I recognise Mr Van Khan Chu, Secretary General of NSW Vietnamese Elderly Friendship Association(VEFA), for his outstanding contributions to enhancing the wellbeing of the Vietnamese senior community in my electorate of Cabramatta. Arriving in Australia in 1990 under the Orderly Departure Program created under the auspices of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr Chu soon rediscovered his passion for serving others. In 1992, he joined VEFA as a volunteer and currently serves as its Secretary General. Mr Chu is loved and admired by the VEFA members for his talent and passion for music, leading the 'Huong Que' (The Scent of Homeland) music band, a cornerstone of VEFA's cultural and communal events. Through music, Mr Chu creates a joyful and cohesive space for his community to cherish their cultural heritage while uplifting the spirits of those facing challenges as former refugees and newly arrived migrants, easing feelings of homesickness and isolation. Mr Chu's devoted passion and commitment to serving his community are truly commendable. On behalf of the community, I thank Mr Chu for his enduring dedication and contributions.
MR VAN KHAN CHU, VEFA Secretary General
20 June 2024