The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Melbourne celebrated the 67thAnniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka on 04th February 2015. The official ceremony was held at the St. Kilda Towers where the Sri Lankan Consulate General is located. This was followed by an event held at the Grand Reception Hall which was attended by over 650 guests drawn from expatriate Sri Lankan community in Victoria, Commonwealth and State Government parliamentarians, Senior Government Officials, members of the Consular Corps,andcommunity leaders.
Celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag in the presence of childrenrepresenting the four major communitiesofSri Lanka, amidst the playing of the National Anthem and the Magul Bera. One minute silence was observed as a mark of respect to all those who made sacrifices for the Independence of the motherland.
Following the multi-religious observances, lighting of the traditional oil lamp occurredwith the chanting of Jaya Mangala Gatha. Independence Day Message of the His Excellency the President, in Sinhala, Tamil and English was read.
The Consul General Mr. H.G.U. Pushpakumara welcoming the gathering highlighted the peace and stability enjoyed by Sri Lankans in all parts of the country, initiatives in place for national reconciliation, and abiding friendship and strengthening relations between Australia and Sri Lanka.
A presentation of awards to students of expatriate Sri Lankan parentsin recognition of their high academic achievements at the Victorian Certificate of Education 2014 was also held at the ceremony. In all, there were 23 students who were so graciously recognised.
The Ceremony included cultural performance by several groups of Sri Lankan dancers displaying the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Melbourne
12th February 2015
