Information & Cultural Exchange

This was possibly the only get together of a large number of people to engage in a particular show. Anyone could watch it in the comforts of their own home or stream it off online. But to bring it to the big screens was another feel. It was somewhat cinematic and more so important because everyone had the opportunity to see a cross section of reactions, and post event met that they can also put forth their opinions. It was also about bringing the stories back to the community and we were lucky enough to have the presence of Heather Oxfam and Katharine Anderson from SBS whom mingled with the community and heard them out. Tony Hoang & Joe Le (interviewees) were also present and gave their honest opinions of what they show had done for them and where they are now.

Other people in the audience also chimed in to give their public comments which adds to the community spirit of contribution in voices.

In summary of the three part series, despite what bitter comments the Once Upon  A Time in Cabramatta Facebook endured, or its top two trending status on Twitter, this is a project that has profound community and nation-wide value. People were empowered, provoked, stimulated to think and reflect. Some may have been enraged. Others have cried, smiled and reminscent. Overall, they talked – amongst themselves, between their peers, some watched the show with their families, and shared links on Facebook. It was never something that went under the radar. This is the power of “storytelling”.

Just a quick note, I wanted to thank my team on the night who helped me pull it together: Thuy Ng (Initiator), Adrian Castro (Live broadcast techie), Wendy La (Video person), Quan Tran (Photographer), Danielle Antaki (Set up) and Andy Ko (Technie).

Visit the Once Upon a Time in Cabramatta SBS Website for more information about the series and about One Day in Cabramatta.