Wednesday, 18 February 2026

 Gary MAAS (Narre Warren South) (10:08): I was honoured to recently represent the Premier and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs at an event hosted by the Consul General of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in Melbourne to celebrate their 78th anniversary of independence. It was held at Box Hill town hall. The event acknowledged and celebrated Sri Lanka’s history and achievements through speeches, food, dancing and performances. It was a wonderful display of multiculturalism in our fantastic state of Victoria. It was very special to connect with this part of my cultural identity on this important occasion celebrating when the country gained political independence from British rule back in 1948. The Sri Lankan community in Victoria is the largest in Australia and one of the largest outside of Sri Lanka, and their cultural, social and economic contributions to our state only enrich each and every single one of us. It was particularly important to come together this independence day to recognise those lost in the devastating floods that Sri Lanka experienced last year. That was due to Cyclone Ditwah. The cyclone had a huge impact on lives and properties over there, and many in attendance at this event informed me that they were so grateful for the support that was received from Australia. The outer south-east, including my electorate in Narre Warren South, has a great and vibrant Sri Lankan community that I am very proud to represent. I thank Pradeepa Saram, the consul general, for the invitation.