Melbourne, August 8 (Indian Abroad Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) Victoria Chapter hosted its Annual Oration and Gala Dinner on August 5, 2024, featuring Premier of Victoria Hon Jacinta Allan as the keynote speaker. The event, marked by ceremonial lamp lighting and welcome speeches, highlighted the deepening Australia-India relationship. Notable speakers included India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Gopal Baglay, and Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, Nick Reece.
The evening also featured a Q&A with Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley, classical dance performances, and a display of two World Cup trophies. Premier Allan announced her upcoming visit to India in September, emphasizing the strong ties between the two nations. The event was a resounding success, drawing a diverse crowd from government, media, business, and academia.
All speakers at the Gala Dinner underscored the vital role of the Australia-India relationship, with a special focus on the contributions of the Indian diaspora and the shared passion for cricket, which featured prominently in the discussions. The event also served as a platform for strengthening business and cultural connections between the two countries.
In addition to the formal addresses, attendees were treated to a classical dance performance and the national anthems of both countries, beautifully sung by a renowned opera singer. The presence of the two World Cup trophies added a celebratory touch, allowing guests to take memorable photographs.
The evening concluded with a strong sense of collaboration and mutual respect between Australia and India, with Premier Allan’s upcoming visit to India signaling continued efforts to deepen these ties.
