From 11-13th February 2005, delegates (including 14 Gold Coast members) attended the 15th Australian Friendship Force Conference hosted by Brisbane at the Riverglenn Conference Centre, Indooroopilly. Approximately 230 FF members from twenty-one Clubs were in attendance together with Dr George T Brown, Jr., President/CEO, Friendship Force International and Maryam Jordan, our Regional Co-ordinator in Atlanta. The Australian Council Meeting was well run by President Sid Parry. Over the 3 days, Guest Speakers presented interesting talks on a variety of topics, including humour, Brisbane's history, life in Indonesia, and Guidelines on Travel with Friendship Force. All keynote speakers were excellent with the serious matters being interspersed with lively, humorous interludes. FFI President George Brown demonstrated his knowledge and understanding of Friendship Force through his two well presented speeches. He also showed us the new Friendship Force video, which was well received.

FFI South Pacific Region Coordinator Maryam Jordan conducted the Workshop on Exchanges, and our Peter Jamieson capably ran the Workshop on Membership, plus did a great job of adjudicating the “Great Debate” which was won by Southern District. The other Workshop was on the complex subject of Insurance. Ian Mutch highlighted his trials and triumphs with North Moreton's recent Outbound Exchange as he presented the Gerald Weekes Memorial Address.

The formal dinner on Saturday evening, held at Riverside Reception Centre, began with nibbles and drinks served in a lovely setting by the Brisbane River. A very enjoyable evening, with dinner and entertainment, followed, with many dressing to the evening's theme of “Ye Olde Time Music Hall”. Entertainment was provided by members of the Brisbane Club.

Carol & Moira, from Mt Gambier, provided us with information on their city and urged everyone to attend the 16th Conference to be held there from 10-12th March 2006 (the change of date will allow delegates who wish to, to travel on to the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne - 15-17th March). We also learnt from Kempsey that they will be the Host Club for the 2007 Conference. The catering was good and there was ample time for delegates to mix and mingle at each of the breaks, and catch up with old friends and meet new ones. Thanks also are extended to our members who opened their homes for pre, during and post-Conference hosting.

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