St. Patrick’s School unites community at colorful cultural expo

A Taste of St Patrick’s Cultural Expo celebrated the school’s growing cultural diversity.

Last week, the first A Taste of St Patrick’s Cultural Expo transformed St Patrick’s Primary School in Bega into a vibrant, multicultural marketplace.

The event – created to celebrate the school’s growing cultural diversity – was a deliciously dazzling showcase of the various cultures represented within the community.

“Students and families shared their rich heritages through food, dance, songs, international costumes,

history, and artefacts,” Religious Education Coordinator Melinda Ferris said.

“Visitors received special passports that they stamped with a flag at each cultural station. This added an element of fun and engagement for all the children as they explored the marketplace.

The stalls celebrated a diverse range of cultures, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Scotland, and Malta.

Mrs Ferris said highlights included a smorgasbord of delicious foods from many countries.

“There was a special contribution from our Aboriginal students, as well as a classic sausage sizzle and a vegemite sandwich offering at the Australian stall,” she said.

“The event beautifully reflected our Catholic ethos of unity, love and respect for all.”

Mrs Ferris said the Cultural Expo commenced with a heartfelt flag ceremony, followed by delightful performances of song and dance from Kinder to Year 2 students.

“This added to the festive and inclusive atmosphere,” she said.

“This celebration not only highlighted our cultural diversity but also underscored our commitment to the Catholic value of welcoming and honouring each individual as a unique gift from God.”

Principal Jo Scott-Pegum said in the spirit of the Catholic tradition, the expo was more than just a celebration.

“It was a reflection of our mission to foster a loving, inclusive and supportive community,” she said.

“A Taste of St Patrick’s Cultural Expo was a testament to the vibrant, inclusive spirit of the St Patrick’s community.”

Mrs Ferris said the event was organised collaboratively between staff, parents, and students.

“From set up to closing, the seamless execution was a testament to the community’s dedication and spirit of service,” she said.

“By embracing and celebrating diverse backgrounds, the event exemplified the Catholic values that underpin the school’s mission.

“We continue to live out our faith in action, showing that we are united in Christ’s love.”