Mayor Trent Sullivan joined community members at the National Wool Museum over the weekend to learn about Filipino traditions and make festive Parols, which herald the arrival of Christmas.
Parols are star-shaped lanterns that Filipino families hang from their front windows, symbolising light over darkness, hope and goodwill to all.
The City, in partnership with the Filipino Australian Friendship Association of Geelong Inc, hosted the workshops to bring greater awareness of this iconic symbol and celebrate our Filipino Australian community.
30 people from Filipino, Chinese, Malaysian, English and Australian backgrounds took part.
Participants added their own unique touches to their Parols, listened to Filipino carols and enjoyed a selection of Filipino cuisine.
Each year, the National Wool Museum celebrates Christmas by providing opportunities that showcase the many festive traditions of our rich and diverse community.
In July, Council endorsed a 30-year vision for the National Wool Museum to extend its focus beyond wool to represent the broader story of Geelong, including our First Nations and multicultural culture and history.
Community engagement continues until 23 April 2023 on this long-term strategic vision.
The City is also seeking feedback to help develop our next Multicultural Action Plan, which will continue to guide the organisation’s work, celebrate our region’s cultural diversity and support people from all cultures and faiths.
Engagement closes at 5:00pm on 20 January 2023.
Mayor Trent Sullivan
My colourful Parol is hanging up in my home on the Bellarine Peninsula.
