Young and old celebrate multiculturalism at Western Bulldogs AFL game
Spectrum and Foundation House in Sunshine took 17 newly arrived refugees to attend the AFL’s annual multicultural round at Etihad stadium on Sunday, 30th July 2017
7 seniors from the Myanmar Sunshine Seniors group and ten young people from Iraq, Eritrea, Vietnam, Myanmar and Iran attended round 19 to barrack on local heroes of the Western Bulldogs vs Essendon game.
The group ranging from 14 – 74 years of age enjoyed great weather and a lively atmosphere cheering on the Western Bulldogs to their win (127-97) throughout a tense and frenetic football match.
Two young people from Iraq embraced the opportunity to be interviewed at half time in Arabic and three young people also participated in the guard of honour at the beginning of the match.
Everyone enjoyed travelling to a different part of Melbourne and experiencing a unique aspect of Australian culture which supported their inclusion in the wider community and positive mental health and wellbeing.
The multicultural round which celebrates the game’s diversity and promotes inclusivity highlights the contribution multicultural communities have made to the game’s history and welcomes new communities to embrace Australia’s game in the future.
Thanks to the Western Bulldogs for providing our clients with the opportunity to attend.
Report by Vanessa Miller, Spectrum Senior Community Development Settlement Worker.