Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Geelong electorate multicultural events

[NAMES AWAITING VERIFICATION]

Chris COUZENS (Geelong) (13:23): Geelong is a beautiful multicultural city with an incredible capacity for connection, reflection and celebration. Multicultural communities take great pleasure sharing their cultures with our community. This month in particular I have had the honour and privilege of attending so many beautiful celebrations that highlight our rich cultural tapestry.

The Djilang Wellbeing Celebration Dinner brought together some incredible individuals from different backgrounds to share their stories and experiences. The evening had a focus on social connection and mental wellbeing, which is so important in our communities. Fostering these values makes a stronger, more united and healthier community. I would like to thank Alison Sharkey and her staff for their work in creating an inclusive, respectful and joyful event, and a special thankyou to Mila from the Geelong Filipino community for her tireless efforts in bringing this event together.

The following night I attended the Hindu community of Geelong’s Janmashtami celebration. It was an evening of dancing, storytelling and community bonding. I would like to also thank Anand Dogra and the members of the Hindu community of Geelong for their incredible warmth, openness and willingness to share their culture.

On Saturday I attended the Teej Nepali Hindu festival. The night was a vibrant, colourful celebration of women, and I thank Niraj Karanjeet and the Geelong Nepalese Association for hosting this event.