Creating Vesak history in Sydney
By Graeme Lyall AM, The Buddhist Channel, April 5, 2005
Sydney, Australia -- For the first time in the history of Australia, Vesak will receive recognition by the Government of New South Wales. An exhibition depicting the life of the Buddha and activities of Buddhist organisations and temples of the three major traditions of Buddhism will be staged in the Fountain Court in the foyer of the New South Wales Parliament House from 23-27 May.
Currently, 2% of the Australian population now claim Buddhism as their preferred religious faith. The Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir AC, and the Premier of New South Wales, the Honorable Bob Carr, will officially open the exhibition on Wednesday, 25th of May.
On Saturday, 28th of May, at the Bankstown Town Hall, the celebrations will continue with a Dhamma talk by Venerable Ajahn Brahmavamso, Abbot of Bodhinyana Forest Monastery in Western Australia, and will feature cultural performances from Australians of Asian background as well as exhibitions of paintings and displays of Buddhist activities in the State of New South Wales.
Buddhism is Australia?s fastest growing religion and this important celebration will contribute to its continuing growth.
