Hobsons Bay council kicked off Cultural Diversity Week 2025 on Monday with a workshop on the intricate art of Maori weaving.
Conducted by local artist and Maori creative, Taane Te Manu McRoberts, the workshop was held at Williamstown Library on March 17, the first day of Cultural Diversity Week which runs through until March 23.
McRoberts took participants through timeless weaving techniques, including those used to create Tukutuku Panels that adorne Maori meeting houses.
The workshop also featured broader aspects of Maori culture, art, and tradition, something that will be replicated at similar workshops held throughout the rest of the week, including on Turkish tealight-making and Vietnamese cooking.
Hobsons Bay mayor Daria Kellander said the local community was lucky to have access to such a vibrant blend of cultures.
“This diversity is one of our greatest assets,” Cr Kellander said.
She said this year’s Cultural Diversity Week was bigger than ever, with council collaborating with eight community centres to help deliver cultural celebrations across 10 suburbs.
“I would encourage everyone to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week this year by coming along to any of the fantastic events and taking part in this special program,” Cr Kellander said.
Maribyrnong council also has a program of events taking place throughout the week, including a movie club, cultural games day and multicultural picnic.
To find out more about Cultural Diversity Week events in Maribyrnong, visit: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Community/Community-and-Cultural-celebrations/Cultural-Diversity-Week
To find out more about events happening in Hobsons Bay, visit: www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/cdw
Cade Lucas.
