NZ Acheh Support Group update/news

When I first heard the news of the Tsunami my heart went out to all of the victims. But most of all, the people of Acheh. For a group of people already seriously screwed, this disaster has been a major kick in the guts. Although one of the 'good things' has been the Indonesian Government allowing International media and aid in there for the first time in three years. Anyway, there are a number of activities going on in Wellington to support the Achenese people. Please support one of these initiatives. And look forward to a great fundraising gig with great bands coming up in March... (from Acheh support group) The first street collection of the NZ Acheh Support Group raised a really heartening $1400. It was great to see so many people involved and keen. Thanks to CARITAS (http://www.caritas.org.nz/) for their help and support which enabled us to get legitimately collect without problems with the WCC. If you would like to make a donation, you can deposit money in the following account: Name: Acheh Support Group Branch: Manners Street Number: 06 0582 269439 00 We are collecting for Yayasan IDEP (Indonesian Development Education and Permaculture/ www.idepfoundation.org), WALHI (Friends of the Earth Indonesia) and SIRA (Acheh Referendum Information Centre) who are three grassroots NGOs working on the ground in Acheh right now. Upcoming Fundraising Events Friday 4th of February – Fundraising Gig @ Blue Note Starts 7:00pm Cameron Burnell and Don Franks are confirmed to play. Jessie and Jonah are interested as well, which would make for an interesting acoustic series of sets. The idea is to have a later bunch of bands, which are louder. Mr Sterile Assembly may be available among others. Saturday 12th of February – Achehnese Community Dinner @ St Johns Hall Starts 7:00pm Community dinner which will feature music, speaking, and examples of Achehnese dance, and of course wonderful Achehnese food.