About Us

‌Filipino Australian Friendship Association of Geelong Inc was established in 1981 by a small group of Filipino and Australian families in Geelong and has flourished into a much larger and close-knit group, which stems from the organisations wholesome program of socio-cultural activities catering to the needs of all age groups. The association has members not exclusive of only Filipinos but from other ethnic backgrounds for the purpose of encouraging social and cultural interaction between Filipinos, Australian and other ethnic groups.  Over the years the group has been actively involved and helped several multicultural services and programs through our active affiliation with Diversitat / Cultura.We pride ourselves to be the only Filipino Club in Geelong that owns our building. Thanks to our dedicated members who volunteered countless hours and through passion, commitment, and hard work and tons of fundraising events we can enjoy our facility we call ‘HOME’. As we celebrate our yearly anniversaries, we commemorate the birth of this amazing Organisation and the impact it made to our community. We salute our colourful families and friends for their continued support and the lasting friendships formed though our affiliation with Filipino Australian Friendship Association of Geelong.  We celebrate being Australians although from many lands – we form ONE FAMILY.

Our Executive Committee

Club President:  Mila Cichello
Vice President:  Sharon Miguel Cranston
Secretary:  Brad Marasigan
Assistant Secretary:  Position Vacant
Treasurer:  Teresa Eaide
Assistant Treasurer:  Position Vacant

Our Portfolio Holders

Funding Applications:  Mila Cichello
Welfare:  Judith Miguel
Filipino Community Representative:  Sharon Miguel Cranston and Fely Spikers
Cultura Multicultural Commitee:  Sharon Miguel Cranston and Lilia McLean
Events:  Judith Miguel, Irene Buckle and Jayson Marasigan
Information and Technology:  Jayson Marasigan and Bradley Marasigan
Aged Care Liaison:  Fe Mannix
FAFAG History:  Barry Buckle
Melbourne Network Liaison:  Mila Cichello
Advisors:  Barry Buckle and Fe Mannix

Club President - Mila Cichello

My name is Mila Cichello; my family and I have been Fafag members for over 20 years.

I have worked in both private and public sectors as a nurse, midwife, Paediatric ICU nurse and currently working as a registered Psychologist (HR).

My work background has been in public health planning, aged care policy and university research.

When I became a carer for my elderly parents and a very ill brother, I used my experience and skills to advocate for aged care services to older Australians from Culturally & Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, particularly in regional areas.

I am active in professional groups that contribute to government initiatives.

I am an active Community Leader / Mentor in the Fil-Australian community and have been assisting my husbands medical missions for deaf children in the Philippines since 1993.

Fafag is our chosen Community of Interest because we have family and friends in Geelong and Warrnambool.

What do I love the most?

Travelling is one, but surest of all, I love our grandkids - to the moon and back.

Vice President - Fritzie Punsalang

Secretary - Brad Marasigan

I’m passionate about multiculturalism, community connection and celebrating the rich diversity that makes Australia such a wonderful place to call home.

Having lived and worked in the Philippines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation and love for Filipino culture, traditions and the strong sense of family and community.

As Secretary of FAFAG, I’m proud to contribute my leadership, organisational and event management experience to an association that brings people together through culture, friendship and shared experiences.

I’m particularly passionate about growing Pasko Sa Geelong into one of Victoria’s leading multicultural celebrations, showcasing Filipino culture while welcoming people from all backgrounds.

For me, FAFAG is more than an association. It’s about building friendships, celebrating diversity, preserving culture and creating a genuine sense of belonging for everyone.

Assistant Secretary - River Punsalang

Treasurer - Teresa Eadie

Assistant Treasurer - Position Vacant

First Aid Officer - Judith Miguel