Alice Springs Town Council has been recognised as a national leader in championing diversity and multiculturalism, being awarded the 2024 Cohesive Communities Award at the National Awards for Local Government earlier this month.
The prestigious award, presented on Thursday 4 July, highlights local government initiatives that foster inclusion and celebrate cultural diversity with ASTC recognised for the 2023 Diwali Night Market.
The Diwali Night Market was held with support from SBS on Demand and saw more than 2,000 residents descend on the Todd Mall for a night full of culture and fun, with traditional Punjab, Malayalee and Indian dance and music performances, international cuisine and craft exhibits. ASTC CEO Andrew Wilsmore said the award was great recognition of Council’s dedication to making everyone feel welcome in the community.
“We are thrilled to receive the 2024 Cohesive Communities Award, it’s a wonderful acknowledgement for the hard work our team members put in to benefit the community,” Mr Wilsmore said.
“The Council team is dedicated to working together and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and included.
“Putting these events on takes a lot of hard work and collaboration but it’s absolutely worth it to see the smiles on peoples’ faces.
“The Council team deserves a lot of credit for the work they have put in and I also want to thank all community members that voted for Council through this process. Most importantly everyone that came out to the Diwali Night Markets to help make it an incredible event.”