On 30 August 1999 78% of the population of Timor-Leste voted for independence from Indonesia. The ballot was overseen by the UN. Voters had a choice between special autonomy within Indonesia or complete independence. When the result was announced pro-Indonesian militias unleashed a reign of terror which resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. As Indonesian troops and militias fled towards West Timor (Indonesia) schools, health clinics, churches, private homes and businesses were ransacked and burnt. Much civilian infrastructure was also destroyed including electricity and communications networks, roads and bridges.
United Nations peacekeepers and multinational armed forces did much to restore stability to Timor. The Unites Nations Interim Administration for East Timor (UNTAET) administered East Timor in the lead up to Timor-Leste regaining full independence on 20 May 2002.
Mass commemorating the 27th anniversary of the Referendum was celebrated at Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish, Coorparoo (QLD) on 30 August. Timorese Carmelites, Frs Martinho da Costa (Parish Priest) and Anacleto Guterres da Costa (Chaplain to the Timorese Community in the Archdiocese of Brisbane) were the celebrants. A large crowd of Timorese people attended the mass and the celebrations afterwards.
There are a large number of Timorese seasonal workers, students and residents in the Archdiocese.
More photos below
Photos courtesy of Mt Carmel Parish, Coorparoo
