Radio Brisvaani
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) proudly hosted the India–Australia Day 2026 celebration at SunPAC, Sunnybank, bringing together community members, distinguished leaders, and friends of India and Australia for an evening that honoured the enduring partnership between the two nations. The event stood as a powerful reflection of shared democratic values, cultural richness, people-to-people connections, and the strength of multicultural Australia.
The evening commenced with a warm welcome to guests, followed by the official introduction by the Masters of Ceremonies, Mr Zain Chams and Mr Preetham Krishnan, who guided the program seamlessly throughout the celebration. Prior to the festivities, the gathering observed a minute of silence in honour of the lives lost in the tragic Bondi Beach incident, standing in solidarity with the families affected.
The Acknowledgement of Country was delivered by Mr Glenn Barry, recognising the Traditional Custodians of the land and paying respect to Elders past, present, and emerging. This was followed by the Australian and Indian National Anthems, beautifully presented by Sargam Music Academy, symbolising unity, mutual respect, and the shared values that bind the two democracies.
FICQ President, Dr Preethi Suraj, addressed the gathering, emphasising that India–Australia Day is more than a date on the calendar — it is a celebration of shared values, cultural connections, and a friendship that continues to grow stronger with every generation. She highlighted FICQ’s role as a peak body representing over 71 diverse Indian community organisations across Queensland, and reflected on FICQ’s commitment to unity, inclusion, leadership, and community wellbeing.
In her address, Dr Suraj outlined key milestones achieved by FICQ, including the strong growth of the FICQ International Toastmasters Club, which has become an important platform for leadership development and public speaking, and the successful launch of its dedicated website. She also reflected on the historic FICQ Unity Soccer Cup, which brought together 24 teams across multiple categories in a single day, nurturing young talent and fostering camaraderie through sport. Other initiatives such as the Multicultural Unity Dinner and the annual Harmony Cricket were highlighted as symbols of dialogue, friendship, and unity beyond borders.
The celebration was graced by an esteemed lineup of dignitaries whose addresses underscored the depth and significance of the India–Australia relationship. Speeches were delivered by The Hon. Jim Chalmers MP, Treasurer of Australia and Federal Member for Rankin; The Hon. Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Senator the Hon. Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water; The Hon. Fiona Simpson MP, Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Minister for Multiculturalism; Mr Sushil Kumar Goel, representing the Consul General of India in Brisbane; Mr Cameron Dick MP, State Member for Woodridge; Dr Maha Sinnathamby, Patron of FICQ; Senator Paul Scarr, Senator for Queensland; Mr Shayne Neumann MP, Federal Member for Blair; and Councillor Steven Huang, representing the Lord Mayor of Brisbane. Each speaker acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora to Queensland’s cultural, social, and economic landscape.
A special and heartfelt moment of the evening was when the FICQ family honoured two of its past presidents on the occasion of their Order of Australia Medal (OAM) awards announced in January 2026. This recognition celebrated their exemplary service, leadership, and enduring contribution to the Indian community and multicultural Australia, drawing warm appreciation from the audience.
Interwoven with the formal proceedings was a vibrant cultural showcase reflecting India’s rich heritage and contemporary expressions. Highlights included a graceful Kathak, Bharatanatyam, fusion dance performances and a captivating Indian Traditional Handloom Fashion Show, celebrating India’s timeless textile traditions and craftsmanship.
The event also acknowledged the invaluable support of partners and sponsors, with special recognition of Leap Motors, the Signature Sponsor for India–Australia Day 2026. FICQ further recognised its member organisations through the distribution of certificates, acknowledging their collective efforts in strengthening the Indian diaspora and fostering collaboration across communities.
The evening concluded with a sincere Vote of Thanks by Mr Moktiar Singh, PRO of FICQ, followed by a sumptuous Indian dinner, offering guests the opportunity to connect, reflect, and celebrate together.
FICQ extends its heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, performers, sponsors, volunteers, and community organisations whose support made India–Australia Day 2026 a resounding success. As the celebrations concluded, FICQ reaffirmed its commitment to building inclusive communities and strengthening the bridge between India and Australia — not only celebrating where we come from, but also where we are going together.
