Flora Peng, Eileen Zhang | Australia 

In Australia, Tzu Chi volunteers are proving that love knows no boundaries as they uphold the values of compassion, selflessness, and perseverance. Their tireless efforts to spread Dharma and promote plant-based living are bringing communities together. 

Bridging the Gap Through Technology 

Tzu Chi volunteers in Australia are deeply committed to living by the teachings of Dharma Master Cheng Yen, despite being far away from Taiwan. Though Master Cheng Yen has never left Taiwan, modern technology has allowed her teachings to transcend borders. With the power of the internet, volunteers hear her teachings as if she were right there beside them. 

Gold Coast volunteers chant the Sutra of Infinite Meanings every Monday and Friday at the Gold Coast Jing Si Hall. | Photo by Bill Huang | Australia 

Each Monday and Friday, volunteers on the Gold Coast gather to recite the Sutra of Infinite Meanings. Through their heartfelt chanting, the entire hall is filled with a serene energy, providing a sanctuary of peace for those present. This practice has been a constant source of spiritual nourishment for over a year, bringing the volunteers closer together. 

“Reciting aloud helps us engrave the teachings deep into our hearts,” says Master Cheng Yen. The volunteers listen intently, knowing that this is more than just learning—it is a path to awakening. In their hands, the teachings come to life, transforming into acts of compassion that impact their local communities.  

Serving the Community During Tough Times 

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but Tzu Chi volunteers in Australia rose to the occasion. In May 2020, they donated 5,000 masks to the Upper Mount Gravatt police station, forging a lasting friendship with the officers. To further strengthen their bond, the volunteers introduced a "Meat-Free Monday" initiative, delivering 100 plant-based meals to the police department every month. 

Julia Wu (left) and Yueh-Chen Chen (right) prepared colorful dishes: sweet and sour veggie meat, smoked vegan duck, and stir-fried broccoli. | Photo by Flora Peng | Australia

This initiative grew rapidly, with the volunteers providing 400 meals and a carton of fruit by the end of August 2020. In return, the police department presented the volunteers with a certificate of appreciation and a donation of AUD 287 (approximately USD 188), showing that the cycle of love and kindness knows no bounds. 

Even when off duty, police officers like Sokhom Hok went out of their way to help the volunteers with their meal deliveries, donating money from their own pockets. These small yet meaningful actions demonstrate the power of community and the deep connections that have formed between Tzu Chi volunteers and locals. 

Juyde Watterson (left) was amazed that the delicious meal was vegetarian, while Samantha Attad (center) expressed her gratitude. | Photo by Ming-Te Hung | Australia 

One administrative staff member, Juyde Waheren, was astonished by the deliciousness of the plant-based meals, exclaiming, "I can’t believe this is vegetarian!" The impact of these meals extends beyond their taste—they symbolize a growing awareness of the importance of mindful eating and environmental responsibility. 

Pushing Forward with Passion 

The volunteers' dedication to promoting plant-based living has not waned. On October 6, 2024, they carried out another successful campaign, preparing and delivering 500 plant-based meals to Ipswich State High School. The energy was high as students and teachers alike welcomed the initiative with joy. Even on King’s Day, a public holiday in Queensland, the volunteers kept their promise, delivering meals to the Southport police station, where the officers were pleasantly surprised to see them. 

On August 31, 2020, as usual, Julia Wu (second from left) and the meal delivery team promoted vegetarianism and were surprised to receive a certificate of appreciation and a donation coin bank from the police, reflecting the beauty of giving back. | Photo by Flora Peng | Australia | 2020/08/31 

The connection between the volunteers and the community has become so strong that even public servants feel like part of the Tzu Chi family. Together, they share meals, conversations, and a sense of purpose, working towards a common goal of promoting sustainability and compassion. 

Tzu Chi volunteers never hesitate to go the extra mile. Though many of them are well into their seventies, their spirit remains youthful, driven by their commitment to serving others. Their efforts are a testament to the power of collective action, where age is no barrier to making a difference. 

"Living with gratitude allows us to unlock the true value of life," says Julia Wu, the Deputy CEO of Tzu Chi Australia. Her words resonate deeply with the volunteers, who feel a strong sense of unity and purpose in their mission. Together, they are determined to continue promoting plant-based living, environmental sustainability, and acts of kindness. 

In learning, we awaken. In giving, we grow. This is the path of the Bodhisattva—one that the Tzu Chi volunteers in Australia walk with grace and determination.