AUSSIE spirit was in full swing in Cranbourne on Saturday for the annual Australia Day celebrations.
Hundreds turned out across the day to the Passport to Casey’s Cultural Heritage Showcase event, held at the Balla Balla Community Centre, which celebrated Casey’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
The event is ran by the Cultural Historical Association of Rodriguans and Mauritians in Victoria, (CHARM), in collaboration with other community organisations.
There was a free sausage sizzle, delicacies of the world, traditional music and dances, drumming, a mini historical exhibition, art and craft and children’s activities.
CHARM Victoria president Patricia Kimtia said the aim of the event was to unite the community, and that’s what it did.
“The event was well attended with 500-plus people throughout the day, with a rich mix of age groups, families with young children, teenagers, seniors, men and women from various cultural backgrounds,” she said.
“The overall feedback suggests that those who attended were excited and keen to be there and they were also proud to share this special community celebration with people from diverse backgrounds.
“They complimented and commented on the friendliness of people who attended and the volunteers who willingly gave up their time and talent to make this event fun, harmonious and respectful.”
Ms Kimtia said all the performances and actives on offer highlighted the richness and diversity that prevails in the municipality.
Ms Kimtia said she wanted to emphasise the support they received from the organisations and individuals involved including City of Casey, Casey RACE, Balla Balla Community Centre, Cranbourne Lions Club, the Romanian Cultural Association UNIREA, Cranbourne Arts and Crafts Society, Joanne Mendes and the artists and performers.
