Cultural Family Picnic 2022

Cultural Family Picnic

We were extremely happy to have our annual Cultural Family Picnic face to face once again.  Last October 13th, we had over 20 performances back to back, with a special appearance by our Catbot Crew from the Victorian State School Spectacular.

Mayor Goran Kesic and MP Steve McGhie opened our ceremonies, followed by an Acknolwedgement of Country by Gianna Sta. Cruz.  Cultural Ambassadors Daphrose, Graham, and Si Ngun hosted the first part of the program, and handed over to their younger counterparts, Eve, Nina, Happiness, and Hannah.

"I thought it was really a new experience for me because it was my first picnic.  It was really nice to see everyone go together.  I enjoyed making the food.  My favourite performance was Jaspreet and Avneek's Indian dance, as well as Blessing's solo. I hope more people come in and do performances next year. I knew a lot of people in my class who know traditional dances and I'd like to see that."

--- Karlie, Yr 8

"The picnic was a lot of fun. It was better than I expected. Everyone enjoyed the food and everyone stayed and watched all the dances.  Everyone had their small jobs that we all had to do.  I also like how we set up the whole program and the gym.  We had a big stage and nice decorations.  It was great!"

--- Si Ngun, Yr 12

Thanks to our students, we were also treated to delicious traditional food like Nasi Goreng, Cold Noodles in Peanut Sauce, Mandazi, Creamy Veggie Curry, Coco Laisa, Thai Coconut Cake, and of course, a Sausage Sizzle.

We were also pleased to have our partners, the Western Bulldogs, Edmund Rice Services, and the Brotherhood of St. Laurence present on the day, with a special Haka performance from Kimiora Joyce from CRC Melton, and local Burundi dance group, Club Iteka.

Many staff were instrumental in supporting our efforts, and we are eternally grateful for everyone's hard work.  This student lead activity was extremely well done, and we are proud of our students efforts.

YVETTE MEDINA

Community Engagement Lead