Thursday, 16 October 2025

 Vicki WARD (Eltham – Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality) (10:01): We began locally celebrating Diwali five years ago, an idea sparked by the kindness of local residents Amod and Shweta in dropping Diwali sweets in to me. Our celebrations in the Eltham town square continue to grow each year. It is a joyous and vibrant festival – the Festival of Lights – holding deep cultural and religious significance for many. While customs and traditions may vary, the message remains universal: hope, goodness and light. These local celebrations are even more special because regardless of background or faith Diwali brings together so many people, highlighting generosity, kindness and friendship. Thank you to our wonderful artists and performers, local restaurants Machan and Ginger Garlic for their delicious food and our local kindergartens, which created many beautiful Diwali lanterns.

We could not celebrate so well without the work and ongoing support of the Nillumbik Shire Council, the Eltham Lions Club and the Eltham Chamber of Commerce. I particularly want to thank Amod and Shweta Joshi, Tarun and Suchi Palta, Prashant and Vasu Pandurangi, Hina Khurana and Peter Talbot. For months these wonderful volunteers have invested countless hours of planning. Thanks to their dedication our celebration is possible. Shubh Diwali.