This month the Australian South Sea Islander community celebrates its 30th anniversary of official recognition by the Australian Government with three events planned throughout August.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said Council is proud to support the local events through the Community Assistance Program (CAP) funding, contributing $2,000 through local Community Sponsorship, one of the funding categories of CAP.
"It important for communities to have the opportunity to come together and celebrate significant dates and Council is proud to be help in assisting with this," he said.
"The first of the events was a combined church service yesterday at the Rock Covenant Love Ministries and the second event is a Flag Raising Ceremony outside of City Hall in Bolsover St this morning.
"As part of the ceremony, ASSI Elders will raise the Australian South Sea Islander flag."
Australian South Sea Islander United Council – Independent Rockhampton & Districts Inc Secretary Raeleen Willie said the morning features guest speakers and Elders from the Australian South Sea Islander Community who were present in Canberra on 25 August 1994 when recognition of ASSI as a distinct culture group was passed in Parliament.
"The third event is a South Sea Pearl, Australian South Sea Islander Recognition Dinner on Friday 30 August at the Frenchville Sports Club," Ms Willie said.
"Throughout the night we will showcase our achievements over the past 30 years and acknowledge the struggle and perseverance by our ancestors and ASSI Elders who worked towards fighting and gaining recognition for our people.
"We are very grateful for the funding received from the Community Assistance Program as it assists with the promotion of our events as well as venue and catering costs.
"For decades the Australian South Sea Islander community fought to be recognised as a distinct cultural group.
"This year, and every year, is an opportunity to show our respect to our ancestors and elders who fought for recognition, but also to celebrate our many achievements over the past 30 years.
"For me personally, these events gives our community the opportunity to come together and celebrate our history and culture, but also to inform the wider community of who we are and our contribution to the sugar cane industry, and locally here in Rockhampton to the meatworks, railways and council."
The Community Assistance Program (CAP) supports non-profit community-based organisations with funding for grants and sponsorships towards projects and events that enhance the region's well-being.
Council offers assistance to eligible organisations through six categories. Each program has its own set of requirements and processes, as well as time frames for funded projects and events.
