Backing: BCC Computers and Betta Geelong West’s Matthew Sun with talented local singer and arts student Jessica Costa, who will lead the parade as Carmen Miranda. Picture Tommy Ritchie 75523
GEELONG’S much loved, award-winning, free, annual community arts festival, Pako Festa, turns 30 next year.
The biggest of its kind in Australia, Pako Festa attracts more than 100,000 people to the multicultural heart of Geelong, Pakington Street, Geelong West.
And the 30th anniversary event secured $100,000 in funding from the State Government’s Unity Through Partnerships program.
Festival organiser Diversitat also announced a partnership with BCC Computers and Betta Geelong West.
Festival director Luisa La Fornara said BCC Computers and Betta Geelong West would be the Pako Festa naming rights sponsor as well as committing to supporting Diversitat’s 42 affiliated communities.
“We have an important long term relationship with Matthew Sun from BCC Computers and Betta Geelong West.
“Matthew has been the president of the Geelong Chinese Association and a past member of the Diversitat Executive Committee.
“Diversitat is delighted to be working with a local company that understands our philosophy and mission and together we hope to continue to assist communities to reach their full potential.”
Mr Sun said he was proud and excited to be part of the 30th anniversary of Pako Festa 2012.
“I have been fortunate since arriving in Australia in 1989 and moving to Geelong in 1992 to have the support of Diverstat in enabling me to feel part of this community and grow my business opportunities.
“My family is involved in the local Chinese community with my wife Min Yuan currently president of the Chinese Association.
“We understand the importance of the role of Diversitat within the community and are pleased we are in a position to give something back.”
The festival is estimated to inject close to $2.5 million into the local economy.
A number of homages to Pako Festa’s history are planned as part of its birthday celebrations.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship Nicholas Kotsiras said the funding enabled Diversitat to create partnerships with other community organisations to foster cross-cultural and creative collaborations.
Pako Festa will be held on Saturday 25th February 2011.
