Australian Filipino Business and Workers Club Incorporated

Photo from left: Consul Anthony Reyes, Allan Shearan MP, Cr. Raymund Atalla, Overall Event Coordinator Raquel Pellero, Michael Vassili, Emma de Vera, Ed Husic MP, Mayor Alan Pendleton, John Robertson MP, Richard Amery MP, Cr. Charlie Lowles, Jules Sanchez, AFBWCI Pres. Ariel Satorre, Cr. Stephen Bali.

Wow Blacktown Celebrates 2011 Multicultural Fiesta

Various ethno-linguistic groups got together on Saturday, 19 March 2011, to celebrate the first-ever WOW Blacktown Multicultural Fiesta at the Blacktown Olympic Park, Athletic Centre, Eastern Road Rooty Hill.

A fiesta is a popular event that showcases the best in the traditions and culture of a particular community. For the Blacktown Multicultural Fiesta, organisers aim to raise awareness about the unique culture of Blacktown made varied and colourful by the different groups residing in the area. The celebration hopes to foster stronger bonds of friendship in order to form one united community.

The unpredictable weather initially made organisers, guests and participants uncomfortable, but as they say, “the show must go on.”

Ariel Satorre, President of the Australian Filipino Business and Workers Club Incorporated (AFBWCI) hosted the Fiesta, while Raquel Pellero, Secretary of AFBWCI served as Overall Event Coordinator. NSW Premier Kristina Keneally and the Mayor of Blacktown, Cr. Alan Pendleton graced the event.

A parade kicked off the whole-day celebration. Participants dressed in traditional costumes of different countries marched around the area. They were joined by the performers,dance group and choir members who also wore colourful uniforms.

One of the highlights of the Blacktown Fiesta was the coronation of the winners of the Wow Blacktown Beauty Pageant. LBC Express, Hari sa Padala sponsored the contest. Monique Shippen was crowned as the 2011 Miss Wow Blacktown Beauty Queen. Shippen also won the award for Best in Traditional Costume. Carla Soriano won first runner up. Robbie Urqueza was awarded the title Miss Blacktown Charity Queen. Urqueza also brought home two special awards, Best in Talent and Best in Evening Gown. Miss Photogenic went to Milica Borovicanin.

The singing competition was a favourite among the crowd as it brought back happy memories of life back home, where fiesta celebrations are filled with singing,dancing and merrymaking.

The event was supported by the Blacktown City Council and The Workers Team, headed by Elias Kennas.