NAVIGATION

NAVIGATION

REPORT | CHARM | CELEBRATION | Cranbourne's Australia Day | Thursday 26 January 2017 | 11am-4pm

[Composition from multiple public and private sources]

A vibrant and multicultural City of Casey cultural heritage showcase.

-- Free performances
-- Free children activities including colouring, drawing, games, face painting
-- Free BBQ Sausage (beef/chicken halal) for the first 300+ visitors
Tea & coffee, soft drinks available for a gold coin donation
the day was full of great family fun, surprises, giveaways, door prizes
-- An art and photographic exhibition gave a glimpse into participating cultures in this multicultural municipality.

Casey has been the location of some recent public negative reactions to peaceful Muslim activity, including rejection of a Mosque development plan and acrimonious outcry over a billboard with girls in Muslim headress holding Australian flags to celebrate Australia Day. The timing of this event could not have been more relevant, aiming to unite community, celebrate enriching and diverse cultural heritage and things to make all citizens proud to live in City of Casey.

Meditation seemed a bold programming choice by organisers between Casey Lions Brass Band and Door Prize draws. But going by on the day feedback, it proved useful. One world, one family together temporarily for this day, a celebration of superficial difference and deeper commonality. We concentrated on breath, made rainbows in our hearts and sent peace, harmony and joyfulness to the world. Audience feedback was appreciative of the two (BCV and GEIFN) sponsors' messages offered (see accompanying photo cards).


A resilient and determined migrant minority worked tirelessly to overcome usual Organiser's Obstacles to give this gift to their local community. The collaborative and inviting approach sets a high benchmark.

On behalf of Buddhist Council Victoria Interfaith (bINTER) and Glen Eira Interfaith Network (GEIFN), thankyou to Organisers, Hosts, Participants and Presenters for inspiring demonstration of daily endeavor to make a more peaceful world, received with gratitude.

MORE:
The Cultural Historical Association of Rodriguans and Mauritians in Victoria (C.H.A.R.M)
Edwige Bignoux – President CHARM Vic,
Email president@charm.org.au
Website www.charm.org.au

Supported by City of Casey, Balla Balla Community Centre, Cranbourne Lions Club and local groups, businesses and individuals