On Saturday 14 June, the Fawkner community came together in a vibrant celebration of different cultures, sustainability, and environmental responsibility for Council’s first World Environment Day event for Multi-cultural Communities.
Held in the heart of Fawkner, the event brought together residents, leaders, and advocates from all walks of life to share knowledge, culture, and a commitment to caring for the planet.
The day began with a soul-stirring performance by the Climate Choir of Melbourne, whose harmonies echoed the shared hope for a greener, more connected world.
Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Andrew Gardiner gave a Welcome to Country that grounded the event in the rich heritage of the First Nations people. His message of connection to land and community set a meaningful tone for the day.
Multifaith speakers added depth and multiple views
Spiritual and community leaders lent their voices to the conversation, including Imam Syed Waqar Hussain, an Islamic scholar and leader of the Qadri House Melbourne, who spoke about environmental stewardship from an Islamic perspective.
Communication Director at Hindus for Human Rights, Nandini Mehra, talked about the spiritual responsibility of preserving nature in Hindu tradition.
Ian Mack, Warden of the Anglican Church of Saint Linus Merlynston and a passionate climate action campaigner, emphasised the moral imperative of caring for creation.
Community Panel featuring varied voices
Fawkner locals shared their experiences on taking environmental action.
Olympian Rhydian Cowley spoke about the environmental footprint of sports and the need for athletes to lead by example.
Sadaf Khan from the Wheel Sisters program shared insights on accessible and inclusive community transport.
Fawkner resident Zavi Fatima inspired attendees by sharing her personal journey to living a fully sustainable lifestyle.
Martha Palacio, founder of Circular Growth, emphasised the power of the circular economy in creating a waste-free future.
The event also featured over a dozen community stalls hosted by groups, including as Zero Waste Victoria, Doctors for the Environment Australia, Climate Action Merri-bek, and the Merri-bek Maternal and Child Health Service.
Family fun and entertainment
Families enjoyed a range of fun activities, including face painting, henna, and colouring, while savouring delicious locally-sourced food from family-run businesses.
Thank you for sharing tips and creative ideas that empower us all to make more sustainable choices in our everyday lives. My family and I really enjoyed hearing from the imam about sustainability in Islam.
Multicultural World Environment Day in Fawkner was a joyful and powerful reminder that sustainability is strongest when it’s community-led and inclusive.
