Brisbane, August 10 (Indian Abroad Newsdesk)
The Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC) hosted a vibrant celebration of India’s 79th Independence Day, drawing hundreds of people to a colourful kite festival that lit up the Gold Coast skyline.
The event was attended by Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, along with Federal MP Angie Bell (Member for Moncrieff), State MP Sam O’Connor (Minister for Home Affairs), and Councillor Joe Wilkinson (Division 7). Community and business leaders also joined the festivities, underscoring the spirit of unity and multicultural pride.
The day featured cultural performances, traditional music, and lively displays, with the kite-flying serving as a symbolic tribute to freedom.
A highlight of the program was the presentation of the Community Hero Awards, honouring individuals and groups for their outstanding contributions. Awardees included Asha Sabasibian, Zaisha Chakraborty, Kapil Sachdev, Seema (ICGC), Dr Hussain Baba, Dr Vijay Kapadia (Cardiologist), Dr Shunil Sharma, Bhakti Centre – Madhavananda, Seema Chauhan, Sadhana (ICGC), Lata Modi, Senthil (ICGC), and Hussain Baba.
Organisers said the festival’s success reaffirmed the Gold Coast as a hub for multicultural celebration, with the kite festival adding a symbolic and joyful dimension to this year’s Independence Day commemorations.