Friday, 14 November 2025

 Ros SPENCE (Kalkallo – Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Community Sport, Minister for Carers and Volunteers) (10:30): Today I would like to say thank you to all those who organised and participated in the wonderful Diwali celebrations across my community in the Kalkallo electorate. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time of joy, reflection and renewal. It celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and wisdom over ignorance.

Thousands of families came together across my community to mark this special occasion with traditions that span generations. While Diwali originated in Hindu culture, it is celebrated by people of many faiths around the world. In Kalkallo our Indian, Nepalese, Pakistani and Sri Lankan communities are vibrant and deeply engaged. This year, over several days of celebration, families gathered to share meals, exchange gifts and honour Lakshmi in homes, temples and community spaces.

We had a number of standout events in my community. I was honoured to attend the Hume Diwali Mela held on Saturday 18 October at Anzac memorial park in Craigieburn. This annual event grows year after year, providing a vibrant celebration, with food stalls, music and dance, carnival rides and spectacular fireworks. I offer my sincere thanks to Raj Mann, Nikki Jain, Kiran Sood, Pooja Punjabi and all involved with the Australian Women’s Association for organising such a joyful, inclusive event. Of course there were the many celebrations and events at Kali Mata Mandir temple, where thousands of locals attended over several days. Thank you to Bhawana and her team for sharing the colour and blessings with our community and for always making me welcome in their very special space.