By Jamie Salter
Officer community members recently gathered for a fun-filled family day at the Pakenham Eels Rugby League Club (PERLC).
The day kicked off with Welcome to Country by Anni Cockburn and was followed by a performance of the Haka, along with traditional Indian dance.
There was face painting, balloon art and Steve the magician who had the kids in fits of laughter.
The rain held off, with both rugby and football played on the day.
The event was brought to the community thanks to a partnership between Cardinia Gujarati Association Inc, PERLC, Officer City Soccer Club and Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar Officer.
Cardinia Gujarati Association member Brijal Parikh said he was proud of the cross-cultural partnership.
“It was a partnership between sporting groups and multicultural organisations which helps us to show everybody can work together to achieve something,” he said.
Officer City Soccer Club committee member Radmila Dyson said there were many people to thank for making the very first Family Day happen.
“Most importantly, we want to thank the families who came on the day and shared it with us,” Radmila said.
“Our partnership with PERLC, who ran this event at their brand-new facility, smashed it.”
Liberal MP David Farrelly and Labour MP Emma Vulin – who are both vying for Pakenham seat – attended and got to know many local families along with Brad Battin MP and Cardinia Shire councillor Jack Kowarzik.
Community groups banded together for the event including Officer Fire Brigade, Rotary Club of Pakenham, Yakkerboo Festival Pakenham, Cardinia Men’s Shed and Kooweerup Regional Health Service.
The event held on Sunday 26 June was funded thanks to a Cardinia Shire Council grant.
