Bak Maha Ulela – 2023 – By Ruwan de Silva
Source : Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – May 2023
” The Sinhala Association of Queensland (SAQ) held traditional Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebration – 2023 (Bak Maha Ulela) on Sunday 16 April 2023 at Mount Crosby Sports Grounds which was attended by more than 1200 people.
Management committee of the SAQ started this event by the lighting of the oil lamp and boiling milk the traditional way using a brand-new clay pot as a symbol of prosperity. The overflowing of the boiling milk is considered to bring good luck for the entire Sri Lankan community. Thereafter, the traditional milk rice and variety of traditional sweetmeats were served to all attendees symbolising unity amongst all with no boundaries.
Anointing heads with oil is another ritual that is not missed by Sri Lankans. A blend of herbs and oils was anointment by the senior Members of the SAQ to both young and not to young.
After these celebrations, traditional Avurudu games commenced. Some of these games included marathon running, placing the eye on the elephant – (aliyata asa thabeema), eating buns the fastest (banis kema), pillow-fight – (kotta pora), egg passing, breaking the pots – (Kanamutti bindeema),
sack race, fancy race and so on! A very high participation for the events showed the enthusiasm
among attendees, especially the kids and younger age groups. SAQ would like to thank all volunteers who helped to organise and conduct these sporting activities in a timely manner.
This year, a high number of invited guests attended the festival, and their presence made it more special and we are grateful for their attendance. The invited guests included Hon Milton Dick, MP, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives, Hon Shayne Neumann, MP Member for Blair, Hon Charis Mullen, MP, State Member for Jordan, Hon Jessica Pugh, MP, State Member for Mount Ommaney, Hon James Madden, MP, State Member for Ipswich West, Hon James Martin, MP, State Member for Stretton, Cr. Greg Adermann, Councillor for Pullenvale Ward and Anton Swan, Honorary Consul for Sri
Lanka in Queensland.
SAQ was able to provide free lunch and dessert for all attendees with the help of well wishers who provided all delicious dishes. Special thanks to food committee who helped us to organise a smooth service on the day.
With the help of volunteers, sponsors, Brisbane City Council and Mount Crosby Cricket Club, SAQ was able to present the venue more attractive by installing more than 20 stalls and beautiful stages
and providing live music. It was a good opportunity for sponsors to showcase their business among Sri Lankan community while the event became more colourful with their presence.
Thank you all sponsors whose support made the event a success. SAQ would like to thank all volunteers who helped us in numerous ways to help make this event successful.
Finally, Sri Lankan community has been a part of our story since the beginning and needed your presence when we celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year. SAQ appreciates that you were a part of our
celebration and thank you for your attendance and participation.
Ruwan de Silva
President, Sinhala Association of Queensland
