The UNAA Northern Territory (UNAA NT) Board is a small team of volunteers that have managed to celebrate some of the important international UN days and their directly-related SDGs throughout 2018.  UNAA NT accomplished this mostly through partnerships with other local organisations, truly living the ideal of SDG 17.

 March 3 – On International Women’s Day, UNAA NT held a Multicultural Lunch. Organised by Susan Williamsit, the event was held at the Portuguese Timorese Social Club. Eighty guests enjoyed a  multicultural lunch and performances. (SDGs: 5, 10)

 March 10 – The International Women’s Day Walk and Celebration was organised by Katrina Fong Lim, in partnership with City of Darwin and the NTG.  Approximately 1,000 people took over the streets of inner Darwin, banners waving (SDGs: 5, 10).

 June 5 – For World Environment Day,  Ian Hollingsworth, in partnership with City of Darwin, supported a lunchtime forum on environmental issues.  Around 30 people enjoyed this event (SDGs: 13, 12, 14, 15).

 June 20 – For World Refugee Day, Vahid Hezarah arranged an innovative, online event with people saying what the word ‘refugee’ means to them.  Her Honour, the Administrator and Larrakia Elder, Bilawarra Lee, provided messages for this event. UNAA NT also participated in the World Refugee Day event at Jingili Water Gardens, organised by Melealuca by gifting an SDG Badge to each new citizen (SDGs: 1, 2, 16).

 September 21 – For International Day of Peace, Edwin Joseph and Arul Selvataram organised an outstanding celebration at Christchurch cathedral. UNAA NT and guests celebrated this most important UN day with speeches and song (SDGs: 16).

 October – Finally, on UN Day the Administrator of the Northern Territory, the Hon Vicki O’Halloran AM hosted a flag raising and morning tea.  A lovely way to celebrate the UN’s birthday.

Reporter – Katrina Fong Lim
NT Division President