President of the local group, Deeptha Wickramarathna, said the group was excited to take part in the event.

“It is the first time we are in the parade, we can’t wait,” he said.

Dancers have come from Melbourne especially for the event. “The Sri Lankan community, as well as the dancers, will be in national attire as well as special costumes from Sri Lanka,” Mr Wickramarathna said.

“We will have flags and lots of colour.”

Mr Wickramarathna said the group intended to have traditional drummers and dancers in the parade with a group of Sri Lankans following the performers.

“Our main purpose is to identify ourselves as a vibrant and dynamic group within the greater Bendigo population,” he said.

“There are 52 Sri Lankan families in Bendigo. We are looking forward to showing the community what we are about.”

The Torchlight Procession will start in Lyttleton Terrace, move along Queen Street into Mitchell Street, Pall Mall, McCrae Street, Chapel Street and conclude in Bridge Street.

For more information on the procession or any other Easter weekend activities, visit www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au