Media Release
Friday, 6 December 2013
Moonee Valley residents recognised at Victoria's Multicultural Awards for Excellence
Several Moonee Valley residents and community members received awards at Victoria's Multicultural Awards for Excellence, which took place on Wednesday, 4 December at Government House.
The awards, run by the Victorian State Government, acknowledge outstanding achievements and services of people and organisations whichhave actively supported cultural diversity and made a real impact in promoting community harmony.
Moonee Valley Mayor Cr Jan Chantry offered her congratulations.
“I am very proud of all the recipients representing Moonee Valley, for their contributions to the community in promoting cross-cultural engagement,” she said.
“Their work is very important in harbouring a cohesive and harmonious society where differences of culture are not only accepted, but celebrated. Moonee Valley prides itself on being a culturally rich city. There is always so much to learn from what makes us different, and I believe we’re a stronger and more vibrant city because of it.
“I wish these worthy recipients all the very best in their future community work, and again, congratulate them on their achievements to date.”
Moonee Valley resident Frank Di Blasi was awarded the prestigious Premier’s Award for Community Harmony.
Frank established the Italian senior citizens club in Moonee Ponds in 1977 and was the inaugural president of the Kensington United Soccer Club before founding the Avondale Heights and East Keilor Resident’s Association in 2000, of which he is still the President. He is currently a member of the Moonee Valley Interfaith Network.
Ahmed Dini was announced as the winner of one of two Ambassador Awards, recognising people who have shown exemplary leadership by promoting cultural diversity and positively influencing cultural awareness in the community.
Ahmed is Event Manager and Chairman of the Australian Somali Football Association and led the Unite FC tours to the 2011 Mediterranean International Cup and 2012 Madrid Cup. Ahmed has previously been a Moonee Valley 2035 Ambassador, is a former SEED Project participant and sits on the board of Flemington Neighbourhood Renewal.This is the latestin a number of prestigious individual accolades Ahmed has received, including the 2012 Victorian Local Hero of the Year and the 2013 SACS Award for Leadership in the not-for-profit sector.
Several other Moonee Valley residents received Meritorious Awards for their contributions - Romana Zetko, Ivan Valencic, Marija Maljanek, and Frank Cheng.
For more information, please visit the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s website.
ENDS
Media enquiries:
Letitia Duncan, Media and Communications Team Leader
Mobile: 0408 570 106; Email:
mvcc.vic.gov.au | 9243 8888
9 Kellaway Ave – PO Box 126 Moonee Ponds VIC 3039
/mooneevalleycc