Your Community

Maori Culture Community of Geelong

Your President & Secretary

Vice President - Dennis Collins, Secretary - David Edmonson

Your Address

Community Hall or Meeting Place Address

Diversitat Community Centre, Virginia Todd Centre, Clarence St, Geelong West

Your Phone/Fax/Email

www.maoricommunity-geelong.org.au

How long has your community been operating?

Since 17 July 2004

How many members does your community have?

About 30 paid members

What is the first language of your community?

English/Maori

When did members of your community first start arriving in Australia. Was there a period of peak immigration?

From 20 to 2 years ago, there was no peak period as such. Members come from all over New Zealand, not from one particular tribe, town or city.

What National Days, religious days or special events does your community celebrate?

Waitangi Day (Treaty of Waitangi) – 6 th February

Briefly describe your national dress - including any items of special significance.

Women wear skirts made from New Zealand flax with a woven bodice, mainly for performances. Men wear a skirt of flax.

Briefly describe your community’s arts – including music/dance/song or artworks.

• Kapahaka – song and dance
• Learning the language
• Maori Designs

Briefly describe your community’s traditional food & drinks - including foods and drinks you would avoid (if any)

• Hangi – food cooked in the ground
• All seafood
• Boil ups – pork bones and watercress, beef bones and puha (Scottish thistle)

Anything else you’d like to add?

We hope to provide services and opportunities for our youth and new families. Provide protocol and learning of our culture for all.