When Kurdish Syrian refugee, Douaa Mardini and her family left Iraq last year to make a new life in Australia, her excitement was tempered by the disappointment and worry of leaving her mother, Rabiaa,behind.
Rabiaa had not been granted a visa.
The young family were the first to arrive in Australia under the Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP), and have been supported by Ballina Region for Refugees’ Ocean Shores Community Support Group.
BR4R President, Marilyn Leeks, said that at the time it seemed uncertain that Rabiaa would be granted an Australian Humanitarian Visa.
However, the decision eventually came down in her favour and last week there were tears of joy when she re-joined her family.
Rabiaa has been welcomed with open arms by her family and the Ocean Shores support group, who have developed a deep friendship with the family.
‘They are so kind, they are wonderful, I’ve never seen anything like them,’ said Rabiaa.
You can support refugee settlement in our region by donating at www.givenow.com.au/br4r
To find out about establishing or joining a community settlement group in our region please reach out to [email protected].
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