Media Release by the Naracoorte Lucindale Council

World Cup fever is set to take over Naracoorte for the Limestone Coast Multicultural Soccer Carnival, Saturday 9th of November, commencing at 9.00am. The carnival will use sport to celebrate a diverse and harmonious Australia by bringing together newly arrived migrants and first and second-generation migrants from different cultural backgrounds from the communities of Limestone Coast (SA), Murray and Mallee (SA), Barwon-West (VIC) and Grampians (VIC). The carnival will communicate the message of shared value – respect, equality and freedom.

“The purpose of the Limestone Coast Multicultural Soccer Carnival is to use a shared interest in the ‘World Game’ – soccer, to unite newly arrived migrants and first and second-generation migrants from different cultural backgrounds while forging community connections with sporting clubs, community leaders, services, council and other organisations” Mayor Vickery OAM said.

The Multicultural carnival is a one-day event being held at the Naracoorte and District Sports Centre. Participants and spectators will be entertained and engaged in a variety of activities including 7 aside, ½ field round robin soccer competition, ALDI MiniRoos, coach’s clinic and ‘United by football’ community connection workshop.

Naracoorte United Soccer Club president Jon Thurlow said “the club is excited about hosting the carnival. It’s such a great opportunity for children and families to come together, get active and celebrate multiculturalism through sport”. This event is funded by the Department of Home Affairs Fostering Integration Grants program. The grants support new initiatives by not-for-profit organisations that will help migrants better integrate into Australian life through employment and community participation.

“Soccer is a sport for all, this is embraced by the carnival’s theme of Respect, Equality and Freedom” Mayor Vickery OAM said.

The event partners Naracoorte Lucindale Council, Naracoorte United Soccer Club, Football Federation South Australia, Football Victoria, Naracoorte United Soccer Club and the Australian Migrant Resource Centres are working together to ensure a successful carnival on and off the pitch.

For further details about the carnival program, team and ALDI Mini Roos registrations or how your community or organisation can be involved, contact Caroline Menzel at Naracoorte Lucindale Council on 8760 1100 or visit the Limestone Coast Multicultural Soccer Carnival web page.