Thursday, 29 August 2024

Nepalese community

Lily D’AMBROSIO (Mill Park – Minister for Climate Action, Minister for Energy and Resources, Minister for the State Electricity Commission) (09:48): I rise today to share my experiences of two vibrant Nepalese community-led events I attended this month. Both events were Teej melas. Teej is a significant festival originating from South Asia. It is observed by Nepali women to enhance their families’ wellbeing and to purify both body and soul. The celebrations I attended were organised by the Nepalese Neighbourhood Community and the Epping–Wollert Nepalese community. I thoroughly enjoyed both events, which featured beautiful cultural performances, sumptuous feasts, live musical entertainment and engaging community activities.

I am grateful to the executive committee members of the Nepalese Neighbourhood Community for their invitation. Special thanks to Krishna Mahara, Bishwo Khanal, Nirdosh Giri, Sunil Anu, Homnath Rijal Krishna and Amrita Gurung. I would also like to express my thanks to the executive from the Epping–Wollert Nepalese community for their warm invitation. My appreciation goes to Krishna Sapkota, Manoj Poudel, Sanjay Bhandari, Parshuram Parajuli Anup and Bibek.

The Nepali community in Victoria is a flourishing multicultural group that makes significant contributions to the social, economic and cultural prosperity of our state. I am thrilled to represent such a diverse electorate and to continue to explore the rich cultures that make Mill Park so special.