NEMA - North East Multicultural Association

21/06/2026

As the Connecting Cultures project comes to an end, NEMA proudly reflects on two incredible years of building connections, celebrating diversity, and strengthening community in Benalla.

Through free Driving lessons, English Conversation Classes, multicultural morning teas, community gatherings, and events such as Holi Festival/Colour Run, Harmony Day, and Children’s Week, Seniors Month Multicultural Morning Tea, we have created spaces where people from all backgrounds could connect, learn, and feel a sense of belonging.

We sincerely thank Waminda Community House for their valued partnership and ongoing support, along with our volunteers, service providers, partner organisations, and community members who made this journey possible.

While the Connecting Cultures project has now concluded, NEMA’s commitment to the Benalla community continues through advocacy, outreach, and ongoing community support. Together, we will keep working towards a more inclusive, connected, and welcoming community for all.

17/06/2026

In partnership with Pangerang Community Hub, NEMA hosted another wonderful Cultural Dinner last night, proudly funded by Grit and Resilience Program.

The evening brought together around 45 community members to share a delicious traditional Pakistani dinner, lovingly prepared by Faryal from NEMA.

Cultural Dinners are all about bringing people together, building connections, and creating opportunities to learn about and appreciate different cultures, traditions, and values through food. Sharing meals creates a space for conversation, understanding, and a stronger sense of belonging within our community.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening so meaningful.

17/06/2026

This Refugee Week, NEMA proudly acknowledges the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees in our community and across Australia.

Refugee Week is a time to celebrate the courage of people who have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety, hope, and a better future. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of compassion, inclusion, and belonging.

At NEMA, we are committed to supporting refugees and newly arrived families through settlement support, community connections, and opportunities to thrive. We honour the diverse stories, cultures, and experiences that enrich our region and strengthen our communities.

Together, let us continue to build a welcoming community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to belong.

17/06/2026

12/06/2026

Meet NEMA’s Cultural Advocate for the Alpine Region, a dedicated volunteer who plays an important role in supporting multicultural communities and building strong connections. As a bridge between NEMA and the community, they help foster inclusion, strengthen relationships, and ensure community voices are heard, supported, and connected to services and opportunities. We appreciate their commitment to creating a more connected and culturally inclusive region.

11/06/2026

🌟 Upcoming FREE Community Opportunities – June 2026 🌟

NEMA is pleased to share three fantastic opportunities for our community to learn, connect, and celebrate.

🔹 Victorian Renters Energy Webinar
Join this free online webinar hosted by ECCV in partnership with the State Electricity Commission of Victoria and Australian Energy Assessments. Learn about upcoming energy changes for renters, practical ways to reduce energy costs, stay comfortable throughout the seasons, and understand new energy efficiency standards for rental homes. Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria

📅 Tuesday, 16 June 2026
🕐 1:00pm – 2:00pm
💻 Online via Zoom

Please register via:
https://events.humanitix.com/victorian-renters-webinar-practical-energy-advice-for-multicultural-households

🔹 Language Teacher Training Opportunity
Are you passionate about sharing your language and culture? This training is designed for migrants interested in teaching their language to others. Participants will gain practical teaching skills, classroom strategies, and professional development opportunities while building confidence and community connections. Boas Language Academy

📅 Thursday, 25 June 2026
🕘 9:15am – 11:45am
📍 RDA Murray, 442 Swift Street, Albury
https://www.boaslanguageacademy.com.au/

🔹 Rural Women’s Network Volunteer Celebration
The Rural Women’s Network invites women volunteers to a special thank-you event recognising their invaluable contribution to our communities. Enjoy lunch, entertainment, and the launch of the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll while connecting with other inspiring women making a difference.

📍 The Albury Club
🍽️ Lunch and entertainment provided
https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/rwn-events/she-gives-back-celebrating-women-who-volunteer

NEMA encourages community members to take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to learn new skills, access valuable information, and celebrate the people who help make our communities stronger and more connected.

For more information or registration details, please contact NEMA or refer to the event flyers.

09/06/2026

🍽️ Join Us for a Special Pakistan Dinner! 🇵🇰

NEMA is excited to partner with Pangerang Community Hub for a delicious Halal Pakistan Dinner, bringing our community together to celebrate culture, food, and connection.

📅 Wednesday, 17th June
🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Purbrick Hall, Cathedral in Ovens St
💲 $15 per person

This month’s cultural ambassador is our very own Faryal from NEMA, sharing the rich flavours and warmth of Pakistani culture through food.

Come along, enjoy a beautiful meal, meet new people, and celebrate multiculturalism together.

Spots are limited, so book early!

📞 Call 5721 3813 for more information or scan the QR code to book.

08/06/2026

Exciting news for Benalla! NEMA is incredibly grateful to the Tomorrow Today Foundation for funding our project, “Connecting Cultures – Celebrating Together.”

Join us as we bring families together to celebrate multiculturalism and diversity, strengthen community connections, minimise isolation, and build lasting friendships.

Waminda Community House, Benalla
22nd September 2026
Time: TBA

Thank you for supporting a stronger, more connected community!

Great ideas for local impact!

Twelve Benalla community groups have received a share of almost $40,000 through the 2026 Tomorrow Today Community Grants program.

From educational resources for local children to multicultural and inclusive community events, these projects will help strengthen connections, create opportunities and support better outcomes for young people across our region.

Grant recipients celebrated their success at an award presentation last night with donors, Councilors, board members and the Tomorrow Today team.

Congratulations to all the successful applicants - we can't wait to see your projects come to life!

03/06/2026

🚗 Did you know? Victorian drivers can now claim a 20% Vehicle Rego Rebate!

The Victorian Government is offering 20% back on eligible vehicle registration costs to help with cost-of-living pressures. You may receive up to $186 back per vehicle (maximum 2 vehicles per person). Applications are open from 1 June to 31 July 2026.

Who can apply?
If you have paid rego for a personal light vehicle (car, ute, motorcycle, van or similar under 4.5 tonnes) between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026, you may be eligible.

How to apply:

1. Create or log in to your Service Victoria account
2. Have ready:
• Vehicle registration number
• Victorian driver licence or VicRoads customer number
• Bank account details
3. Apply online through the Service Victoria app or website. Most payments are processed within 30 days.

Apply here: https://service.vic.gov.au/find-services/transport-and-driving/registration/rego-rebate

If you need help applying, support is available through libraries and community services. Please share with family and friends who may benefit!

30/05/2026

💜 Women & Money in Australia Workshop 💜

Join us for a FREE workshop supporting multicultural and multifaith women to build financial confidence, independence, and wellbeing.

Learn practical tools for making healthy money decisions, protecting yourself from scams, and strengthening financial wellbeing.

📅 24 June | 10:30am – 1:30pm
📍 Suite 4, 90–100 Ovens Street, Wangaratta

Bookings are essential as spots are limited. Come along, connect, and grow your financial confidence!

For Bookings:
Call on 0477 995 306 or
Email on [email protected]