Harmony Day at Umina

Children from Years 1 and 2 at Umina Public School celebrated Harmony Day recently by finding out about the cultural backgrounds of their parents and grandparents.

"The results were astounding with 33 different countries represented from all four corners of the world," said Beachside Family Centre facilitator Ms Debbie Notara.

"Posters with the maps of all the countries were displayed and the children placed stickers next to those of their family heritage.

"This joint activity between Umina Public School and Beachside Family Centre was a fantastic opportunity for the children to celebrate cultural diversity and commit to harmony and mutual respect.

"It also raised awareness that Australians come from a vast range of backgrounds.

"The children also wore orange dress for the day and brought along an orange or carrot for recess.

"They had spent time during the previous weeks learning the song 'Hello my friend, Hello' in a number of different languages."

Press release, 29 Mar 2007 Debbie Notara, Beachside Family Centre