverse backgrounds, we very much want to help these people and are very pleased to be given this opportunity to do our bit. It is our pleasure to care for them now and always."

The Lord Mayor Lou Magro JP told us that he has been reading a booklet given him at the last Buddha's birthday and food fete, about affinity in quotation by Master Hsing Yin, (Cai Gern Tian). Each time he opened the book he found a quote that is of exceptional value.
He was very impressed by the generosity of Fo Guang Shan Temple and BLIAWA, and their readiness to be involved in pluralistic programs for youths and the needy initiated by the Council and in particular to be involved with this giving to the less fortunate and also the annual Autumn river festival.

He extended his thanks and then there was a gifts exchange of fruit baskets.

*In attendance were: 
Mario Caroseela Chief Executive Officer
Ted Budzinski Director of Finance
Anthony Smith Director of Administration & Community services
Kevin Sproat Director of Planning & Development services,
Terry Blanchard Director of Technical services & Civil Engineer