These summaries are provided to inform interested supporters and friends of the Peaceful Land of Joy Meditation Centre about recent issues discussed at TBS directors’ meetings.

Melbourne directors meet four to six times a year. After each meeting a summary will be posted on the Community Information page on the Society’s website with a link from regular newsletters and communications. You may wish to bookmark this link on your browser.

7 December 2024

Solar Panels
The installation of solar panels is currently on hold pending necessary repairs to the temple roof.

Resident Heating and Cooling
Reverse cycle units have been installed in the central and east house kitchens to replace outdated and ineffective ducted systems. Donations from TBS students helped partially offset the cost.

Donation to Denma College
TBS has donated $1,000 to Denma College at Sera Je Monastery to support the construction of a new pathway. Denma College was Geshe Loden’s college and is also home to his reincarnation, Loden Rinpoche.

Loden Labrang
TBS Australia is responsible for maintaining Loden Labrang, Loden Rinpoche’s residence near Sera Monastery. Michael outlined a series of issues affecting the property, and funds will be sent to address current mould and leak concerns. Future renovation or reconstruction of an additional section of the house will be considered.

New associate directors

Christine McKeown and Donna Valentine have accepted roles as Associate Directors. Jonathan Parker has also been invited but will begin as an observer due to other commitments.

Tushita Website
Progress continues on the proposal introduced by Tara Sleeman to establish a Tushita website.

New Residents
Three new residents have recently moved into TBS, with the possibility of two additional residents arriving in the new year.

Shenpen Charitable Trust
During a visit to Bylakuppe in December, TBS representatives were approached by the Shenpen Charitable Trust, which supports people in need in Mysuru especially within the health system. TBS has agreed to donate $1,000 to this important cause.

Next meeting: 15 February 2025

15 February  2025

Electrical board updates

The electrical boards in all 3 residences need upgrades. It is a large job and a number of quotes are being sought.

Temple roof repairs

The various options for replacement of the damaged pars of the roof were discussed and we’re getting a report on the roof conditions so we can more fully evaluate the options and costs.

Sydney thangkas

Following the end of the Sydney centre’s lease and the movement of their teachings online their thangkas were sent to the Melbourne centre.  Melbourne will keep one to be placed in the temple and the other two were offered to, and accepted by, the Perth centre.

Loden Labrang works update

There was a report on the recent construction activity and the next steps for required repairs.

Temple paving

The front steps have sunk slightly relative to the temple leading to some draining problems.  It’s proposed to raise the slab slightly to allow water to drain away from the foundations.

First Aid training

The proposal to offer subsidised first aid training to 3-4 people from among residents and regular attendees was accepted.  Purchase of a defibrillator for the temple was approved in principle and a unit is currently being investigated

Charitable fund raising

There is an existing charitable fund-raising policy.  It’s been some time since it was prepared so the Charitable Activities Team will review it.  It’s proposed to do a charitable fundraising appeal as per Geshe-la’s practice with initial funding of $1000 from the centre. [With the occurrence of Cyclone Alfred, it was later decided to make that the focus of the appeal.]

Retreats

It was agreed to invite Les to lead a path to enlightenment retreat in January 2026.  Exact dates to be finalised.

Associate directors

The appointment of our additional associate directors will be announced via a regular email, as well as Caterina’s decision to take a break while she focuses on her study course. The directors resolved to send a letter to Caterina thanking her for her outstanding contribution as an associate director and to the TBS community generally. 

Next meeting: Saturday 26 April1.30pm