And that is a wrap, after 40 years in the making

Published on 20 March 2024

Temora Shire residents are invited to embrace our greatest assets, our people, and their diversity.

Now in its second year, this multicultural celebration promises an unforgettable day of music, dance, arts, and culinary delights.

Embrace Festival will be held on Sunday 7th April from 11am to 2pm, at The Railway Precinct (Crowley Street).

Did you know?

• 3.5% of households in Temora Shire speak a language other than English at home, our top (other than English) being Tagalog, Punjabi, Cantonese, Arabic and Vietnamese.
• About 200 people in Temora Shire were born in another country, our top (outside of Australia) are England, Philippines, India, New Zealand, and Germany.
• Over 200 people in Temora Shire are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
• About 280 people in Temora Shire have a father born in another country, and about 260 have a mother who was born in another country. Our top ancestries (outside of Australia) are English, Irish, Scottish, and German.

The festival is entirely free and inclusive event for all. It is set to captivate the community with a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.

“This festival is a kaleidoscope of cultures—a chance to learn, laugh, and create lasting memories,” said Mayor Rick Firman.

“Last year, we were fortunate to obtain grant funding through Multicultural NSW to produce an event that celebrates and embraces our cultural diversity. Council found that the Embrace Festival united and ignited the Temora community, so we wanted to see it continue in the Temora Shire,” explained Mayor Firman.

“Some of the beloved acts from last year will return. However, we wanted to mix it up to keep the attendees returning for a second year interested and entertained,” said Mayor Firman.

Council was also successful in receiving a $2,500 grant from Eastern Riverina Arts Festival Audience Boost. The grant will help bring international singer-songwriter and rapper from South West Sydney ‘Zeadala’ to Embrace.

Known for her grounded and soulful live shows, she combines her love for organic instruments with Hip Hop beats to bring forth positive vibes and a purpose to meaningfully connect with her audiences.

Highlights, include:

• Global Delights: Savor a world of flavours at our international food stalls. From mouthwatering curries to the famous nachos – which sold out twice last year!
• Yindyamarra Infusion: The festival will open with a traditional Wiradjuri smoking ceremony - burning native plants, producing smoke with cleansing properties to make way for a bright future. Smoking ceremonies are common amongst many cultures around the world. However, each has their own purpose, form, and meaning.

  Visit the Yindyamarra tent to receive local knowledge and insights from historian Bill Speirs, join in on traditional dot painting with artist Eisha McIntosh, and try your hands at weaving practices with the Temora High School’s Aboriginal Education Team.

• Rhythms of the World: Get ready to groove! Live performances by local and international artists and dancers will showcase traditional and contemporary music, from Highland to Bollywood dancers, Filipino choir, a combination of acoustic hip hop (say what?!), and some Aussie classics thrown in for good measure.
• Cultural Workshops: Dive into interactive workshops from Bollywood dancing to Zimbabwean drums, from Chi tea to Ukulele lessons.
• Unity Experiences: Explore the vibrant marketplace from henna tattoos to roaming aerial dancers.
• Kids Corner: Little ones can enjoy arts, craft, and hands-on play at the Temora Community Centre’s Play Group Kids corner. Let their imaginations soar!

“Embrace Festival Temora is a testament to our community’s open-hearted welcoming spirit. Let’s come together, learn, and celebrate!” invited Mayor Firman.

Embrace Festival

Sunday, 7^th April

11am – 2pm

The Railway Precinct, Crowley Street, Temora