Whittlesea Interfaith Network Visits ANMC

On Saturday, 21 June 2025, the Australian Nepalese Multicultural Centre (ANMC) welcomed members of the Whittlesea Interfaith Network for a visit focused on learning, cultural exchange, and interfaith understanding.

Ms. Amrita Gurung, Vice President of the Whittlesea Interfaith Network and Subeksha Shrestha facilitated the visit. The group was warmly received at the ANMC premises in Diggers Rest, where they explored the facilities and learned about ANMC’s role in preserving and promoting Nepalese culture and heritage in Victoria.

ANMC President Dr. Tilak Pokharel, Priest Narayan Gyawali, and long-time supporter Mr. Bharansher Rai led the welcome and shared the journey of ANMC, its history, purpose, and key initiatives. They highlighted ANMC’s role as a multicultural space for festivals, religious observances, and community events that bring together people from diverse backgrounds.

During the visit, guests and ANMC representatives engaged in meaningful discussions on:

• The role of multicultural centres in supporting social cohesion
• The growing importance of interfaith understanding in Victoria
• Ways to collaborate for future programs and events that reflect shared values

Dr. Pokharel also extended a formal invitation to the guests to attend upcoming ANMC events, including the annual Teej Festival in August, which is one of the largest Nepalese cultural celebrations in Victoria.

Members of the ANMC Executive Committee and Engineering Sub-Committee were also present, showcasing the Centre’s teamwork and volunteer-led development efforts. The guests were particularly interested in the ongoing infrastructure projects and ANMC’s long-term masterplan to build a permanent cultural precinct.

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to build stronger relationships and continue working together to enhance the multicultural experience across Victoria. It was a reminder of how cultural dialogue, respect, and collaboration can help build more inclusive communities.

ANMC thanks Gurinder Kaur, President and the Whittlesea Interfaith Network family for their visit and looks forward to many more such meaningful exchanges.