What a great evening! Last Wednesday, about 75 people attended the Oasis Dinner and even more for the Launch!
Oasis Common Room was packed as the Chancellor, Sir Eric Neal, unveiled a plaque for the occasion.
Before that, Kaurna Elder Lewis O’Brien had led in a procession of official guests and religious representatives and welcomed us to Country.
Bishop Ian George spoke of his father, who headed up the fundraising to establish the Religious Centre, opened in 1968. He then handed over the original plaque to Oasis Chairman Thich Thong Phap.
Following the unveiling of the new plaque ‘religious representatives’ from 10 traditions each presented a symbol of blessing for the new centre – an affirming and inspiring occasion, symbolically laying a strong foundation for the future of the centre.
Our MC’s for the night were two students – Elizabeth and Naisan. Their chatty manner presented a good foil to the formalities.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Michael Barber affirmed the work of the centre in his introduction of the dinner speaker Mr Hieu Van Le, Lieutenant Governor of South Australia and Chairman of the South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission. His theme of multiculturalism affirmed the inclusive, hospitable ethos surrounding Oasis.
I presented a video which documented some of the events occurring in Oasis over the previous five weeks and launched “Friends of Oasis” which creates the opportunity for people to become involved and to support the centre financially.
It was an historic evening, full of joy!
Here’s the video!