Australia’s sunshine state of Queensland suffered massive destruction when cyclone Marcia hit its coastline in end of February. Around 1100 houses were destroyed in Rockhampton city, and trees uprooted by strong winds that blew around 290km/hour.
That’s when the UK-based ‘Khalsa Aid’ came forward to help. Khalsa Aid contacted Australia’s rising Sikh organisation Turbans4Australia and encouraged them to be local contacts for them. Amar Singh of Turbans4Australia contacted the Salvation Army of Rockhampton to understand the kind of aid needed and then arranged everything from buying pallets of drinking water, non-perishable food items, nappies for children and many other items worth $4500.
Two members of Turbans4Australia then flew down to Rockhampton on 21 March to make sure the goods are delivered to victims. Salvation Army’s Major Colin Maxwell thanked Khalsa Aid, Turbans4Australia and all other volunteers on behalf of victims of the cyclone and praised the efforts at this most critical time.
The team of Turbans4Australia had a chance meeting with a young Sikh named Sukh Cheema after landing at Rockhampton, who was so moved by the generous cause that he quickly arranged a team of Sikh, Punjabi and Indian community people living in Rockhampton to help the team out. The staff of the Salvation Army said that this aid and help from locals will definitely bring Indian and Australian communities even closer.
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
