■ What: The Cedars of Lebanon Folkloric Group’s 35th anniversary will be
celebrated.
■ When: October 14, from 11am to 5pm.
■ Where: Darling Harbour.
■ For more information call Elie Akouri on 0414 750 013 or email e.akouri@bigpond.com or visit www.clfg.org.

 

■ Elie Akouri, who has managed all the Lebanese carnivals held in Darling Harbour on a volunteer basis, and has given countless radio, TV and newspaper interviews with the aim of promoting the Australian and Lebanese cultures, and multiculturalism in general.

THE Cedar of Lebanon Folkloric Group carnival, which has been brining the Lebanese and Australian cultures together since 1977, will host a spectacular event at Darling Harbour on October 14 to celebrate its 35th anniversary.
The carnival is an annual event which brings together young artists from the Australian Lebanese community, giving them the opportunity to interact, promote and share their talents with other ethnic groups.
Families from every cultural background are invited to come to the event to enjoy the entertainment provided by Lebanese folkloric dance groups, music as well as Lebanese arts and crafts.
There will be Lebanese DJ Angel, live music performed by the well-known Lebanese singer Ales Hadchiti, belly dancers, VIBZ Performing Artz Group, Grupo Folcloric Regional – Portugal, the Cyprus Community of NSW Performing Group, St Charbel’s College dance group, Fouad Alwarhan for arts and crafts and much more.
Elie Akouri, who is a volunteer organiser, puts his heart and soul into making this event the biggest and best entertainment experience for everyone across Sydney.
‘‘The event this year will be bigger than ever, attracting many people to see more about Lebanon and its culture,’’ he said.
‘‘There will be major raffles prizes, and oney from raffle tickets will help support The Cedars of Lebanon Folkloric Group’s participation at the 2013 world dance festival.’’ The affle will be drawn during the carnival.
The Cedar of Lebanon Folkloric Group began in 1977 with only seven volunteers, including Elie Akouri. Over the years the group has achieved much and, during the past 35 years, it has taught the Lebanese culture to more than 530 boys and girls.
Many former members who began when they were single, have since come back as married people, bringing their own children to perform and learn the Lebanese culture.
‘‘The longevity of the group illustrates its success, with members and their leaders holding it together,’’Mr Akouri said.
‘‘All members join voluntarily. They perform at many charitable functions, without any monetary return. The leader of the group also provides his teaching and time voluntarily.’’
This year,Mr Akouri received an award from the Premier of NSW.
He is determined to open a club for the Lebanese community>

Sydney Morning Herald

By the Journalist

 Mrs. Michelle Karaman -Jones