MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

I keep being reminded how very fortunate we have been in SA as we go about about lives in a way that reflects a level of normality. As we know in other states and countries this is not the case. Like you, I continue to be affected by the stories and reports of the ongoing impact of COVID throughout the world. When I enter into discussions with individuals, sponsors, community organisations and as we reflect together on the past in the South Australian community and also how we are all tracking this year what people most often say is the following –

It is my hope that we don’t lose sight of all the good things that came out of last year, how neighbours checked in on one another, how vulnerable people were taken care of, how our homeless people were accommodated, our First Nations communities were supported in the process, that our many diverse Intercultural communities connected in with one another and felt supported and acknowledged. How businesses across many sectors displayed incredible resilience and innovation in order to maintain their businesses and staff.  Most importantly where international students, refugees and other vulnerable groups we learnt of  communities galvanised around them with food and supplies for the duration. We don’t want to lose our connections to community as we come out the other side.

These acts reinforce all the good that has come out of these challenging times and our hope that we want to cherish the things that matter most.

The South Australian community received the news over the weekend of the passing of one of our valuable sponsors, Vili. We are very saddened by his passing. Vili was larger than life and felt passionately about our work. He expressed on many occasions to us his own story of initial struggle when he arrived as young migrant. His beliefs were embedded that hard work and a vision for family and to give back to  society are the hallmarks of what makes a good life. Vili demonstrated that in abundance his legacy will live on.

We are very excited to announce the Australian of the Year Luncheon with 2020 Australian of the Year Dr James Muecke AM and a presentation from Stan Grant under the title “Australia, Do We Want to be a Nation That Turns a Blind Eye?”. Please find more details on how to book below.

May we wish each of you the peace of Easter and the opportunity to rejuvenate over this important time in our calendar.

BOOK NOW – AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON

An opportunity to join colleagues over lunch and hear from 2020 Australian of the Year,
Dr James Muecke and Mr Stan Grant, Indigenous Affairs Editor for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Our national identity and the health of our nation – these two topics couldn’t be more important and more relevant in 2021. A conversation you must be part of.

HARMONY WEEK 2021 – OUR COMMUNITY’S REFLECTIONS

Harmony Week is held during March each year and embraces Australia’s cultural diversity and how all our differences make Australia a great place to live.  Schools, sporting clubs, community associations, workplaces and the wider community were encouraged to share stories and deliver events around 2021’s thematic Everyone Belongs. The Korean Community of SA Inc and Armenian Cultural Association of SA Inc shared these thoughts –

“Celebrate together. It is a time to celebrate Australian multiculturalism and the integration of migrants into our community. Harmony week is respect and belonging for all Australians”. Kerry Lewis is the President of the Korean Community of SA Inc (community featured in image top left)

“A sense of belonging, respect and acceptance. Australia is one of the world champions when it comes to giving a voice to people who call Australia home. We, Armenians, enjoy being part of a rich multicultural fabric and grateful to live in a harmonious and accepting society.” Elena Gasparyan is the President of the Armenian Cultural Association of SA Inc – an association who is deeply committed to the multicultural development of South Australia (community featured in image top right)

OUR INSPIRING SOUTH AUSTRALIANS – KATE SWAFFER

ADCSA is honoured to feature the following article from Kate Swaffer SA Australian Of The Year, 2017, Global Leader, AFR 100 Women Of Influence, 2018 and Chair, CEO & co founder Dementia Alliance International.  Kate recently accepted the role of Australia Day Ambassador and generously gave her time to connect with the Port Pirie community on Australia Day 2021.  As a champion for human rights and a Dementia advocate  Kate’s article explores the importance around modifying our lifestyle to reduce our risk of dementia.

To read Kate’s article, click here

WATCH OUR AUSTRALIA DAY 2021 EVENTS

We are very excited to share with you the footage from the Smoking Ceremony and Aus Day in the Arena held on Australia Day 2021. You can enjoy these stunning events from the comfort of your own home!

Open your mind and heart and hear First Nations people speak about truth telling. Embrace the unique voices of First Nations artists from the performing arts and music industries – watch the Smoking Ceremony here

Enjoy a spectacular performance by Birds of Tokyo, a 15-piece multicultural orchestra, a mesmerising Welcome to Country and a parade honouring our essential workers – watch Aus Day in the Arena here

BECOME A MEMBER

It’s more than just a membership. Membership of the Australia Day Council of South Australia means connection. By supporting the Australia Day Council of South Australia as a member you are part of experiences that –

• Embrace our identity and the values that unite us as a nation
• Illuminate the achievements of inspirational Australians
• Promote a welcoming and inclusive society.

Individual membership starts from just $30, as a member you will be supporting the work of the Australia Day Council of South Australia. On Australia Day, we reflect on our history, its highs and its lows. We respect the stories of others. We celebrate our nation, its achievements and most of all, its people. As a member of the Australia Day Council of South Australia we want to share your inspiring story and how you contribute to our community.  Membership of our organisation means connection, democracy, governance and the opportunity to stand up and be heard on matters that are important to us as Australians.