Sydney , Australia : The United Australian Lebanese Movement (UALM) held its annual family day BBQ on Sunday 29 June 2008. Over 700 people packed into the YMCA hall in Greenacre.

The day had special importance since the UALM hosted a special guest Dr. Nassif Azzi, a key member of the Free Patriotic Movement in Lebanon.

The UALM was joined by many representatives of the various Australian-Lebanese religious, political, social and cultural organisations.

The busy day kicked off with the national Anthems of Australia and Lebanon and then a minutes silence for Australia and Lebanon’s war dead.

The audience was treated to a special acoustic rendition of old Lebanese folkloric songs by the UALM’s very own Lahoud Hadchiti other singers included Philip Roustom and Ghazi Nassouh.

UALM Federal Spokesperson Charlie Khouri delivered the UALM’s address in English. He spoke of the important role that the UALM has to play in Australia. He affirmed that the Australian-Lebanese community has a prominent role to Australia and that it is our duty as Australians to ensure that we serve Australia to the best of our ability.

There was an address given by Dr. Nassif Azzi on behalf of the leader of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), General Michel Aoun MP. Dr. Azzi maintained that a government of national unity is of paramount importance in order for all issues to be resolved. Dr. Azzi, spoke of the fact that the FPM is against all forms of marginalisation and that all religious groups in Lebanon should be represented fairly in order for Lebanon to prosper.

The UALM annual BBQ of 2008 was a huge success with Lebanese and English entertainment continuing into early evening. The family day BBQ has shown once again that the UALM has a strong supporter base and that The UALM is an integral part of the Australian-Lebanese community.

*For photos regarding this and other events please go to www.ualm.org.au and to the Multimedia section and click Galleries.

Media contact:
Charlie Khouri
P :( 02) 9687 0518
F: (02) 9687 0975
M: 0411 868 222
E: pressoffice@ualm.org.au
A: P O Box 3157 Parramatta NSW 2124