Joy Burch as Minister for Multicultural Affairs is letting us know that Canberra’s going to get an extra dose of Jessica Mauboy who’s now the Face of the Festival, the Multicultural Festival that is.
There are also new events and Beer and Meat On A Stick Day is being extended to a three day event which will be tough for the smaller communities.
ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs Joy Burch said this year’s festival will feature a host of new events and attractions, including an Indigenous Showcase, a Turkish Bazaar and a range of cooking experiences with prominent chefs including celebrity “bush tucker” chef Mark Olive (aka the “Black Olive”), from the television series The Outback Café (Lifestyle Channel).
“The activities will commence on the evening of Friday 11 February with a spectacular opening concert featuring one of Australia’s most acclaimed contemporary singers – and the Face of the Festival – Jessica Mauboy,” Ms Burch said.
And, following the outstanding success of last year’s food extravaganza on the Saturday of the festival, food stalls from all over the world will now be present over the three days. Ms Burch said this year’s festival was shaping up to be even bigger than last year’s.
“The Saturday program is packed with Festival favourites. There’ll be 250 stalls at the Fyshwick Freshfood Markets Food and Dance Spectacular, featuring multicultural food, cultural and diplomatic groups. Six stages will present an array of entertainment.”
Ms Burch also welcomed the introduction of an Indigenous Showcase in Civic Square this year, organised by the community-based NAIDOC Week Committee. Ms Burch also thanked the committee for gifting Ms Mauboy to the festival.
“The Showcase will run all weekend, culminating in a special Family Day on Sunday. It will feature Indigenous art, cooking, music and dancing. As well as performing on Friday night, Jessica Mauboy will make an appearance at the Indigenous Showcase on the Saturday along with bush tucker chef Mark Olive.
“The National Indigenous Dance Academy will hold interactive workshops and artists will provide workshops on Indigenous painting. During the day Didgeridoo players will move through the crowd and a traditional ceremony will be performed at dusk.”
With all the work she’s doing in Canberra one wonders if Ms Mauboy will be looking for permanent accomodation.
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