ViVa Victoria FestiVal PAGE 04

Premier’s Gala Dinner PAGE 03

awarDs For excellencePAGE 07

03.15

The Victorian Multicultural Commission extends a warm welcome to Robin Scott MP, the new Minister for Multicultural Affairs.

Robin Scott MP entered the Victorian Parliament in 2006 as the Member for Preston, where he lives with his wife Shaojie.

Robin, son of Don and Amanda, grew up in Melbourne’s Northern suburbs and was greatly influenced by his parents’ commitment to public service. With family members from China, Japan and the West Indies, he also grew up with a strong belief in equality of opportunity, regardless of cultural background.

It was this belief that inspired Robin to become involved in politics and he is honoured to serve the people of Victoria as the Minister for Multicultural Affairs.

In taking on this important role, Robin believes it is important for Victoria to celebrate the best traditions of multiculturalism in our State. He also sees it as an opportunity to support activities that create greater interfaith and intercultural understanding.

Robin wants Victoria to be a place where diversity is not just tolerated, but a community where we celebrate the common humanity of all cultures.

“By ensuring that everyone is given an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution and participate in our decision making processes, we will enrich Victoria and we will all benefit,” said the Minister.

Robin is also the Minister for Finance and a self-confessed ‘cricket tragic’.

02 VMC update Latest news from the VMC

10 Our community Out and about in multicultural Victoria

15 Dates for your diary Upcoming events and activities

17 Connect with the VMC How to contact the VMC and stay informed

VMC update

Message froM the Chairperson

Welcome to the first edition of MV Magazine for 2015.

Even though we are still in the early stages of a new year, much has happened at the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) and in the broader multicultural community of Victoria.

The grants team at the VMC have been busy, receiving a high volume of applications for the Multicultural Festivals and Events Grants Round One, which has now closed. The VMC grants program is also moving to a new application system called “Grants Online” – learn more about this on page 6.

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community organisations have been very active, getting into the swing of things with a range of celebrations to mark significant occasions, such as Australia Day, Lunar New Year and the ANZAC Centenary.

I have had the pleasure of attending many of these wonderful events that serve as a way for Victorians to proudly live their heritage and for others to share and experience new cultures, faiths and beliefs that differ to their own.

The VMC has been a hive of activity preparing for Cultural Diversity Week, which kicks off with the impressive Premier’s Gala Dinner and culminates in the popular Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival at Federation Square.

The 2015 Cultural Diversity Week is shaping up to be one of our best – from the Primary School Art Competition, to community groups celebrating at the Gala Dinner, and all the eye-catching acts that are going to be performing at Viva Victoria – there really is something for everyone. Come down to Federation Square on Sunday 22 March and join in the celebrations.

This edition of MV Magazine also reports on our 2014 Multicultural Awards for Excellence. This annual event is highly respected and revered, and highlights the important work undertaken by Victoria’s CALD community members.

Every year I am moved by this rewarding event, as well as inspired by the achievements and dedication in promoting and fostering community harmony.

The Awards, like many of the other events and programs featured in this edition of MV, highlight for me why our diversity is one of our greatest strengths in Victoria. Our multicultural community is one of our best assets and we must embrace the challenges and the opportunities it presents, ensuring our State remains one of the most vibrant, exciting and liveable places in the world.

I hope you enjoy this edition of MV Magazine.

Chin Tan Chairperson 

robin sCott Mp – Minister for MultiCultural affairs

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

02

VMC update

Almost 50 years ago, the United Nations proclaimed 21 March the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. To coincide with this important and historic date, the Victorian Multicultural Commission will host its 13th Cultural Diversity Week, from 14 March to 22 March.

This is a vibrant and exciting celebration of Victorians who make up our prized cultural, linguistic and religious diversity. Across hundreds of events during the week, Victorians will proudly acknowledge, promote and celebrate the harmony we have achieved in our cultural diversity and denounce racism.

Victoria is famous for its proud diversity and unity, and world-renowned as a place where people are free to celebrate their culture and faith. The social, cultural and economic benefits that this diversity brings to the State, contributes to Melbourne’s status as the world’s most liveable city.

We all play an important role in keeping our community strong and united. The theme for this year’s Cultural Diversity Week is ‘Strengthening Our Community’, which will be played out in community events, exhibitions, food festivals, Victorian workplaces and many more during the festivities.

Premier’s Gala Dinner

Each year, Cultural Diversity Week kicks off with a spectacular and extravagant Gala Dinner hosted by the Premier. Guests are treated to a three-course dinner, great networking opportunities and impressive entertainment that truly sets the tone for celebrating Victoria’s abundant cultural diversity.

This year, the Gala Dinner will show reverence and respect to the ANZAC Centenary. Careful consideration for those who have served their country will be reflected during the night in many aspects of the program, speeches and theming.

Don’t despair if you missed out on a ticket to the Premier’s Gala Dinner on 14 March this year – we will be publishing details and photos of all the glitter and glamour following the event.

Cultural Diversity Week

Cultural Diversity Week is baCk – join in the Celebrations!

Pedocci Mussels – Belgian

Leader Sheep – Chinese

Budare – Venezuelan

Bretzel.biz – Big Soft Pretzels – German

The Currywurst Co – German

Autorickshaw – Indian

Ladro Pizza – Italian

Japanese Street Food – Japanese

Los Amates Mexican Kitchen – Mexican

Red Hot Felafal – Middle Eastern/Egyptian

Nepal Dining Room – Nepalese

Nazca Peruvian Kitchen – Peruvian

Hoy Pinoy – Filipino

Eat the Chicken – Thai Street Food

MeetWagon – Southern American

Spanish Gourmet Caterers – Spanish

The Big Dipper Fondue – Swiss

Coconuts – Thai

On Thai – Thai

Tibetan Food – Tibetan

Turkish Gozleme – Turkish

The Twisted Pepper – West Indies/Caribbean

Yassna’s Pitteria – Bosnian/Herzegovinian

g l o b a l F o o d

Asai Arte and Colombia – Colombian

Chiara Jewellery – Italian

Chooh la la – French

Koguis – Colombian

Henna Art – Indian

Lao Silk & Craft – Laotian

La Calaca – Mexican

Mundo Maya – Latin American

Om Art Gallery – Indian

OM Designs – Indonesian

Omkara Designs – Indian

Radha Rani – Indian

Roots Art – Panamanian

Sankofa Fair Trade – African

Turkish Magic – Turkish

Yak Yak Yak – Nepalese

The Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival is part of Cultural Diversity Week, a statewide celebration of Victoria’s cultural, linguistic and religious diversity.

The week is held annually to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March, with the week running from 14 to 22 March in 2015.

During the week hundreds of events and activities will take place across this State to celebrate the harmony we have achieved within our diversity.

m a p

a rt s a n d c r a f t s

g e t t i n g t h e r e

Take the tram to Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival! Tram services running along Swanston Street and Flinders Street will get you to Federation Square.

c u l t u r a l d i v e r s i t y w e e k

POP-UP STAGE

WATER GLOBAL FOOD

ARTS & CRAFTS

KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

CHILDREN'S ARTCOMPETITION

LANGUAGE SCHOOLWORKSHOPS

FOOD HALL

FILM

PERFORMANCE STAGE SPORT ZONES

MESSAGES OF HARMONY

VIV

A V

ICTo

rIA

IS p

roUD

ly prESENTED By THE VICTorIAN MUlTIC

UlTU

rAl

CoMMIS

SIo

N

M

USIC

ArT

F

ooD

FIlM DANCE WorKSHo

pS CHIlDrEN

’S A

CTIV

ITIE

S MULTICULTURAL

FESTIVAL

SUNDAy 22 MArCH 2015

12pM-6pM FED SQUArE

FrEE ADMISSIoN

proUDly prESENTED By

POPPOP-UP STAGE

WATER

LICENCED AREA

GLOBAL FOOD

ARTS & CRAFTS

KIDS ’ ACTIVITIES

SPORT ZONES

BODHI TREE DISPLAY

ART EXHIBITIONS

COMMONWEALTH BANK MAIN

STAGE

ARTS & CRAFTS

FLINDERS STREET

SW

ANSTO

N

STREET

DANCE STAGE & UBUNTUSTAGE

TRANSPORTHOTEL

YARRA RIVER

FIRSTAID

FEDERATION WHARF

YARRA RIVER TERRACE

MELBOURNE VISITOR CENTRE

FLINDERS ST AMPHITHEATRE

ST PAUL’S COURT

ACMI LOUNGE

ATRIUM

NGV AUSTRALIA

ZINC

ACMI

SBS

DEAKIN EDGE

YARRA GALLERY

RIVERSIDE TERRACE STAGE

KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

Bhutanese Community in Australia: Cultural

dance from the local Bhutanese community.

Tama Tatau: Traditional Samoan music

and dance group. Mesopotamia: Traditional Iraqi dance.

Saman Melbourne: Tribal dance from the

Indonesian province, Aceh.Infini

tyDance:Infinity Dance Company is

made up of lovers of Latin and Brazilian dance.

vIv

A v

ICTorIA I

S pr

oUDly pr

ESENTED By THE vICTorIAN M

UlTIC

UlTUrAl C

oM

MIS

SIo

N

MUSIC

ArT fo

oD

fIlM DANCE worKSHopS C

HIlDrE

N’S A

CTIv

ITIE

S

M U L T I C U L T U R A LF E S T I V A L SUNDAy 22 MArCH 2015

12pM-6pM fED SQUArE frEE ADMISSIoN

Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival is proudly presented by the Victorian Multicultural

Commission as part of Cultural Diversity Week 2015 celebrations.

Thank you to the generous sponsors and supporters of Cultural Diversity Week for

making the Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival possible.

A special thank you to Multicultural Arts Victoria for organising all the performers

and talent for Cultural Diversity Week.

commonwealth bank main stage

pop up stage

ways to get involved

MUSIC AND DANCE

MESSAgES of HArMoNy

THE DrEAMSpACE

ST pAUl'S CoUrT

lANgUAgE SCHool

SporTS zoNE

prIMAry SCHool ArT CoMpETITIoN

ColoUrfEST fIlM fESTIvAl

Cultural Diversity Week marks the United Nations’

International Day for the Elimination of Racial

Discrimination on the 21st of March. Show your support

for cultural diversity by writing a message of harmony

and wearing an orange ribbon as a personal pledge not to

commit, condone or remain silent about any form of racial

or religious discrimination. Collect your free ribbon from

the VMC marquee.A magical place for young and old, step inside the

Dreamspace and be captivated. It’s a place full

of storytelling, circus tricks and other wonderful

performances – you may even be asked to participate in

the show.

Fed Square will be filled with vibrant sounds, colour and

dance at the pop up stage located at St Paul’s Court with

performances by CaribVic, Wassawumba, Horns of Leroy

and others.

Victorians speak over 260 languages and dialects. Come

along to the free Language School Workshops to try

something new, have fun and brush up before your next

overseas holiday.Get active, test your skills and meet some of your favourite

sport stars. The Atrium area will house the finalists from the Cultural

Diversity Week Primary School Art Competition. Young

people across the State were asked to visually interpret

this year’s theme of ‘Strengthening Our Community’ and

the results are moving and insightful. Sit back, relax and watch some of the best short films

depicting the human faces and stories of our diversity, and

the value of social inclusion and harmony – five stars!!!

Melbourne Bhangra Regiment: High energy,

colourful dance performance from a group

very passionate about Bhangra!

The Brothahood: Four Australian rappers born

to migrant parents who use hip-hop to break

down stereotypes and misconceptions.

ZeroD

egrees: Innovative young dance group

inspired by South African House music.

ProducersLou

nge:Mentoring project for

young emerging producers under the guidance

of respected artist and producer Mohamed

Komba (a.k.a Momo, Diafrix).

Fashion Parade: Stunning display of fashion by

two up and coming designers.

Saman Melbourne: Tribal dance from the

Indonesian province, Aceh.Lehen

daUkranianDa

nceCompany:A newly

formed troupe sharing the spirit of discovery of

renowed Ukranian choreographers and artists.

Skaaki:Akimera and SK Simeon have joined

to form a sound that combines digital reggae,

hip hop and soul with African influenced vocals.

Babaganoush: Gypsy and Balkan Music from

Eastern Europe. Jarabi: A beautiful blend of traditional and

contemporary music and dance from Guinea.

Mesopotamia: Traditional classical Iraqi music

LaMauvaise

Reputation: The beautiful

melodies of classic French chanson and the hot

jazz and up-tempo swing of 1930s Paris.

TheDeans:Bringing soul sounds and grooves

into the gritty modern metropolis of

Melbourne’s Rock City.

This Brazilian souljazz band is always

striving for consistent rhythms and unique

urban sounds.

SpoNSorS

SUpporTErS

MEDIA pArTNErS

prINCIpAl SpoNSor

WelcometoCou

ntry: Wurundjeri Elder, Aunty

Carolyn Briggs. Uke4KidsFa

milyOrchestra: Multicultural

children’s ukulele orchestra.WadaikoR

indo:Traditional Japanese taiko

drumming. Mehr Ensemble: Classical Persian ensemble

which weaves intricate lines of verse, melody

and ornate instrumentation.

NickyBombaandB

ustamento: Take a party

filled Island adventure into the heady sounds

of Calypso. White Shoes and Couple Company: Hands

down the best indie pop band to call Jakarta

home. JasonHeerah

andtheChosen

Ones: X Factor

star Jason Heerah and his island reggae and R&B

crew – try not to sway to this!

Madre Monte: Roots outfit representing

Melbourne’s musical diversity and creating new

Latin-Australian sounds.

wElCoME To

Viva Victoria celebrates and showcases our State’s rich

and vibrant cultural traditions. The festival features a

unique program of food, music and cultural performances,

market stalls and workshops to immerse you in the best of

our community. Cultural diversity is our way of life in Victoria. Viva

Victoria celebrates the harmony we have achieved in our

diversity and gives everyone the opportunity to celebrate

and share in other cultures. We all have a part to play

in keeping our community strong and united, and we

encourage you to sample everything the festival has

to offer.TASTE a selection of sweet and savoury delights from

across the globe. lISTEN to the rhythms and beats of some of our State’s

finest musicians. wATCH beautiful displays of traditional and modern

dance, complete with stunning costumes.ENJoy browsing the marketplace for unique arts and

crafts from local and overseas artisans.

viva victoria multicultural Festival 2015

facebook.com/multiculturevic

@multiculturevic

AllIANCE frANCAISE frENCH fIlM fESTIvAl

FOR MORE INFORMATIONmulticultural.vic.gov.au

PERFECT EVENTS

The CommonwealthBankMainStag

e is your

chance to get up close with some of Victoria’s

hottest established and emerging performers

including Jason Heerah from The X Factor Australia.

At theDeakinEdgeand Riversid

eTerraceStage,

get involved with interactive dance workshops

and enjoy a dedicated program of traditional and

contemporary dance performers. After 2:45pm, the Deakin

Edge turns into The

UbuntuYouthS

tage, where the best young

performers in the State come together with their

cultural traditions infused with modern styles,

to showcase young Victoria.

deakin edge dance stage

tHE UBUNTU YOUTH STAGE

riverside terrace stage

France is arguably the birthplace of cinema and what

better way to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week than by

watching the finalists of the Alliance Francaise Short

Film Competition.

12:05pm -

12:00pm -

12:20pm -

12:30pm -

12:50pm -

1:10pm -

1:30pm - 1:50pm -

2:10pm -

1:00pm -

1:30pm -

2:30pm -

3:30pm -

4:30pm-

5:30pm -

2:00pm -

3:00pm -

3:00pm -

3:10pm -

3:25pm -

3:30pm -

4:00pm-

4:20pm-

4:25pm-

4:30pm-

4:00pm-

5:00pm -

and dance.

Abuka:

0303

Top (clockwise): Wassawumba, saman indomelb, lehenda Ukrainian Dance Company, courtesy of multicultural arts Victoria.

VMC update

Cultural Diversity Week

ViVa Victoria Multicultural FestiVal

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

0404

Federation Square will be transformed on Sunday 22 March for the Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival – the prize jewel in the crown of Cultural Diversity Week celebrations. Come along to experience a sensory feast of exotic international cuisines, an impressive line-up of world music, displays of traditional and modern dance, and browse the marketplace for something to take home as a memento of the day. This free annual event is always a great day out and the program has something for people of all ages.

The Viva Victoria Multicultural Festival is proudly presented by the Victorian Multicultural Commission as part of Cultural Diversity Week 2015 celebrations. We suggest you leave the car at home and take the tram or train to Viva – tram services running along Swanston Street and Flinders Street will get you to Federation Square.

0505

What’s haPPeninG?

Multicultural Festivals and Events Round One 2015-16Grant applications for Multicultural Festivals and Events Round One 2015-16 closed on 26 February.

These grants are designed to encourage the participation of the whole community in celebrating and valuing cultural diversity.

Stay tuned for news about the successful grant recipients, and the events and festivals made possible through these grants. The next round of Multicultural Festivals and Events grants will open in July 2015.

Grants OnlineApplying for a grant through the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) is now easier, simpler and more convenient. By submitting your application through Grants Online, your information and files will be kept securely for you to save time on future applications.

Grants Online is also used for grants administered by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, Veterans’ Affairs and the Office of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria.

Applications and information submitted through Smartygrants will not be available on Grants Online. We encourage you to save any old applications you may wish to have for your records. These old applications can be accessed by logging in to Smartygrants until mid-May 2015 at: https://manage.smartygrants.com.au/

For more information about applying for a grant, please call the Grants Information Line on 1300 366 356 on any weekday between 8.30am and 5.00pm (except public holidays) or email: community.grants@dpc.vic.gov.au.

Multicultural Senior Citizens Organisational Support grantsAre you part of an organisation that supports the needs and activities of multicultural senior citizens? Grants of up to $5,000 per year for three years are available to assist with:

> running costs, such as rent, lighting, heating, catering, utilities, telephone, stationary and postage;

> purchasing or hiring equipment for offices, kitchens and group activities; and

> providing information sessions and training courses.

The next round of Multicultural Senior Citizens Organisational Support grants opens in July 2015.

A look back at 2014In 2013-14, the VMC’s Community Grants Program provided $5.55 million to some 2,300 grants. The grants program has supported a broad range of activities, projects, events and festivals that increase understanding and respect across cultures, faiths and generations. Some highlights from last year:

> The Australian Association for Indian Culture and Education Inc. created a spectacular celebration of Diwali – The Festival of Lights at the Ballarat Showgrounds. More than 700 festival-goers experienced Bollywood dancing, Indian delicacies and sweets, performances by local artists and the fun and cheer of cultural diversity.

> The Australian Assyrian Arts and Literature Foundation organised recreational day trips for senior citizens within the Assyrian community, as part of its work promoting, preserving and advancing Assyrian culture.

> Resilient Aspiring Women Inc. ran empowerment workshops for women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Workshops included guest speakers on health and nutrition, storytelling, traditional costume, sustainable living and permaculture, and traditional cooking classes.

vMC Grants – a PathWay to Diversity

VMC update

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

0606

VMC update

Victoria’s multicultural champions were honoured at a prestigious award ceremony for the Multicultural Awards for Excellence 2014, held at Government House in Melbourne in September. Over 90 individuals and organisations were presented with an award at the event, which was attended by approximately 400 members of Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities.

A total of 73 individuals and 17 organisations received awards across 10 categories, which included education, local government, policing, business and the media.

Over 24 multicultural communities were represented at the Awards. Victorian Multicultural Commission Chairperson, Mr Chin Tan, said the awards were presented to individuals and organisations who worked tirelessly to achieve harmony within our culturally diverse community.

“The Awards celebrate the contribution that multiculturalism makes to the State – the social, economic and cultural contribution that gives us our wonderful diversity and strengthens our community.

“Victorians come from over 200 countries, follow more than 130 faiths and nearly half of the State’s population were either born overseas or have at least one parent born overseas – multiculturalism is a way of life in Victoria and the Awards acknowledge this by applauding the people who work hard to make it so,” said Mr Tan.

Established in 2002, the annual Awards for Excellence demonstrate the Victorian Government’s commitment to promoting Victoria as a

multicultural place. “The Awards recognise the hard work that is taking place in numerous communities, small and large across Victoria, by people and organisations who are committed to the success of multiculturalism,” said Mr Tan.

The inspirational list of award recipients included Mr J Murray Lobley who was presented with the Premier’s Award for Community Harmony for his longstanding work in the Gippsland region, with a focus on interfaith work.

Footscray Community Arts Centre, located in the western suburbs, won an Ambassador Award for their commitment to engaging and collaborating with culturally and linguistically diverse communities (CALD) and empowering them through creative pursuits.

Wilmot Road Primary School and Dandenong High School took out the Education Awards for their creative approaches to their multicultural student populations.

Greater Shepparton City Council received the Local Government Award for their obvious commitment to working with the CALD community and for taking a stand against racism and discrimination.

Mr Tan said: “I congratulate all the award recipients and thank them for their important and positive contributions to multiculturalism in Victoria, which is the cornerstone of our dynamic, vibrant and harmonious State.”

A complete list of Award recipients and previous recipients can be found on the VMC’s website www.multicultural.vic.gov.au.

viCtorians honoureD at 2014 MultiCultural aWarDs for exCellenCe

0707

The Community Consultations are a wonderful opportunity for you to tell the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) about your experiences of multiculturalism in Victoria in an open, supportive environment. After each meeting, VMC representatives use feedback and advice to make recommendations to Government.

The Community Consultations give Victorians from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds the opportunity to discuss matters that are important to them. Topics covered in previous Consultations include: access to education, employment, transport and mobility for senior citizens, awareness of services, settlement, housing and interpreting services.

VmC mUltiCUltUral YoUth ForUms – GiVinG YoUnG ViCtorians a VoiCe

As a part of the 2014 VMC Community Consultations program, the VMC hosted Youth Forums for young people between the ages of 16-25. The Forums were a great success, providing Victorian youth the opportunity to give honest feedback about what matters to them in a safe and trusting setting.

We asked some of the 2014 Youth Forum participants to tell us about their impressions on the program and received great insight on what matters to Victoria’s CALD youth and how to improve for future Youth Forums. The comments below were some of the feedback the VMC received:

“Really happy I took the opportunity to come along today, thank you”

“Kids want people to know about their (ethnic) culture, they are proud of their identity”

“I’m glad that I was able to discuss marginalisation with a group and had a deeper discussion”

After the success and positive response from the participants in last year’s Youth Forums, the VMC chose to conduct more Youth Forums in different locations in 2015 to better assist Victoria’s CALD youth population.

VMC Commissioners Safa Almarhoun and Jenny Matic recently took part in the first round of Community Consultations for the year at the VMC Multicultural Youth Forums in Ballarat, Shepparton and Dandenong. The theme for the Forums was ‘Strengthening our Community – Engaging our Youth, our Future.’ The Dandenong Forum was also a women’s only event – the VMC knows that women in CALD communities experience different challenges and may have different goals, and wanted to give young women the time and space to discuss these amongst themselves.

Participants discussed the designated topics of employment, discrimination and bias, marginalisation and belonging, or leadership and advocacy. Group members then put their heads together to delve into the key issues under their selected topic. Following the Forum, each group provided advice to the VMC on how to meet future challenges.

CoMMunity Consultations 2014 and 2015

VMC update

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

08

Top left: a community meeting at the sunraysia mallee ethnic Communities Council. Top right: the VmC meets with local school students. Bottom, from left to right: Dean Wickham, eo of smeCC; Peter Byrne, loddon mallee raC member; tony o’hea, VmC research and Policy manager; Chin tan, VmC Chairperson; abeselom nega, VmC Commissioner and loddon mallee raC Chair.

The Loddon Mallee Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting in November 2014 provided a unique picture of the work undertaken by local community members and organisations in the Mildura region. The RACs provide advice to the Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) on a range of multicultural issues, including settlement, citizenship and service delivery.

RAC members also advocate on behalf of Victoria’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and promote the benefits of Victoria’s multicultural diversity at a grassroots level.

Three RACs are based in Metropolitan Melbourne – Eastern, Southern and North West, and five are based in rural and regional Victoria – Barwon South West, Hume, Loddon Mallee, Gippsland and Grampians.

During the visit, VMC Chairperson Mr Chin Tan and VMC staff toured the Mildura Turkish Islamic Mosque, which welcomes diverse faiths including Sunni and Shiite Muslims, and the Bengali, Iraqi and Afghani communities.

Over a community lunch with the Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council, Mr Tan discussed vital services to Mildura’s CALD communities, such as transitional help for refugee and asylum seeking families.

Mr Tan also met with Glen Milne, the Mayor of Mildura Rural City Council, and members of the Northern Mallee Learning and Employment Network, which helps young people in the region with transition, education and employment.

Following the trip, Mr Tan praised members of the Loddon Mallee RAC for their work advocating for local multicultural communities.

“The work undertaken by community leaders and organisations in Mildura, in a spirit of cooperation and community harmony, is to be commended and serves as a good model for other communities,” said Mr Tan.

“The State’s eight RACs are a great way to strengthen our communities and build on the successes we have achieved in multiculturalism in Victoria.”

“The RACs also provide an opportunity for the VMC to meet with local community members and service providers and to get a true picture of life for CALD communities across the State,” said Mr Tan.

The next round of RACs are scheduled for April this year.

vMC on the roaD in MilDura

VMC update

0909

Welcome to the year of the goat! Astrology tells us that the goat is a Yin energy, and a symbol of peace, harmonious co-existence and tranquillity. The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) hopes 2015 will see all these characteristics played out in our multicultural communities.

This Lunar New Year was celebrated by Victorians in many different ways. Families prepared special holiday foods, decorated their homes with red lanterns and paper cut-outs, gave envelopes containing money and good wishes to children and the elderly, and threw out old, broken things that have no place in the new year.

Communities joined in at some spectacular Lunar New Year events supported by the VMC. These events were attended by thousands, who came together to celebrate Victoria’s large and dynamic Asian population.

Dai loonG ChinatoWn neW Year FestiVal – DraGon aWakeninG anD ParaDe

Did you know Melbourne’s Chinese community is responsible for revitalising the art of dragon making in China? In 1978, the Melbourne Dai Loong Association was formed to provide Melbournians with a new dragon to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The Secretary of Melbourne Dai Loong Association visited Foshan, in Guangdong Province, where a dragon

had not been made since 1949. Over four months, 100 people came together in a new dragon factory to build Melbourne’s millennium dragon. To celebrate the Lunar New Year, this incredible creature – its head alone weighing 200kg – is awakened to parade down Swanston Street.

aUstralian Chinese eVents Committee – Chinese neW Year Ball

Each year, the Australian Chinese Events Committee hosts an exclusive ball to celebrate the Lunar New Year to raise funds for charitable causes. Key Chinese business and community leaders, representatives of other cultural groups and State and Federal Government leaders don black-tie to bring in the Lunar New Year in style.

Vietnamese CommUnitY in aUstralia – ViC ChaPter tet FestiVal

Vic Chapter not only celebrated the Lunar New Year in 2015, but also 40 years of representing Australia’s Vietnamese community. Guests at the Vic Chapter Tet Festival were treated to a traditional lion dance, special presentations and cultural performances. This two-day Festival attracts in the vicinity of 20,000 revellers.

viCtoria rinGs in the lunar neW year

Our community

Top right image, photographer: Luis Chiang

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

010010

Our community

viCtoria reMeMbers – WorlD War one

Who will you remember this ANZAC Day? On 25 April, Australia and New Zealand will pause to honour those who lost their lives during this tragic and historic campaign. Importantly, this day is also a time to commemorate the millions of lives that were touched by the events of World War One, which impacted almost every country in the world.

Many of these countries, such as Turkey, China, India and Greece, are now represented in Victoria’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. So, this ANZAC Day, think about unique connections to the war you may have, whether that may be through an ancestor, your parents’ place of birth, or a language spoken by those on either side of the conflict.

By remembering the service of all those involved in the war 100 years ago, we can be thankful for the harmonious and unified life we enjoy in Victoria today.

There is a wide range of projects, events and activities during the Anzac Centenary that encourage all Victorians to make a personal connection to World War One.

The above image is a sneak preview of a sweeping ANZAC Day campaign designed to engage Victoria’s CALD communities. The campaign will honour the many different perspectives, stories and experiences of World War One represented in Victoria’s diverse communities, and be told in a number of languages. To learn more about how you can get involved on ANZAC Day, visit www.anzaccentenary.vic.gov.au/anzacday2015

Keep an eye out for the special Anzac Centenary trams that will hit the tracks soon, designed to commemorate the men and women, of diverse backgrounds, who were involved in Australia’s experience of World War One.

In April 2015, 80 Victorian school students, including young people with family links to India, Sudan, Afghanistan, Singapore and Greece, will visit the Gallipoli Peninsula for the centenary of the landings at Gallipoli. This visit is part of the Victorian Government’s objective to engage younger generations of Victorians with the stories of World War One.

The unique bond between Australia and Turkey, which has continued to strengthen since World War One, will be honoured with a new memorial in Kings Domain. The Australian Turkish Friendship Memorial Sculpture will be erected in April, not far from the Shrine of Remembrance, and is an initiative of the Turkish sub-branch of the RSL and Australia’s Turkish community.

The roadshow ‘Victoria’s Journey of Remembrance’ is making its way across the State, presenting schools and community groups with a unique take on Anzac Centenary commemoration. Through live theatre and short films, the show explicitly acknowledges the service of other forces, such as the Sikhs and Ghurkas at Gallipoli, Chinese participation in World War One and the mutual respect between the Anzacs and the Turkish troops. To check when the free roadshow will be in your area, please visit: anzaccentenary.vic.gov.au/journeyofremembrance/

Do you have a project to commemorate the service and sacrifice of World War One veterans and their communities? The Victorian Veterans Council is accepting applications for the Anzac Centenary Community Grants Program until 26 May 2015. So far, grants have been provided to The-He Vietnamese Language Centre, the Nafsika Stamoulis Hellenic Museum, the Jewish Museum and the Lemnos Gallipoli Commemorative Committee, helping these organisations deliver projects of cultural significance.

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) has also awarded grants to various community and seniors organisations to assist them with hosting a range of ANZAC Centenary celebrations and activities. Some activities that have been funded include dinners to commemorate the ANZAC centenary, group craft activities to bring together women of different faiths, and an interfaith commemorative candlelight ceremony that will focus on the spiritual and religious aspects of the World War One period.

The VMC is proud to be assisting these projects and activities that pay respect to such an important time in our history.

011011

newCoMers’ video series explains australia’s tax and super systeM

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has released a new video series in different languages to help Australia’s newest residents understand tax and superannuation.

The short videos are called ‘New to Australia’. They introduce Australia’s tax and super systems through the individual stories of six migrants: Ishan, Ahmad, Chinh, Anh, Mei and Layla.

The videos are available in Arabic, Assyrian, Cantonese, Mandarin, Dari, Farsi, Hazaragi, Korean, Nepali, Punjabi and Vietnamese, as well as English.

In the videos, new and settled migrants to Australia explain their first-hand experience with our tax and super systems. They outline how the systems work, getting a Tax File Number, completing and lodging an individual tax return, tax and super for those starting a business, and how to get the most out of superannuation.

The series was developed following feedback from the ATO’s Non English Speaking Background (NESB) Community Consultation Advisory Group Forum. The ATO worked closely with community partners and migrant education services providers to develop the series.

The videos will now be used by key migrant education service providers as part of their education curriculum or orientation program for people new to Australia.

If you would like a New to Australia video series DVD for your organisation’s educational library, or for further information, please email diversity@ato.gov.au.

The videos can also be accessed on the ATO’s YouTube channel.

Our community

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

012

Melbourne is famous for its world-class sporting infrastructure, and events such as the Asian World Cup and Cricket World Cup truly put Australian sporting talent on the international stage. In early 2015, both events attracted thousands of spectators from many different cultures – all unified in hopes of victory for their team.

asian WorlD CUP

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, soccer is the most popular ball sport in Australia. Australia now joins a very loyal and diverse international fan base for the game of the round ball.

The Asian Football Confederation is responsible for running football in Asia, and oversees the Asian World Cup. From February 2013 to March 2014, 44 international soccer teams were whittled down to the 15 finalists who would play for the Asian World Cup in 2015.

In 2015, the Asian World Cup was played out in five different Australian cities – the first time the cup was hosted outside of Asia. The event has been dubbed a ‘stunning success’, and was the most watched Asian Cup in history.

Most importantly, the Socceroos defeated Korea-Republic in front of a roaring home crowd! It was a dramatic win, drawn out over extra time

which allowed for a final Australian goal. More than 76,380 spectators were there to witness Australia’s first Asian Cup victory since 2006.

CriCket WorlD CUP

Like soccer, cricket has an enormous international following and is a favourite among Australian sport fans.

The 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, hosted by Australia and New Zealand, has welcomed teams and supporters from South Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the West Indies, Zimbabwe, United Arab Emirates, England, Scotland and Ireland – all hoping to take the cup home.

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground was the scene of an incredible victory for India in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup opening match. Supporters of the Indian team have had almost as much attention as the players – marching from Federation Square to the stadium, thousands of supporters were seen waving flags, playing drums and chanting – bringing the streets of Melbourne to life!

More than 86,870 spectators nestled in to see India beat South Africa by 130 runs. One fan suggested that the passionate supporters of the Indian team made it feel like she was watching a game in Mumbai or Kolkata.

unity is CroWneD the Winner at asian WorlD CuP anD CriCket WorlD CuP

Our community

013013

Our community

Our community

Our community

On 23 November 2014, VMC Commissioner and Chairperson, Mr Chin Tan attended the Victorian Interfaith Networks Conference, where he announced the winners of the Monash Interfaith Network Photographic Exhibition.

The conference supports multifaith and interfaith networks by creating an open forum for community dialogue.

Speaking at the event, Mr Tan thanked the Interfaith Networks community for its contribution to Victoria’s diversity and social cohesion, and reminded the audience of the recent positive research results from the Scanlon Foundation’s research that tells us that 85% of people agreeing that ‘multiculturalism has been good for Australia.’

On 6 February 2015, the VMC hosted a Vice Ministerial delegation from the State Ethnic Affairs Commission of the People’s Republic of China.

During this visit, the VMC and their guests explored educational, cultural and research opportunities with a focus on increasing traditional and cultural understanding between China and Australia.

The visiting delegation were interested and impressed with the events and projects undertaken by the VMC, and the meeting provided a great opportunity to learn about different approaches to multiculturalism in each country.

Australia’s rich Indigenous history and culture was of particular interest for future research opportunities between Australia and China.

Our community

On the 13 December 2014, VMC Commissioner Mr Srini Srinivasan attended the third Tamil Literary Festival, which is hosted by the Valluvar Foundation.

The Festival recognises and celebrates Australian Tamil artists and their literary works.

The theme for 2014 was the analysis of the portrayal of woman in society, and the social responsibility of respecting and treating women and men equally.

On January 23 2014, Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) Youth Commissioner Ms Safa Almarhourn participated in the Lead On program, which is supported by Women’s Health West and the Western Young People’s Independent Network.

Lead On provides training for women aged 16-24 from diverse backgrounds (including refugee,

migrant, asylum seeker and those born in Australia) who live, work or study in Melbourne’s West.

The program’s objective is to increase the leadership skills, knowledge and capacity of young women of diverse backgrounds, and promote and support their future participation in community and leadership activities.

Safa Almarhourn broad experience within the multicultural community made her an asset to the Lead On event. As the recipient of the National Council of Women of Victoria’s inaugural Civic and Citizenship Award in 2014, her leadership insight was welcomed by all who participated on the day.

valluvar foundation’s taMil literaCy foundation

interfaith networks ConferenCe

state ethniC affairs CoMMission of the people’s republiC of China delegation

vMC youth CoMMissioner leads the way

Left ms safa almarhourn (centre) with program participants. Photography courtesy of mr anandh Bala and the team of aB Fotoworks.

Photo courtesy of Yusuf Zarani at YZ studios.

Top VmC representatives meet with the Vice ministerial delegation from the state ethnic affairs Commission of the People’s republic of China.

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

014

Dates for your diary Dates for your diaryDates for your diary Dates for your diary

kilvington graMMar world fair

The Kilvington Grammar World Fair celebrates the 30 plus languages represented in its student body. Food, cultural stalls, rides for all ages, entertainment and the Mix 101.1 Street team make this a perfect family outing. Tours demonstrating the school’s writing, technology, robotics, performing arts, and care and peace programs will be available throughout the day.

When: Saturday 21 March, 10am-3pm

Where: 2 Leila Road, Ormond

Details: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/projects-and-initiatives/events-calender/kilvington-grammar-world-fair-2015

tea 101: a world of tea

Drawing on the wisdom of tea masters in China, Taiwan, Korea and Japan, and time cutting her teeth as Vue de Monde’s first tea sommelier, Sarah Cowell of Teasense will take you on a sensory tea journey like no other. Learn what makes each style of tea different, how to taste them and various brewing methods used to bring out the best characteristics in each tea.

When: Tuesday 17 March, 7pm

Where: Williamstown Library, 104 Ferguson Street, Williamstown

Details: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/projects-and-initiatives/events-calender/tea-101-a-world-of-tea

b-inforMed – addressing hepatitis b

Almost two-thirds of Australians living with chronic Hepatitis B come from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds or from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Health and support workers who would like to learn more about Hepatitis B, and how to assist affected communities, are encouraged to book a place at the next B-Informed workshop.

When: Tuesday 24 March, 9.30am-12.30pm

Where: Training Room at North Richmond Community Health, 23 Lennox Street, Richmond

Details: www.ceh.org.au/training/workshops

new students: welCoMe to Melbourne!

The Lord Mayor of Melbourne extends a warm welcome to students beginning study in 2015. This free event, produced by young people for young people, celebrates the contribution of nearly 36,000 international students living in Melbourne’s central city. Come along to enjoy the fashion runway, photo booths, entertainment, native Australian animals and prizes.

When: Saturday 28 March, 2pm-5pm

Where: The Couch, 69 Bourke Street, Melbourne

Details: www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/CommunityServices/ForYouth/InternationalStudents/Pages/WhatsOnInternational Students.aspx# LMwelcome

Thailand’s unique culture will be on show at the 12th Thai Culture and Food Festival. Come along to see a Thai Buddhist ceremony, cooking demonstrations, traditional dance and costumes, Muay Thai fights, ancient children’s games, food and craft stalls and live entertainment.

When: Sunday 15 March, 10am-6pm

Where: Federation Square, Corner Swanston Street and Flinders Street, Melbourne

Details: www.thaifestvic.com/event-details/

Celebrate the Dutch national day, the Dutch King’s birthday and the colour orange at the 2015 KLM Dutch Orange Day! Dutch food, cultural displays, music and entertainment, and a crowd dressed in orange make this event a unique family day out.

When: Sunday 26 April, 10.30am-4pm

Where: Queensbridge Square, 1 Queensbridge Street, Southbank

Details: www.dutchorangeday.com.au/

the 12th thai Culture and food festival

klM dutCh orange day

Dates for your diary Dates for your diary

015015

Dates for your diary Dates for your diaryDates for your diary Dates for your diary

CoMMonwealth bank Queen viCtoria Market turkish pazar festival

This is the year of Turkey in Australia, and what better way to celebrate than by visiting the 8th Commonwealth Bank Queen Victoria Market Turkish Pazar Festival! Come to see Victoria Market transformed into a traditional Pazar – Turkish for ‘Sunday’ and ‘bazaar’ – complete with magic Turkish carpets, traditional lamps and plates for sale, paper marbling demonstrations and favourite Turkish culinary delights.

When: Sunday 15 March, 10am-4pm

Where: Queen Victoria Market, corner of Victoria Street and Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

Details: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/projects-and-initiatives/events-calender/commonwealth-bank-queen-victoria-market-turkish-pazar-festival

annual darebin CoMMunity and kite festival

Gather your friends and family for the popular annual Darebin Community and Kite Festival. Sky-high kite flying and kite-making workshops will keep the kite aficionados busy, while kids’ activities, world food stalls set up under the trees, stilt walkers and live entertainment mean there’s something for everyone.

When: Sunday 15 March, 11am-6pm

Where: Edwardes Lake, Reservoir

Details: www.darebinarts.com.au/kitefestival

Melbourne language piCniC

Fancy dabbling in some language fun over lunch? The Melbourne Language Picnic is a wonderful celebration of the diverse linguistic and cultural character found throughout Melbourne. Spread out the picnic blanket at the lovely Myuna Farm for storytelling, animal word trails, language demonstrations, traditional crafts, interactive songs, music and dance.

When: Sunday 19 April, 11am-3pm

Where: Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton

Details: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/projects-and-initiatives/events-calender/melbourne-language-picnic

harMony Morning tea

Sip tea, chat and view the library’s wonderful collection of new Chinese, Vietnamese, Greek, Italian, Arabic, Polish, Croatian and Maltese items, and enjoy a demonstration of Oblatne – a Croatian chocolate wafer cake.

When: Monday 16 March, 10.30am-11.30am

Where: Altona Library, 123 Queen Street, Altona

Details: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au/projects-and-initiatives/events-calender/harmony-morning-tea

Multicultural Victoria Magazine | March 2015

016

Published by the Victorian multicultural Commission

march 2015

Cover image: Wadaiko rindo, photo by Vlad savin, courtesy of multicultural arts Victoria

editor: kate Windon

Design by metro Design

Printed by metro Printing, airport West

Printed on k.W. Doggett, sovereign silk 150gsm

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document was accurate at the time of publication, the state of Victoria, through

the Victorian multicultural Commission, accepts no responsibility for any errors, omissions, mistakes or misstatements contained in this document. the state

of Victoria expressly disclaims any responsibility for any total or partial reliance on this document for anything undertaken or omitted to be undertaken in

consequence of reliance on this document. the state of Victoria excludes any liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person resulting in any way

from the use of, or reliance upon, this document.

Copies of this magazine can be obtained from the Victorian multicultural Commission.

Post to: Victorian Multicultural Commission GPO Box 4698, Melbourne VIC 3001Phone: 9651 0651Facsimile: 9651 0612Email: info@vmc.vic.gov.au

Visit our website: www.multicultural.vic.gov.au for all the latest information about what’s happening around multicultural Victoria including events, initiatives, news and the work of the Regional Advisory Councils. You can also access copies of VMC media releases plus previous e-newsletters and issues of MV Magazine.To contact a Commissioner, email info@vmc.vic.gov.au.

how to ContaCt the viCtorian MultiCultural CoMMission

Connect with the VMCwww.multicultural.vic.gov.auinfo@vmc.vic.gov.au

Ms Marion Lau OAM JPCommunity representative Commissioner

Mr Grahame J Leonard AMCommissioner

Ms Jenny MaticCommissioner

Mr Huseyin MustafaCommissioner

Mr Abeselom NegaCommissioner

Mr Chidambaram SrinivasanCommissioner

Mr Chin TanChairperson

Mr Spiro (Ross) AlatsasDeputy Chairperson

Miss Safa AlmarhounYouth Commissioner

Ms Maryum ChaudhryCommissioner

Dr Teresa De FazioCommissioner

Ms Elizabeth DrozdCommissioner

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/multiculturevic

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/multiculturevic

017017