In a show of community care and love for the environment, the Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Officer hosted its 8th annual World Environment Day celebration since its founding in 2018. This year’s event saw the planting of 130 fruit, flower, and herb trees.
What began as a modest initiative has now flourished into a green tradition, bringing the total number of trees on the Gurdwara grounds to an impressive 2,750.
The event, held on Saturday, 14 June, drew a mix of dignitaries, faith leaders, civic officials, and community members—all united by a shared commitment to sustainability.
A highlight of the day was a deeply engaging interfaith panel discussion featuring representatives from Australia’s five major faith traditions: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. The panel explored how faith, compassion, and co-learning can contribute to the global effort to protect the planet.
“The enthusiasm for greening was most heartwarming,” said Sardar Dya Singh, Sikh faith representative and longtime environmental advocate. “My bias, as always, is towards the younger generations. Youth from various schools took part and even spoke from the stage. Heartening to see so many Sikh youth holding leadership roles in their schools.”
Sunny Duggal, another community member, said he was honoured to attend the event, which “highlighted the collective commitment of our community to a greener future”.
Participants and local leaders praised the Gurdwara’s ongoing sustainability efforts. “Sustainability efforts like this are truly inspiring. Keep up the great work,” said Jennifer Robson, a community volunteer with Rotary and a regular supporter of the initiative.
The celebration saw the presence of numerous elected representatives, including Emma Vulin MP (State Member for Pakenham), Michael Galea MP, Belinda Wilson MP, and Mayor Jack Kowarzik of Cardinia Shire. Government officials from the Department of Home Affairs, the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and local educational institutions also took part—reflecting the broad support for the Gurdwara’s green mission.
Emma Vulin highlighted the importance of protecting the environment and praised Siri Guru Nanak Darbar for its continued efforts in promoting community involvement and sustainability.
In the same vein, Michael Galea stressed the need to adopt green energy solutions urgently to help protect the planet for future generations.
Mayor Jack Kowarzik proudly acknowledged the Gurdwara’s efforts in reducing its carbon footprint and reaffirmed Cardinia Shire Council’s support for grassroots environmental initiatives.
As always, the spirit of seva (selfless service) shone through in the langar (community kitchen), with many dignitaries praising the warm hospitality and delicious food.
The event also drew parallels with similar initiatives around the world. “I’m in touch with another green Gurdwara in Malaysia, SNSM Khalsa Land,” said Singh. “Both these Gurdwaras stand as excellent examples of what is needed today, an environment-conscious faith community. Hopefully, more Gurdwaras will take the cue. Guru dhi meher (With the Guru’s grace).”
Harpreet Kandra, one of the key leaders of the Gurudwara, expressed his heartfelt thanks to all the dignitaries, participants, and volunteers for joining the celebration. “This reaffirms their commitment to the shared goal of environmental stewardship and sustainability.”
The Officer Gurdwara’s growing forest of trees and growing circle of friends is a reminder that when faith and action meet, communities bloom, for each other and for the Earth.
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