The Honourable John Brumby MP Premier of Victoria

It gives me great pleasure to send my best wishes to the Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria on the occasion of your annual Buddha's Day and Multicultural Festival.

This celebration in honour of the Buddha's birthday is one of the highlights of the multicultural events calendar and is well-attended by a diverse cross-section of the broader Victorian community.  One of the reasons your festival is so popular is that your dedication to the principles of peace and equality speak to the wider Victorian community as these are also the foundations of multiculturalism and social harmony.

The Victorian Government believes that our social, cultural and religious diversity is one of our greatest assets, and actively encourages people to share and take pride in their cultural and religious heritage.

On behalf of the Victorian Government, I extend my appreciation to the Buddha's Light International Association of Victoria and its members.  Your work in the community is a strong expression of your deep humanitarian values and I thank you for your many contributions to promoting social harmony in the State of Victoria.

Please accept my kind regards on this special occasion as you celebrate the vesak.

Hon John Brumby MP

Premier of Victoria