Grand Gala Diwali celebrations shine at Gold Coast

• BY India News Newsdesk
• October 16, 2025
• 0 COMMENTS

Brisbane, October 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Grand Gala Diwali 2025 at Dreamworld, Gold Coast, brought together Queensland’s Indian community and local residents in a vibrant celebration of the Festival of Lights. Organised by the Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC) and managed by PlatinumEvent for the fifth consecutive year, the event showcased the rich cultural heritage of India through performances, community participation, and recognition of the Indian diaspora’s role in Queensland’s multicultural landscape.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP attended the event, alongside other prominent political leaders and local councillors, highlighting the strong ties between the Indian community and the state. The Premier acknowledged the community’s contribution to Queensland’s economy and its cultural diversity, reflecting the state’s commitment to supporting multicultural initiatives.

Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, representing High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, greeted the community and highlighted the Indian diaspora’s role in strengthening ties between India and Australia. Other dignitaries present included Mark Boothman MP, Sam O’Connor MP (Minister for Housing & Public Works and Minister for Youth), Hermann Vorster MP (Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs & International Student Attraction), Councillor Joe Wilkinson (Division 7), and Councillor Emily Kim (Pallara, Forest Lake, Heathwood, and Karawatha), reflecting strong governmental support for cultural events.

The evening featured a wide array of cultural performances, including Bollywood dance routines, traditional folk presentations, and devotional acts performed by local artists from the Gold Coast and Brisbane. The festival’s decorative lighting, ceremonial lamps, and vibrant stage set-up created a lively atmosphere that celebrated the essence of Diwali — unity, joy, and cultural harmony.

The ceremonial lamp lighting, conducted by Consul General Bhagotia, Premier Crisafulli, and community leaders, symbolised the festival’s central message of light overcoming darkness. The celebrations concluded with a grand fireworks display, marking the event with a memorable finale that captivated attendees of all ages.

Event organiser Manish Saini and the PlatinumEvent team were commended for their role in coordinating the event, ensuring its smooth execution and success. Now in its fifth consecutive year at Dreamworld, Diwali has become one of the region’s most anticipated multicultural celebrations, attracting families, business leaders, and community members from across Queensland.