SBS Assyrian

It was a big year for news around the world, but there are some stories that Australians in particular won't forget. Some will forever be etched in our memories as horrific tragedies, and others were celebrated by the nation.

Türkiye calls for an end to sanctions on Syria after a meeting with rebel leaders ; Victorian bushfires continue to burn out of control ; and in football, Real Madrid claims a comfortable win against Sevilla.

Over a hundred students from St. Mary's Church Assyrian Language School celebrated their graduation this year in a joyful ceremony. The event was graced by the presence of His Beatitude Mar Melis Zaia Metropolitan, church clergymen, and proud parents. The children delighted the audience with various song performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. Outstanding students were also recognized and...

Australians return home from Vanuatu following a deadly 7.3-magnitude earthquake; a ban on protests outside places of worship, under proposed laws in Victoria; and, in sports, Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior named FIFA Player of the Year.

Australians face higher taxes and service cuts unless the government addresses debt problem; US and Arab mediators work to finalise Israel-Hamas agreement to end Gaza conflict; and, in cricket, Heat begin title defence with dominant win over Stars at the MCG.

A rise in the death toll from an earthquake in Vanautu; retired radio host Alan Jones to face court over assault allegations; Ukraine has taken responsibility for killing a senior Russian general; and, in cricket, Josh Hazlewood ruled out for the remainder of the Test series against India.

Newly elected secretary of the Assyrian Australian Association, Joe Joseph, shared details about the association's plans and projects for the upcoming year. A key priority is construction of a cultural centre, which will serve as a hub for cultural events, arts, a library, and other community activities. Joseph also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand the Ashurbanipal Library's archive digitisat...

Concerns for the future of Syrian refugees after the fall of the Assad regime; a further deepening of defence and trade ties between Australia and Britain; and, in sport, Australia takes control of the Third Test against India at the 'Gabba'.

Hundreds — and possibly thousands — feared dead after a cyclone hits the French island of Mayotte; schools reopen in Syria; the Sydney Kings deliver a 93-81 NBL win over the Brisbane Bullets.

Australia among nations voting on a permanent Gaza ceasefire at the United Nations General Assembly; The Prime Minister makes an announcement on subsidised childcare; and, in sports, Football Australia says time is being taken to ensure the right person is selected as the next coach of the Matildas.

Australia is set to vote on a permanent Gaza ceasefire at the United Nations General Assembly; a former US diplomat criticises Australia's position on repatriating Australian women and children from Syria; and, in sport, Australian tri-athlete Ashleigh Gentle says she relishes the chance to compete in New Zealand.

Ten extraordinary audio recordings illustrating Australia’s cultural and political landscape have been added to the National Film and Sound Archive’s Sounds of Australia collection. The 2024 additions include the first Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Australian to use recorded sound to document Aboriginal culture; hip hop; speeches; a theme tune; the launch of what is now SBS Audio; an advert...

Australia’s multicultural broadcaster is set to establish a hub in a yet-to-be-determined location in Sydney’s west, the federal government announced on Sunday. The hub will feature a TV studio to host live audiences, radio and podcasting booths and a workspace to support production output. It comes following a feasibility study after which the government opted not to relocate SBS from its headqua...

US-based Jewish human rights organisation expected to issue a travel warning about risk of antisemitic attacks when visiting Australia; expenses for families with young children soar since 2021; and, in sport, Papua New Guinea's PM hopeful his country will gain entry to the NRL this Thursday.

Police search for the vandals who torched a car in Sydney, after spraying it with anti-Israel slogans; the Prime Minister makes an announcement on subsidised childcare in the first big steps towards universal and affordable childcare; and, in sport, Football Australia says time is being taken to ensure the right person is selected as the next coach of the Matildas.

The Assyrian National Council — Australia is organising a meeting in Sydney, inviting numerous Assyrian community organisations to address the implications of the Syrian regime's fall and the concerns of minorities in Syria regarding potential future leadership. Hermiz Shahen, council president, told SBS Assyrian that the gathering seeks to discuss the fate and future of Assyrians and other minori...

Youbert Lazar, a skilled calligrapher, was born in Iran. His passion for Persian calligraphy emerged at the age of 12, inspiring him to practise and study this intricate art form. After migrating to the United States, he delved into the study of the Assyrian language, which eventually led him to meet the late Issa Benyamin, regarded as the father of Assyrian calligraphy. Lazar considers Benyamin h...

Syrians around the world are celebrating in the streets after hearing the news that President Bashar al-Assad has fled Syria. Syrian opposition forces have now taken control of the capital of Damascus and declared an end to 13 years of civil war and five decades of Assad family rule. It took less than two weeks for rebel groups led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham to bring an end to the regime.

The Coalition pledges to establish an antisemitism taskforce if elected; incoming US President Donald Trump to pardon rioters involved in the January 6 attack; and in cricket, victory over India in the second women's ODI in Brisbane.

Evan Yako's Sydney Opera House concert drew widespread reactions of astonishment, joy, pride, and enthusiasm. Spectators left deeply satisfied with the artistic and creative performance at Australia’s iconic venue. SBS Assyrian captured highlights of these unforgettable moments, showcasing the audience’s appreciation and encouragement for an exceptional evening of music and artistry.

Political crisis in France after a no-confidence vote; intelligence agency warns young people becoming increasingly vulnerable to online radicalisation; and, in sports, Matildas return to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Chinese Taipei. ---

South Korean MPs begin impeachment proceedings against the country's president; Amnesty releases a scathing report over the actions of Israel in Gaza; and, in sport, Matildas return to winning ways after 3-1 victory over Chinese Taipei.

More than 400 Assyrian music enthusiasts filled Studio Hall at the Sydney Opera House for a sold-out performance on 30 November 2024, celebrating the release of Evan Yako’s latest album, '6774 Assyria Ave: Jazz Town'. The concert featured a stunning repertoire of Yako’s original jazz compositions and arrangements with a surprising introduction of RAWEH and infusion of the traditional Assyrian melo...

South Korea's president lifts a declaration of martial law he imposed overnight; a suspect in an alleged double-homicide case returns to Australia after eight years; and, in cricket, Australia's Alex Carey shuts down suggestions the team are panicked after loss to India.

Australians concerned for family stuck in Aleppo; disability leadership recognised on the International Day of People with Disability; and, in sport, Wallabies player Jordan Petaia announces his plan to pursue his American Football dream from next year.