Harmony Day was a huge success in Cairns this year.
Students, staff, family and friends got involved to celebrate cultural diversity and respect for all those who call Australia home. We discovered that between staff and students, 30 different nationalities are represented at our STEPS Cairns site.
Our students spent many hours practising traditional songs and music, making flags and cooking up a storm for all to enjoy on the day. Among some of the delightful dishes available to sample were kangaroo meat, crocodile meat, pasta, curry, lamingtons and kup muri (cooked underground at a secret location!).
We were entertained by beautiful dancing from the Cook Islands, a colourful choreographed dance from West Papua and traditional Aboriginal dancing complete with didgeridoo and body art. We also had the pleasure of listening to our literacy students perform traditional Cook Island songs (with crowd participation) and a rendition of a Bhutanese love song and dance performed by our language students. Students then showcased their traditional dress in the fashion parade segment of the day.
Thanks to all our students, their family and their friends for providing the excellent food and entertainment we were privileged to enjoy this Harmony Day. Such a talented bunch we have!
Harmony Day is managed by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship and coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It was held on March 21st in 2013.
