Are you worried that you do not understand what is going on our
neighbouring countries? in particular in Fiji and the Solomon Islands? The
Australian media in no way gives us the sort of information we need to
understand the conflicts which have emerged in these two societies.
A one-day seminar is being organized by the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies
of Victoria University to address this issue.
Keynote speaker will be Dr Ganesh Chand, a hostage of George Speight and
Minister for Planning and Housing in Mahendra Chaudhry's Labour government.
Solomon Islanders Joses Tuhanuku (former Trade Union official and
government Minister) and John Naitoro (ANU researcher) will give background
on the events in the Solomon Islands.
Matarilova Hilda Lini, former Health Minister of Vanuatu, now director of
the Pacific Concerns Resource Centre in the Fiji (secretariat of the
Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific movement) will discuss regional
aspects of the two conflicts and the role of women in opposing militarism
in both countries..
Two Australian journalists who have a good understanding of the Pacific,
Mary Louise O'Callaghan and Rowan Callick will discuss Australian
perceptions of these two conflicts and some lessons for Australia.
Three Australian commentators on Pacific affairs, Richard Broinowski
(former head of Radio Australia), Greg Fry (Australian National University)
and Dr Helen Hill (Victoria University) will discuss ways in which
Australian policy in the region should respond to these dilemmas.
Discussion from the floor will be facilitated by Associate Professor
Michael Hamel-Green of Victoria University. The Seminar will be chaired by
the Hon. Jean McLean, Council member of the University.
The seminar will take place on Wednesday 16th August at Victoria
University, 300 Flinders Street, Melbourne in the 13th floor Conference
Centre beginning at 9.00 am.
Registration fee is $35.00 ($15.00 concession)(includes morning and
afternoon tea and lunch). For further information phone Doris Aihara (03)
9248 1200 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] Please register by 14th
August if possible.
LL.VH
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