Harmony Week, observed nationally since 1999, is an annual celebration of Australia’s rich multicultural heritage.
Voices for Harmony hosted an event at Shepparton Golf Club on Thursday, March 21, to honour this tradition. This marked the 17th year of the Shepparton gathering, with a theme of ‘Mental health, inequalities and spirituality’.
News reporter Kady Hadjab asked guests to share their perspectives on the significance of Harmony Week.
Bek McMurrich
“To me, Harmony Week means coming together, celebrating the vibrant and diverse communities we have. It’s about feeling at home.”
Joan McRae
“I was raised in a monocultural environment and found myself in Shepparton quite unexpectedly, initially as an English teacher, intending to stay for just a year. However, my experience teaching English to former refugees drew me in. I stayed in Shepparton because it is so multicultural. I encourage people to mix up.”
Reverend Jerome Francis
“Harmony Week emphasises the significance of uniting individuals from various cultures and faiths to celebrate and embrace diversity. It’s about acknowledging that while we may come from different corners of the globe, we find common ground here in Australia.”