SYDNEY: On the 27^th of April, a #SAVEKESSAB FUNDRAISER was held at Sydney's Galstaun College. This event showcased the preparation of Masara (grape syrup), which has been a traditional pastime undertaken by the Armenians of Kessab, Syria, for hundreds of years.

On March 21st, armed rebel groups attacked the heavily Armenian-populated region of Kessab, Syria, by crossing the Turkish border into Syria. Under the threat of slaughter, the entire Armenian population of the region was forced to flee their homes into neighbouring towns, including Latakia and Bassit. Some were not so lucky and have reportedly been taken hostage, while churches and homes have been destroyed.

Due to these violent attacks, the people of Kessab will not be able to make Masara. This fundraiser ensured that this tradition was carried out, with all proceeds being allocated to the Kessab Relief Fund.

Among the volunteers, Nishan Manjikian and Vik Kortian

Despite the cold and wet weather, there was a fantastic turnout at the fundraiser, with over 300 people attending the event at Galstaun College. The support displayed was truly overwhelming as Armenians not only from Kessab, but from the entire diaspora were actively showing their devotion to their desolate comrades by donating generously to assist the rebuilding of their lives.

"It is such a great thing for a country so far away to be doing something like this," says Tamar Gulumian, an active youth of the Armenian-Australian community. "There is such a fantastic turn out, honouring the traditions of the Kessab-Armenians such as the Masara, the Harrissa, the Kessab bread, and of course the delicious kebabs.”

Before this event, the Armenian-Australian community had raised over $40,000 for all those effected in Kessab and this event will definitely take that number to over $50,000.

Great turnout at #SAVEKESSAB FUNDRAISER at Galstaun College

"The most rewarding thing is to give,” says Armenian Youth Federation spokesperson Anaheed Sarian. “Everyone knows what is going on in Kessab and every bit counts. There are Armenians from all over the world who are here to help their brothers and sisters in need.”

For many Armenians, such as Sydney Armenian youth member Talar Ohanessian,the #SAVEKESSAB fundraising events are “ extremely close to home,” as members of her family have lived in Kessab up until the attacks last month.

“They have left Kessab for Latakia. Two of my uncles tried to go back to see how bad the damage was but they were turned away by Syrian soldiers,” she says. They have no idea how bad it is and are refusing any help. They think they will return to their homes.”