In October 2004, following a visit to Campaspe Shire Council from the First Lady of Timor Leste, Kirsty Sword Gusmao, local interest in the people of East Timor grew. Out of that interest began the Campaspe East Timor Association in Friendship group (CETAF).
On 3 May 2005, a friendship agreement with Lequidoe in the District of Aileu, near Timor Leste’s capital Dili, was signed by the District Administrator of the Aileu District Sr Martinho Martos and then Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Judi Lawler.
Campaspe Shire Council has since joined an established friendship between Hume and Moreland City Councils with the District of Aileu.
Lequidoe has a population of 4,430 people, mostly farmers, living in seven villages and subvillages. Located in the mountains, this community’s most pressing needs are for improved infrastructure, water supply and sporting facilities.
This friendship demonstrates Council’s commitment to social justice and provides an opportunity for the Campaspe community to work together to support others experiencing disadvantage.
Want to get involved?
The friendship group meets on the second Monday of every second month at 5pm in the Campaspe Regional Library, Echuca (except for public holidays).
If you’d like to get involved contact secretary, Pauline Cleary, 0429 978 079