Canberra 11.01.2026
Canberra will witness a unique celebration of Australia Day 2026 as community leaders, cultural advocates, and professionals come together for a day of dialogue, learning, and cultural exchange. The event, organized by NEPAFE under the national theme “Reflect. Respect. Celebrate.”, aims to foster understanding and collaboration between Indigenous Australians and multicultural communities through the lens of food, heritage, and shared traditions.
The program will begin at The Hungry Buddha Restaurant Hall in Belconnen at 11:00 AM on Sunday, 25 January 2026, featuring an Indigenous and Multicultural Cultural Exchange Workshop led by Elder Bradley Bell. Participants will engage in discussions on the role of food and culture in building community connections, opportunities for collaboration, and the importance of preserving traditions.
This year’s focus is on food and cultural exchange as a bridge for understanding and collaboration. The program aims to create a space where leaders and community members can share knowledge, traditions, and stories that strengthen bonds and promote mutual respect.
Following the workshop and networking lunch, attendees will embark on a field visit to The Lanyon Homestead, one of Canberra’s most significant historical sites. The guided walk, led by Elder Bradley Bell, will offer participants an opportunity to reflect on the stories and heritage of the past and understand their relevance in shaping a shared future. The day will conclude with an informal discussion and reflection session.
Speaking about the event, Sujan Neupane, Secretary of NEPAFE, said:
“This program is not just a celebration—it’s a platform for dialogue and learning. By bringing Indigenous and multicultural communities together, we hope to create meaningful connections and explore ways to share knowledge, traditions, and sustainable practices. It’s about building bridges through culture and food.”
Special Feature on Australia Day – Monday, 26 January 2026
Similarly on the day of Australia Day, NEPAFE will proudly host a community stall at another major Canberra event venue, showcasing photographs, artworks, and creative pieces produced during the cultural exchange on 25 January.
The display will include:
✅ Historical images celebrating Australia’s journey
✅ Artworks inspired by nature and heritage created collaboratively during the workshop
✅ Stories and visuals promoting the values of Australia Day – Reflect, Respect, Celebrate
This stall is designed to share the spirit of togetherness, highlight Indigenous and multicultural contributions, and inspire conversations about heritage, sustainability, and cultural harmony.
On this Dr. Yakindra Timilsena, President of NEPAFE, says:
“Our stall will be a celebration of creativity and cultural harmony. It’s designed to educate and encourage people, especially those from diverse backgrounds—to learn about Australia’s history, culture, and community, aligning with the theme of Reflect, Respect, Celebrate.”
Limited seats are available for the field visit, and early registration is encouraged.
👉 Register here: https://forms.gle/52SZDwiWb7u52X6S9
For more information, contact numbers are:
📞 Sujan Neupane: 0431 988 050
📞 Dr. Yakindra Timilsena: 0450 491 976
Join us in celebrating Australia Day with a spirit of togetherness, reflection, and cultural harmony.
