The Mackay Malayalee Association Inc. hosted its Onam Ponnonam 2025 celebrations on Saturday, 13 September, at the Tommy Webster Memorial Hall in Walkerston.
Formed in 2012 and incorporated this year as a non-profit organisation, the Mackay Malayalee Association is a community of people from Kerala, the southern state of India. While promoting Kerala’s cultural heritage, traditions, and festivals, the association also embraces Australian values of multiculturalism, mutual respect, and social responsibility.
Onam, is regarded as the national festival of Kerala, and honours the return of the legendary King Mahabali to visit his people.
The festivities began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome address from Association President Nidheeshkumar Krishnapillai. A series of cultural performances then took centre stage, delighting the audience.
Mayor Gregg Williamson attended as chief guest and presented the certificate of incorporation to the association’s executive committee. Miss Tamara Flynn, Team Leader for Community Lifestyle at Mackay Regional Council, was also among the special guests.
The program continued with outdoor games, a sumptuous vegetarian feast, and a spirited tug-of-war competition with both men and women enthusiastically joining in.
The event not only showcased the richness of Kerala’s traditions but also reflected the strong community spirit of the Mackay Malayalee Association, bringing people together in celebration of culture and connection.
The Mackay Malayalee Association celebrated Onam 2025 with cultural performances, games, and a community feast in Walkerston. Photo credit: Paul Fernandez
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
