Maltese Welfare NSW will hold an information talk, Retirement Village or an Aged Care Facility?
Well-known Maltese identity Marie Louise Muscat, a Financial Adviser Representative from Fiducian Financial Services who is fluent in Maltese and English, will help you understand your options and plan with confidence.
Explain the latest costs and government support available to help you with this important and complex lifestyle decision.
Maltese seniors and their family members are encouraged to attend this essential open and informative event.
The event will be hosted and held at La Valette Centre. Guests are welcome to stay for lunch, with Maltese favourite dishes available for purchase at the Bistro.
The recent launch of Lawrence Dimech’s autobiography proved to be a resounding success, drawing a diverse audience eager to celebrate his inspiring journey. The event was marked by heartfelt speeches, a strong sense of community spirit as friends, family, and admirers gathered to honour Lawrence’s achievements. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the author, hear personal anecdotes, and gain deeper insights into the experiences that shaped his remarkable life.
The book’s release was met with widespread enthusiasm, with many guests expressing appreciation for Lawrence’s remarkable life. The successful launch not only highlighted Lawrence Dimech’s contributions but also underscored the lasting impact of his story on readers and the broader community.
MC Nathalie Gatt commenced the event by emphasizing Lawrence Dimech’s substantial contributions and accomplishments since his arrival in Australia in 1954.
Both of his sons, Matthew and Mark, delivered heartfelt speeches—Mark and his family sent a moving video message from the UK. Annaleise Sammut, Consul General of Malta in NSW, and Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, also spoke, reflecting on Lawrence’s enduring legacy within the Maltese Community in New South Wales. Chris Bowen officially launched the autobiography *Sunshine and Shade*.
Lawrence Dimech shared insightful remarks regarding his journey in producing the book and the dedication required to bring it to completion, which were warmly received by attendees. The occasion also marked the celebration of Lawrence’s 90th birthday.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all attendees who filled the centre, as well as to Hugh McDermott, State Member for Prospect; Julia Finn, State Member for Granville; the Presidents of various Maltese Associations; other distinguished guests; and the Maltese Welfare NSW Committee and volunteers whose efforts contributed to the success of this event.
Lawrence Gatt- President Maltese Welfare NSW
Please see details below for Purchase of autobiography
Lawrence Dimech: A Pillar of the Maltese Community in NSW
Lawrence Dimech has played a significant role in the Maltese community in New South Wales since he arrived in Sydney. One of his notable achievements was co-founding the Melita Eagles Football Club in 1956, a milestone that marked his commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and pride among Maltese new arrivals. In addition to this, he has accomplished several other pioneering feats, further cementing his influence and leadership within the community.
Lawrence Dimech was the first consul-general of Malta in NSW, a position that enabled him to advocate for the Maltese community at the highest level. He also served as the inaugural director and coordinator of the Parramatta Migrant Resource Centre, established by the Department of Immigration & Ethnic Affairs. Another of his significant contributions was as the first editor of the Maltese Herald, an iconic publication that served Maltese Australians from 1961 until 2013.
Approximately a year ago, Dimech began writing his biography, providing a compelling look back at a time when migration from Malta was at its peak. The narrative highlights the challenges faced by migrants, particularly the struggle to obtain support from governments during those formative years.
Over time, significant agreements and schemes were introduced to support the Maltese community. These included dual citizenship, social security reciprocal agreements, health reciprocal agreements, student exchange schemes, and the establishment of the Council of Maltese Living Abroad, among others. These initiatives were instrumental in improving the lives of Maltese migrants and strengthening their ties to both Malta and Australia.
Lawrence Dimech’s autobiography offers valuable insight into the Maltese community in Australia, emphasising the importance of unity. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the history and collective spirit of the Maltese in NSW. It is truly a work not to be missed.
Maltese Welfare NSW is proud to assist Lawrence Dimech with his remarkable autobiography.
Be a Mate, make a Difference | Bilingual (Maltese/English) | Aged Care Resident | Waterfall NSW
This resident lives with a condition which affects his short-term memory and impulse control. He requires gentle supervision and some guidance with wayfinding, but more than anything, he needs someone to sit with him, walk beside him, enjoy meaningful moments together and share in the natural beauty of his home within the national park at Waterfall.
Whether it’s chatting in Maltese, doing a bit of gardening, playing games, or simply enjoying the day – your companionship could make a real difference in his life.
Volunteer for one hour every two weeks
If you’re a compassionate person with a calm nature and a big heart, we’d love to hear from you.
What You’ll Do:
Enjoy a chat over a cup of coffee
Listen to and share life stories
Take a stroll in the garden
Read books, play cards, or work on puzzles
Listen to their favourite music
Why Volunteer? Many elderly Australians in aged care homes face loneliness and social isolation. By volunteering just one hour a fortnight, you can make a significant difference in their lives. You’ll be matched one-on-one with a resident who could greatly benefit from your friendship. Studies show that loneliness can be as detrimental to health as smoking, and sadly, over 40% of people in aged care lack regular visitors. Your presence can help bridge this gap.
The Workshop was held at Llandilo Community Hall, Llandilo
The workshop on Monday the 17th November was highly successful with large class of eager participants, acquiring basic skills and actively engaging by asking questions. The enthusiasm for learning was evident, it is very gratifying when you actually help someone learn how to take a picture of themselves and send picture using test message to their son for the first time ever. Learning about taking screen shots was lots of fun ( which buttons to press ) we got it in the end.
This was the third class that has been held on Basic Mobile Phone for Seniors, and it highlighted the real need to help our Senior Maltese Community, I encourage family members to dedicate more time in teaching basic use Mobile Phones to your parents or grandparents, it is very frustrating and stressful for them. They are keen to learn.
We extend our gratitude to David Vasey, our trainer, who conducted the sessions with professionalism and tailored his approach to suit our Maltese community. He has certainly learnt a lot about Maltese culture from his time with use.
Thank Josi Katinic Community Outreach Support Officer from Macquarie Community CollageBlacktown who visited our workshop and has been very supportive of this initiative, we look forwarding to continuing these programmes next year.
Prosit to all the Maltese seniors who attended the classes, you made the commitment and effort and to Maltese Welfare committee Members Frances Montesin and Nathalie Gatt for helping in all the classes.
Maltese Welfare NSW hosted its second Seniors Mobile Phone Workshop today, 20th October, at Dun Preca Centre, OLQP Greystanes. The guest speaker was David Vasey from Macquarie Community College Blacktown.
We appreciate all attendees who made the effort to join us. David once again delivered an informative and engaging session, and it was heartening to see our seniors actively participating and asking many questions.
A special mention goes to an inspiring 91-year-old lady whose enthusiasm for learning stood out—thanks also to her son for bringing her and for his continued support. These efforts truly make our work rewarding and highlight the need for such workshops within our Maltese community.
Thank you to the OLQP Church for hosting these events and to the staff for your assistance.
We are currently organizing a third workshop for November; further details will be shared soon.
Maltese Welfare NSW organised an information session on Saturday morning, 18 October, at the La Valette Centre Blacktown in the newly renovated hall. The topic of discussion was Wealth Creation—Secure Your Future and Understanding Investment.
Marie Louise Muscat, CEP, DipFP, Fiducian Financial Adviser, delivered a comprehensive presentation and answered numerous questions across a range of subjects. We extend our appreciation to Marie Louise and her team for their commitment in attending the event on a Saturday.
It was particularly encouraging to note the presence of younger members within the audience. We would also like to thank La Valette Social Centre President Antoine Mangion and the Committee for hosting the event and providing invaluable support. Special thanks are due to all volunteers who assisted on the day; attendees enjoyed an excellent selection of Maltese cuisine at lunch
Maltese Welfare NSW is pleased to announce an upcoming information session entitled “Wealth Creation—Secure Your Future and Understanding Investing” The presentation will address key topics including superannuation, salary sacrifice, debt reduction, savings plans, and tax effectiveness.
This event will take place on Saturday to accommodate those with weekday work commitments. It is intended for individuals who are beginning their careers, planning for retirement, or aiming for financial independence. Senior members are encouraged to inform their children and grandchildren about this opportunity to gain financial insights at no cost from bilingual Fiducian Financial Adviser Marie Louise Muscat.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions during the presentation. Please refer to the attached flyer for further details.
Following the success of its initial workshop, Maltese Welfare NSW is pleased to offer a second opportunity for Maltese seniors to participate in small group sessions focused on learning essential mobile phone functions. This initiative is designed to support participants in staying connected with family and friends, all within a supportive and conveniently located environment. Members of the Maltese Welfare Committee will be available to provide assistance throughout the sessions.
The Tech Savvy Seniors Workshop is on Seniors Introduction to Smartphones
The basics of how to navigate your way around a smartphone with a touchscreen
How to turn the phone on and off
Make and receive calls
Add a contact and look up a contact
Change the volume on the phone
Briefly about apps – what they are, how to download them
Participants must be over 60 years old
Limited number and must register, see details on flyer. Phone Lawrence Gatt 0404 462 344
Maltese Welfare NSW is pleased to offer an opportunity for Maltese seniors to participate in small group sessions focused on learning the essential functions of mobile phones. This initiative facilitates staying connected with family and friends, and conducted in a supportive and convenient environment.
The Tech Savvy Seniors Workshop is on Seniors Introduction to Smartphones
The basics of how to navigate your way around a smartphone with a touchscreen
How to turn the phone on and off
Make and receive calls
Add a contact and look up a contact
Change the volume on the phone
Briefly about apps – what they are, how to download them, and the costs associated with them
Participants must be over 60 years old
Limited number and must register, see details on flyer.
