We are a small, vibrant group of local residents who want to help Ossu to grow and prosper in every way. We offer non-political support and friendship. This is an exciting and rewarding project where our efforts can really make a difference to the lives of Ossu villagers.
In 2006 we established friendship links with Ossu after Rosemary Bekker visited Ossu with Abel Gueterres - the Consul General of Timor-Leste. Then we negotiated with the District Administrator of Viqueque for a derelict house to be repaired by WFOO and used as a community centre for the programs initated by the local people. We are going to be helping the people of Ossu for at least the next 10 years.
Please click and watch the Willoughby Friends of Ossu video to see how we were established.
Achievements
Employed a local Timorese person as the project co-ordinator.
Repaired and restored the building, which is now being used as a community centre – “Uma Maun Alin” (Friendship House) with a focus on the local community needs, environmental concerns and Seeds of Life research.
Ongoing fundraising includes BBQ’s/sausage sizzles, film evenings, book sales, lunches, fairs etc to provide funds for the projects. There has been a lot of enthusiasm from the committee and members. Please click and watch the Willoughby Friends of Ossu video to see how we raise funds for the people of Timor-Leste.
Hosted 7 artists from the Arte Morris Art School, Timor-Leste to study and exhibit at the Workshop Art Centre in Willoughby.
Hosted the Timorese Woven Women’s Workshop to promote the culture and economic independence of the women of Timor-Leste.
Special events were hosted for members of the World Youth Day representatives from Ossu.
Participated in numerous Willoughby Council Bushcare activities to raise awareness of environmental needs in Ossu and to develop ongoing links with the Bushcare volunteers, so they will be able to assist in the environmental programs in Ossu.
Sent delegates to Friendship Conference in Dili, Timor Leste, June 2008.
Greening of Ossu environment with 150 trees planted by school students.
Delivering computer classes and English lessons.
Repair of water pipes to assist over 500 villagers.
Provided sports equipment and team uniforms for soccer and basketball.
Providing ongoing funding for Seeds of Life field study research and planting of rice and sweet potato in Ossu.
We have just received a grant from Willoughby City Council for $2000 to help with the humanitarian project with Seeds of Life to alleviate hunger.
Future Projects
Continue to Fund "Uma Maun Alin" (Friendship House) and co-ordinator of programs.
Ongoing computer needs for education and training purposes with over 150 locals trained to date.
Links with “Seeds of Life” research programme as part of our ongoing environmental focus and increasing the yield of crops such as rice, maize, cassava and sweet potato to alleviate the hunger and malnutrition.
Please click and watch the Green Revolution in East Timor video and
Seeds of Life Research video as seen on ABC Landline.
We hope to provide transport for the local people to get to hospital in Viqueque, which is 14km away and people have to walk! This means purchasing a vehicle 4wd …all ideas and donations are welcome.
Reforestation
Native plant nursery
