Happy Diwali !!!

May this year’s Diwali bring, prosperity and happiness to all families, illuminate our homes and our lives.

On behalf of Federation of Indian Associations of ACT (FINACT) Inc, we would like to congratulate the Indo-Australian community of ACT celebrating Diwali on SUN 3 November with customary zeal and enthusiasm. 

Please find below Diwali wishes from community leaders from ACT.

message from the act chief minister, katy gallagher mla

It is my great pleasure to be able to join with the Federation of Indian Associations of the ACT (FINACT) and ACT’s vibrant Indian community in offering my support for this year’s Diwali Mela, the Festival of Lights.

One reason the ACT is such a great place to live is because we are able to share in the traditions of the many cultures that call Canberra home. The local Indian community is one of the largest and most active cultural groups within the ACT and the Diwali Mela is certainly a highlight on our cultural events calendar.

I would like to encourage all Canberrans to experience the rich culture of India that will be on display during the 2013 Diwali Mela at the Albert Hall. This year’s festival offers traditional music and dance, poetry and short story telling, Henna painting, handicraft stalls,fashion parade, beauty pageant, and even fireworks.

Message from finact patron, minister joy burch mla

The ACT Government values the contribution that multicultural community organisations make to our City and recognises this through a number of initiatives including hosting and attending special functions throughout the year.

I was particularly pleased to be able to participate at the official opening of Diwali Mela in October this year and to join with so many from the Indian community of Canberra in celebrating this special event.

Full Message 

Message from senator zed seselja

As Senator for the ACT, it is my great pleasure to wish everyone in the Indian community a very happy Diwali.

The Indian community makes such a great contribution to Australian society and the festival of lights is a fantastic way to showcase the colourful spirit of India and adds to the rich tapestry of culture, heritage and diversity that makes our country such a vibrant place to live.

I am looking forward to attending some Diwali celebrations and performances over the next few weeks to absorb some of this dynamic and artistic culture. I also hope to have the opportunity to meet many members of the Indian community at these celebrations.

Message from hon jeremy hanson, csc, mla

In this Centenary year, I am very aware of the contribution that the Indian community has played in the building of a strong multicultural Canberra over the past 100 years. As a group, Canberrans of Indian background are fortunate to have the support and representation of the very active Federation of Indian Associations of the ACT.

I am aware that the Indo-Australian community is now looking forward to celebrating the upcoming Deepawali or Diwali with great zeal and enthusiasm. While Diwali is popularly known as the "festival of lights", I understand the most significant spiritual meaning behind the festive period is "the awareness of the inner light”. The central celebration of Diwali is the "victory of good over evil". This is an ambition that is shared with all peace loving peoples. 

community/multicultural/indigenous cricket event on nov 10

As you know the Big Bash League (BBL) will be shown on Free to Air (Ch.10)  for the first time and will no doubt create huge interest to new and existing fans alike.

Cricket is a sport for all Australians and here is your community’s chance to take part in a FREE Multicultural/Indigenous cricket event organised by Cricket ACT in conjunction with Sydney Thunder which will see the winner of the event have the chance to play in the Big Bash League Curtain Raiser Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat on the 8/1/14 at the ANZ stadium.

Event Date, Time and Venue: Sunday 10/11 9am start at FOOTBALL PARK, Irving St, Woden (off Launceston St)

1. It is FREE. Open to players from the Indigenous and multicultural community, 16 years and over.
3. Get together a team of 8 and register at www.sydneythunder.com.au/thundernationcup.