Thursday, 3 April 2025

 Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers) (10:07): It was with great pleasure that last Sunday I, along with the terrific members for Greenvale and Broadmeadows and Enver Erdogan in the other place, attended the Assyrian New Year festival 6775, hosted by Victoria’s Assyrian Australian associations. This terrific event, held at Anzac Park, Craigieburn, was a vibrant celebration of Assyrian culture and heritage. It was great to see our community come together to celebrate this significant occasion. The festival, which marks the most important national celebration in the Assyrian calendar, drew thousands from across Victoria’s large and growing Assyrian community, including many from Kalkallo. Throughout the day attendees enjoyed a variety of activities including delicious food, captivating music and traditional dance among a wide range of other festivities suitable for all ages. The atmosphere was filled with joy and camaraderie as people of all ages and backgrounds came together to share in the celebration.

It was a terrific opportunity to talk with our Assyrian community about the importance of St Joseph’s Christian college for our local community. The official opening ceremony was a highlight, showcasing the rich cultural traditions and the enduring spirit of the Assyrian people. It was an honour to witness the performances by the Assyrian Church of the East choir and the Ornina and Ashur folkloric dance groups and hear the keynote speech by His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya, Bishop of Victoria and New Zealand. It reflected the deep pride and resilience of the Assyrian community. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Joseph Haweil and all the organising committee.