The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Melbourne celebrated the country’s 78th Anniversary of Independence on 4 February 2026 under the theme “Rebuilding Sri Lanka”, in partnership with the diverse Sri Lankan community in Victoria and with the presence of several Australian Guests of Honour. The official flag hoisting was held at the Federation Square on 04th February 2026, an iconic landmark located in the heart of the Melbourne city.
The ceremony held at the “Boxhill Town Hall” on the evening of 4th February commenced with the singing of the National Anthem, the chanting of Jayamangala Gatha by Minhindu Children Foundation, observance of two minutes’ silence in memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the sake of the nation, and multi-faith observances delivered by religious leaders representing Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic and Christian faiths. Independence Day Messages of the President were read out in Sinhala, Tamil and English languages, respectively.
Mr. Gary Maas, member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly represented the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt while Evan Mulholland, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council represented the Leader of the Opposition and offered felicitations to Sri Lanka and its people. The Deputy Mayor of Whitehorse City Council Kieran Simpson, Director Victoria State Office, Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade & former Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Paul Stephens, Victorian Commissioner for South Asia,Global Victoria Michelle Wade, members of Consular Corps and many other distinguished guests graced the occasion.
The Consul General of Sri Lanka for Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania Pradeepa Saram, in her address, extended a warm welcome to all the guests, and highlighted the longstanding and enduring relations between Sri Lanka and Australia. She emphasized the significance of the 78th anniversary of Independence and highlighted the altitude of bilateral relations with the exchange of high-level visits, which has instilled new dynamism to the partnership.
Referring the President of Sri Lanka Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent remarks on Cyclone Ditwah as “the most difficult rescue operation in Sri Lanka’s history”, which resulted in significant loss of life, widespread destruction, Consul General Saram appreciated the Australian government and other partners for their swift support during the emergency situation and the solidarity and assistance extended as the country undertakes extensive recovery efforts.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Gary Maas, on behalf of Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan extended his warm felicitations to the Sri Lankan community in Victoria, and commended the organising of an event reflecting the pluralistic composition of Sri Lanka. He also extended his deep appreciation to the Sri Lankan heritage community in Victoria for their valued contribution in promoting relations between the two countries.
The celebrations included many enchanting dance and drum performances demonstrating the rich and diverse cultural landscape of Sri Lanka. The cultural programme included Asadrusha Wannama & Magul Bera by Tharanga Arts Academy; Gajaga Wannama by Vishver Rangayathanaya; Vanthanam Dance by Natyalayaa Indian Classical Dance School and Musaladi Fusion by Shashila Perera.
The event also recognized group of ten Sri Lankan students who had achieved highest academic excellence in Victoria Certificate of Education (VCE) exams and one student for Sinhala language High Achievers’ Award. Awards and certificates were presented by the various dignitaries who attended the event.
Over 350 invitees representing various Sri Lankan Associations, independent groups, professionals, artists, sportsmen, businessmen, as well as friends of Sri Lanka participated in the Independence celebrations.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Melbourne
6 February 2026
