By Trish Bowman
More than 50 people attended the Capricorn Coast Multicultural Group 25th anniversary barbecue in late May heralding a celebration of the inclusiveness and friendship achieved by the group.
One of the founding members, Nini Sielaff said the group have been enjoying the various food offerings prepared by people of different nationalities who live on the Capricorn Coast and Rockhampton for the past 25 years.
“Livingstone Councillors Adam Belot, Andrea Friend, Clint Swadling, Pat Eastwood and guests enjoyed the taste of exotic food that was served at the very special lunch celebration,” Nini said.
“The group’s advisor and retired Councillor Desley Rial OA talked about the groups achievements to promote and celebrate cultural diversity on the Capricorn Coast and to welcome, support, unite and assist newly migrants settling in the region.
“Cr Rial talked about the long lists of achievements and how the group have been the driving force in promoting multiculturism for many years and through their efforts, cultural diversity has gained a level of recognition in Livingstone Shire for their many participations in events such as Pinefest, Australia Day, Yeppoon Show and others.”
The Capricorn Coast Multicultural Group have welcomed and hosted barbecues for Korea Z’shungyu University students, Vietnamese, Brazilian and Filipino meatworkers.
As a thank you to Australia and Australians they have also hosted a thank you barbecue to offer acknowledgment of the good things they extended to migrants and a goodbye barbecue for members who were leaving and moving to other places.
At the celebration, Nini proudly showed guests trophies, awards and certificates the Multicultural group has received for the past years serving the community.
The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of certificates of Deputy Mayor Cr Belot and assisted by Ms Rial OA to each and every one who worked hard and supported the group many years.