MELBOURNE
The Goan Overseas Association of Victoria (GOAV) marked a proud milestone—45 years of promoting Goemkarponn (Goan identity and culture) in Melbourne—with an unforgettable Sapphire Dinner Dance, held at the prestigious Glen Eira Council Hall Auditorium.
A night of elegance and community spirit, guests arrived between 5.30 and 6 pm, greeted warmly with a traditional glass of sherry, setting the tone for an evening steeped in tradition and celebration.
The hall was transformed with a shimmering sapphire-blue theme, mirrored in the formal attire of guests, creating a sophisticated and cohesive visual spectacle.
The ambience buzzed with excitement as the renowned 7-piece band ‘Colors’ took to the stage, delivering high-energy performances that kept the dance floor packed throughout the evening. Their lively music continued past 11 pm, with enthusiastic calls for encores from a delighted crowd. A special feature was the saxophonist who joined the crowd on the dance floor.
Guests were treated to an array of flavours starting with enticing entrée platters—including crowd favourites like crispy calamari—followed by a lavish buffet dinner, professionally catered by Silver Platter. The culinary experience was as memorable as the music and matched the elegance of the event.
A highlight of the evening was the dazzling blue photo corner, where guests captured keepsake moments against the event’s elegant backdrop. The celebration was further elevated with a series of raffle and door prizes, ranging from gourmet food hampers and premium wines and spirits to the grand prize—a brand-new air fryer.
In her address, GOAV President Annabel Henriques spoke about the enduring spirit of the Goan community in Victoria: “We are proud to have brought the community together for such a memorable night. As we celebrate 45 years, we also celebrate the blessings symbolised by the sapphire—beauty, wealth, and divine favour". On behalf of the GOAV committee, she thanked all attendees and sponsors with special appreciation extended to Glen Eira Council; and expressed her sincere gratitude to the GOAV committee and their partners, whose tireless efforts made it an evening to remember.
This Sapphire celebration was more than an anniversary—it was a reaffirmation of GOAV’s mission to preserve and promote Goan culture, tradition, and community in Melbourne. With this milestone event, GOAV honours its past while looking confidently toward a vibrant future.
