Computers for Oecussi- East Timor.

My involvement with the Oecussi support group began in 2003. Former Cr. Bernie Millane convened a meeting of people interested in providing support and programs to the people of this small enclave in East Timor. We became inspired by two East Timorese ladies who spent eight weeks in Australia learning about local governance at TAFE and Whitehorse Council. They took back to Oecussi the knowledge that would empower them to set in place many improvements for their community.

Support for this community is ongoing and through the generosity of Geoff Holder at Channel 9 Melbourne at Docklands, four re-imaged computers each equipped with keyboard, mouse, monitor and Windows OS, were prepared for transport. Bob Bogdan, computer expert extraordinaire, donated his time to install the Microsoft Office Suite licences that Elwynne Kift kindly provided. In this way a small group of friends has helped to fulfil a need that was identified some years ago.

Through the “Archie Roach” concert of June 2008, funds were raised to install solar panels on the roof of the Oecussi community centre. Now with solar panels installed the community centre is no longer at the mercy of an inadequate electricity supply of only three hours per day. The centre will be able to operate the computers without power outages. Australians take such infrastructure for granted but it can have such an impact on the lives of a small community.

The shipment of these computers to Oecussi demonstrates the way that one community can help another without the constraints of bureaucracy and red tape. A simple gesture in friendship.