This weekend was very significant for Falun Dafa in Queensland. One particular highlight was the continued recognition of Falun Dafa as something positive and good by local government officials from the Gold Coast. This was the second time that local government addressed Falun Dafa in a public meeting since the First Anniversary Celebration on July 12, 1998. The weekend activities began with a media meeting attended by journalists from the Courier Mail, Gold Coast Bulletin, and Sun newspapers. Ms Cuiying Zhang who was jailed in China related her personal experience, disclosing the horror behind China's suppression on Falun Dafa.

Later that evening, Friends of Falun Dafa Association held a special conference entitled "Supporting Human Rights in China". It was attended by members of the Gold Coast business community, religious community, representatives from Amnesty International, and most importantly by Gold Coast City Mayor, Mr Gary Baildon, and councillor (and former mayor), Mr Lex Bell. Lawyers, Accountants and Practitioners from both Queensland and New South Wales were also present to extend their support. Once again, Sydney practitioner Mrs Ciuying Zhang, an Australian citizen who was arrested and imprisoned in China for eight months shared her impressive experience with us, touching many hearts with her unwavering forbearance at the cruel hands of the Communist Regime. Mr Baildon and Mr Bell, who both addressed the audience, Mr Bell directly pointed out the current crisis taking place in China. The following comments was taken from his speech: "Here on the Gold Coast, I can say quite confidently that Falun Dafa is certainly welcomed, and we are delighted to see it expanding and succeeding here in our Gold Coast community..., In my observation, there are no political undertones. The practice of Falun Dafa appears to be totally harmless and therefore I am particularly puzzled and perplexed so as to why in some parts of the world Falun Dafa is regarded as something to be stamped out.... I was absolutely shocked to read of the treatment particularly of mainland China of some of those people who have been arrested for no other reason than that they are practicing this harmless activity of mind and body... ...I would encourage those who are here tonight to sign the petition letters which are available... ...The Friends of Falun Dafa Association and the practitioners of Falun Dafa throughout the world certainly have my support and I'm certainly very happy to do what I can, to do my little bit along with the rest of the community to enhance justice for all..."

After the conclusion of the speeches by our distinguished guests, a video of The True Story was shown, which also included footage of the report on Falun Dafa presented by the Sunday Show in Channel Nine TV. The video had a very powerful impact, and played an important role in letting all spectators know the truth.

Queensland Falun Dafa Practitioners