By Brendan Rees
Members of the Sikh community have held a ‘thankyou’ lunch for Casey Council at the Nanaksar Taath Sikh temple in Lynbrook.
More than 200 people gathered including Casey Council CEO Glenn Patterson, Mayor Geoff Ablett, council staff and councillors where vegetarian food, rice and curries was served.
Spiritual leader, Baba Ji, was also in town to give his personal thanks to council for all they do in the community on Monday 1 October.
Organiser Councillor Damien Rosario said the event was a “huge success” which could become an annual celebration.
He said the Sikh community were very humble as volunteers also provided free food to the needy in Casey through a free van that was launched last year.
“It’s great to be appreciated and we definitely appreciate our local Sikh community for their work in supporting our community,” he said.
Nanaksar Taath Sikh temple volunteer Sheetu Partola said the Sikh community wanted to express their appreciation to council and to celebrate equality.
“They go beyond their limits to help the community which is great,” she said.
“It was so good to see people sitting together, eating together and talking to each other. It was just that moment where everyone was in a relaxed mode talking to each and appreciating each other.
“Our message spread (is to) work together, share the love and help each other because that’s what brings a community together.”
“As for our religious beliefs, spiritual belief, the food is a good connector; it brings people together,” she said.
Councillor Amanda Stapledon said it was also an amazing event to be graced with the presence of Baba Ji.
“He presented a certificate of thanks to CEO Glenn Patterson in recognition of council’s support. What an act of service and friendship and what a blessing to the Casey community,” she said.
Opposition leader Matthew Guy also visited the Lynbrook temple on Sunday 30 September to pay his respect to the Sikh volunteers and meet with Baba Ji.
