AMyanmar Food Fair was held at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre on the weekend, which raised funds and awareness about the situation in Myanmar following a military coup.

In February last year the military took over power in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, arrested the democratically elected members of parliaments and killed over 1000 peaceful protestors along with many politicians.

Event coordinator Dr Paul Thu said the event raised money for refugees and asylum seekers as a result of this military coup and raised awareness about the situation in Myanmar.

“We have 350 Karen and Karenni community members in Mount Gambier who arrived about 13 to 14 years ago as refugees as a result of the previous military coup,” Dr Thu said.

“The second purpose was to unite the Myanmar ethnic groups of different ethnic backgrounds, not only in Mount Gambier but also from Adelaide and Melbourne as well to show the solidarity with the people in Myanmar.

“We had a good turnout, we had United Myanmar Community of South Australia from Adelaide representing different ethnic groups including Burmese, Chin and Kachin.

“We had the Lisu community of Australia coming from Melbourne as well.

“We’re all happy with the result and we would like to thank everyone in Mount Gambier who attended.”

The event raised nearly $8000 through donations and sales of traditional Myanmar food and Dr Thu thanked everyone who donated or purchased food, which sold out quickly.

Speeches and various performances took place in the theatre, including dancing, singing and playing traditional instruments.

Local Labor MLC Clare Scriven delivered an opening speech and Member for Barker Tony Pasin MP also attended and gave a speech.

“I would just like to thank everyone, it’s beyond our expectations and we feel very supported by the community,” Dr Thu said.

“It was such a great turnout and hopefully we will be able to do that again as well.”