Annual Cairns Greek Festival kicks off today

Up to 5,000 people are expected to attend the annual Cairns Greek Festival to be held at Redlynch today. 

Multicultural Affairs Minister Grace Grace will attend the Festival, along with Member for Barron River, Craig Crawford. 

Minister Grace said it was fantastic to be part of the Festival, now in its fifth year. 

“Queensland is a wonderful multicultural success story and what better way to promote our diversity than through festivals such as this. 

“The Greek community in Queensland is one of our oldest and most vibrant and the contribution of Greek-born Australians to all sectors of the community is huge. 

“Greece has a very rich store of culture and traditions and this Festival will showcase them wonderfully today,” said Minister Grace. 

The Festival program also contains a diverse multicultural entertainment program from the Greek, Japanese, Indigenous, Serbian and Brazilian community groups. 

“It’s not just about celebrating all things Greek – the festival will also showcase the heritage and experiences of other multicultural communities. 

“As Multicultural Affairs Minister, I am a passionate advocate for the multicultural sector and have a strong association with many wonderful and diverse communities. 

“I’m delighted the Festival continues to receive funding through Multicultural Affairs Queensland with $5,000 in sponsorship going to the St John’s Greek Orthodox Parish to run the event this year,” said Ms Grace. 

Member for Barron River, Craig Crawford, said the Festival was a big event on the Cairns calendar. 

“The Festival is in its fifth year and continues to grow in popularity each year. 

“Events like this one provide an opportunity for all cultures to come together and celebrate diversity and acceptance.

“I congratulate the organisers and volunteers for making this fantastic event possible and look forward to enjoying the entertainment, food and culture that’s on offer today,” said Mr Crawford. 

Minister Grace will speak at the Festival at 11:00am. 

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548