Melbourne’s Sri Lankan Community Celebrates Sinhala & Tamil New Year in a Spirit of Harmony – By Leelananda Ihalagamage in Melbourne
MELBOURNE – The Sri Lankan Study Centre for the Advancement of Technology & Social Welfare (SCATS) hosted a vibrant celebration of the Sinhala & Tamil New Year on 19 April 2026, bringing together over 100 community members and distinguished guests at the Burnside Community Centre.
Organised by SCATS Seniors (West & East), the festival served as a powerful showcase of multiculturalism and tradition. The event commenced with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, followed by a cultural program featuring traditional dancing, drama, and musical performances by SCATS Youth and SCATS Seniors (West & East).
Attendees enjoyed an authentic spread of Sri Lankan delicacies, including kiribath (milk rice), kevum, and kokis. A major highlight of the festivities was the crowning of the New Year Beauty Queen and Prince, alongside traditional heritage games that engaged the wider community.
The event was graced by several prominent figures, including Hon. Steve McGhie MP (State Member for Melton), Mrs Nalika Ahangama (Project Director, Australian Multicultural Community Services), Mr Sisay Dinuka (African Community Representative), and Dr. Nada Kulendran (President of the Tamil Association) and Mrs. Kulendran. They were joined by SCATS leadership, including [President/SCATS (Australia)] Mr Kaleel Cader, (President/SCATS Seniors’) Mrs Kusuma Gunaratne, Prof. Priyan Mendis (University of Melbourne), and (Vice- President/SCATS Seniors’) Mr Wasantha Perera OAM.
The Founder President of SCATS Mr. Gamini Perera OAM
A Legacy of Service
The success of the festival reflects the enduring legacy of SCATS, which was established in 1992 by Founder President Mr Gamini Perera OAM. For 35 years, Mr Perera has been a cornerstone of the Sri Lankan-Australian community, fostering professional links between Australia and Sri Lanka to introduce new technologies and social welfare programs.
Mr Perera’s lifelong commitment to service was formally recognized by the Australian Government with the Order of Australia Medal (OAM). Under his leadership and the continued dedication of its members, SCATS has grown into a leading community organization, bridging cultural gaps and supporting Sri Lankans from all backgrounds.
As the festivities concluded, organizers expressed their gratitude to the guests and volunteers who ensured the New Year was welcomed with success, unity, and a renewed sense of cultural pride.
Photos by Lal Alwis
Rohana Peris’s Performance
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