Flag flown for Pakistani freedom

MEMBERS of Ballarat’s Pakistani community gathered in Queen Victoria Square on Friday for a flag-raising ceremony in celebration of the nation’s independence day.

The event was the City’s first time acknowledging the date, which is in its platinum jubilee at 75 years.

Pakistan-Australian, Obaid Noor has lived in Ballarat for 10 years, and said it was great to see his cultural background recognised.

“Living in Australia, I’ve adapted to the culture and learnt all the good things the people have to offer, but there’s also a part of me that belongs in Pakistan,” he said.

“If this were in Pakistan, there’d be lights, fireworks, all that stuff, so just seeing that flag brings a lot of memories back. It means a lot.

“Both my daughters were born here. The only chance they get to visit Pakistan is during Christmas holidays, so acknowledging this day introduces them to the culture and values we brought here from the country.”

Falling on 14 August, the day commemorates Pakistan and India’s sovereignty from the British Raj in 1947.

The event was followed with an afternoon tea in Town Hall, and further celebrations were held on Sunday evening.

The City of Ballarat’s multicultural ambassador for Pakistan, Anam Umar, revealed another development alongside the flag-raising first.

“In the month of March and April, we’re going to form a Pakistani association of Ballarat, a formal organisation for the presentation of Pakistani members of the community,” she said.

“To welcome newcomers is one of our most important agenda because when you’re new to a place you do not know about things.”