I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all our distinguished guests, members of BLIA, Volunteers, Dharma friends and all those who have participated and helped to make this year’s Buddha’s Day and Multicultural Day a success.
It is getting better and bigger each year. We thank you and are grateful for your continuing support and we look forward to future years of working in collaboration with you.

More and more people have an interest in Buddhist teachings, Buddhism is the fastest growing religion in Australia and the world. This is only possible because of your acceptance of the many different cultures and traditions which form part of the colourful and multicultural strand of Australia. Multiculturalism and multifaiths arewidely accepted and integrated in our daily lives as seen by the number of different cultures and religions in Melbourne alone.

The spirit of multiculturalism is derived from tolerance and compassion in which Buddhism shares the same spirit. The Buddhist philosophy and way of life of living in harmony and embracing differences through understanding and education is the key to unlock any prejudices and biasnesses.

The Buddha once said “Ehipassiko” meaning come and see and experience for yourself. May you all experience Dharma joy and loving kindness in your association with Buddhism.
 
Blessings from the Buddha and wishing you all best wishes for the forthcoming year.

On behalf of the Buddha’s Light International Association of Victoria, it is my great pleasure to welcome you once again to the 2008 Buddha’s Day and Multicultural Festival at Federation Square.

In 2008, we celebrate the 13th Festival – the 7th at Federation Square, in many senses, the Festival has come of age.

In commemorating the Buddha’s Birthday, we celebrate the significance of harmony, respect, peace and cultural awareness in our society and the importance of sharing joy and happiness with our families, friends and neighbours. 

Melbourne’s acceptance and encouragement of the Festival over these years has been astounding; it is a true testament to its internationally recognized harmonious community.  I thank you Melbourne for sharing our traditions and culture.  It has been a true honour.

The diversity of our cultural and faith communities enriches Melbourne social fabric; and as the future home of the Parliament of the World’s Religions in 2009, the world’s largest multi-faith gathering of religious and spiritual leaders, I cannot think of a city better suited to host such a momentous event.

I would like to thank the City of Melbourne; Federation Square; the Victorian Multicultural Commission and their management and staff for their continued generous support.

Special thanks to all our volunteers for their tremendous enthusiasm and tireless efforts, your contributions are the essence of the Venerable Master’s Hsing Yun’s hopes for BLIA.

We hope you enjoy Buddha’s Birthday celebration!

On behalf of the City of Melbourne, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 13th Buddha’s Day and Multicultural Festival, the 7th at Federation Square.

Melbourne has a welcoming and inclusive community which shares the traditions and customs of people from many different faiths, backgrounds and cultures. Our diverse community is united by vitality and passion for life.

The celebration of Buddha’s Day at Federation Square is a fantastic example of the unique cultural events enjoyed in Melbourne. It has grown to be one of our most popular.

The festival brings Buddhist people from across Victoria together in celebration and shares the beauty and teachings of the Buddhist tradition with the people of greater Melbourne.

I would like to thank the Buddhist community for sharing this peaceful celebration. The Buddha’s Light International Association of Victoria and the Fo Guang Shan Melbourne provide a valuable service to both Buddhists and non-Buddhists in our city.

The City of Melbourne is delighted this festival is being held in the centre of the city, at Federation Square. Enjoy Buddha’s Day in Melbourne!