Diversity on display

THE Civic Green was awash with colour, music and the smells of a variety of international cuisines last Saturday.

By Staff Writer

And despite some threatening rain clouds overhead, more than 4000 people turned out to enjoy the welcome return of the Warrnambool Multicultural Festival.

Food vendors offered visitors a wide range of wonderful dishes and treats while the Warrnambool Pipe Band, St Brigid’s Irish music, Thai Temple dancers and the Coco Blokes ensured visitors were well entertained.

“It truly was a wonderful day that showcased the diverse range of nationalities that we have right here in Warrnambool,” president of the Warrnambool Multicultural Association Daisy Ye said.

“Even when it started to rain a little, the crowd didn’t disperse. People brought their chairs and their rugs and they stayed on the lawn and enjoyed the entertainment. They didn’t want to miss a thing.

“It was wonderful to see so many people there enjoying the displays, the music, the food and the entertainment. We will certainly be working hard again to ensure the festival returns next year.”

With so many different cultures represented, including Mexican, Sri Lankan, Thai, Dutch, Korean and First Nations, it truly was a multicultural event for all ages.

“There was arts and crafts, information stalls, free face painting and lots of activities that the children enjoyed,” Ms Ye said.

“We are a not-for-profit group so I’m very grateful to all our volunteers for their hard work both before and on the day for the countless hours they put in to ensure the event was a success.”