USQ in harmony with national celebrations

Middle Eastern belly-dancing, African music and a global food journey will take guests on a safari through Australia's cultural diversity during Harmony Day at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ).

Now in its sixth year, the University will again participate in the national event on Wednesday, 14 March 2007.

Event organiser, William Conwell, said the Multicultural Centre has arranged a number of exciting and unique events to help celebrate the annual event.

'March is Harmony month and we have arranged a full program that will offer everyone something.

'From musical entertainment to a big variety of international food for sale, the event will be very entertaining.

'We are also privileged to have a number of dignitaries attending the Official Ceremony including Secretary to the Minister for Environment and Multiculturalism, Mr Michel Choi MP, and German Diplomat, Mr Deltef Sulzer.'

The official proceedings will be followed by an international fashion parade showcasing the cultural diversity of the University's student and staff community.

With over 20 countries involved in the fashion parade, the community will be given the rare opportunity to see a vast number of students dressed in their national garments.

Fashion parade coordinator, Wafa-Saleh Al Buraika, is a final year arts student from Oman and said the parade was an opportunity for students to share their culture.

'Students will wear their traditional dress during the fashion parade. They will also incorporate their traditional greetings into their performance.

'It is not just about a costume, it's about being proud of where you are from.'

Those participating in the parade will include Japanese, Saudia Arabian, Omani, African and European students.

'USQ is very unique. I don't know of other universities that celebrate Harmony Day and culture like we do here.

"Education is not just about books it's about exposure, and its exposure to other cultures that is very valuable education.'

Members of the community and media are invited to attend Harmony Day celebrations at USQ.

WHAT: Harmony Day celebrations
WHEN: Wednesday 14 March, 12noon - 2pm
WHERE: USQ Quadrangle

Media Contact: Connie-Louise Alexander, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977