Celebrating Two Pillars of Sydney’s Sri Lankan Community-by Harold Gunatillake
Don Wickrema and wife on the left and Sene Banda on the right
Celebrating Service, Culture, and Lifelong Dedication
On 11 October 2026, Sydney’s Sri Lankan community came together to honour two esteemed senior members, Dr. Don Wickrema and Dr. Jayasundara Seneviratne-Banda, at a memorable ceremony in the Phoenix Room at Castle Hill RSL Club. The evening offered a heartfelt tribute to their decades of service and lasting contributions to the diaspora’s cultural, social and intellectual life.
Soft saxophone music greeted guests as two young children presented the traditional offering of Bulat (betel leaves), lending the occasion a sense of dignity, gratitude and cultural pride.
Dr. Don Wickrema — A Visionary Advocate for Culture
Dr. Wickrema has played a central role in Sydney’s Sri Lankan cultural life for many years. He helped found the Sinhala Cultural Forum, creating a lively platform to preserve and promote Sri Lankan heritage. His leadership has guided music festivals such as Rhythms in Concert, literary gatherings and Sinhala language programs.
His pioneering work in Sinhala language schools has helped Australian-born younger generations maintain their mother tongue and appreciate its richness. At the event, speakers paid tribute to his guidance, generosity and unwavering dedication to preserving Sri Lankan culture.
Dr. Jayasundara Seneviratne-Banda — Dedicated Healer, Scholar and Cultural Leader
Dr. Seneviratne-Banda’s enduring contributions span medicine and culture. As a longstanding GP in the Castle Hill region, he has served countless families with compassion and dedication, earning widespread respect. His cultural influence has been equally profound.
A former President of the Sinhalese Cultural Forum, he is admired for his mastery of Sinhala literature and graceful, expressive kavi recitations. His deep knowledge of the language and active involvement have enriched many community events.
Speakers who knew him in childhood and throughout his professional career offered heartfelt recollections of his kindness, scholarship and service.
An Evening of Gratitude, Reflection and Celebration
Short videos honoured each recipient by tracing key moments in his life and service. Both received beautiful Sri Lankan-crafted plaques representing the connection between their beloved homeland and the community they have nurtured in Australia.
The audience warmly appreciated their gracious, modest acceptance speeches. A sumptuous three-course dinner followed, accompanied by Viraj Cooray, whose accomplished singing added vitality to the evening. Event 360 handled sound and event coordination with expertise. The company is owned by Saliya Tennekoon, current President of the Sri Lanka Association of NSW.
Sriyani Tennakoon added elegance and charm with stylish table centrepieces and a beautifully presented reception desk.
Leadership That Brings the Community Together
The Sri Lanka Association of NSW consistently hosts high-quality community events. Under President Saliya Tennekoon, supported by Sriyani and the Event 360 team, its gatherings are polished, vibrant and professionally organised.
Their dedication has strengthened unity and pride while bringing fresh energy to Sydney’s Sri Lankan community.
United in Gratitude
The large gathering of friends, admirers and well-wishers demonstrated the affection and respect felt for Dr. Wickrema and Dr. Seneviratne-Banda. Their service has enriched many lives and deepened the diaspora’s cultural and social ties.
Beyond the ceremony, the occasion honoured lasting values: service, gratitude, cultural pride and appreciation for those who have guided the community.
By Dr Harold Gunatillake OAM
Insight for the Global Sri Lankan
Harold Pulse is an independent editorial platform offering clear, thoughtful analysis on Sri Lanka’s political direction, governance reforms, diaspora concerns, and the evolving health landscape of Sri Lankans living abroad. Built for global Sri Lankans who value informed perspectives, it clarifies the issues shaping the nation’s future—from domestic policy shifts to the well-being of expatriate communities navigating new health systems, lifestyles, and challenges worldwide.
Harold Pulse speaks to Sri Lankans everywhere: those shaping change at home, and those building lives overseas while staying deeply connected to the island’s progress. It is a space where political clarity, community insight, and diaspora health awareness come together to support a stronger, more informed global Sri Lankan identity.
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