The West Gippsland Indian Community recently hosted its inaugural Diwali - festival of lights - at Labertouche.
The festival is one of the most cherished celebrations in Indian culture. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
It is a time for families to come together to decorate their homes with lamps, share meals, exchange gifts, and offer prayers for peace, prosperity, and new beginnings.
WGIC chairperson Yaniesha Pillay said the Diwali event at Labertouche was more than a celebration - "it's a moment to honour our heritage, strengthen unity, and share our culture with the wider West Gippsland community."
WGIC was founded to bring together people of Indian heritage and the broader community in West Gippsland through cultural celebration, inclusion, and support.
"Our group emerged from a shared desire to create a stronger sense of belonging for Indian families living across the region - connecting generations, fostering friendships, and celebrating diversity.
The group has grown rapidly to more than 220 members.
"Our community is wonderfully diverse, with members who migrated over 40 years ago as well as those who have only recently made West Gippsland their home.
"We represent not only people born in India but also members of the Indian diaspora from Fiji, Kenya, South Africa, and Pakistan, each contributing their unique heritage and experiences," she said.
The group's values are based on community, includion, culture and compassion.
WGIC supports its members and the wider community through a range of engaging activities and events that bring people together throughout the year including:
Cultural celebrations - Diwali, Easter gatherings, and community festivals;
Social events - bingo night, coffee and conversations, and family get togethers;
Health and recreation - adult and children's swimming lessons, badminton, and pickleball sessions.
Community support: Food drives and initiatives to assist people living rough or facing hardship.
Yaniesha said the group's vision was "to foster a vibrant, united, and inclusive West Gippsland where culture, community, and compassion come together — celebrating diversity and supporting one another to thrive."