The City of Knox boasts a very multicultural demographic, with 29 per cent of its residents being born in a foreign country, so it was fitting the city was chosen to host the first Knox Multicultural Harmony Festival.
Last weekend, the public was treated to the flavours and rhythms of over 15 different cultures, with a packed program of choirs, belly dancing and musical performances.
Held at the Hungarian Community Centre in Wantirna, the Festival included stalls, exhibits and performances from members of Victoria’s Afghani, Austrian, Chilean, Chinese, Egyptian Coptic, Filipino, Greek, Hindu, Hungarian, Iranian, Italian, Latvian, Polish, Scottish and South American communities.
Aimed at promoting social inclusion and cultural awareness, the festival was possible thanks to a $40,000 grant from the Department of Muticultural Affairs and Citizenship.
The Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, Nicholas Kotsiras, opened the event and said it was a simple way to promote togetherness.
“Here today we are able to sample the unique cultural traditions of many of our lively and colourful communities, giving us a taste of the full breadth and depth of our diversity,” Mr Kotsiras said.