Cairns Multicultural Festival in full swing during Qld Multicultural Month

Multicultural Affairs Minister Stirling Hinchliffe today officially opened the Cairns CARMA Multicultural Festival in a celebration of the region’s tremendous diversity.

Mr Hinchliffe said Cairns and the Far North benefited from the many cultures which call the region home.

“Here in Cairns, more than 21 per cent of locals were born in another country,” he said.

“It’s quite a diverse range of backgrounds too, with the most commonly spoken languages in Cairns homes, other than English, being Japanese, Mandarin, Italian, German and Korean.

“We should all be proud that so many people from all over the world have chosen to make Queensland – and Cairns – their home and in doing so, have created the vibrant and culturally diverse society we enjoy today.

“I’m really proud to be part of a Government that promotes Queensland’s multiculturalism and creating a safe, caring and inclusive society for everyone.

“Events like this festival are also a great way to celebrate Queensland Multicultural Month – a time when we shine a spotlight on the many wonderful cultures that make up our State’s identity.

“During this month of August, we have more than 100 events taking place throughout the State in a celebration of Queensland’s diversity."

The Palaszczuk Government is supporting the 2018 Cairns CARMA Multicultural Festival with a $6,000 contribution from the Celebrating Multicultural Queensland grants program.

Member for Cairns Michal Healy said: “Cairns Multicultural Festival celebrates the regions cultural diversity and promotes inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. It is a time for Cairns to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common.”

Media contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548