# 'Welcome to Australia, mate. Have a beer.'

- Teacher: Ajahn Brahm
- Type: Story
- URL: https://beingmindfulstories.com/stories/brahm-boat-person-became-governor
- Themes: kindness, refugees, welcome, service
- Life situations: migration, welcoming newcomers

## Synopsis (editorial summary)

A Vietnamese boat person, just in sight of the Australian shore, was greeted by two West Australian fishermen: 'Welcome to Australia, mate. Have a beer.' He always remembered it. He settled in South Australia and eventually served two terms as Governor of South Australia, repaying the welcome with service.

## The story, as told by Ajahn Brahm (verbatim captions)

I don't know if you know that one of those boat people years ago know he's uh that's right he was uh from he was was it Bangladesh no from Vietnam also Vietnamese and when he arrived you know in Australia actually just in sight of shore he received this wonderful welcome to Australia by these two West Australian fishermen These two West Australian fishermen shouted at him, "Welcome to Australia, mate. Have a beer." And he always remembered that. And eventually, you know, got settled in South Australia and became the governor of South Australia for two terms.

## Teaching point

Kindness to newcomers is repaid through their service; give people the opportunity to serve.

## Reflection (in the spirit of Ajahn Brahm's talk)

A Vietnamese refugee, just in sight of the shore, was greeted by two fishermen: welcome to Australia, mate, have a beer. He never forgot it, and eventually served two terms as a state governor. People who arrive with nothing often give the most back. A small welcome can shape a life.

## Source

- [Growing from Difficult Times | Ajahn Brahm | 21 April 2023](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXZHG7El0lU) (Buddhist Society of Western Australia) — watch from 54:56 to 55:53: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXZHG7El0lU&t=3296s