The evening of Saturday 28th May saw the Annual Dinner of the Hindu Council of Australia take place in Auburn. In attendance were the Executive and members of the Hindu Council, supporters of the Council from the local Hindu community, along with several friends from the Muslim, Christian and Sikh communities.
Attending on behalf of the Uniting Church in Australia, National Assembly Working Group on Relations with Other Faiths were the Rev. Glenda Blakefield, and Bronwyn Thompson.
Speeches by Senator Kate Lundy and the Hon. Victor Dominello MP punctuated the evening, and highlighted some important points about the multicultural and multi faith society that is Australia. Further speeches by representatives of the member organisations of the Hindu Council of Australia, and members of the HCA Executive brought attention to the variety of issues that are current priorities for the Council. These included the problem of attacks on places of worship, the safety of Indian students in Australia, a desire to further strengthen bonds with other faith groups, and an exciting proposal for a Hindu Education and Cultural Centre.
Plentiful vegetarian food, energetic dance performances and lively song, the hallmarks of Hindu hospitality made for a truly entertaining night.
Both Glenda and Bronwyn were pleased to attend the event, and extend every warm wish to the Hindu Council of Australia as they move forward with their activities throughout the year.