City unites in grief on eve of Harmony Day

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has joined with other civic leaders to express the heartache being felt across our city, almost a week after the Christchurch tragedy.   “Given our close connections with New Zealand, our largest multicultural community, we share their grief. Our thoughts are with them as they reflect on so many lives lost,’’ he said.

“Words are rarely enough but seeing our community come together to support each other in times of such pain gives me great comfort.”    Mayor Tate said tomorrow’s Harmony Day was a reminder to come together.

“More than ever, it is important to demonstrate we are an inclusive community where everyone feels a sense of belonging,’’ he said.

Forward Church Senior Pastor Daniel Tiaiti joined the Mayor.

“This heinous act of violence was intended to segregate, to divide and to incite hate. Instead, in the true spirit of ANZAC, it has brought us closer together,’’ he said. 

“Since landing on the shores of Gallipoli over 100 years ago, our two nations have stood together and overcome a common enemy. Today, we stand against the enemy of terror and fear.’’

Forward Church represents a large New Zealand community in the Helensvale area.   Media note: Orange is Harmony Day’s official colour and relates to communication, freedom of ideas and encouragement of mutual respect.   To acknowledge Harmony Day, lighting across the city will switch to orange tomorrow night.   There will be orange lights at locations including Nerang Street, Southport; Surfers Paradise sign, Cavill Ave; Broadbeach sign, Victoria Park; Surf Parade, Broadbeach; Bulletin Park, Broadbeach; and Home of the Arts, Surfers Paradise.   Celebration events will be held across the city this week to showcase our rich diversity, including the Gold Coast Multicultural Network’s series of pop-up performances at schools and public places.   This year marks the 20th year of Harmony Day. For more information visit harmony.gov.au