Residents and travellers alike were welcomed to Gunnedah’s town hall with the rich cultures that make up its local diversity on Saturday.
The annual Multicultural Festival celebrates and encourages an exploration of cultures – showcased by its community members.
It is hosted each year by the Multicultural Women’s Association (MWA). The group’s vice president Ellen Howland said it was founded with the intention of fulfilling a connection need.
“We found it is a great way for us to connect,” Ellen said.
She further emphasised it particularly helped women who moved to Australia for their husband’s work.
“[They also] have people who understand and empathise with their situation,” Ellen said.
She gave insight into how the festival may help visitors appreciate different cultures.
“People remember things when they have an experiential experience,” she said.
“Tasting makes people remember and then they learn about cultures, but it also creates more connection between people as well.”
It was a perfect opportunity to do so, with a variety of food trucks and stalls on site. With laksa, coffee, sushi, dumplings, fried oreos, free food tasting and more, there was something for everyone to connect with.
Represented at the festival were at least 25 different cultures however Ellen said there are plenty more in the community.
Found on stage throughout the four hours were a variety of performances, whether it be dancing, singing or workshops – all representing a different part of the world and contributing to Make Music Day.
It was no coincidence that the event fell on the global celebration, with the MWA working with the Gunnedah Conservatorium to showcase a variety of musical talent (see story below).
The day was a huge hit, especially among children who were eager to have their faces painted, collect balloons and explore different decor from around the world. Activities for the whole community included origami making, hair braiding, purchasing accessories and service representatives to talk with.
For Ellen, she particularly loved trying different cultures’ food, as ‘foodies’ typically do. She was also excited to see the fashion parade – a highlight to each festival throughout the years.
“I really love seeing all of the women in their beautiful fashion from their culture,” she said.
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