Georges River Council will support a community-led vigil in Hurstville Plaza on Thursday 3 September 2026, bringing together residents to honour those affected by the recent devastating floods and landslides in Nepal.
Standing with Nepal – A Vigil of Hope and Healing will see our community arrive at 5.30pm with proceedings commencing at 6.00pm in Hurstville Plaza. The vigil will provide an opportunity for community members to gather in solidarity, reflect on the impact of the tragedy, and show support for the Nepalese community both locally and abroad.
Georges River is home to a vibrant and valued Nepalese community, our fastest emerging community who contribute to our social, cultural and economic life.
Council has expressed its solidarity with local Nepalese residents and recognised the distress being experienced by many community members with family and friends affected by the disaster.
Georges River Council Mayor, Elise Borg, said, “To our Nepalese community; we want you to know you are not alone and the whole community stands with you during this incredibly difficult time.”
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the catastrophic floods and landslides in Nepal, particularly those who have lost loved ones and those who continue to wait for news of family members who remain missing,” Mayor Borg said.
“This vigil is an opportunity for residents to gather, offer support, reflect on the impact of this tragedy and demonstrate the strength and compassion of our multicultural community.”
Nepalese Australian Association representative and organiser of the vigil, Rishi Acharya, said many local Nepalese families had been deeply impacted by the disaster, with loved ones directly affected by the floods and landslides.
“Many members of our local Nepalese community are carrying a heavy burden as they worry about family and friends affected by the floods and landslides in Nepal. This vigil is an opportunity for people to come together, honour those who have lost their lives, and show support for those who are grieving and facing uncertainty.”
“We warmly invite the wider Georges River community to stand with us at this vigil. Your presence will send a powerful message of compassion, solidarity and hope to Nepalese families here and overseas, and remind us all that difficult times are easier to face when communities come together.”
Council will continue to work closely with local Nepalese community organisations, including the Nepalese Australian Association and other community representatives, to identify support needs and opportunities to assist with fundraising initiatives, information sharing and wellbeing support.
We encourage anyone who may be struggling or who needs support during this time to reach out to family, friends, community organisations or professional support services.
If you are struggling with the recent events help is available 24/7:
- NSW Mental Health Line: Call 1800 011 511.
- Lifeline: Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online.
- Kids Helpline: Call 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
- Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 or chat online.
- 1800RESPECT: Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or chat online.
- 13YARN: Call 13 92 76.
- MensLine Australia: Call 1300 78 99 78.
Event Details
Standing with Nepal – A Vigil of Hope and Healing
Date: Thursday 3 September 2026.
Time: Welcome from 5.30pm. Proceedings to commence from 6.00pm.
Location: Hurstville Plaza, 296 Hurstville Road, Hurstville.
Community members are warmly invited to attend. It is recommended attendees to use public transport.
