By Grace Frost
STAFF and mothers from Beveridge Primary School’s Dwarka Playgroup hosted a Diwali celebration earlier this month at the Greater Beveridge Community Centre, commemorating the victory of good over evil with an evening ‘full of singing, dancing and fun’.
Mitchell Shire Cluster of Schools leading teacher Shanthi Antony, from the Department of Education and Training, said the celebration included a presentation on the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
“As Mitchell Shire has a high rate of family violence incidents, the opportunity of celebrating Diwali was also used to raise awareness about family violence,” Ms Antony said.
Mitchell Shire Council’s Natasha Rose delivered the 16 Days of Activism presentation, and after mothers in the playgroup placed ‘diya’ [clay lamp] lights around a ‘rangoli‘ [Indian floor art].
Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Ros Spence was also in attendance and delivered a speech.
Ms Antony said nearly 70 guests attended the celebration, with elders from India who were visiting their families in Australia also making an appearance.
“The highlight was the grandparents coming in front and sharing their experiences and [cultural dances],” she said.
“They were very happy and they were quite appreciative of their invitation.”
Ms Antony said the Dwarka Playgroup provided early-aged education to young children and intercultural awareness to migrant families.
She said there were many activities coming up for the community to be involved in.
“We have planned a range of activities [for the 16 Days of Activism] and want the community to be involved. [We’re aiming] to raise that awareness on family violence,” Ms Antony said.
If people would like more information, they can send Ms Antony an email at shanthi.antony@education.vic.gov.au
