Gold Coast SriLankan New Year celebrations 2023
Source : Qld Sri Lankan Newsletter – Dæhæna – June 2023
Gold Coast’s traditional SriLankan New Year celebration for 2023 was held on 30 April 2023 at the Southport – Labrador Cricket Club. The event was well attended with more than 350 adults and children. Honorary Consul for SriLanka in Queensland Mr. Anthon Swan (OAM) was the chief guest, and Gold Coast Councillor – District 7, Mr. Ryan Bayldon-Lumsden was also present as an invited guest.
The event started with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by the invited guests and committee members. A delicious New Year breakfast table with Milk Rice and a variety of SriLankan traditional sweets and delicacies was officially opened by the chief guest.
“Hisa-thel Gema” (anointing oil) and getting blessings from the elders was held prior to starting the New Year Games. Various types of New Year traditional games were lined up for both children and adults, which sparked laughter and enjoyment for everyone.
An elegant Sri Lankan traditional dance was performed by the children and a dazzling “Wes Netuma” was performed by the adult dancers which mesmerised the entire crowd.
The event was concluded with a traditional “Elle” (traditional Sri Lankan bat and ball game like baseball) match that exemplified the team spirit, mutual understanding, respect, and love which is the
essence of the Sri Lankan New Year.
Gold Coast Sri Lankan Association (GCSLA) Team .
