Background about CETAF

Of the over 45 East Timor Friendship groups throughout Australia FOA (Friends of Aileu) is one of the most successful. When our group started in 2004 we chose to join FOA in their fantastic work. FOA asked us [CETAF] to help Lequidoe, one of the sub districts of Aileu which was very remote and had previously been ‘last on the list’. Whilst initially we felt overwhelmed by the enormity of the task of communicating and travelling to this remote area now we feel privileged to be their friend - because even the smallest contribution can make such a huge difference there.

Chris Adams is an Australian Volunteer supported by FOA. Chris lives in the Aileu community, working alongside the District Administrator and the local community to assist and support worthwhile projects throughout the district. A Friendship Commission assesses and prioritizes projects seeking FOA’s support. Chris Adams monitors all funds expended and reports directly to our group and Richard Brown, FOA’s Project Officer, employed by Hume Moreland councils in Melbourne.

FOA has a very successful network of sub groups who work together to help villages within the district. On our recent trip to Aileu we were fortunate to meet with members of Moora Moora friendship group (linked to Besilau sub district), the ATA (volunteers who provide solar power through the district) and Kangaroo Valley group (linked to Remexio subdistrict)