Diversity one of our greatest strengths

As Mayor of Hobsons Bay, I’m fortunate to meet people from all over our community at various events and celebrations. 

Hobsons Bay is a diverse and multicultural community, and it’s something we have every reason to celebrate. In recent weeks, I’ve had the privilege of attending events that highlight the diversity of cultures that make up our city. 

I was thrilled to attend Wyndham Kannada Balaga’s Ugadi celebration at Laverton, marking the new year for many in our Indian community. It was a day filled with colour, music and a strong sense of connection to culture and tradition.  

Our Muslim community also recently celebrated Eid, marking the end of month-long fasting for Ramadan. 

Events like this are a wonderful opportunity not only for communities to celebrate their heritage, but also for the broader community to learn, engage and come together. 

They were also timely given we recently marked Harmony Week. 

During Harmony Week, we are reminded that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. It’s a time to recognise the many cultures and traditions that shape our community and to reflect on the importance of inclusiveness, respect and belonging. 

And for me, one of the most heartwarming things is when people who have moved here feel so welcome that they decide to become citizens. 

I recently had the chance to preside over another citizenship ceremony to welcome a new crop of Australians to Hobsons Bay. 

These ceremonies are always deeply meaningful. They represent new beginnings, shared responsibility and a commitment to our country and our values.  

It’s incredibly special to witness people from all over the world choosing to call Australia and Hobsons Bay home, and to see the pride they take in becoming Australian citizens. 

These experiences reinforce just how important it is that we continue to foster a community where everyone feels welcome and valued, because diversity enriches our city and makes it what it is.