by Nikki Lagrito

The Sydney Australian Filipino Seniors Inc. (SAFSI) celebrated their Silver Anniversary at the Diamond Auditorium at Blacktown Workers Club, last 21 October 2012.

Safsi Officers with Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis (third from left). Photo by Bernadette Manthey.

SAFSI was founded by Mr. and Mrs. Malinis in 1985 but was officially inaugurated in 1987. It has come a long way from its humble beginnings and it is through the perseverance and dedication of its officers and members that SAFSI is what it is today.  It is one of the longest running community groups and it has given the elderly a feeling of belonging and more importantly a new sense of independence.  

 For the last 25 years, SAFSI has focussed on providing for the care, entertainment and needs of the elderly. It has become an active voice in the community proving that you can be of service to the community at any age.

Dressed in colourful traditional Filipino outfits, our beloved Seniors sang and danced to prove that they still had it in them.  The audience got emotional and teary-eyed when a special video was presented showing SAFSI’s achievements and activities through the years.  It also included all the past presidents since its inception, most of who have now crossed over.  The event was hosted by Rod Dingle.

 Philippine Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis of the Philippine Consulate General, Federal Members of Parliament Ed Husic, Michelle Rowland, John Robertson, Leader of the Opposition, Blacktown City Council’s Councillors, Charlie Lowes and Jess Diaz who was representing the Mayor Len Robinson, Atoy Sayas, President of Philippine Community Council as well as special guests, community leaders and friends were on hand to celebrate SAFSI’s joyous milestone.  

Consul General Anne Jalondo-on Louis expressed her admiration for the organisation and complemented the Seniors for their active participation in community events. “You have a very important place in the community not only do you hold the institutional memory of the vibrant Filipino community especially in the areas you reside but you also influence in a way your families, your neighbourhood because of the many things that you contributed to the local community since you arrived here decades ago.” she said.

 Rosario Natividad, President of SAFSI thanked all the members of SAFSI especially the officers for their dedication and commitment to the organisation,“To all the members of SAFSI, I salute you! My best wishes for a job well done over the past 25 years.  To all the officers, let your continuing service be another feather in your hats and proof of true community service and love for others.” she said.

Photo by Bernadette Manthey

SAFSI now moves on with hope towards many more decades of service.