MELBOURNE
The Goan Overseas Association Victoria (GOAV) celebrated São João in true Goan tradition with the first-ever São João water celebration in Melbourne on June 8. The event at the Monash Aquatic and Recreational Centre (MARC) included fun team games in the pool, floral fashion, wave splashes, an introduction to hydrotherapy in the warm exercise pool and splashes for children in shallow pools with a tunnel, spa and fountain. Private lanes were booked for those who dared to jump in the deep end.
The São João celebration was free for all members and subsidized for guests; the day started with snacks and hot drinks. Pool toys, noodles and floral garlands/Kopels were provided. Members and friends enjoyed the vibrant celebration filled with laughter, community spirit, and Goan pride. A light lunch was also served with hot drinks available all day.
While thanking the guests for bringing in energy, colour, and joy, GOAV also expressed its gratitude to the Monash Council grant received for community cultural celebrations. GOAV President Annabel Henriques also conveyed her sincere appreciation to the MARC for the special support extended to GOAV for the first-ever São João pool celebration.
“It was the first time ever that the GOAV celebrated São João in the traditional Goan style of jumping in the water and having water activities,” GOAV President Annabel Henriques told The Goan.
“We were trying to encourage Goans to get over their apprehension for the water. Once they participated, they all had a great time. Those who came would definitely like to do it again and hopefully, we can make it bigger and better next time.”
The present GOAV executive committee comprises Annabel Henriques (President), Dominic Carvalho (Vice President), Pearl Rodrigues (General Secretary), Maryann Scales (Treasurer), Andrew Mendes, Ellis Femandes, Lawrence Sequeira, Stella Paes and Yohann Sanches (members).
Monash Community Grants Programme
The City of Monash actively supports cultural exchange and community celebrations through its extensive Monash Community Grants Programme (MCGP), one of the largest in Victoria.
A key component of the MCGP is the "Community Group Cultural Celebrations" category, which provides up to $1,500 in cash and/or hall hire support for one-off cultural events. These grants are designed to assist community groups in making creative contributions by supporting events that celebrate and bring people together to share the vibrant and diverse cultures within Monash and to enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
The São João event was supported under this category, aligning with the Council's commitment to fostering multicultural engagement and inclusion.
The MCGP is structured to encourage participation from a diverse range of community groups, including those working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, and multicultural communities.
Applicants are required to be not-for-profit incorporated associations or be auspiced by one, and must have no outstanding debts or documentation with the Council.
The City of Monash provides a variety of initiatives demonstrating a strong commitment to promoting cultural exchange and supporting events that enhance community cohesion and celebrate the municipality's rich cultural diversity.
