MEDIA RELEASE - Harmony Week – a celebration of culture and connection
In March, Sutherland Shire Council united the community to celebrate Harmony Week with a vibrant program of cultural performances and creative experiences held in the beautiful gardens of Hazelhurst Arts Centre.
The free community event, delivered in collaboration with Advance Diversity Services and Gymea Community Aid and Information Services, highlighted the rich diversity of Sutherland Shire and offered an opportunity for residents to connect through music, movement and art.
Attended by more than 150 residents of all ages, the celebration featured an exciting line-up of cultural performances including Pelangi Indonesian Dance Group, Kalinka Russian-Ukrainian Dancers, Gymea Community Aid Tai Chi Group, the South Sydney Chinese Arts Troupe, Fiestaville Multicultural Choir and a traditional Nepalese Dance Group. Attendees also enjoyed interactive cultural activities such as Chinese calligraphy, henna art and face painting.
Adding to the spirit of inclusion and belonging, a striking community artwork created with contributions from more than 400 local residents was unveiled as part of the celebration, providing a powerful symbol of unity and shared cultural pride.
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd said Council was proud to host an event that echoed the values of respect, inclusion and belonging.
“Harmony Week is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate what makes us unique while also recognising what unites us,” Mayor Boyd said.
“Events like this reflect Council’s commitment to nurturing a caring, creative and connected community that values diversity and embraces cultural expression.
“By facilitating experiences that allow people to learn from one another and appreciate our different backgrounds, we help to build a more inclusive and resilient Sutherland Shire.”
As part of the day’s activities, Council’s ocean lifeguards and leisure centre staff also attended to share water safety tips and promote the Swim Safe Communities Program which aims to engage high risk migrant and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. Helping people learn basic swimming skills and how to stay safe in pools, rivers, and at the beach, further supporting inclusive access to key community services.
Harmony Week is a national celebration that recognises Australia’s successful multicultural society, coinciding with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on 21 March.
Each year, this week is a reminder of the importance of fostering a sense of belonging for everyone – regardless of cultural or linguistic background – and the shared values that connect each community.