Published Friday, 23 November, 2007 at 10:36 AM

Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr

Circus tricks to hip-hop kicks for Gold Coast hinterland students

Gold Coast hinterland students will be learning everything from juggling to hip-hop dancing at a special celebration of diversity on Wednesday, November 28.

Hosted by Ingleside State School from 10am to 2pm, the Hinterland Small Schools Health and Harmony Day will see local schoolchildren and parents come together to learn just how culturally diverse being happy, healthy and active can be.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said Multicultural Affairs Queensland has provided a $2000 grant for the celebration which aims to raise awareness of health and cultural issues in the local community.

“The day is a wonderful opportunity for students from the hinterland schools of Springbrook, Numinbah, Currumbin Valley and Ingleside to broaden their knowledge in a fun and interactive environment,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“Activities range from preparing bush tucker to making Chinese kites and will enable students to experience a range of cultures, including Aboriginal, African, Brazilian, Chinese, Ethiopian, Indian, Japanese and Maori.

“As the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, I am delighted to support initiatives just like this that promote cultural diversity and understanding of multiculturalism in Queensland.”

Ingleside State School principal Robyn Sutton said the special event was a way the school was promoting health and well-being within a multicultural setting.

“The day’s activities will commence with a traditional Welcome to Country, followed by workshops, fun activities and a multicultural lunch,” Ms Sutton said.

“While children sample a wide-range of cultural activities, parents will also benefit from a ‘cooking for children’ workshop run by Nutrition Australia,” she said.

“The day will then conclude with a very fitting finale – the Sharing Cultures Concert – featuring performances by African Santus drumming and dance, Ethiopian acrobats ‘The Zim Boyz’, the Zambia Congo Brazilian Capoeira group and Maori dancers.”

Media Contact: Minister Nelson-Carr’s office 3235 4280, Robyn Sutton 5533 8138