After a 12 month absence the Multicultural Festival returned to Mount Isa on Friday and people voted with their feet with a huge turnout at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church on Stanley St.
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Thousands were there to enjoy the feast of senses with the sights and sounds of colourful musical performances matched by the smells and tastes of some of the world's best cuisine on sale, all washed down with Irish Club Guinness, of course!
Father Mick Lowcock said this was the 24th Multicultural festival and this year's theme is South Asia celebrating the people and culture of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan and Myanmar (Burma).
There was a special performance from a group of Nepalese dancers from Brisbane and there was a Polynesian performance from a Tokelau choir from Townsville as well as locals like the Mount Isa School of Dance, the Isa Highland Dancers and local choirs and performers all under the watchful eye of entertainment coordinator Khovy Invathong.
William Blackley performed Welcome to Country and Queensland Multicultural Affairs Minister Leanne Linard was due to officially open the festival until her return flight on Saturday was cancelled by Qantas.
Festival president Tony McGrady read out her speech, with Ms Linard saying Mount Isa residents have built upon friendships to create deeper appreciation and respect for one another.
"Since its establishment in Mount Isa in the 1930s, the Good Shepherd Parish has embraced the diverse cultures of the region for nearly 90 years," Ms Linard said.
"The Good Shepherd Parish also delivers programs to the community. In addition to the spiritual aspects of the organisation, they also provide services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, migrants and refugees and to others who find they need support."
Mayor Danielle Slade said she was an immigrant coming over from England, aged seven.
"I'm very much aware how much you give up when you come to Australia," Cr Slade said.
Member for Traeger Robbie Katter said diversity and multiculturalism has come naturally to Mount Isa throughout its near 100 years.
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