Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Recently, I had the privilege of cutting the ribbon at the Melbourne Kannada Bhavana in Noble Park. This is the first Kannada community centre in Australia, and its opening represents a significant milestone for the Kannada-speaking community in our country. For those unfamiliar, Kannada is a language spoken by millions in the South Indian state of Karnataka, where India's IT hub, Bangalore, is located. The Kannada community in Melbourne have contributed significantly to our society's richness, bringing with them an abundance of culture and traditions and a commitment to community service.

The Melbourne Kannada Bhavana is not just a building. It is a symbol of unity and respect for heritage and a testament to the multicultural fabric of our nation.

It highlights the Australian ethos of embracing all cultures, creating an environment where all communities can thrive. This community centre will be a hub for cultural activities and a platform for sharing and preserving Kannada language, literature, music and art. I commend Melbourne's Kannada community, particularly the Melbourne Kannada Sangha, for their initiative and determination in bringing this project to fruition. I thank the House.