Hands across sea

By Lia Bichel
In July, Friends of Ermera will lead a friendship school teacher’s visit with seven Casey teachers travelling to East Timor to visit and teach at their Ermera friendship school.
Formed in 2002, Friends of Ermera is a community-based group of concerned Casey residents who aim to help the people of Ermera, East Timor. It became an incorporated association in May 2003.
The group helps people in Ermera rebuild their lives and communities by raising funds, organising the provision of goods, services and technical advice, and encouraging local Australian groups to assist in the process of recovery and reconstruction.
The Friends of Ermera also focus on water supply rehabilitation, building projects, provision of medical equipment and supplies, scholarships, youth leadership, education and work to build the skills of the people of Ermera.
Wayne Smith, Fountain Gate Secondary College’s Community Links co-ordinator and City of Casey councillor, has been to Ermera twice to work with teachers and students and said he looked forward to returning this year.
“I know how much they value us and I know they look forward to our visits, he said.
“I think the relationship is important. We feel good helping out and the benefits to them are huge. There is not a lot of money in their area. We are taking over some books and teaching aids. They are very grateful to us.”
Mr Smith said the theme this year was Australian sports, and while he looked forward to teaching students English and other skills, he was also excited about teaching them about Aussie footy.