Council support helps make IndiaFest a feast for the senses
Date published: 25 August 2023
Council will help showcase Indian culture to the Townsville community this Saturday, 26 August after awarding a grant to IndiaFest Townsville Inc at Wednesday’s Ordinary Council Meeting.
IndiaFest runs at Riverway Oval from 10am-9pm on Saturday, with this family-friendly and free event shining a spotlight on vibrant Indian culture, cuisine, traditional crafts and fashion.
This year’s event will feature cooking workshops, a fashion show, fireworks, Indian delicacies, puppet shows, yoga workshops and talented Bollywood performers.
The annual festival aims to showcase and celebrate Indian culture and traditions with the people of Townsville, with Council voting to approve a grant of $48,036.36.
Originating in 2014 by Indian Australians residing in Townsville, Committee and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson Cr Ann-Maree Greaney said this festival played a vital role in enriching the multicultural fabric of the region.
“As an annual festival, IndiaFest Townsville brings the local community together, promoting inclusivity and unity in Townsville,” Cr Greaney said.
“The grant application also indicated a well-thought-out strategy to sustain the benefits of IndiaFest without relying on continued funding from the Council.”
Council also awarded a grant to the Townsville Eisteddfod Inc, in the form of the $23,137 Townsville Civic Theatre venue hire free, to help them run the 73rd Townsville Eisteddfod from 5 September to 23 September.
The Townsville Eisteddfod provides an opportunity for aspiring artists in performing arts, literary and visual arts with performers ranging from 4-18 years of age.
“This longstanding event encourages the community to support and embrace artistic talents of the community, enabling emerging artists to showcase their skills,” Cr Greaney said.
“For young artists it encourages and opens a wealth of opportunities, and it can be a pathway to further develop their aspirations as performers.
“Council is committed to maintaining Townsville as a sustainable destination that embraces and participates in the arts, sports, events and recreational activities and these grants help us achieve our goal.”
For more information on IndiaFest 2023 visit the IndiaFest website.
