Published on Friday, 7 April 2023 at 3:51:00 PM
The Cummins Theatre hosted more than 180 people for the annual Merredin Twilight International Food Festival on Friday, 24 March 2023, which was held in celebration of Harmony Week.
The event opened with a Welcome to Country by Mick Hayden, followed by a speech by Shire President Mark McKenzie who spoke about the importance of coming together and celebrating our nations diversity.
“This year the key message of Harmony Week was ‘everyone belongs’, which is an important message to convey as Australia is one of the most multicultural places in the world. Here in Merredin, we are exceptionally lucky to have a diverse range of cultures and religions represented within our community,” he said.
After being cancelled in 2022 due to COVID-19, the International Food Festival returned with much success, with 16 volunteer cooks offering a taste of 21 delicious dishes. Dishes included Biryani and Samosas from India; Shakshuka from Morocco; Portuguese Tarts from Portugal; Pineapple and Chicken Fried Rice from China; Koeksisters, Vetkoek and Mince, Melktert Shooters and Boerwors Sausage from South Africa; Tiramisu, Pumpkin Gnocchi, Ravioli and St Joseph’s Pastries from Italy; Tablet from Scotland; Sushi from Japan; Chilli from Mexico; Brownies from America; Kangaroo Kebabs and Rissoles, Damper, and a Sausage Sizzle to represent local Aussie’ cuisine.
Performances on the night included fantastic renditions of Disney’s Be Our Guest (from Beauty and the Beast) and the South African Zulu folk song Siyahamba by A Choired Taste (pictured below), as well as a selection of Italian music by musicians Etta and Josh who performed throughout the evening.
The Shire of Merredin would like to thank the wonderful community volunteers, including the Merredin’s Men Shed, the Yorga group, and the Merredin College, whom without this event would not be possible. Thank you also to the performers, and everyone else who contributed to making this event a success.
We would love to hear your feedback! For those who attended the event, please feel free to complete the post-event survey below.
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