Greater Springfield Dandiya Night draws over 4,000 people

More than 4,000 people gathered at Robelle Domain Parklands for the fifth annual Greater Springfield Dandiya Night, bringing together families, community groups and performers for an evening of music, dance and cultural celebrations.

Presented by the Greater Springfield Indian Association Inc (GSIA), the 2026 event featured Garba and Dandiya, live music, cultural performances, devotional activities, food stalls, shopping and entertainment.

The event has grown over its five years, with GSIA President Mukesh Dubey crediting the association’s volunteers and wider community for helping build the annual celebration.

“It is not easy to manage such a big event in the Greater Springfield area. There are so many sleepless nights, so much planning and so much work behind the scenes. But our biggest asset is our team and our volunteers. They support me like a family,” Dubey said.

His family also plays an active role in organising the event, which he described as a community occasion involving people of different ages and backgrounds.

More than 4,000 attendees filled the parklands during the evening, with traditional dress, music and dancing forming the centre of the programme. Local performers also took to the stage, showcasing cultural and artistic performances from the Greater Springfield and wider Queensland community.

One of the evening’s energetic highlights was a Dhol Tasha performance by the Shivam Vadhya Pathak team, whose traditional drumming drew an enthusiastic response from the crowd.

The programme also included devotional elements, with Goddess Durga Pooja and Aarti forming part of the evening. Performances celebrating Diwali traditions were also included alongside the music and dance programme.

More than 15 non-profit organisations participated in the celebration, reflecting the involvement of community groups in the event.

The gathering also attracted elected representatives and community leaders, including Senator Paul Scarr, Ipswich City Council Mayor Teresa Harding and Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic, as well as local councillors.

GSIA acknowledged support from Charis Mullen MP, Shayne Neumann MP, Milton Dick MP, Jess Pugh MP, Cr David Martin, Cr Jacob Madsen and Cr Pye Augustine. Long-time community supporter Cr Paul Tully was also recognised for his continued support.

Queensland Police Service officers supported the event, while 1300 Medics volunteers provided first-aid assistance.

Messages of goodwill were also received from the Queensland Premier and Brisbane Lord Mayor.

Community organisations including the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland, led by President Dr Preethi Suraj, and the Hindu Council of Australia were involved in supporting the celebration.

Behind the evening’s entertainment was months of planning and volunteer work. GSIA said volunteers were involved in venue preparation, stall coordination, performer management, crowd support and other logistical responsibilities.

The event also provided a platform for local businesses. Food vendors, jewellery sellers, clothing retailers and other traders were able to promote their businesses to thousands of visitors. GSIA estimates that more than $75,000 in income was generated for local businesses through the event.

For Dubey, the response from attendees made the extensive preparation worthwhile.

“When thousands of people are dancing, smiling and enjoying themselves, you forget about all the sleepless nights. Seeing families enjoy the evening makes every effort worthwhile,” he said.

He also thanked the volunteers, sponsors, performers, community organisations, government representatives, police and first-aid teams who contributed to the event.

“This is not my event. This is our community’s event. GSIA is fortunate to have a team that stands together like a family. Without them, none of this would be possible,” Dubey said.

Five years after the first Greater Springfield Dandiya Night, the annual event continues to bring together people from across the region through music, dance, food and cultural activities, while giving community organisations and local businesses an opportunity to participate in a large public celebration.