The aim of the conference was to: disseminate information and materials from the World Conference of chairs of CYM Education Councils; to re-visit the basic values of CYM; to present the proposed method of assessment and achievement; to examine proposed changes to the CYM Handbook; and to establish a "Business Plan" for the next three years for the CYM Australia National Education Council.

The formal proceedings took place in the CYM room of Ukrainian Youth House with the participation of 25 people including the President of CYM Australia - Peter Duma and the President of CYM - NSW Branch Wasyl Senko. The first day's proceedings finished at 8 p.m. culminating in a group dinner at the CYM Club. Early next morning the National President met with the CYM Olympics Committee and after mass and another delicious feed the proceedings continued.

The National Executive of CYM Australia has as its main aim the development and education of young people in the context of Christian values to become good Australian citizens and contributing members of the Ukrainian Community. Therefore, in addition to visits to Branches, including the running of leadership courses, this is the fourth time since 1997 that there have been national gatherings for CYM Youth Leaders. In October 1997 a seminar was held for Chief Youth leaders. Representatives from Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth participated in a program covering development of world-view, personal and organisational values, ethics, teaching concepts, leadership theory and child development. In April 1999 the National Executive undertook a preparation course for 20 new youth leaders. And in October 1999, another national conference was held on the Train the Trainer theme.

The National Executive of the Ukrainian Youth Association in Australia, thanks the Sydney Branch for their hospitality and showing us a good time.

by Tatiana Zachariak