30 minute read
continued on
Garba night held in Melbourne
The biggest Garba night was held in Melbourne recently on 20th August. The event was a huge success due to the support offered by the Melbourne community.
Advertisement
The Indian Seniors Networking event was held on August 16 by Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Gold Coast to celebrate the 75th Indian Independence Day. Seniors joined the event to make new connections, learn about Cura’s services and enjoy a meal.
Special photograph event held in Gold Coast
The Gold Coast Multicultural Arts organised a multicultural event featuring visual expressions related professional photography art works on national and cultural costumes of culturally diverse groups.
continued from pg. 1 2022 Multicultural Queensland Awards held amid much fanfare
faith but also many different industries and initiatives,’ Ms Linard said. “This included healthcare, sport and recreation, community services, legal services, employment support, and initiatives for young people and elders – just to name a few.” “It’s this power of collaboration and connection that drew me to award this year’s Minister’s Multicultural Award to Ms Kerry McQuillan from Randstad as an outstanding example of inclusion in action.
The winners of the 2022 Multicultural Queensland Awards are:
Minister’s Multicultural Award – Kerry McQuillan Kerry McQuillan is a Queensland Director and the National Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Lead for Randstad, a company that is a global leader in the Human Resourcing industry. For over four years, Randstad in collaboration with Multicultural Australia has worked together on a mentoring program coaching migrants and refugees to be ‘job ready’ for the Australian employment market. Mentors from partner organisations, including Suncorp, Deloitte, Hasting Deering, La Boite, Randstad and Queensland Government, work together with mentees to create and learn employment skills. At the end of the program, participants join their mentors in a speed networking event with Randstad to discuss their career history and aspirations. More than 60 people have been through the program with many of them finding work as a result. Diversity and Inclusion Champion – Sarah Scarce Sarah Scarce is a refugee lawyer and co-founded the Aqua English Project with her mother Julia Dixon 15 years ago. They set up the project after realising how many of the people who drowned in south-east Queensland were from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Since then, they have helped more than 33,000 people learn to swim through the aquatic program, with women making up more than 70 per cent of clients. “This unique and tailored mentoring program brings people from migrant and refugee backgrounds together with established professionals, giving both mentors and mentees a chance to learn from each other. “The program has been run by Randstad in collaboration with Multicultural Australia and over four years has supported more than 60 people to break down barriers to employment. “I congratulate all recipients and nominees in this year’s awards and commend them on their leadership and dedication to creating a truly inclusive Queensland. For more information about the 2022 Multicultural Queensland Awards including recipients, visit www.qld.gov.au/mqa.
Outstanding Contribution from a New Queenslander – Sheetal Deo Sheetal Deo is the Founder and Principal of Shakti Legal Solutions. She has single-handedly contributed to bridging access to justice for people who are ineligible for legal aid and cannot afford a standard, or traditional lawyer fees. Sheetal recognises clients with intersecting identities are disadvantaged within the legal sector and has created a legal service that improves access to justice by making legal services more affordable to those of moderate means. She is a visible role model within the legal profession as a LGBTIQA+ woman of colour who works tirelessly to ensure under-represented voices and experiences are heard. Multicultural Sector Outstanding Achiever – Indooroopilly Uniting Church Asylum Seeker and Refugee Hub Indooroopilly Uniting Church Asylum Seeker and Refugee Hub provide support for asylum seekers recently released from immigration detention centres. Since 2014, the Hub has provided English classes and community meals for culturally diverse and vulnerable people. The service expanded to include clerical and administrative support, preparing protection visa applications, legal support, and mental health counselling. The Hub was started by volunteers from the church congregation who trained and supported other volunteers to meet growing needs in the refugee and asylum seeker sector. Source: Queensland Government
Punjabi singer Mann performs in Canberra
Eminent Punjabi singer Harbhajan Mann gave a live performance on 21 August in Canberra. The event which lasted for 3 hours was organised by Desi Rocks Events.
Janmashtami celebrations in Perth
The Consul General of India in Perth recently attended the Shri Krishna Janmashtami Shobhayatra organized by Samskruthi Perth at Perth Hindu Temple, Western Australia.
Address to the GOPIO Queensland India Day Fair
Treasurer the Hon Jim Chalmers Brisbane 13 Aug 2022 I acknowledge the elders and traditions of the Turrbal and Jagera people. I acknowledge you, Aunty Betty. Thank you, Prasad and everyone at the Organisation for putting on this fantastic celebration. My colleagues in the Federal and Queensland Governments, as well as the Lord Mayor and Councillors. And to everyone here making up this field of light and colour in front of us –The community leaders and educators, the job creators and innovators, generations of family and friends making up Queensland’s rich Indian community –Thanks for letting me join with you to mark 75 years of Indian independence. And 75 years not just of partnership, but of dosti – friendship – between India and Australia. I bring with me the warm regards of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and all of my colleagues from the Federal Government. The images we saw of Prime Minister Albanese being embraced by Prime Minister Modi a few months ago, just hours after he was sworn in –Reminded all of us of the deep ties between our two nations –And the determination of both leaders to strengthen our bond, so that we can keep succeeding together. This coming Monday, when Prime Minister Modi unfurls the Tiranga at the Red Fort in Delhi – The Indian diaspora will celebrate its extraordinary accomplishments since the first Prime Minister, Pandit Nehru, declared the beginning of what he called the ‘great adventure’ of independence. 75 years on, India is –About to be the world’s most populous nation Already the world’s largest democracy An incubator of global innovation Turning economic growth into widespread social advancement And a beacon of progress for all nations and peoples still searching for a pathway to peace and prosperity. Here in Australia – we also celebrate you, and we thank you For India’s remarkable contribution to our own national story. India is the birthplace of nearly 700,000 Australian residents. India is the largest source of permanent migration to Australia. And today, one in 25 Australians can proudly claim Indian heritage. So over the weekend, and on Monday, we will celebrate the success of our friendship, and look towards new opportunities to deepen our ties. Much has been done to bring our nations and our people closer – but there is much more we can and must still do. The Albanese Government is firmly committed to making our strong links even stronger. By building on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. By boosting economic opportunities through the Free Trade Agreement. And by continuing to listen to and learn from the Indian people who give us the honour of choosing to call Australia home. We look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi back to Australia – including for next year’s Quad Leaders’ Summit. I look forward to travelling to India next year, as India becomes the G20 host nation. And when we gather here again next year, it will be in celebration of a country with the biggest population on the planet. On the eve of independence 75 years ago, Prime Minister Nehru proclaimed it as ‘but a step, an opening of opportunity to the greater triumphs and achievements that await us.’ There is perhaps no better example in modern history of a newly unshackled nation making real the promise of her forebears, and the potential of her people. Now, and in the years ahead, I have no doubt that India and its people – at home and abroad – will continue to step with confidence towards the vision of India’s freedom fighters. I know India’s triumphs and achievements are not just in the past but in the future as well. I know Australia will continue to benefit from India’s growth and prosperity. And I know that together, our dosti will become stronger and stronger. Friends, happy Indian Independence Day. Jai Hind.
Umbrella body for Muslims launched in Queensland
Queensland Muslims, a peak umbrella body for Muslim organisations in Queensland with key objectives of advocacy, social cohesion and community, was launched recently. It was a great opportunity to network with community leaders, government representatives, and multicultural organisations representatives. Chin Tan, Race Discrimination Commissioner, Australian Human Rights Commission rightly said that organisations like these exist to build bridges and not walls.
For the first time, representatives from 38 leading spiritual organisations, government, academics, and a large number of community people gathered under one roof on the Sunday 7th July 2022, in BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, 45 Clare Road, Brisbane, for the historic launch of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute in Australia in the presence of Mahamahopadhyaya Swami Bhadreshdasji. Swami Bhadreshdasji is the author of the internationally acclaimed Swaminarayan Bhashyam and Swaminarayan Siddhanta Sudha. He is the first author in 1,200 years to write a traditional Sanskrit commentary (“bhashya”) on all texts of the Prasthanatrayi – three foundational and leading scriptures of the Hindu faith comprising the Upanishads, Brahmasutras and the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. In his presence, the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute was launched in Australia with the blessings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and is a part of the centennial celebrations of BAPS’ fifth spiritual successor, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The inauguration event commenced with Dhun, Kirtan, Stuti and a video on Pramuk Swami Maharaj’s work and legacy. The audience was given a glimpse by
Near the end of the Multicultural Queensland Month in August, Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) organised on August 25 an awareness camp showcasing the diversity of Logan and how various cultures’ differences make the broader community stronger. The evening was made even better with the announcement by Mayor Darren Power that Logan City Council is officially a welcoming city. Being a welcoming city is a commitment to cohesion and inclusion. The greater the cohesion the greater children and youth of how this institute will nurture future generations to learn about Sanskrit, Vedic philosophy and Hindu culture. A choir of children and youth enlightened the attendees with their proficiency in Sanskrit shlokas of Siddhant Samamnay. The traditional ceremony of Deep Prgatya and blessings by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj formally inaugurated the event via video. Locally, Swami Bhadreshdasji and the Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP – Treasurer of Australia, Archana Singh Hon. Consul of India, QLD, Dr Adam Bowles from The University of Queensland, Dr Ashutosh Misra from Institute for Australia India Engagement (IAIE), Lisa Ward - CEO, Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ), Umesh Chandra - President, Queensland Multicultural Council and Publisher Brisbane Indian Times, Usha Chandra - GOPIO - Ex-President, Mano Krishna Mohan (L) - VHP president, QLD, Sashikalaji - President, Basava Samithi of Asia Pacific, Brisbane Chapter, Ram Mohan - Chair, Multicultural Queensland Social Network, Anoop Nannuru - President, Federation of Indian communities of Queensland (FICQ), Palani Thevar - Vice President, United Nations Australia Associations (UNAA) QLD Division, Prof. Prasad Yarlagadda - President, Global Organisation of People
the capacity of a community to respond to oncoming challenges. The event was supported by of Indian Origin (GOPIO), Shyam Das – Vedanta centre Springfield, Dr AnilbhaiDalsania - HSS QLD Chapter, Dr Sunil Sharma - President, Gold Coast Hindu Cultural Centre, KrrishnamohanKanduri - Hindu Organisations& Temple Association (HOTA) Coordinator, QLD Chapter, Pandit Parameshvara - Hindu Priest. In his speech Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP – Treasurer of Australia spoke about his feeling of affinity with BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. He went on to say “that the purpose of us on this planet is to elevate other people”, which is aligned with the ethos of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj “In the Joy of others lies our own, in the good of others lies our own”. Dr Chalmers stated that if “all Australians share this value of kindness and warmth towards each other, there will be love and harmony all over, and we as a nation can do anything”, which was met with rapturous applause from the audience. Dr Adam Bowles, Deputy Head of School, School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, The University of Queensland. In his address, Dr Bowles mentioned that he is full of happiness as his vision is that studying the Sanskrit language will become mainstream through this research institute. Dr Bowles has shown appreciation for Swami Bhadreshdasji for his tremendous work on “Prasthanatrayi” in such a short period. Dr Ashutosh Misra, PhD, MPhil, MA, BA. - The CEO and Executive Director of the Institute for Australia India Engagement (IAIE): He expressed pride and happiness in seeing this research institute being brought to life. As an academic, he feels that this research institute is a bridge that will fill the gap in learning Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy in the coming years. Therefore, he extended his support and participation in the research institute. In his keynote address, Swami Bhadreshdasji stated that the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute in Australia brings to life the vision of Yogiji Maharaj – BAPS’ fourth spiritual leader – to teach children and youths to read, write and deliver discourses in Sanskrit. He further mentioned that anyone from society is welcome to pursue research at this institute. The researcher will benefit from learning the ancient Sanskrit language to study ancient Hindu knowledge and gain their understanding. Hindu knowledge is about inclusiveness, happiness, moral values, and a life with purpose and fulfilment. Everyone commended the work undertaken with BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute in Australia and looks toward supporting this vital initiative for the growing Hindu community in Australia. The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute will commit to the teaching of Sanskrit, classical Vedic literature and Hindu beliefs, values, affiliated languages, and practices. In addition, it will nurture interfaith dialogue, public engagement, and academic discourse as it generates opportunities for the highest level of value-based education, innovative research, and creative expression. The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute in Australia is dedicated to advancing research, learning, and the expression of scholarship and culture. Through various educational initiatives, the institute seeks to promote the highest level of academic excellence in all branches of study. It will provide opportunities for value-based instruction, innovative research, creative expression, mutual discussion, and social service will inspire quality, original, productive, and responsible scholarship. The institute seeks to inspire and educate individuals and provide them with the right tools and opportunities to foster personal success, develop awareness and strong communal ties, and ultimately change the world by broadening horizons, inspiring expression and instilling service. For more information, visit www. research.baps.org.
Multicultural Affairs, Queensland Government.
Multibillion dollar CBD investment heralds bright future for Queen Street Mall
Queen Street Mall’s reputation as Australia’s best outdoor mall is set to soar thanks to massive investment into new hotel, restaurant, office and transport developments occurring in Brisbane’s CBD. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said 40 years on from being converted from a road, Queen Street Mall continued to attract more than one million pedestrian movements a week. “On this day forty years ago, Queen Street was opened to pedestrians, marking the history-making start of one of Australia’s longest running and most popular open air pedestrian malls,” Cr Schrinner said. “The mall has continued to evolve over the decades, with attractions like Wintergarden, the Myer Centre and Burnett Lane fighting off competition to ensure it remained popular amid the rise of major suburban shopping centres. “The mall is now bouncing back after visitor numbers were decimated during the global pandemic. “As it returns to its post-pandemic prime, with pedestrian movements at 72% of pre-COVID levels, it is set to be bolstered by massive investment into new CBD attractions and transport options. “With major transformations underway like Queen’s Wharf and Waterfront Place, Queen Street Mall is at the centre of an exciting evolution that will drive visitation and renew popularity in the iconic precinct. “Getting there will be easier than ever, with works underway to deliver the Brisbane Metro, Kangaroo Point green bridge and Cross River Rail.” Cr Schinner said Queen Street Mall will continue to evolve with exciting plans to beautify surrounding streets and introduce more pedestrian space as part of the Albert Street Green Spine Vision. “Adelaide Street is also set to be rejuvenated with the introduction of the Brisbane Metro helping to revive this major thoroughfare with wider footpaths, new seating and greenery. “We’ve also just completed works on a subtropical green and timber seating precinct right in the heart of the mall, beautifying the amenities block on the corner of Albert and Queen Streets.” Celebrating its fortieth milestone, renowned Brisbane fashion stylist, educator and commentator Dianne Cant said Queen Street Mall staked a claim as the city’s premiere fashion destination since its inception. “I was involved in the first fashion parades in 1982 in the mall. The brief back then was to promote the retailers and impress the shoppers with what was on offer; they weren’t just entertainment but of course, the crowds stopped for 15 to 20 minutes and enjoyed,” she said. “Every parade week brought such a lovely stylish vibe but the highlights for me were when we conducted the preliminary judging for the RAQ Fashion Design Awards in the mall which literally stopped everyone in their tracks – there could be up to 100 models with their designers appearing in the different categories. “Another personal highlight was being invited to drive Brownlow Medallist Simon Black in a convertible car down the mall when the Brisbane Lions won the AFL Premiership in 2002.” BOX Queen Street Mall timeline: • 1982: Queen Street Mall opens ( 9 August) • 1982: Queen Elizabeth II visits the mall during the Commonwealth Games (7 October) • 1982: Wintergarden opens • 1988: Myer Centre opens • 1994: Safety initiative CitySafe introduces closed circuit television to the mall • 1999: Queen Street Mall is refurbished • 2005: Queen’s Plaza opens • 2009: Burnett Lane integrated • 2011: Queen Street Mall goes smoke-free • 2012: Winter Garden refurbished • 2013: Myer Centre façade refurbished • 2014: Wi-Fi introduced in CBD • 2015: Queen Street Mall revitalisation • 2021: Construction on Queens Wharf and William Street precinct
First Look: New Cultural Centre Station MCCGC’s Friendship Day Festival delights community
Transforming the Cultural Centre station will be just future growth as we get ready for Brisbane Metro services to the Friendship Day Festival, which was held on August 27 Centre precinct. Clearly, there’s growing interest in Brisbane Metro with almost Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC), one of the huge benefits of our Brisbane Metro project. More than 10,500 people catch a bus to or from the Cultural Centre every day and this investment will ensure it can cater for ECCQ applauds outgoing Bright Futures graduates Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) congratulated the passing MCCGC members discuss inclusion graduates from the Bright Futures programme recently. with Sam O’Connor MP Funded by Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, Bright Futures sets up new migrants with the experience and training to succeed in commence in late 2024. Under our redesign, the Cultural Centre station won’t just be a bus stop but an entirely new precinct. With lots of open space and
Due to the efforts of all stall holders, staff, volunteers, and community members, patience while we get to work to deliver the revamped Cultural peace efforts and build bridges between communities. At the festival organised by at Varsity Lakes Community Resource Centre in Gold Coast, was a success among the multicultural communities. The festival was a testament to the United Nations’ International Day of Friendship initiative that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and inditheir careers in Australia. viduals has the power to inspire One of the Graduates said, “It wasn’t just the trainer that helped. I feel really grateful for all the help that Zack gave me throughout. Whenever I came in the office he was there to help me at every step”. improved platform design, people will be able to easily move through the bus stop and connect into QPAC and the museum and art galleries. Wider footpaths, shaded walkways, public art, a shared cycle way and a brand new pocket park on Grey Street will also be delivered. To facilitate these works, temporary outbound platforms are now operating on Melbourne Street. I thank residents for their 16,000 people getting a firsthand look at the vehicle during its time at the Ekka. This is a fantastic result that far exceeded all of our expectations. Australian Chinese Women’s Federation gave some incredible performances, Gold Coast Japanese Dance Mai & Yosakoi Yoisho showcased Japanese traditional dance, and Ra•ba supplied mango and sticky rice for the revelers. Councillor Hermann Vorster supported the event.
Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast’s (MCCGC) Youth Advisory Group was invited to Sam O’Connor MP office to celebrate Multicultural Queensland Month on August 24 and discuss the theme, ‘inclusion in action’ with the Bonney Youth Advisory Group (Bonney is the name of the electorate Sam represents as a Member of Queensland Parliament). Both the MCCGC and Bonney Youth Advisory Group members took the opportunity to speak about their own personal experiences and what inclusion means to them.
Two of Multicultural Australia’s signature programs were recognised at the Multicultural Queensland Awards on the night of August 25. Their Future Leaders Advocacy Group (FLAG) was presented with a highly commended award by Minister Leanne Linard MP for supporting the voices of young people in the community. FLAG was established in 2019 to promote and support young leaders from diverse
Our Journey, a Multicultural Australia event celebrating the spirit, courage, and stories of refugee communities, was organised on August 21 by Multicultural Australia. MCs Nila Monawari and backgrounds, and connects young leaders with influential stakeholders and community members to advocate for their communities and build social capital. The award is significant as it recognises the many hours of volunteering that dedicated FLAG members have put in to grow themselves personally, while making an impact in the communities, city and state. The Shaping Your Future program, delivered in
Fardowsa Yussuf did an excellent job of introducing a stellar line-up of performers – from the beautiful voice of Sunday LuateWani and the smooth sounds of Persian Trio to the vibrancy of Rich Virsa Bhangra and Dance Academy Brisbane and Samoko partnership with Randstad, received the prestigious Minister’s Multicultural Award. A career mentoring program, Shape Your Future connects resettled refugees and asylum seekers with professionals in a wide range of organisations across Brisbane. The key mentor partners in the program include Suncorp, EY, Deloitte, Hastings Deering, John Holland, La Boite Theatre and the Queensland Government.
Jayo (Spiriquence). Youth Member of Parliament and Human Rights advocate Fahima Ahmadi also shared her story and a thought-provoking excerpt from her diary entry on 15 August 2022 – the one-year anniversary of the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan. The screening of Flee, a powerful documentary unpacking the traumatic and complex journey of an Afghan family, followed the performance segment. The event concluded with a panel discussion hosted by Multicultural Australia CEO, Christine Castley, where four resettled refugees shared their lived experiences of leaving home and finding new home. Brisbane City Council and La Boite Theatre sponsored the event.
Multicultural Australia hosts ‘Our Journey’ multicultural event
AIBC welcomes immigration numbers increase by Albanese Government
“It is timely; a very welcome step in the right direction and a pragmatic approach by the Albanese Government” said Mr Jim Varghese AM - National Chair of Australia India Business Council Ltd (AIBC), as the Federal Government announced recently that Australia will increase its permanent immigration numbers by 35,000 to 195,000 in the current financial year to mitigate skill shortages. “In fact, AIBC has been calling for drastic changes to Australia’s immigration policy to attract young skilled migrants to Australia to sustain the economic growth as we were coming out of the unforeseen Covid 19 period,” said Mr Jim Varghese AM. Elaborating AIBC suggestions for even more policy changes regarding skilled migrants Mr Jim Varghese said “Australia also needs to identify immediate strategies to attract international students and, importantly, utilise their skills for the benefit of the Australian economy. The large population of the skilled younger generation in India provides a huge opportunity. Skilled young international students need to have a smoother, faster, and easier pathway to migration in Australia. During the Covid 19 period, international border closures also adversely impacted universities’ efforts in international research collaboration and student exchange programmes and contribute to bilateral programs. It will take considerable time for universities to regain the international students even though the borders have opened now. Hence Australia needs to also look at a different model or identify immediate strategies in consultation with all stakeholders to attract international students and, importantly, utilise their skills for the benefit of the Australian economy.” Mr Varghese further stated that “India is an especially important economic powerhouse for Australia and is part of the Quad. We must deliver on the Modi / Morrison Virtual Summit. We would like to see the outcomes of the recently signed Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement (ECTA) effectively implemented. AIBC through its ongoing engagement with Federal and State Governments, its industry partners including the Business Council of Australia, the Export Council of Australia, will continue to identify strategies to maximise on Australia India Trade “ As also reiterated during the recently held Australia India International Business Summit in Sydney, AIBC considers that alignment of Australia’s immigration policy to its trade and economic policy will be one such strategy and a key to success to bilateral trade relations.
Multicultural Community Inclusion and Engagement Goodwill Cricket Cup (T20) will be held between IAIE (South Asia XI) and Queensland Police Commissioner’s XI at the Allan Border Field, Albion, Brisbane on 17th September, at 9.00 am. It is a recurring annual event that we are organizing with the Queensland Government, Queensland Police, Queensland Cricket and the Australia India Business Council. The event will bring together the diverse community in Brisbane to celebrate and strengthen our multicultural and diverse ethos and foster community engagement with Queensland Police and the Queensland Government. The event is expected to create opportunities that encourage the full participation of people from diverse backgrounds in the cultural, economic, political and social life of Queensland, and promote sustained, respectful and inclusive engagements between all individuals, groups and the government for mutual understanding. The objective is to enable an interface between these diverse communities and allow them to mingle and interact with each other in a sporting context and forge lasting relationships with each other beyond the event. Such an inter-community interface with each other will be instrumental in strengthening a multiculturally thriving, vibrant, resilient, and inclusive Queensland. We expect a large turnout including ministers, members of parliament, councillors, business stakeholders, multicultural organisations, local businesses, community members, government officials, Brisbane City Council officials and sporting legends including Ian Healy, Ryan Harris, John Buchanan, Car Rackemann, Matthew Hayden and Swimming Australia CEO Eugenie Buckley, Brisbane Lions Deputy Chair and Qld leader of the Minerva Network Prof. Sarah Kelly, Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson and other key stakeholders to attend. Hon. Minister Mr. Stirling Hinchliffe is the chief guest on the occasion. The event will be widely shared and streamed on social media and print and electronic media is expected to cover. It is a family event and to make the event more fun and enjoyable, there will be food and drinks stalls put up by local restaurants and multicultural organisations. Queensland Cricket will also be conducting memorabilia auctions which will be an added attraction on the day, along with the chance to meet and mingle with some of our sporting legends.
Townsville Cultural Fest organised
Multicultural Australia CEO, Christine Castley, was the keynote speaker at the opening of the Townsville Cultural Fest on August 19. Focused on unity in diversity, this year’s event celebrated the region’s cultural diversity and encourages an open conversation about the need for all Australians to come together to build communities
Here’s another reason you won’t want to miss MOSAIC, Queensland’s largest multicultural festival. If you’re looking to add a dash of colour to your home and want to support small business owners in our community, MOSAIC has a wide range of decorative art that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of individuals. Through services such as our Humanitarian Settlement Program, Settlement Engagement and Transition Support, Multicultural Women’s Group, and more, Multicultural Australia contributes to the strengthening the social fabric of Townsville.
pieces and handmade crafts that you’ll love. They have also got heaps of craft activities for the whole family to enjoy. You can get all the updates about MOSAIC at their event page: https://www.facebook. com/events/734542101139842.
MOSAIC to display multicultural crafts
Governance Institute of Australia to host Cultural Diversity Workshop in Brisbane
The Governance Institute of Australia will host a workshop on building organisational capacity and capability for cultural diversity.
The discussion on diversity is multi-faceted. One of the lynchpins is cultural diversity. In a multicultural Australia, the need for organisations to have the intent and strategy to empower and enable a multicultural workforce is clear. Cultural diversity is an invaluable and often untapped asset, that brings with it the advantages of creativity, innovation, group effectiveness,
The Gold Coast Multicultural Women’s Health Expo, organised by the Multicultural Families Organisation, took place at TAFE Queensland on September 6. It was a lovely day with many other local health and wellbeing new ideas and great learnings. What capacity and capability does your organisation need to effectively address multicultural awareness and competence? How do you incorporate this into your governance policies and procedures? In this interactive workshop, led by Christine Castley, Chief Executive Officer, Multicultural Australia Ltd, you will examine the fabric of a multicultural
providers from the Gold Coast taking part. Various organisations and service providers took part in the expo, sharing important information with the newly arrived community, including True Clinic, Studio Village Australia - gaining insights into Australia’s existing multiculturalism and the benefits of cultural and linguistic diversity. You will discover how governance frameworks can support you to move beyond tokenistic diversity to creating a true sense of inclusion and belonging for all through authentic leadership of organisational capability, workforce strategy, community engagement, welcoming and safe spaces, and diversity and inclusion in service delivery. You will explore and apply adaptable strategies and tools to relevant workplace case study scenarios that challenge you to leverage the strengths of a multicultural workforce and create a culturally capable and engaged workplace. In this workshop, CEO Christine Castley will be joined by Deep
Community Centre, Womens Cancer Support GC, Queensland Police Service, Queensland Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma, Brahma Kumaris - Gold Coast, Breast Screen Queensland Gold Coast service, Bowel Cancer Screening QLD, Child Dassanayake. Deep Dassanayake is currently Acting Program Manager of Accommodation and Initial Support Teams for Multicultural Australia. Deep has an extensive career in housing settlement for refugees, asylum seekers, migrants and the homeless, ensuring individual needs are met with understanding and solutions focused results. A large focus of Deep’s processes are centred around ensuring communities feel valued, safe, and settled, ultimately creating independence for individuals and families. He holds a Bachelor of Human Services from Griffith University, receiving the Griffith University Award for Academic Excellence in 2015. Deep has also been nominated for the Professor Lesley Chenoweth Equity and Diversity Award at
Development Services, Gold Coast Public Health Unit, ECCQ - Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland, City of Gold Coast, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast, Tenants Queensland, Relationships Australia Qld, School Based, Griffith University and Hesta’s Unsung Hero Award. Prior to his studies, Deep spent many years as a volunteer humanitarian worker across Sri Lanka, India, Nepal and Bangladesh providing support to communities. Deep is an enthusiast of all things food and travel related, enjoying both the amazing experiences and how they connect culture together. His other outside interests include reading, hiking and outdoor activities.
Wellways Gateway Relationships Australia, Headspace Southport, and Services Australia. Dendy Cinemas Southport provided the lucky door prizes. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health provided the beautiful Women’s Health Week bags.
WHEN
October 04, 2022 at 9:30am - 1pm
WHERE
Governance Institute of Australia Level 8 100 Creek Street Brisbane, QLD 4000 Australia
Gold Coast Multicultural Women’s Health Expo held
