I am pleased to present our Annual Report for the year 2002.

The highlight of this year was the Russian Ball, co hosted with the Consulate General of the Russian Federation.  This function was to commemorate 200 years of the establishment of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Russia and 60 years of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Australia and Russia.  The evening was a huge success with over 200 guests in the presence of    Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir, AC Governor of NSW. 

 I congratulate and thank the Russian Ball committee for their commitment and hard work in making the ball the overwhelmingly successful and memorable event that it was.

The teaching of the Russian language at high school level continues to be a concern to all members of the Russian community.  A committee of community members was established to review this issue and make recommendations to the government , however the outcome is inconclusive.

The presentation of prizes to our Russian community schools continues with great support. 
 

In June there was a meeting with the Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs with most Russian organisations being represented.  The main purpose of this meeting was for the Minister to become acquainted with members of the Russian community.  As with many other communities, the RECC recognises the importance of developing strong links with government bodies, so that these organs are better informed of the diverse needs of our community. 
 

In July 2002, the welfare office of the RECC moved to Parramatta as the Inner West Migrant Resource in Ashfield was closed  It was a very sad occasion as the RECC office had developed close community links in the district,  was a convenient location and had established a wide network of support.  The Parramatta premises are modern and well utilised , and the RECC has adapted to this change, continuing to serve high numbers of clients.
 

A major achievement this year has been the adoption of a logo that was both simple, stylish  and reflected a Russian motif.  There was much discussion and agonising within the committee in selecting a suitable logo and the RECC  is most  grateful to the services of  Kerentsa Smith from Digital Pearl who donated her services in creating our logo, with the colours of the Russian flag and the architectural  images of cupolas,  capturing so  intrinsically the Russian spirit that we wanted to convey.
 

The RECC is an organisation whose fundamental aim is to represent the interests of the Russian community and to promote Russian culture. The RECC cannot do this without the input and support from the wider community. 
 

The work carried out by members of the Executive is voluntary. I thank all the members for their commitment and hours of work that you so readily give for the benefit of others.   Behind these workers, stand the other unsung heroes – the   spouses, partners, children - all work to  support the RECC when they take the phone calls, eat alone, drive or do errands for the RECC behind the scenes.  It is this core backbone of members whom we would wish to thank,   for without their  understanding and patience, our work could not be done.   
 

I also call upon all the members and organisations of our community to contribute their time and expertise, and support the RECC.  By being active and participating members, we can all work together to achieve the interests of our community. 

Irene Andrews

President