In early November, the long-awaited "Friendship Night" took place in Oran Park, Sydney, bringing together about 150 graduates from Sri Lanka who had studied at universities and institutes in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and the socialist bloc countries. Many graduates started their own families during their studies and, having become professionals, moved to Australia. Having overcome many difficulties, they were able to build a successful career here and find their place in society, making Australia their second home.