‘Small Town, Big Stories’ panel explores Edenhope migrant experiences
Whether you are filling up your car in Edenhope, ordering a bite to eat, picking up a script, attending a Council meeting, stocking up at the supermarket or getting a blood test at the hospital – you’re likely interacting with a migrant, with a fascinating back-story.
But how much do you know about these community members, who you might see on a daily basis?
Grampians Health Edenhope’s Cultural Fusion event, on Thursday June 12, will include a panel discussion – ‘Small Town, Big Stories’ – about residents’ pathways to Edenhope.
“Many of our staff members have made great sacrifices and overcome huge challenges, to relocate and fill crucial roles in our regional communities,” Chief People Officer Claire Woods said.
“This event is about celebrating the exciting diversity in Edenhope and building connections in the community.”
The Wimmera Filipino-Australian Club band and dancers will perform, and attendees can pre-order a $10 Filipino banquet.
St Malachy's, Edenhope College and Edenhope kindergarten students will attend, and contribute, to the event.
St Malachy’s primary school students have been busy creating multicultural artwork to display, including Filipino Saramanok birds, Aboriginal flags, African bead jewellery and cultural portraits.
Students will also perform Filipino and Indonesian dances.
West Wimmera Shire Council (WWSC) councillors will attend and chief executive David Bezuidenhout will share his story, of migrating from South Africa, on the panel.
Ms Wood said the community’s readiness to partner and support the event was overwhelming.
“Our hope was to highlight and celebrate the wonderful diversity in Edenhope, and we’ve been delighted to find that this community is on the same page,” she said.
“There is no better way to bring community together than with delicious food, live music, dancing and some insight into the migrant experience.”
Cultural Fusion Edenhope will be held at the Edenhope & District Community Centre, between 12pm and 3pm, on Thursday June 12. Everyone is welcome!
To pre-order $10 Filipino banquet lunch, please text: 0409 215 696
