There is no doubt 2008 has been a huge year, both in world events and for TLV!

I am particularly proud to announce that 2008 saw the graduation of our first TLV scholars; a major achievement for these students, their sponsors, and for our organisation as a whole.

We have more exciting news with the launch of our website, www.tlv.org.au which I encourage you to visit during a quiet moment in your day.

Regarding our projects, despite the recent economic events, I am proud to announce that a fifth round of funding was sent in September, allowing our Timor partners to continue with the major upgrades and refurbishments for the Ainaro project as outlined for 2008.

So a big thanks to all our supporters, friends, and members who have contributed so much to our progress both in Timor and Australia. Our continued success - in the face of some bleak world events - is a direct result of your efforts and support!

On behalf of the entire crew at TLV, I wish you the very best for the Christmas and New year period - and I look forward to reporting on our progress in 2009!

Yours in community spirit

Alison Whitelaw
Chairperson

In early 2009 up to 4 committee members will visit Timor Leste (at their own expense) to view the progress of our current students and projects, and source new projects for 2010.

We invite you to join us for an evening of food, photos and fun as we share their stories with you; and report to you on both the progress of TLV and the future.

We are proud to announce the graduation of the first four students in our scholarship program, and their acceptance into university!

Monika, Eujebia, Joao and Agostinho have continued their strong academic performance and have all expressed their excitement at continuing their studies at university. This milestone is the culmination of a huge effort from our volunteers, involving many late nights and long hours, often while juggling stressful jobs; along with our sponsors supporting and believing in us.

The five students who enrolled last year are going well and we have already signed up six new sponsors for six new students for the 2008/09 round. TLV would like to thank the continuing and new sponsors for their commitment, and in helping make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of these students.

For more information visit the Scholarships page of our website.

Despite dramatic events in the world economy, funds transferred prior to the financial crisis have enabled the rehabilitation of the St Louiz Gonzaga Boy's Boarding College to continue in full swing throughout 2008; with the roof now fully repaired, and a brand new kitchen recently completed.

The new roof is a significant development for the college, allowing 25 more students to be housed! This has already given a great boost to the capacity of education in Ainaro, even with several stages of the project yet to be completed.

The previous kitchen was very basic, and the new kitchen has dramatically improved the hygiene and food quality for the boarders.

A major benefit of the project has been the employment of local builders, which has given us access to local expertise and has enabled the training of local youth.

Special thanks must go to all donors and volunteers; without your support, our continued success is not possible.

If you would like to become a TLV sponsor or want to learn more about the Ainaro Project, visit the Projects page of our website.