By Brendan Rees
Cranbourne’s Australia Day celebration showcased its rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Hundreds turned out to the Passport to Casey’s Cultural Heritage Showcase event held at the Balla Balla Community Centre on Saturday 26 January.
Now in it’s 10th year, the event was run by the Cultural Historical Association of Rodriguans and Mauritians in Victoria, (CHARM), in collaboration with other community organisations.
The day featured a sausage sizzle hosted by Lions Club of Cranbourne, traditional music and dances, a mini historical exhibition, art and crafts, and a performance by the Balla Balla Ukulele group.
Children’s fun included colouring activities, a jumping castle, face painting and a farm animal display.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Children’s Choir also sang the National Anthem of Australiaw while buddying musician Marley Brochard, 13, performed a solo violin medley of Autumn Leaves and La Cumparsita.
Darrel Hayward, local performer and also the Master of Ceremonies entertained the crowds by singing popular classics and Australiana songs.
Further Master of Ceremonies included president of the Balla Balla committee of management Andy Reid, manager of the Balla Balla Community Centre Maree Cullinan, and Casey Radio’s Mauritian Show presenter Patrick Brochard.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon said it was the perfect opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate why it’s great to be Australian.
“It’s the very thing that defines us and unites us, and that’s why I’m really proud to celebrate it on January 26 with the rest of wonderful residents in Casey,” she said.
“Balla Balla is the most multi-cultural of all the events that we hold in Casey. It was just such a warm and enjoyable event.”
CHARM Victoria president Edwige Bignoux said the event aimed to unite the community and celebrate the rich and diverse cultural heritage and “what makes us proud to live in the City of Casey.”
