Members of Geelong's Karen community perform a traditional bamboo dance during New Year celebrations at the Nhill Memorial Community Centre on Saturday. Picture: SAMANTHA CAMARRI
Members of Geelong's Karen community perform a traditional bamboo dance during New Year celebrations at the Nhill Memorial Community Centre on Saturday. Picture: SAMANTHA CAMARRI
Nhill Memorial Community Centre came alive on Saturday when the town's Karen community hosted New Year celebrations.
The community celebrated the first day of the 2013 Karen calendar with traditional 'done' and bamboo dancing, costumes and a lunch.
Luv-A-Duck spokesman John Millington, who helped organise the event, said more than 500 people from across Victoria joined in the festivities.
He said Karen people from Werribee, Bendigo and Geelong travelled to Nhill for the celebration.
"The Karen were glad on two fronts; they were happy the other Karen communities supported them and that the Wimmera community supported them as well," he said.
"It was their way of saying thanks for all the help they have received through the Nhill Neighbourhood House Learning Centre, education classes and language classes.
"It is also a way of saying thank you to the people who have donated clothing, furniture and kitchenware because they come here with nothing."
Mr Millington said the event was an ideal way for the Karen community to showcase their culture.
"The bamboo dance was a standout because everyone was just so impressed by it," he said.
"These people are genuine refugees who have come through the United Nations refugee resettlement program.
"They have a great work ethic and are genuinely grateful to be given an opportunity."
