MELBOURNE GOANS CELEBRATE WORLD GOA DAY 2008: A REPORT
Way back in the year 2000, the concept of having Goans the world over get
together to celebrate their state, their lifestyle, their language and their
culture was mooted by Mr. Rene Barretto, an eminent Goan settled in the
United Kingdom. That gem of an idea is what resulted in an annual fiesta
called "World Goa Day" and is celebrated by the Goan Diaspora the world over
in the month of August; close to the actual day which is the 20th of August.
Goans in Australia too have been celebrating this day, as the day when they
can show off their unique culture. While different places celebrate this day
in
different ways, here in Melbourne this great day is organised and celebrated
on an annual basis by Melgoans, whose signature dinner dance called "World
Goa Day 2008" was recently held on the 23rd of August, at the packed
Springvale City Hall, Springvale.
The nite was kick started by their very Goan master of ceremonies, Newton
Marques with 'Joe and the Soul Mates' providing scintillating music which
brought thrills to the hearts and souls of those present. Nostalgic songs
from
Goa, in Konkani, the local language of Goans, were sung on the night,
bringing many a tear as a wave of nostalgia swept through the main function
hall. Prizes galore were also distributed all through the night during the
different sets of music played. And while all this excitement was going on,
there was a professional DJ, 'A Pros Light & Sound' and a separate show in
the annexe hall, specially catering to the needs of the young and young at
heart! It was a sight to behold as a few not so young people also had a good
time dancing to the tunes played on the night by the DJ. Two types of music
for the price of one!
Among the highlights on the night, was a spectacular 'Elvis Presley' floor
show put up by a Goan Elvis, Josephat Fernandes, popularly known as Joe.
Elvis thrilled the crowd as he belted old time favourites, and he had to
return for an encore! Elvis also distributed roses to some ladies in the
hall.
Speciality Goan festive food was served and of course 'Sorpotel','Xacuti'
and vegetarian dishes were on the menu along with Aussie favourites which
included lasagne etc. The banquet was well laid out with a professional
display set up, and the meal was concluded with a special Indian dessert
called 'Kulfi, Fruit Salad, Tea & Coffee.
Oscar Lobo, World Goa Day Coordinator in Melbourne thanked his supportive
committee - Amanda Faria, Melissa Fernandes, Henrietta Cure & Callan Cure.
A special thanks to Salus Correia and his family and all the Goans and their
friends for gracing the occasion that night.
