For the first time, Shepparton hosted an event celebrating Papua New Guinea’s Independence Day.
The pride of a nation beat loudly in Shepparton for a historic milestone — almost as loud as the rhythmic pulse of the kundu drum.
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The Goulburn Valley Papua New Guinea community captivated the masses on Saturday, September 13, to mark its golden jubilee Independence Day.
For the first time, Shepparton hosted the event, which drew about 500 people to Victoria Park Lake with a showcase of cultural dances, PNG Beat performances and traditional arts, crafts and textiles.
The raising of both the Australian and Papua New Guinean flags was a poignant moment — a reminder of the deep connection between the two nations.
Event organiser Margrette Nii Paraka holds up the Papua New Guinean flag.
“We stood tall on the soil of the people who gave us independence on a golden plate,” event organiser Margrette Nii Paraka said.
“We took pride in raising the Australia and PNG flag, and in honouring our forefathers, who left a legacy which our generation will maintain and take on.”
Notable guests included Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell, Shepparton police Senior Constable Leigh Johnson, Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District chief executive Sam Atukorala, Pastor Mathias Prenzler and Lorna Gillespie.
Arguably, the most special guests of all were the young attendees.
Ms Paraka said the event held extra meaning for the youth, igniting a renewed sense of belonging and an opportunity to explore their culture.
“Some of the kids were singing the PNG national anthem for the first time, and for my kids, it was their first time experiencing PNG cultural dances,” she said.
“They enjoyed it, all enjoyed it.
“It was a very special day for PNG, connecting the GV-PNG community to the GV multicultural community.”
Shepparton’s Victoria Park Lake hosted the cultural spectacle.
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