Dancers provide colourful prelude to third International Street Fiesta in Queens Park on November 2,…

Vibrant and energetic dance performances from two continents today (August 5, 2024) provided a rousing prelude to the exciting program that awaits visitors to the third International Street Fiesta at Toowoomba’s Queens Park on Saturday, November 2, 2024.

An African dance routine by Loor Mith Tonj and a Bangladesh folk dance by Monoshmita Kolyania Halder showcased some of the entertainment programmed for the Fiesta. These and scores of other performers will entertain Fiesta crowds from 3 to 8pm in November.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald today launched the 2024 International Street Fiesta before a welcome and overview from Fiesta organising committee chair and Toowoomba International Multicultural Society president Gitie House OAM.

Mrs House said the Fiesta was a great family outing that celebrated the Region’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Entry to the Fiesta is free, with food and drinks available to purchase.

“Toowoomba continues to draw new residents from across the world. The Fiesta is a chance for our different cultural groups to showcase their individual customs and heritage through songs and dance,” Mrs House said.

“Fiesta visitors will be able to enjoy performances by the Rich Varsa Bhangra Dance Academy, highlighting folk dances from India’s Punjab region and South American folk dance performances featuring the rich costumes of the Colombian Dance Group, among others.

"Children's activities will include a spectacular and interactive multicultural puppet show by author and artist Lee Fullarton showcasing her delightful story, Mr Chippa Woodblock Carver of Bagru, which is influenced by the Kathputli artisans of Rajasthan.

“Children will be invited to participate in the puppet show and assist Lee’s storytelling. Lee’s book and block prints will be for available for purchase.

“Starting from 3pm, the program features non-stop performances by more than 30 cultural groups, a Diwali celebration, lantern display and martial arts displays. Residents can enjoy browsing the laneway stalls and an array of tempting international cuisine into the spring evening. There will be an animal farm and a small charge for children’s rides.

“We encourage families to enjoy seeing the talents and meeting the many different faces that comprise Toowoomba’s modern population. The evening will conclude with fireworks.”

Mayor McDonald praised organisers and sponsors for contributing to one of the Region’s most lively events.

“The Fiesta is a joyous celebration of the talented groups that are proud to share their traditional songs and dance routines with fellow residents,” Mayor McDonald said.

“It’s impossible not to be swept up by the passion of the performers and gain a better appreciation of how important these customs are to individual groups and how much they contribute to our modern identity.”

Toowoomba Regional Council Community Development, Facilities and Tourism portfolio spokesperson and Multicultural Advisory Committee chair Cr James O’Shea said Council was pleased to support TIMS with $40,000 in event sponsorship to help stage another exciting family event.

More information about food and stall applications and how to volunteer is available at the festival website by visiting www.TLCFestival.com.au

The event is supported by the Queensland Government through Multicultural Affairs Queensland, Multicultural Australia, the University of Southern Queensland and Heritage Bank (People First Bank).

Caption: A Bangladesh folk dance by Monoshmita Kolyania Halder (second from left) and an African dance routine by Loor Mith Tonj (centre) helped launch the November 2, 2024 International Street Fiesta, which was also attended by Cr James O’Shea (left), TIMS president Mrs Gitie House OAM (third from left), Toowoomba Region Mayor Cr Geoff McDonald (second from right) and Abuk Kwereng (right).