Newcastle, New South Wales: The Australian Tibetan National Association (ATNA) successfully convened its 8th Governing Meeting on 19–20 November 2025 in Newcastle, bringing together representatives from 10 Tibetan associations across Australia. Participants included presidents and committee members from Canberra, Sydney, Queensland, Victoria, Central Coast, Campbelltown, Blue Mountains, Wagga Wagga, Newcastle, and Nowra.

The meeting commenced with a traditional offering of ceremonial khatak to the portrait of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, followed by the singing of the Tibetan and Australian national anthems and a moment of silence in tribute to Tibetan heroes and martyrs.

ATCA President Ngawa Choezin presented the biennial report, outlining key achievements, ongoing challenges, and future priorities of the association. This was followed by updates from regional representatives, who shared insights into their respective community activities and developments.

Chief Guest Representative Karma Singey while addressing the gathering, underscored the importance of sustained political advocacy, unity among the Tibetan people, preservation and promotion of Tibetan culture and language, and meaningful engagement of younger generations in the Tibetan cause.

Secretary of the Tibet Information Office (TIO), Jigme Pasang, briefed the participants on the significance of Chatrel (Green Book) contributions and shared updated guidelines issued by the Central Tibetan Administration regarding its payment process.

The meeting discussed and deliberated on various agendas, including strengthening of Tibet advocacy efforts in Australia, youth leadership and empowerment, follow-up initiatives related to the Ghoton and Year of Compassion celebrations, and reinforcing membership drives for the Blue Book (Tibetan Solidarity Partnership) contributions.

The meeting concluded with the election of new office bearers, with Lungtok elected as President of ATNA,  Rinzig Tenga as the new Secretary, and Yougyal as the Treasurer.

Representative Karma Singey also met the Tibetan Community of New Castle and spoke to them about the importance of participating in the events organised by the Community, maintaining unity among the members and nurturing the young Tibetans with a sense of Tibetan identity and cultural heritage.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Canberra