Cultural Diversity Awards finalists announced

Queensland organisations and people who promote the growth and development of strong culturally diverse communities have been recognised as finalists in the 2014 Premier’s Cultural Diversity Awards.

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs, Glen Elmes congratulated the finalists and acknowledged their positive, inspirational work and volunteering.

“I am proud to recognise the businesses, community organisations, individuals and partnership projects that are contributing to and celebrating cultural diversity in our great state,” Mr Elmes said.

“The calibre of nominations this year was once again of the highest standard and were received from across Queensland.

“The Queensland Government has a strong plan to embrace and enhance the state’s diversity and these finalises show what a wonderful state we live in and what a bright future we have.”

Mr Elmes said this was the first time since the awards began in 1990 that the public had been invited to attend cultural diversity’s night of nights, keeping with Queensland Cultural Diversity Week’s 2014 theme of ‘Everyone’s invited’.

“Whether you are part of a business who makes cultural diversity a priority in your workplace or an active volunteer in your community, I encourage you to attend this prestigious awards evening,” Mr Elmes said.

“I invite corporate and community organisations to host a table and invite their clients from culturally diverse communities to be a part of this exceptional networking opportunity.

“Our culture and lifestyle are made all the richer by the contribution of migrants who’ve chosen to call Queensland home. This is an opportunity to acknowledge the work done by so many across our state who assist newly arrived Queenslanders to participate in our economy and community.

The award winners will be announced at a gala dinner on Saturday 30 August 2014, which will also mark the opening of Queensland Cultural Diversity Week, a state wide celebration of cultural diversity held from 30 August to 7 September 2014.

For details of the Finalists or to purchase tickets visit www.datsima.qld.gov.au\qcdw

[ENDS] 8 August 2014

Media Contact:  Peter McCarthy 0408 835 548