Events celebrating our multicultural community

Cardinia Shire Council, with our community partners, are proud to host several big events throughout the year to celebrate our multicultural community. 

Image of the inaugural Cardinia's Refugee Festival with the Bollydazzlers Dancetroupe performing at the main stage, June 2023

Back by popular demand, you’re invited to Fusion Festival 2025 - our World Refugee Week celebrations!

The event is a free celebration, featuring:

  • refugee performers from around the world
  • music and dance
  • food stalls from diverse cuisines
  • youth and children space
  • opportunities to meet and learn about the work of organisations that resettle and support refugees, and much more!

The event is an opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and determination of those who were forced to flee their homeland and encountered all kinds of persecutions. We acknowledge and celebrate their incredible contribution today in their new land, Australia.

Part of World Refugee Week, the event honours the courage of refugees around the world.

Fusion Festival 2025 

Family fun, food and entertainment 

Date: Friday, 20 June 2025   

Time: 3:30pm - 6pm   

Location: Cardinia Cultural Centre, 40 Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham 

Join us for a vibrant afternoon filled with: 

  • Delicious food and service stalls   
  • Dynamic performances from talented artists   
  • Fun activities for kids and youth   

Film Screening and Q&A 

Date: Friday, 20 June 2025   

Time: 6pm – 8:30pm  

Location: Cardinia Cultural Centre, 40 Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham 

More information: Bookings required. Tickets available at TicketSearch Online

After the family fun Fusion Festival event the Cardinia Cultural Centre is hosting a screening of the award-winning documentary, “Batoor: A Refugee Journey,” at 6pm. This will be followed by a Q&A with renowned photographer and filmmaker Barat Ali Batoor.

Learn about the lived experiences of refugees from some of our local community members.