March 21 was Harmony Day and is an occasion for people from any culture or country to get together and share their cultural ties while learning about people with alternative backgrounds.

Migrant support worker with Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre Gwen Young said the gathering yesterday heard from three different guest speakers with diverse backgrounds who reside in and contribute to our fair city.

Alice Silva gave a talk to represent the local Indigenous community, Linh Tran told how she travelled from Vietnam on a boat some years ago and Laney Luk explained about her transition from the busy metropolitan city of Hong Kong to the quieter lifestyle Dubbo has to offer.

Ms Young said the day was an opportunity for people who were new to Dubbo “to share and get support from people who have been through similar experiences, and make friends”.

Yesterday everyone brought a plate of food that was typical of their culture and some women took the chance to dress in their traditional cultural attire.

Harmony Day is not the only opportunity for people who are new to Dubbo or Australia to find support.

The multicultural Women’s Group meets once a month and is the perfect place to “get in contact with other people from a similar background who can offer help in communication and support,”Ms Young said.

“Most people who come are thrilled to hear other’s stories.

“They find relief and are able to settle in a lot easier if they can meet others.”

To find out more about the group or how to get involved contact the Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre on 6882 2100.

To find out more about Harmony Day visit www.harmony.gov.au.