On 4 August, an amazing display of multicultural harmony and celebration of Australian-Indian friendship was on show, organised by the United Indian Associations. at Parramatta Riverside, Sydney. It was a day of celebration to convey the “mateship” between the Indian community and other multicultural communities in NSW.
United Indian Association Inc (UIA, www.uia.org.au) is NSW’s largest Indian Association established in 1994 to service the Indian community at large, as a premier umbrella organisation with 32 Member Associations, UIA serves the Indian diaspora in Australia through community activities.
The event was attended by over 10,000 visitors, many VIP Guests and multicultural members. There was Indian food, cultural performances by various ethnic communities (the Brazilian troupe was the centre of attraction), cultural parade, shopping, rides and more.
“The Mateship Fair is an opportunity for people to spread the goodness of diversity, friendship, food, music and more. Today, we celebrate a blend of Australian and Indian values. We celebrate the freedom to make a choice,” said Sreeni Pillamarri, President UIA.
“It is our privilege to present our culture and reiterate our commitment to the principles of multi-culturism. UIA is grateful for the great support by Federal Government, NSW Government including Multicultural NSW, Parramatta Council. This year is being partnered with City of Parramatta.” (Article continues below the photo gallery)
Lord Mayor of Parramatta Andrew Wilson acknowledged the contribution of the vibrant Indian community to Parramatta. “It’s always a pleasure to come to this event and a great deal for the city of Parramatta,” said Andrew Wilson.
The Mateship Fair was attended by Julian Leeser MP for Berowra, Philip Ruddock Mayor of Hornsby, Andrew Wilson Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Geoff Lee Member for Parramatta and Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Julie Owens MP for Parramatta, Scott Farlow MLC, Jodi McKay Leader of Opposition and Member for Strathfield, Julia Finn Member for Granville, Manish Gupta, Consul General of India, Sydney, Dr GK Harinath, Chairperson Multicultural NSW and Councillors from neighbouring local councils like Parramatta, Strathfield, Liverpool, Blacktown.
Recently appointed Leader of Opposition Jodi McKay and Member for Strathfield also bestowed UIA with an Honorary Certificate of Acknowledgement for completing 25 Years. UIA’s efforts in organising the fundraising ‘Walk for Farmers’ in 2018 was commended by the guests.
“UIA has done remarkable work for the larger community, and I would like to congratulate its leadership and the team for walking for drought affected farmers,” said Julian Leeser, MP for Berowra.
The event was concluded with fireworks display in the evening.
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