30 March 2022
Victoria is known as a state that endorses and encourages diversity and inclusion through our various multicultural and multifaith communities which encourage the celebration of rich cultures from around the world.
Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP, was honoured to attend Oakgrove Community Centre’s Celebrating Diversity event on 26 March 2022. Mr Maas spoke at the event regarding the importance of supporting our multicultural and diverse communities through the pandemic and beyond.
The event at Oakgrove Community Centre saw many locals and families enjoying the petting zoo, cultural performances, jumping castle, food stalls, art and craft, and cultural displays and stalls.
Mr Maas thanked everyone who helped to put on such a great day including the Centre’s president, Mr David Haynes, and the Centre’s manager, Ms Mary Amalraj. The occasion brought the community together to appreciate each other’s cultures, beliefs and way of life.
The Celebrating Diversity event was a fantastic opportunity for people to reconnect after the challenges of the pandemic.
The Oakgrove Community Centre has continued to provide the community with valuable programs including playgroups, children’s activities, health and wellbeing and support to faith groups, all of which have endeavoured to assist those in need.
The Victorian Government has been supporting community organisations during the toughest times of the pandemic through the CALD Communities Taskforce which assisted organisations to provide emergency relief, food and clothing supplies, COVID Safe information, and testing.
The Andrews Labor Government’s Priority Response for Multicultural Communities during COVID-19: Phase 4 program is currently open to multicultural and faith organisations in Victoria. The $3.5 million program supports small grassroots projects and large community projects that assist social and economic recovery. Applications close 10 April 2022.
More information is available at www.vic.gov.au/priority-response-multicultural-communities-during-coronavirus-covid-19
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South, Gary Maas MP:
“Celebrating Diversity was a fantastic event that showcased the pride of so many cultural groups and the mutual respect for people’s backgrounds and way of life.”
“Oakgrove Community Centre has continued to provide our community with valuable programs including playgroups, children’s activities, health and wellbeing, and support to faith groups, all of which have endeavoured to assist those in need.”
“The support Oakgrove Community Centre provides to families and vulnerable community members is greatly appreciated and I thank them for their hard work and dedication.”
“Victorians from all walks of life, cultures, countries, and faiths, are responsible for the success of this great state. This diversity was on full display at Oakgrove Community Centre’s Celebrating Diversity event.”