Celebrate Moreton Bay’s unique and diverse culture when the region takes part in the largest multicultural celebration in the state, Queensland Multicultural Month.
Community groups, schools and council will host a number of events throughout August and September in recognition of Moreton Bay’s rich cultural diversity and Moreton Bay Regional Council Lifestyle and Amenity Spokesperson Councillor Matt Constance invites all residents to join in the celebrations.
“Moreton Bay is consistently recognised as one of Australia’s fastest growing areas, but it’s also one of the most diverse too, with one in every four residents born overseas, representing more than 180 nationalities and 150 languages,” Cr Constance said.
“Our cultural diversity is part of what makes Moreton Bay so special, and QMM is a great way for our region to come together and celebrate that diversity.
“From community fiestas and events at local schools to classes at our libraries, and activities at local parks and sporting facilities, there are plenty of ways residents can join in celebrations.
“You can also celebrate Queensland Multicultural Month at home by hosting a get together with your family, friends and neighbours.
“To find out what’s on in Moreton Bay hop onto council’s website [www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au] or phone 3205 0555.”
Division 9 Councillor Mike Charlton said the celebrations would culminate on September 2 with the largest multicultural festival in region, the annual Moreton Bay Multicultural Fiesta at Pine Rivers Park, Strathpine.
“The Moreton Bay Multicultural Fiesta is a wonderful celebration of our region featuring a number of fantastic music and dance demonstrations, cultural stalls, international foods, children’s rides and fireworks,” Cr Charlton said.
“The festival started more than 16 years ago and has gone from strength to strength.
“I’m advised this year’s festival will include a showcase of Indigenous Australian, Indian, African, Colombian, Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, Tahitian, West Sumatran and Filipino cultures.”
The event includes a gold coin entry and people are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket to stay and enjoy the event.
Fiesta organiser and Multicultural Association of Caboolture and Surrounds (MACS) President Nooreen Harris said there would be plenty in store to help celebrate the region’s diversity.
“QMM is about recognising the many cultures that make up Moreton Bay today, and what better way to do that than by enjoying some great meals and entertainment with family and friends - no matter your cultural background,” Nooreen Harris said.
For more information about the festival please visit: www.multiculturalfiesta.com.au
A multicultural Moreton Bay:
· 109,249 residents (just over one-in-four) were born overseas (ABS, 2016) representing more than 170 nationalities and 140 languages
· 154,092 residents (more than a third) stated either both or one of their parents was born overseas in the 2016 census
· Between January 2016 and January 2017, more than 1,787 residents took the pledge to become Australian citizens