Dili, May 22, 2025 (Média Democracia) – In Queensland, Australia, the Timorese worker community employed at Queensland Berries, an agricultural company, gathered to commemorate the 23rd Anniversary of the Restoration of Timor-Leste’s Independence on May 20, 2025. The celebration took place on Tuesday this week.
Reinhard Banni explained that the main activity on this important day was a thanksgiving mass, organized in the company’s work area, with the aim of expressing gratitude to God for the land of Timor-Leste, which regained its independence after the occupation, in 2002.
“The mass was conducted in both Tetum and English to facilitate understanding among all participants, including community leaders and new arrivals under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program. According to the organizers, over 300 Timorese participated, showing unity and solidarity among them,” said workers’ representative Reinhard Banni.
He also emphasized that as young people who have recently come abroad, they must honor their freedom and independence by becoming good citizens and good Christians within their communities.
“Although we are workers in a foreign country, we will never forget the history and the sacrifices made by great people to make Timor-Leste a democratic nation where everyone can live in freedom. This thanksgiving mass is a form of gratitude,” he added.
He further emphasized the importance of standing together, overcoming violence and problems, in order to build peace and stable relationships within families and communities, while hoping for a bright and prosperous future for Timor-Leste in the global arena.
In the same place, Father Martinho da Costa stated that the celebration of the mass for the 23rd anniversary of the national day on May 20th was an opportunity to ask for grace and assistance from God to bless the people and the heroes who fought for independence.
“In the homily, Jesus said, ‘I have loved you, so what will you give me through your daily life?’ Jesus repeats again, ‘I have loved you.’ How can you share and nurture the love I’ve left you with? It is our duty and responsibility as citizens to live accordingly,” he preached.
He added that Queensland Berries appreciates the contribution of Timorese workers in the fruit industry and supports their social and cultural activities. “They are an important part of the team.”
He went on to explain that Queensland Berries continues to respect Timorese culture and fully supports their right to celebrate the Restoration of Independence. All Timorese should respect and reflect on this important moment. To conclude the commemorative day, the community offered prayers to God for continued protection over Timor-Leste and all migrants, both at home and abroad.
Report: Nelfiano
Photo: Timorese Workers at Queensland Berries, Dilan