Jason Wood (La Trobe, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for International Development and Pacific Island Affairs) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I recently had the honour of attending two vibrant cultural celebrations reflecting the rich diversity and community spirit of my electorate of La Trobe.

Namaskaram! On Saturday I joined the Berwick Malayalam community for their Onam 2025 celebrations. I extend my sincere thanks to: Jose P Mathew, the Berwick Ayalkoottam committee's president; Ancy Aby, vice-president; Lalson Mathews, secretary; Unnimaya Febin, joint secretary; Midhun Francis, treasurer; and committee members Sajith Varkey, Jotsna Jose, Deon Boby and Sarath Purushothaman, as well as the entire Berwick Ayalkoottam team for organising such a fantastic and colourful event.

Onam is one of the most cherished festivals of our Malayalam community. It celebrates Kerala's rich cultural heritage and brings families together to honour the legendary King Mahabali, who again showed up on this great occasion. I've had the privilege of attending many Onam celebrations over the years and have always been moved by the traditional performances and the spirit of unity, as well as their friendship.

Berwick Ayalkoottam, funded in 2008 by eight families, now represents more than 160 families and nearly 500 members from Berwick and the surrounding suburbs, and they put on a magnificent event. With more than 80,000 Malayalam speakers in Australia, the contributions of our Malayalam community continue to enrich our nation. Once again, I commend the members of Berwick Ayalkoottam for their initiatives, support and celebration of our amazing Australian Malayalam community, and I wish everyone a joyful Onam.

I also had the great privilege of attending the Cardinia Gujarati Association—and namaste to all of them. They held the Janmashtami and Ganesh Utsav celebrations in Pakenham. I thank Brijal, who's a great friend as well as the trustee, and all the committee members, for putting on such a magnificent event. Janmashtami marks the birth of Sri Krishna, who symbolises knowledge and wisdom. Ganesh Utsav celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesh, the embodiment of new beginnings, prosperity and good fortune. Both festivals hold great significance for our wonderful Australian Hindu community, and I extend my heartfelt wishes to all those celebrating.

What made this event truly special was the leadership of the CGAI Junior Committee—children aged between 10 and 16 years who took charge of organising this wonderful event. Again, I commend the Cardinia Gujarati Association—such a vibrant community in my electorate of La Trobe. Again, I wish everyone a happy Onam and a happy Janmashtami and Ganesh Utsav.