Photos: Supplied.
When it comes to people of differing nationalities working smoothly together, the Redlands Coast is a shining example of how to do it well, and on Sunday 24th March the Redland Museum will celebrate the local multicultural character with the Heritage & Harmony Fiesta. Generously funded by the Queensland Government, with supplementary support from the Redland Council, the day is a non-stop presentation of dance, song, storytelling, history, interactive displays and food from many of the countries whose cultures have contributed to the flavour of our community.
Museum Events Manger Tara Young says that dance is always a popular feature of the Fiesta and that this year’s offering promises to be spectacular.
“The line-up is dazzling,” she says. “From the graceful Regency Dancers to the Rio Carnival Samba Brazilian dancers – they have so much energy – and traditional Irish dancers with their wonderful costumes. We have good-luck Chinese Lion dancers, all colour and sound and movement, and Hawaiian hula dancers to whisk you away to the South Seas.”
Add to this the Redland Sporting Club pipe band’s bagpipes, drummers and Highland dancers and it’s a feast for ears and eyes.
There’s some learning to be enjoyed as well. Quandamooka Yulu-Burri-Ba will open the day with a traditional smoking ceremony and Quandamooka man Patrick Coolwell and his family will present workshops on traditional weaving, boomerang painting and making beads out of native plant seeds.
The immigrant settlers in the region will make a contribution through the Redlands Spinners and Weavers group as they demonstrate ragmatting, spinning, and weaving. There’s a display of South Seas Islander arts and crafts and a talk on the history of the hula dance. Youngsters will be catered for with Fairy Raine’s fascinating face painting and Johnny the Jester’s mesmerizing magic show. They can also hop on the land train for a fun ride and visit the petting zoo. For the little train enthusiasts, an interactive Thomas the Tank Engine train set and a craft table with rock painting will keep them entertained.
Tara says that revising the available spaces, inside and outside the Museum, will make this year’s Fiesta even bigger than usual.
“We’re expecting up to 1500 visitors – our volunteers are going to have a really busy day!” she says. “We’re prepared to keep people well-fuelled with exotic food on offer from South Africa, America and Vietnam, plus Belgian waffles and Italian gelato. This free community event is the perfect way to celebrate and immerse yourself in the diverse cultures of the Redlands – so join us at Fiesta!”
Heritage & Harmony Fiesta will burst into life at the Redland Museum, 60 Smith St. Cleveland on Sunday, March 24, 2024, from 9am to 3pm. For more information ring 3286 3494 or go to https://www.redlandmuseum.org.au/whats-on/events/
