A smorgasbord of international food, singing and dancing will come together from 4pm to 8pm on Saturday, 25 March in Riverside Park for the massive annual community celebration Harmony Day.
The National celebration, Harmony Week, is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. And all communities are encouraged to host an event locally.
Headline act this year is incredible singer-songwriter Ajak Kwai, along with her talented band. Australia’s renowned song-woman of contemporary South Sudanese music has recently released her fifth studio album Let me Grow my Wings – an eclectic collection of twelve self-penned songs which reflect her observations, influences and connections since moving to Australia in the late nineties. Her image also features on this year’s Harmony Day poster.
Other performances will include local aboriginal dance group, Fijian community choir, Indian folk dancing by Indian community travelling to event from Mildura, Echuca Discoveries singing group, as well as interactive dance exercise, Indonesian dance workshop, and the ever popular traditional dress parade.
Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Les McPhee said it was wonderful to see the event growing in popularity each year.
“Each year we see more interest, more performances, more stall holders, and as a result a bigger celebration of diversity and inclusion – and that’s what it’s all about,”
“This year the food stalls are absolutely fantastic – food from Africa, Indigenous Australian, Afghanistan, France, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam and Mauritius”
“It’s also a great family day with events for all ages, including a petting zoo, storytimes and craft activities for younger children; games and sports type activities for young adults” he added.
Swan Hill Rural City Council is a proud supporter and sponsor of Harmony Day. Local services including Swan Hill Region Library, Headspace, SMECC and Interreach will have community information stalls on the day. Event organisers encourage as many people as possible to dress in traditional dress for the day.
