Supporting a shared community

THE city is welcome to celebrate Australia Day at Lake Wendouree with their neighbours, the Filipino/Australian Association of Ballarat Inc.

Hosting a barbecue from 4pm on Sunday, 26 January, the group will gather at the undercover pavilion beside the Adventure Playground.

An opportunity for fundraising, any money generated will be directed to bushfire relief. FAABI chairperson, Sherly Hart said now is a time for compassion.

“It’s very important to help the Australian community that we are also so much a part of,” she said.

“We’re part of the celebrations because this is our home too; our second home.

“Ballarat is a home for many of us, we are sharing the local community, serving and supporting the community.”

Ms Hart has been leading the association for 13 years but intends to step down from her role at the next AGM in February.

“I want to give a break to the others because there are so many members that are capable of continuing the work of the association,” she said.

“It’s now in its 29^th year. It’s been a long journey, we have a very successful organisation and we manage to help not only our members, but the entire community.”

Attendees to the barbecue are asked to bring some food to share.