Maranoa's cultures unite

Maranoa residents of diverse cultures will come together in celebration for the Harmony Day in Roma event on Saturday, 22 March.

This will supersede the related monthly Multicultural Meet-and-Greet for March, with the celebration including cultural performances, food stalls and interactive activities. 

The annual event is expected to be bigger and better than ever as it coincides with Harmony Week - a national celebration of Australia's diverse cultures. 

This Maranoa Regional Council initiative in partnership with the Queensland Government aims at creating a more inclusive community connection through learning, action and celebration. 

Cr Meryl Brumpton, spokesperson for Arts and Culture said these events shine a spotlight on the diverse cultures that make up the Maranoa. 

"We are proud of the many different cultures that make up the Maranoa and how they work well together to create such a beautiful and vibrant community," Cr Brumpton said. 

"With Harmony Week already such a key cultural event for the Maranoa, the Harmony Day in Roma event is the perfect addition amongst all the celebrations for people to come together and connect."

In 2025 Harmony Week will kick off from 17 to 23 March. 

Maranoa residents are encouraged to have a 'Taste of Harmony' by checking out the wide range of Roma restaurants and cafes showcasing their support as they each cook up a cultural dish you won't want to miss. 

Harmony Day in Roma celebration will take place from 5pm to 8pm on Saturday, 22 March at the Roma Cultural Centre with the Parade of Nations to conclude the week on Sunday, 23 March. 

The Parade of Nations will see a spectacular celebration of culture with a vibrant cultural march, fun-filled activities to keep the kids entertained and a free BBQ lunch for all from 10am to 1pm at Lions Park, Roma. 

For more information on Harmony Week celebrations, visit the Harmony Week webpage. 

Maranoa's cultures will continue to unite when Harmony Week concludes thanks to the monthly Multicultural Meet-and-Greet picking back up in April. 

"I had the privilege to attend the official launch of Multicultural Meet and Greet in May 2024 with Cr Cameron O'Neil and its been inspiring to see how it has grown," Cr Brumpton said.

"From the first meet-up, this monthly event has played a significant role in fostering community connections and creating a more open and friendly community for all."

In past events, Maranoa residents have come together over a variety of cultural lunches from Filipino Chicken Adobo, Fijian Curry, to the classic Australian BBQ.

At the last meet on 22 February, a total of 12 nationalities attended including South Africa, Albania, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chinese, Philippines, Italy, Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and German. 

While this event is timed to coincide with Harmony Week, these free events usually fall on the last Saturday of each month from 11am to 1pm at Apex Park, Roma. 

Catering is provided, call Council's Customer Service team on 1300 007 662 to register. 

"Whether you are new to the region or have been here for a while, we invite everyone of all ages and cultures to come join us at these monthly lunches," Cr Brumpton said. 

What is Harmony Week?

Harmony Week is an Australian Government initiative dedicated to promoting inclusiveness and connection, holding the theme 'Everyone Belongs'. It's a time for people across the nation to embrace their culture and share it with the people around them.