Benefit concert for Sisters at Wheatsheaf Hotel
Events
Some of Adelaide’s finest musicians will gather this month to raise much-needed funds for Timor Leste’s Alma Nuns.
The Sisters serve across Indonesia and Timor Leste to provide schooling, a home and paths through life for thousands of disabled and abandoned children.
The benefit concert will be held at the Wheatsheaf Hotel where soul band The Wrong Road will be joined by dynamic all girl trio Pelvis.
Also featured at the event will be students from Saint Ignatius’ College who have seen firsthand the inspiring work of the Sisters after they visited their orphanage in Dili.
The event will be hosted by Paulie Stewart OAM, of pub rock band Painters and Dockers fame, who has worked closely with the Alma Nuns for 15 years. Paulie co-founded a charity with lawyer James Hains to support their work in Timor Leste.
The acclaimed musician has visited the country 28 times since the death of his brother Tony Stewart, who was one of five journalists killed at Balibo in 1975.
“I have developed an enduring love of the people and their indomitable spirit in the face of adversity,” Paulie said.
“Sadly, October 16 2025 is the 50th anniversary of my brother’s death and there will be substantial interest in Timor Leste over the course of the year.”
The Alma Nuns in Timor Leste were recently honoured by Pope Francis who spent two hours at their orphanage in Dili to bless them and the children and to encourage them in their work.
“Much to the Sisters’ delight, the Pontiff broke from his busy schedule on his Timor visit to drop in at the facility,” Paulie said.
The Wiggles also recognise the work of the Alma Nuns and have donated generously to support them in Timor Leste. There are schools in Timor Leste where Wiggles t-shirts are part of the school uniform.
“I often visit schools and colleges and talk about Timor Leste, Australia’s World Ware II connection with the country, my brother’s demise and the inspirational work of the Sisters for whom we have raised more than $250,000,” Paulie said.
“Along the way I have met Bono of Irish rock band U2, Kylie Minogue, John Farnham and Michael Hutchence of INXS who have all helped me promote Timor Leste independence and the work of the nuns.
Monday March 31, 6.30pm Wheatsheaf Hotel, tickets $20.
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