Tom and Elaine Berndt, dedicated members of the Australia Tibet Council, have recently become the latest Blue Book members, symbolizing their commitment to supporting the Tibetan cause. Their journey to this point began with a significant trip to Dharamshala, the heart of the Tibetan exile administration and the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.
This eye-opening tour, organized by Dr. Zoe of the Australia Tibet Council in October, profoundly impacted the Berndts, as reported by Tibet.net, the official website of the Central Tibetan Administration.
During their trip, the Berndts, along with other group members, visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile and interacted with key figures, including Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering. The experience deepened their understanding of the Tibetan exile community’s lives and struggles.
Following their return to Brisbane, the Berndts were eager to engage further in the Tibetan cause. They embarked on a two-hour drive to meet with Tenzin Doring, a resident parliamentarian of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, in Brisbane.
Their discussion, which lasted nearly two hours, explored various ways they could contribute to the Tibetan exile and diaspora communities. Topics ranged from supporting the Australia Tibet Council’s funds and membership drive to expanding the network of ‘Friends of Tibet‘ as Blue Book members.
ALSO READ: Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile 6th Session Rescheduled for March 2024 Due to Lack of Quorum
The Blue Book is an important symbol of solidarity with the Tibetan cause. Within a fortnight of their meeting with Doring, the Berndts had completed the application process and proudly received their Blue Book. Their second visit to Doring on December 23 was a joyful occasion, where they shared their achievement and took a photo to encourage others to support the Tibetan cause.
The Berndts, who reside in Queensland, are determined to actively support the Tibetan cause. They plan to conduct various activities to bring attention to the issues faced by Tibet.
Tibetan parliamentarian Doring expressed gratitude to Dr. Zoe for organizing the October tour, which played a crucial role in raising awareness about the Tibetan exile community. Doring also congratulated the Berndts on becoming the latest members of the ‘Friends of Tibet’.
In addition, Doring advised local Tibetan communities in Australia to honor Blue Book holders as honorary guests at community events, recognizing their support as ‘Friends of Tibet‘.
The national Tibetan community of Australia, under the umbrella of the National Federation of Australian Tibetan Communities Association, has also passed resolutions to increase efforts to bring more ‘Friends of Tibet‘ into the fold.
This initiative includes a membership drive for the Blue Book, aiming to strengthen the support network for the Tibetan cause in Australia.
About Post Author
