Inaugural multicultural fiesta enjoyed by all

SUNNY skies, good food and entertainment brought the community out to the first Heathcote Multicultural Fiesta on Saturday.

The event was hosted by the community house in conjunction with Healthy Loddon Campaspe and the City of Greater Bendigo.

“There are so many people to thank for the success of the day,” community house executive officer Vicki Forde said.

“Firstly, Healthy Loddon Campaspe for their support, funding and organisation and contacts, particularly to Jasmine, Darci, Kate and Stephanie – it is fabulous working alongside them.

“The amazing team at HCH, staff and volunteers who helped on the day and during the weeks leading up to prepare.

A fabulous display of Dolls of the World by Carol Fanning added to the multicultural atmosphere.

“Charlie, Jeanette, Ellen, Ben and Sylvia prepared the grounds so well, decorating and setting things in place for all to enjoy a great day.

“Deb and Ralph are legends for preparing and delivering a fabulous Grow workshop.

“Carol was an absolute gem, for setting up the amazing Dolls of the World Display, her help making spring rolls and many other tasks on the day.

“Deb, Rod and Mandi provided support where needed and it was so very much appreciated.

“Angie Salisbury did an amazing job with organising performers, and cooking delicious spring rolls.”

Food vans Little Wild Asian Street Food and Jas’s Indian Kitchen provided food for the event.

“Both were very popular and did a great job providing an authentic cultural feast for our village,” Ms Forde said.

“Everyone enjoyed the musical entertainment. We started with Tess from Sing Karaoke and her friend who performed.

“The fabulous Filipino Australian Social Club of Loddon Campase were stunning in traditional dress and brought so much fun with their beautiful dance performances.

Nancy Miller shared one of her bromeliad plants with Zy-za Liuralde and offered some useful planting advice.

“Euro Fest Choir of Bendigo delighted us all with their performances and cultural costumes.

“And Heathcote Ukulele Group (H.U.G.) were a delight as always.

“We are very grateful to local businesses Azie Hibiscus and Red Dragon Restaurant for their generous donation of prizes for the best costumes on the day.”

Many people brought along seeds, plants and produce to swap during the event.

“Our village of people are so kind and generous and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts,” Ms Forde said.

“A big thank you to the people of Heathcote and our surrounding towns for embracing the event, which proves that together we can do beautiful things.”