Loddon Campaspe Multicultural Services has celebrated the achievements of women within the region with a South Sudanese themed lunch for World Refugee Day.
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Multicultural Services executive officer Kate McInnes said it was an important day for the entire community.
“This is an opportunity to learn more about people from refugee backgrounds and to showcase their contributions to our community,” Ms McInnes said.
To celebrate the day a team of cooks spent the morning preparing a range of dishes, drawing on influence from South Sudanese culture.
“One of the amazing things that people with refugee backgrounds bring to Bendigo is food and new cuisines,” Ms McInnes said.
“Amazing dishes that we can all share.
“Food is also a wonderful way to connect with people.
“If you want to get to know someone and learn about new cultures, do it over a meal.”
Atong Thon immigrated to Australia from South Sudan in 2005 and has embraced her new life in Bendigo, volunteering as an administrative assistant for Multicultural Services.
Miss Thon said it was great to have an event which celebrated women and Refugee Week.
Especially when she thinks about her life back in South Sudan and how immigrating to Australia brought “light into our lives.’
“They really enjoy celebrating this day because it is a really important day for refugees,” Miss Thon said.
“Because Australia is a multicultural country it’s good to recognise other cultures from different places around the world, and to come together and celebrate.”
Ms McInnes said many of the South Sudanese families in Bendigo chose to come to a regional area as they preferred it over metropolitan areas.
“A regional area that is good for young people with great education facilities such as universities and schools,” Ms McInnes said.
The women’s lunch was held at The Old Church on the Hill and was prepared by members of Bendigo’s refugee community.
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