By Brendan Rees
The 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism was celebrated at Bunjil Place for the first time.
Organised by Sikh Volunteers Australia, the ceremony attracted hundreds of people who gathered for a seminar themed ‘Share and Care’ where various community groups were awarded in recognition of their service in cooperation, multiculturalism and support for people in need.
The event was attended by MPs, Casey councillors, council staff and representatives of south east organisations.
Guest speakers included Tim Costello, the Australian Baptist Minister and current chief advocate of World Vision Australia; Philip Rosie of Victoria Council of Churches, and Jasbir Singh Suropada of the Sikh Interfaith Council of Victoria.
A big-hearted group of Sikh Volunteers also provided free vegetarian food on the day.
In her speech, Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon said council was “incredibly proud” so many people call City of Casey their home.
“We love our Sikh Community and are so grateful for our Sikh Volunteers. We know how important this special event is and that is why raised the 550th anniversary in council to light up Bunjil Place on the 12th of November; an event that we invite the whole community to,” she said.
“Council is proud and will continue to work alongside the many diverse community groups and members to create an environment that fosters respect, inclusion and collaboration.”
Member for LaTrobe Jason Wood commended Sikh Volunteers Australia for their “ongoing commitment to serving the people of the local community, and to helping those who are most in need.”
“I thank the Sikh community for their amazing generosity as all the Sikh Temples which provide free food at not only temples but also community events. They do not discriminate and regard all people as equal, and I would like to congratulate our two local Sikh temples in Officer and Pakenham for their contribution towards the society,” Mr Wood said.
“We can all appreciate the values of equality, justice, respect, honesty and a willingness to help those in need that are at the core of Sikh faith, because they so closely align with Australian values”.
Casey councillors voted at their 15 October meeting to approve lighting hire costs of $4,778.40 to illuminate Bunjil Place on 12 November for the Guru Nanak celebrations.
