Lantern parade a tribute to Queensland’s new arrivals

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Services, Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, says Brisbane’s Luminous Lantern Parade is an ideal opportunity to welcome Queensland’s new residents.

Formerly known as the ‘Refugee Lantern Parade’, this is the first year it has been known as the ‘Luminous Lantern Parade’ with a wider focus on welcoming all new arrivals to the Sunshine State.

Senator Fierravanti-Wells, who has special responsibility for Settlement Services and Multicultural Affairs, said it was a real pleasure to attend the event.

“The parade used a magnificent display of colours, lanterns, music and dancing to celebrate the many positive contributions of migrants and refugees as members of Queensland society,” Senator Fierravanti-Wells said.

“I am pleased that this event was so well received by the community.

“Since October 1945, more than 7.5 million people have migrated to Australia–over 800 000 of these people arrived under the Humanitarian Programme.

“Migrants and refugees make positive contributions every day to the social, cultural and economic fabric of our society.

“The parade is another great example of the hospitality of Queenslanders and this is a wonderful celebration of the state’s diversity.

“Australia has always prided itself on welcoming new citizens and the Luminous Lantern Parade is another example of our rich cultural diversity.”