Today is Harmony Day

Each year, Resthaven celebrates Harmony Day and Australia’s cultural diversity.

It’s a day of celebrating inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging; a day for all Australians to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common.

Priscilla de Pree, Resthaven’s Multicultural Project Officer, encourages celebratory events across Resthaven’s network of services. She says, ‘The central message for Harmony Day is that ‘everyone belongs’. It is a community celebration.’

‘Resthaven recognises and embraces the diversity of the Australian community, which is reflected in Resthaven’s residents, clients, employees and volunteers.’

‘Did you know that Resthaven’s employees come from 74 different countries and our clients & residents from 80 countries?’

‘This is a considerable number and represents the diversity of our workforce of more than 2,000 employees and around 450 volunteers.’

‘This year, the staff at Head Office Wayville will celebrate Harmony Day with our traditional shared lunch.’

‘This continues the true Aussie tradition of ‘bringing a plate to share’, but the guidelines are a bit different – staff will bring a dish that represents their cultural heritage or upbringing, snacks from different countries, orange coloured food or anything else in the spirit of celebrating cultural diversity.’

‘Events will also be held at other sites. It is always an enjoyable day.’