ETHNIC diversity from the region is being captured on camera this week with a photo shoot at the Bendigo town hall for next year's Festival of Cultures.
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Local residents originally from Indonesia, India, South Sudan, Burma, the Philippines, Holland, Germany, China, Ukraine and Malaysia posed in traditional costume for artist Sharon Greenaway.
The project is called 'Colour Is Life' and will go on display in the Bendigo Library.
Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services chief Noemi Cummings said residents posing for the exhibition would be the faces of the Festival of Cultures in March next year.
"I think it's important that people realise that even though we're diverse, we can live in harmony," she said.
“For most people traditional costumes link them directly to a place, a culture and story that is transformative and creates belonging.
“We are excited to be working with local photographer Sharon Greenway to share the cultural diversity of people living in Bendigo, that isn’t usually seen everyday.”
Ms Cummings said residents' preparedness to come dressed in their national dress showed they took pride in their culture.
Sudesh Tiwari wore an 'achkan', a garment typical of the royal courts of northern India, where he is originally from.
Mr Tiwari has lived with his family in Bendigo for six years and works as a legal consultant.
I think it's important that people realise that even though we're diverse, we can live in harmony.
- Noemi Cummings
He said he preferred Bendigo to a large city because it was a safer place for his son.
Arob Deng of South Sudan wore a maroon and gold outfit, complete with an elegant head dress.
Ms Deng came to Australia as a refugee with her husband and children ten years ago.
They first went to Melbourne but later moved to Castlemaine, where they were welcomed into the community.
"It's not easy to learn English as an adult," Ms Deng said.
"I didn't have an education at home, only a few classes of Arabic."
Ms Deng said the support services helping her family to settle in Castlemaine had been wonderful.
"We got help we didn't get in Melbourne," she said.
The Festival of Cultures is from 16 to 22 March and will involve a series of workshops, information sessions, a multi-faith forum and concerts.
Tibetan monks and South American dancers are among those scheduled to visit the festival.
Information about the festival is at bendigofestivalofcultures.org.au.