The construction of the Philippine Community Centre project will not be completed this year as the Philippine Fiesta of Victoria Inc’s (PFVI) committee will need to comply with the Council’s requirement to settle the Aboriginal cultural heritage overlay claim before it can lodge a permit to build. This was announced by Ross Manuel, Chairperson of the PFVI, during the 2017 Annual General Meeting last 21 May at Lot 1/19 Thomas Street in Laverton.
The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 aims to recognise, protect and conserve Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in Victoria.
Manuel said that the Aboriginal claim was so sudden and they were surprised to learn of the new requirement when they were about to lodge the final documentations for the permit. Manuel and his committee announced a few years back that the Centre will be completed by December 2017.
Manuel also announced that this year’s two-day Philippine Fiesta celebration will be held at the Polish Sporting, Recreation and Community Association Inc. at 19 Carrington Dr, Albion 3020. He enjoined all PFVI members and the general community to participate and be part of the Fiesta to make the operations and celebration a success.
Last financial year, the PFVI incurred a loss of $61,000. The Treasurer said that the 2016 Financial Statement will soon be uploaded on the Fiesta website.
Previously released financial reports show losses for the following years: 2013 ($9,971.11), 2014 ($97,138.62) and 2015 ($45,990.57). For details of the profit and loss, visit: http://www.philfiesta.com/
The meeting was generally peaceful with suggestions that the members and the Filipino community support the activities of the Fiesta to have a good result.
