WYNDHAM residents are being encouraged to join together to help celebrate the municipality’s rich cultural diversity.
According to the 2011 Census, more than 33 per cent of Wyndham’s population were born overseas, with around 25.4 per cent hailing from non-English speaking backgrounds.
The national snapshot revealed approximately 8000 of the municipality’s residents were from India, 6396 from the United Kingdom, over 5000 from New Zealand, 3923 from the Philippines and 2485 from China.
Cultural Diversity Week, which will be held from Saturday 16 March to Sunday 24 March, 2013, is a state-wide celebration aimed at promoting harmony, understanding and acceptance of the many and varied cultures in our community.
Councillor Gautam Gupta said Cultural Diversity Week includes Harmony Day, a day of cultural respect for everybody who calls Australia home – from the traditional owners of the land to those who have arrived from other parts of the world.
“In Wyndham, we have a diverse mix of nationalities and that makes our city such a dynamic and vibrant place,” Cr Gupta said.
“A range of events will be held around the municipality to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week including a community day at Truganina and a Multicultural Fiesta, held as part of this year’s Weerama Festival.
“The Multicultural Fiesta will include cultural performances on stage, food stalls, crafts and activities and has been organised by Wyndham City in partnership with the Wyndham Humanitarian Network and the Weerama Festival Committee.”
For more information on the events and diversity in Wyndham, contact Wyndham’s Policy and Planning Officer David Lukudu on 9742 0777 or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au.
