The Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, His Excellency Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi, and Mr Dennis Richardson, Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade launched the publication and signed copies.

This publication is part of the Consulate-General’s efforts to illustrate the growing relationship between Oman and Australia. This relationship is highlighted through individuals who are taking an active role in building this relationship. The content of the publication highlights the education, business, tourism and cultural relationship between Oman and Australia.

The publication showcases the strengthening tie that binds us, and the promise that this tie holds for the future. We hope that this publication will be one of the steps in encouraging further efforts to enhance the uniqueness and richness of the relationship.

On the 27th July 2011 the New South Wales Minister for Citizenship and Communities and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Hon. Victor Dominello MP, started the Oman Cultural Days promotion by launching the website for the Oman Cultural Days www.omanculturaldays.com.au This highlighted the start of a campaign designed to not only promote the large-scale event but to start the conversation about the captivating culture and heritage of Oman.

Her Excellency, Professor Marie Bashir AC, CVO the Governor of New South Wales officially opened the exhibition on the morning of Monday the 26th of September alongside the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, His Excellency SayyidBadrHamad Al Busaidi, and Mr Dennis Richardson, Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Over the four day exhibition thousands of Australians arrived at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and were swept away into an Omani market place, known as a souq! Where they walked through the frankincense filled alleyways discovering authenticate paintings and photos of Oman, viewed ancient scripts and artefacts. Witnessed Omanis make dhows, textiles, script writing, jewellery and henna, whilst tasting Omani sweets and coffee. The sounds of a traditional Omani folklore band and the sights of traditional Omani dress also greeted them along the way!

One of the highlights of the Oman Cultural Days was the forum at the University of Sydney, on 27 September 2011. The speakers at the forum included H.E. SayyidBadr bin Hamad Al Busiadi, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Oman and Major General Michael Jeffery AC, the Chairman and Founder of Future Directions International and former Governor-General of Australia. This forum focused on the Indian Ocean Rim and particularly the role that Oman and Australia are playing in the region and the future issues that may shape the region.

Pictures Coming Soon……

This year, the Omani Student Society held its sixth annual Gathering in Palmerston North. Students from Auckland and Hamilton attended the meeting. As well as Dr. Ibrahim Al-Bahadly, a senior lecturer at Massey University, Mr. Mohammed Al-Kharusi, the president of the Omani Student Society Of New Zealand, Ms. Manal Al- Bulushi the Vice president of the Omani Student Society, Mr. Hamad Al-Maawali, Ms. Rabab Al- Lawati and Mr. Mohammed Al-Rahbi, the presidents of the Omani local associations in Auckland and Hamilton respectively and the presidents of the Saudi and Kuwaiti local associations in Palmerston North.

Entering into the theater we were welcomed by students dressed up in Omani clothes serving halwa and sweets. After the national anthem was sung with honor and pride, and everyone was settled, the ceremony was presented by Maryam Al Rawahi. The podium was then taken by the head of the Omani Student Society, Mohammed Al-Kharusi, who gave his introductory speech, proceeded by Zakariya Al - Battashi . Both of the speeches mainly reinforced the idea of achieving our goals by perusing academic excellence, yet also socializing and interacting with Omani and non-Omani students to enrich and complete our overseas experience.

The Omani heritage and culture is one of a kind and is cherished internationally. Therefore, Othman Al- Kandari, a Kuwaiti student, Sang to us with his mesmerizing voice a song about Oman and kept us all fully captivated. Followed by that, was a traditional Omani dance which personified the Omani heritage and hospitality. The dance is called the razha and is a rhythmic movement of a wooden stick in correspondence to a certain beat. To its simplicity it, is a very vibrant dance that preserves and illustrates our heritage. The next part of the program stole the show away. It was a fashion show in which little children were dressed up in Omani dresses and walked across the red carpet to display them. The flamboyant garments and the bright smiles on the children’s faces kept us all awe-inspired. Each dress was thoroughly described and its association to the area in which it was worn was explained.

This gathering got all the Omani students of New Zealand together and was considered to be one of the biggest of its kind. It has been a great opportunity to meet students from all around New Zealand and make new connections and friends. Nevertheless, the whole experience to me still remains as a dream.

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For the Easter holidays the Consulate General will close

The consulate will be closed on Friday 22nd of April 2011 and re-open on Wednesday 27th of April 2011   

Student profile 

I have graduated from Sultan Qaboos University with a bachelor’s degree in Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering. After that I worked for the Ministry of Oil and Gas (MOG) for three years taking a role as a government reviewer to several Operators in Oman and as a reservoir engineer to the ministry.

I am humbled and honored to be here representing Oman and my sponsor, MOG, and at the same time excited to have met new friends and experienced a new culture.

In my experience studying in Australia has given me more insight on the world. I have learned how to work with people from all over the world and it has helped shape the person I want to become. I am currently at the final semester and I wish you all the best.

The Exhibition commenced with an opening ceremony. Present were the Honourable Laurie Ferguson and Maria Vamvakinou both Federal Members of Parliament, Councilor Brian Shanahan for the City of Melbourne, Judy Maddigan and Khalil Idi Victorian Members of the Victorian Parliament, His Excellency Mr Hamed Alhajri, Consul General of Oman and members of the Consular Corps in Melbourne.

The Hon Laurie Ferguson was the guest of honor and expressed in his speech during the opening ceremony, that he was impressed by the comprehensive renaissance witnessed by the Sultanate of Oman led by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The Hon Ferguson who has just returned from visiting Oman, stressed the importance of organizing such exhibitions to introduce other cultures and civilizations to Australia. The president of OSSV Mr. Qasim bin Mohammed Al Ma’amari who organized the exhibition mentioned in his address how much he enjoys living and studying in Australia with his family. Mr Al Ma'amari also spoke about how proud the students were in organizing and hosting the exhibition especially as it marks a momentous occasion such as Oman's 40th National Day. Following the speeches the exhibition was opened for the public to view.

Almajd, a traditional Omani Folklore band and perhaps the most famous musical group in Oman, played throughout the day. Their unique instruments and dancing thoroughly entertained the audience. Guests also took their time visiting the five exhibition tents that showcased the traditions of Omani, heritage, tourism, costumes and jewelry and Omani food and hospitality. The exhibition was supported by Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Media, and Department of the public authority for craft industries, Ministry of Higher Education, the Consulate General of Oman in Australia, Federation Square and Alsafwah schools.

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The gardens are opened all year round and attract up to 100,000 visitors each year.

The Consulate General of Oman in Australia thought it was important to have an Oman presence in these beautiful gardens so that visitors can learn more about the history, architecture, culture and civilisation of Oman. The aim of the project is to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Oman and Australia. Visitors to the gardens will gain a greater awareness about Oman. Also through Cockington Green Gardens comprehensive website Oman will be exposed to visitors. This provided a great opportunity for Oman to build a greater impression on Australians.

Some of the most striking historical and cultural landmarks in Oman are the over 500 forts and castles, together with its towers and city walls. Jabrin Fort was chosen for the Cockington Green Gardens because it is one of the most impressive forts in the Sultanate. Its history, location, strength and exquisite detail made Jabrin stand out.

Oman's Ministry of Tourism gratefully provided the financial assistance for the project and over 12 months Cockington Green Gardens built a miniature replica of Jabrin at a scale of 1:43 and size of 1.8m wide x 2.2m length x 550cm height.

The replica was unveiled at Cockington Green Gardens on the 9th of December 2010 which coincided with the celebrations of Oman's 40th National Day. Hosting the unveiling was the Consul General of Oman H.E Mr Hamed Al Hajri who was also accompanied by the Senior Advisor to the Minister of Tourism Mr Mohammed Al Lawati.

The Consul General at the entrance to the gardens individually welcomed over 40 guests including ambassadors, representatives, government officials and military personal. Guests then enjoyed refreshments and canapés under the marquee overlooking the gardens. The formalities commenced soon after and the guests heard speeches from the Consul General, Mr Al Lawati and Mr Mark Sarah the General Manager of Cockington Green Gardens.

The Consul General in his address spoke of his gratitude for everyone attending, for Cockington Green's professionalism in undertaking this project and for the Ministry of Tourisms support. He also spoke about Jabrin and how remarkable the fort is and in replicating the fort just how impressive it looked. Mr Al Lawati pointed out that by building a Jabrin Fort model in a display of iconic buildings from around the world will stimulate thinking, and build awareness of the Sultanate of Oman. Mr Sarah was equally pleased in adding another world site to his gardens and pointed out they had enjoyed building the replica and positioned it in the best location possible.

Following the speeches the Consul General presented both Mr Al Lawati and Mr Sarah with a gift each and then all the guests went to where Jabrin fort is situated. The Consul General, Mr Al Lawati and Ms Anne Plunkett, the Chief of Protocol of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, officially unveiled Jabrin fort by removing the satin cover off the replica.

The unveiling of Jabrin fort was a great success and the replica will stand for many years to come as will the memories of those who visit the gardens and who hopefully will go on to visit the real Jabrin fort standing in Oman.

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Student profile: 

I graduated from the creative private school and I’ve been awarded with a full scholarship from the ministry of higher education to study in Australia.
Now that I finished my studying journey, I can say that I learned many things during my time in Australia. Several examples would include adapting to different cultures, different ways of thinking, using time wisely and different ways to expand my knowledge.

I’ve been an admin member of the Omani students’ society for three years and I really had a wonderful and lovely experience being involved in Australian society. I recommend Omani students to come and study in Australia so they can benefit from the experience and then when they finish and return home they can start contributing to the development of our beloved country.

The year 2010 marks the 40th Anniversary of the Renaissance led by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said since his assumption of power in the Sultanate of Oman. Over 350 people, including Ministers, diplomats, government officials, defence force personal, business partners, community members and Omani nationals, attended this celebration to mark this momentous occasion.

The guests were welcomed to the NGV’s Great Hall by Omani students who were adorned in national dress and accompanied by traditional Omani music. The host H.E the Consul-General, Mr Hamed Al-Hajri and his wife Mrs Al Hajri personally welcomed guests to the celebrations. Later in the evening the national anthems of both Oman and Australia were performed by the talented soprano Ursula Paez and speeches were presented by the Consul-General and the guest of honour the Hon. Tim Holding who painted a lasting impression of the beauty and promise of Oman. The Hon Tim Holding, MP who was representing the Premier of Victoria is currently the Victorian Minister for Water, Minister for Finance, Minister for Tourism and Major Events.
The evening was presented as a cultural evening. Guests enjoyed traditional Omani coffee and sweets and were able to view an Omani exhibition which consisted of authentic Omani arts and craft! Al Majd folklore band, one of the most well known bands in the gulf, delighted the guests through music and dance throughout the evening. Guests were also privileged to witness a wonderful catwalk presentation by Anisa Al Zidjali, a renowned Omani fashion designer, who showcased her line which is inspired by the different regions of Oman and embodies historical and contemporary looks for the modern Omani woman.

The 40th Omani National Day was a great success living up to the significance of the 40th National Day occasion and we can only hope that guests left with a greater understanding about the rich Omani culture.

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The exhibition consisted of eight sections that reflect the Omani culture and heritage, food, handicrafts, Henna and frankincense. Music and dance performance captured the attention of visitors. The exhibition was successful and gave the guests an insight into Oman's rich heritage and culture.

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At 9am the Omani national anthem was played to formally open the Exhibition in Palmerston North's city square. The Guest of Honour's were Mr Ian Lees Galloway MP and Mr Ian McKelvie, Deputy Mayor. Various other members of Palmerston North City Council, professors, lectures and staff from Massey University also attended the opening ceremony. The weather wasn't particularly welcoming but the Omani students made up for that, welcoming the general public throughout the day.

The Exhibition was made up of eight tents including a main stage. Each tent represented different aspects of Oman including:
-National Tent
-Cultural Tent.
-Handicrafts tent.
-Tourism Tent.
-Fashion & Costumes Tent.
-Food Tent.
-Omani House Tent
-Display Tent.

Each tent was made up of a variety of exhibits including arts, crafts, pottery, pictures, booklets, gifts, costumes, flags, food, TV presentations and much more. Additionally, several performances enthralled our guests on the main stage. Acts included kids activities and a range of traditional folklore song and dances. The entire event was very successful and gave our guests an insight into Omani's rich heritage and culture.

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Student profile: 
I have graduated from Sohar College of Applied Sciences with a bachelor’s degree in Education (English Teaching). Then I was awarded a full scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education to do my Masters in TESOL abroad. I have chosen Australia to pursue this degree because I like this peaceful, multicultural country where you can have teachers and friends from all over the world. It is a valuable chance to share and be aware of a wide range of cultural experiences.

I feel proud to represent my beloved country with sincere love and dedication, and I like to master what I do. Loving one’s own country and mastering one’s own work are great Islamic virtues. Inspired by this, I believe in hard work, faithfulness, non-stop determination and creativity. If you truly believe in success, nothing is impossible. “Where there is a will there is a way”.

 Around 75 male and female students have attended the gathering in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Hamed al Hajri, the Consul General.

The evening began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, and then at the call of the Maghrib prayer, the audience had their breakfast followed by the prayer. After that, the Consul General Mr. Hamed al Hajri took the podium to welcome all the students who have attended and congratulating them for the Holy Month of Ramadan, wishing them with all success and blessing.

The program of the evening included Q and A competitions and entertaining programs prepared by the students which won appreciation from the attendees and gave the evening an atmosphere of fun and joy. At the end of the evening, the General Consul thanked the students for attending and hoped that everyone had a great evening and congratulated the students of Eid Al Fitr in advance, and urged the students to make the effort and perseverance in their studies.

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An Oman Corner, designed to educate University of Melbourne students and visitors about the life and culture of Oman, was launched in early August by the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Hon. Laurie Ferguson MP and Dr Abdullah al Sarmi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education in Oman. Funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, the Oman Corner is a permanent museum-style showcase intended to stimulate interest in Oman and increase academic collaboration.

 #attachments { display: none; } The Corner displays many different aspects of Omani culture, including traditions, heritage, society, government, economy and topography. Some of the many items on display include traditional Omani clothes, mini fort and dhow, musical instruments, jewellery, frankincense and khanjar. The Corner gives visitors a glimpse of Oman. Speaking at the launch, Chancellor of the University of Melbourne, Dr Alex Chernov QC, said the establishment of the Oman Corner was not “an isolated manifestation of the relationship between the Sultanate of Oman and the University, but a memorable and important occasion in the growing friendship”.

The guests were welcomed into the Grand Ballroom at the Hotel Windsor by H.E the Consul-General, Mr Hamed Al-Hajri and his wife Mrs Al Hajri. Later in the evening the National anthems of both Oman and Australia were wonderfully sang by soprano Ursula Paez and speeches were presented by the Consul-General and the guest of honor who was representing the Premier of Victoria the Hon Martin Pakula Minister for industry and trade and industrial relations.

Guests were able to sample traditional Omani coffee and sweets served by the Omani students whilst listening to a traditional lute being played in the background. On display for guests to view were 20 comparative pictures highlighting the developments of Oman throughout the past 39 years.
The night ended fruitfully and an entertaining evening was had by all.

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Student: Ahmed Al Kharusi
University: Massey University - New Zealand
Course: Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Automation) 

Student profile: In March 2009 I applied for the New Zealand – Europe (NZ-EU) Exchange Program scholarship, which was offered for the first time by Massey University Engineering School and supported by the New Zealand Tertiary Education Commission. Based on my academic performance, I was successfully selected for this scholarship and as my first choice I choose City University London – UK.

This is a one-semester exchange program in which I am currently doing four cross-credited modules in City University, equivalent to the four papers that I was supposed to do in Massey University. Beside the new learning experience and different study environment, I am really enjoying my time here in London. I have also spent most of my first weekends in exploring the beautiful UK and I can say that this exchange is worthwhile.

Name of Award Received: NZ-EU Exchange Student to London

Student: Kauthar Suleiman Ahmed Al Busaidi
University: Curtin University of Technology
Course: PhD in Women's Health (Physiotherapy School) 

 Student profile: I completed a Diploma in Physiotherapy in Oman, a Postgraduate Diploma in Rehabilitation in the UK. At the moment I am doing a PhD at Curtin. In 2 years and 10 months, I have presented three papers in different countries: Abu Dhabi, UAE, Glasgow, Scotland and most recently in Sydney, Australia. I have had 19 years of experience working at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital as head of Department, working in musculoskeletal and women's health.

Name of Award Received: Australia Physiotherapy Association (APA), Continence and Women's Health Group

Description of Award: Best Paper and Presenter
 

 Student profile:

I have graduated from the Royal Guard of Oman Technical College in 2005 holding a BTEC Diploma. Following that, it was an honor to be granted a full scholarship by the Ministry of Higher Education to study my undergraduate course aboard. I am currently pursuing a degree in Software Engineering at the University of Waikato.

From my own experience, I believe that setting out goals is the road to the fulfillment of one’s dreams. A person should strive to achieve his goals, by both fueling his motivations by the inspirations of his ambition, and steering his way by the lights of his faith. My ambition is escalate in the ranks of knowledge, and contribute to development of my country. 

 

The OSSNZ is delighted to announce that it has launched a new website at www.nzom.net

The Consulate General congratulates the members of the society for their great efforts in creating their window to the world, it is a great achievement! And we encourage everyone to visit.
 

The Brisbane Street Mall in Launceston City was filled with exciting tastes and sounds of Oman which attracted great interest and enthusiasm from the local population.

The exhibition looked very attractive with a number of tables covered with white table cloths and decorated with red and green satin runners. The exhibition included different sections including handicrafts, costumes, hospitality and Tourism. In addition, the exhibition included other activities such as henna designs which were applied by Omani Girls. Live Arabic and Khleeji Music was also performed with traditional dances such as Razha, Bar’a and A’azi.

The locals showed much interest in the exhibition, and many positive comments were heard. VIP visitors attended the exhibition included the Hon. Don Wing MLC, the Mayor of Launceston Albert van Zetten, Prof Malek Pourzanjani (AMC Principal and Pro-Vice Chacellor), John Foster (CEO - AMC Search), the president of the Hobart Saudi Association and others. The Consul-General Mr Hamad Al-Hajri was there throughout the day.

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Student:

Student profile: I completed my undergraduate degree in Education at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman. I worked for more than one year as an English lecturer in a private college and then I got a scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education to do my Masters in Australia. I love both English language and teaching, and I have enjoyed my course here. I learned a lot about teaching methodology and testing students as well as issues that arise from teaching English in different countries and the cultural and political implications of it.

 Omani students that are interested in attending the match please contact the Student Societies in your State for all relevant details including free tickets.

Student profile: I graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering from Sultan Qaboos University in 1994 and after 10 years experience in electronic circuit design I came to Australia. I have been in Australia for two years with my family. We have enjoyed the time and it has been very helpful to bring the family, my children have learnt English and they enjoy the life and new friends.
 

The Discover Oman exhibition is the second event of its kind that the Omani Society in Queensland has organised.

The exhibition was held all day in Queens Street one of the most famous commercial streets of Brisbane, where many Australians and international people visit.

The exhibition showcased the traditions of Oman, which was represented by the traditional handcrafts, silver wears and all were displayed in an Arabian setting. The exhibition also reflected the modern Oman via the visual, portray and written materials that were showed and distributed to the thousands of passer-by’s throughout the day. Added activities for the Discover Oman was the Omani Henna and the live Arabic songs all of which proved to be a great attraction.

Discover Oman was a great success and gave Brisbane a taste of Oman.
 

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Melbourne Graduation Ceremony
Date: 9th May 2009
Location: RMIT University Story Hall

At RMIT's University Story Hall the Oman Student Society of Victoria (OSSV) celebrated the graduation of its 12th batch of students in Melbourne. In addition to the Consul-General Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri the graduation ceremony was honored by the attendance of esteemed guests from the Victorian Parliament, Mr. Steve Herbert MP, Ms Judy Maddigon MP and Mr Khalil Eido MP and consulate staff. The ceremony theme, "Story of Success", was played through various scenes which represented different stages of the OSSV evolution and showed that the society's success is linked to the success of its hard working members. The first scene started with an OSSV meeting where the members are planning an anticipated annual event; and took the audience through its progression. After that, it drew back the curtain on social and academic aspects in the lives of members and concluded with an entertaining play which mirrored a glimpse of the students' activities during the semester. After speeches and a fine dinner 48 graduating students received their awards.

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Brisbane Graduation Ceremony
Date: 16th May 2009
Location: Griffith University Hall

Under the auspices of the Consul General Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri, the Omani Society in Queensland organized the graduation ceremony held on Saturday evening in Brisbane's South Bank. The program started with the recitation of Holy Quraan by Alazhar Al-Zakwani, followed by a speech from H.E, the Consular General in which he congratulated the graduates and praised them for their academic achievements. The acting President of the Society also delivered a speech, in which he thanked all people and institutions that have supported the activities in which the society has managed to organize, encouraging members to participate and further develop the society as much as possible. Poem and songs also featured throughout the function. Finally, H.E. handed over the awards to the 12 graduates and presented certificates of appreciation to the active members of the society.
 

Pictures coming...

Student profile: I’m currently a 4th year podiatry student. I started my university course in 2006 which integrated theory and practical work throughout the four years. The study abroad experience has provided me with a unique opportunity to explore and socialize with different cultures, break the usual academic routines that we got used to at school and it also has helped me learn about myself, boost my confidence and return home with new ideas and perspectives about myself and my own culture. The experience was initially challenging but eventually strengthened my values as I saw my culture through different perceptions.

Awards Received: The Golden Key International Honour Society membership
Description of Award: Golden Key International Honour Society, founded on the 29 November 1977, is an academic honor society which recognizes and encourages scholastic achievement and excellence among college and university students from all academic disciplines. The membership into Golden Key is by invitation only, given to the top 10% of college/university students in a particular discipline.
 

As you will all know already, there have been several cases of H1N1 Swine Influenza throughout Australia particulary in Victoria. We would like to ask you all to take care during this time and ask you all to check the news and your university websites for regular updates. Simple measures such basic hygiene and if possible, avoiding crowded areas where others may be coughing or sneezing will be helpful.

For our students who are here with their families we ask you to exercise high caution as there have been some cases in schools.

Please take care and for further information you can visit the Victorian Government Health Information Website www.health.vic.gov.au

Dear Student

We hope this email finds you in good health. We have been informed by the Learning and Development Centre for Petroleum Development Oman that they are now offering post-graduate scholarships for students. These scholarships are available to all Omani students who wish to embark upon a Master of Science or PhD. Non- PDO scholars are advised to register for the Assessment Centre through the General Applications link: http://tbe.taleo.net/NA1/ats/careers/apply.jsp?org=PDO&cws=2. The guidelines for submitting an application can be found here and should you like to apply or require any further information please do not hesitate to contact the HDL/3 Team who will be able to assist you.

HLD/3 Team Contact Details:

Khalid Al-Rawahi
Team Leader Education Support (HLD/3)
Email: Khalid.Rawahi@pdo.co.om
Tel: +968-24677084

Asad Al-Mahrezi
Educational Adviser (HLD/31)
Email: Asad.AM.Mahrezi@pdo.co.om
Tel: +968- 24672884

General Guidelines for PG Scholarship (doc)
PhD Application Form (doc)
MSc Application Form (doc)
 

The existing email of c.general@oman.org.au will still be used but students and universities are encouraged to send their email correspondence either to accounts@oman.org.au   or academic@oman.org.au 

 
Issues and enquiries relating only to student salaries, student allowances and student financial reimbursements should be sent to accounts@oman.org.au 

 
All other student and academic issues should be sent to academic@oman.org.au  
 

This women's only event was organized to increase the awareness of Arab states and a presentation was given to the wives of current and retired diplomats or serving officers followed by an informal competition. Each country donated small gifts which were presented to those who answered the most correct answers. Each of the countries presented a display of local artifacts and foods with Oman providing coffee, dates and halwa, all proving very popular.

As part of this event, we were asked to provide two national dresses and our students rose to the challenge participating in a fashion parade. The event itself seemed to be appreciated by all who attended and a valuable experience for those who were involved.
 

Date: Wednesday 19th November 2008

Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Location: Parliament of New South Wales, Macquarie St, Sydney

A celebration for the 2008 Omani National Day took place on Wednesday 19th November at the Parliament of New South Wales, Sydney. A large number of VIP’s and guests attended the event and were greeted by His Excellency the Consul-General, Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri. It was the first ever Omani National Day in New South Wales and guests were treated with Omani coffee and sweets served by Omani students in traditional dress. Guests were also able to gain a better understanding of Oman through the students.

As the evening progressed guests were able to experience a taste of Oman by viewing traditional displays, handicrafts, jewelry and a whole array of items that represent the Sultanate of Oman.

The Consul-General addressed the audience alongside the Hon. Barbara Mazzel Perry, MP, Minister for Local Government and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health. The speeches were followed by an enthralling traditional Omani dance that was presented by a number of students that are studying in Australia.

All guests were presented with a sample of the luxurious Amouage perfume on their departure.

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Date: Saturday 7th February 2009

Location: From Glebe Park to Garema Place in the heart of the City

The Consulate's stall gave spectators the chance to taste the traditional Omani sweets and coffee while learning more about Oman through an elaborate display of artefacts, pictures and literature.

The Food and Dance Spectacular is becoming more popular each year and it is a great opportunity for the Australian public to learn about the Sultanate of Oman.

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A lunch organized by the Middle East Times on Wednesday 25th June 2008, was held in honour of Mr. Al-Hajri at Parliament House. The lunch was hosted by the Hon Marie Ficcara MLC and attended by a number of MPs, diplomats and other leading business people. An enjoyable lunch was had by all and many thanks to Mr. Camil Shalala from the Middle East Times who organised the event.   

On Friday 27th June the Consul-General delivered a brief to an interactive boardroom luncheon, which was hosted by the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI). Leading business people with interest in the Gulf attended the luncheon and were given a great opportunity to learn about Oman. A big thanks to the AACCI who organised and facilitated the luncheon. 

The Consulate and a few Omani students who were studying in Canberra assisted with running and organising the Omani tent which served traditional Omani sweets and coffee. The tent also gave the public an opportunity to learn more about Oman with the many displays and brochures that were available.  

Many people travelled from all over Australia to attend the Festival. The day was a great success.   

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Melbourne Graduation Ceremony
Date: Saturday 24th May 2008
Time: 6.30pm - 10.00pm
Location: Storey Hall, RMIT
The Graduation Ceremony for Omani students in Melbourne was held on Saturday 24th May 2008 at Storey Hall, RMIT. The night began with a play by some of the Omani students while dinner was being served. Students performed a traditional Omani dance for guests, which was followed by an Indigenous dance by a father and son act.

Special Dignitary Mr. Syd Giller the National Chairman of the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (AACCI) attend the event and the guest of honour Mrs. Judy Maddigan, Member of Parliament for the Victorian state electorate of Essendon presented her speech which was then followed by the presentation of certificates. Congratulations to graduating students of 2008!

Brisbane Graduation Ceremony
Date: Saturday 31st May, 2008
Location: Brisbane
The Brisbane graduation ceremony was held on Saturday 31st May 2008. The ceremony began with the Omani National Anthem and a documentary about Oman was produced and presented by one of the students, Fatma Al-Maamari. The Consul-General, Mr. Al-Hajri and the President of the Queensland Student's Society, Said Al-Seyabi presented their speeches which were followed by a second documentary created by Hamad Al-Araimi about the Student Society activities in 2007/08. A small group of students performed a play which was followed by the presentation of certificates. The night was enjoyable and a great chance for all Omani students to get together and celebrate. Congratulations to graduating students of 2008!

Perth Graduation Ceremony
Date: Friday 23rd May, 2008
Location: Perth
(The Perth Graduation Ceremony Occured on the 23rd May, 2008. A full report is pending)

A photo gallery of these events will be made available shortly.

Date: Saturday 19th April 2008
Time: 11.00am – 5.00pm
Location: Federation Square, Melbourne 

The Lord Mayor John So opened the event with a welcoming speech, further speeches were delivered by Consul-General, Mr. Hamed Al-Hajri and Mr. Syd Giller the National Chairman of the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (AACCI).

The exhibition was attended by approximately 30,000 onlookers throughout the day. Keeping them entertained were live performances from Omani children, a traditional Omani band and a military band from Oman. There were a number of tents positioned around Federation Square which displayed authentic Omani arts and crafts, traditional clothing, jewelry and sweets which gave people an insight into the rich culture and customs of the Sultanate of Oman.

The Student Exhibition was a great success and provided Melbournians with a taste of Oman culture.

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The Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc (AACCI) Award

The 2008 AACCI award is given to a student who is not only an active member of the Oman Student Society in Victoria but has demonstrated an outstanding contribution to the society. The recipienet would have also encouraged relations between Oman and Australian students, promoted Omani culture and fostered friendship between the two countries and people. The Award will enable the student and a friend to fly to Canberra for two nights and visit Parliament House..

The 2008 AACCI award was presented by the AACCI National Chairman Mr Syd Giller to Mohammed Saif Al-Saidi who has been studying in Australia since 2004 and is an active member of the Omani Student Society of Victoria. Mohammed has been involved in many associations and events while studying in Victoria and is seen to be a valuable member of the Society. Congratulations Mohammed and all the best with future endeavors.

Date: Monday, 19th November, 2007
Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm
Location: Parliament House, Melbourne

The guests were welcomed into Queens Hall at Parliament House by His Excellency the Consul-General, Hamed Al-Hajri. Later in the evening speeches were presented by the Consul-General and the guest of honour, the Hon. Theo Theophanous, the Minister for Industry and Trade, Information and Communication Technology, and Major Projects. Guests were treated to a performance from a small group of Omani children following the speeches.

Guests were able to sample traditional Omani coffee and sweets served by the Omani students. Traditional arts and crafts were on display for guests to view while soaking up the customs and culture of Oman.

The night ended fruitfully and an entertaining evening was had by all.

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