Brave Yuliana inspires a village
IN THE tiny West Timorese village of Kakait an Australian flag is displayed proudly.
It is a symbol of immense gratitude to the surgeons of Dandenong Hospital who last year performed a free operation to remove a life-threatening tumour from Yuliana Nahak’s face.
The 24-year-old later returned to a hero’s welcome in Kakait. Villagers ran down the street alongside the car as it arrived. Women and children beat drums, and performed a special dance.
‘‘ Her family was absolutely shocked,’’ sponsor Rayma Tracy said. ‘‘They hugged her and gave her a nose kiss, which is the tradition there.
‘‘Her father gave her two nose kisses, which meant he was especially thrilled.’’
One year on, Yuliana is doing well and wants to complete her education.
Everyone in Kakait knows about Australia.
‘‘They are so thankful to Australia for looking after their little girl,’’ Mrs Tracy said.