Vaisakhi Hockey5s Festival celebrates culture and sport in Shepparton

On Saturday, 29 March 2025, Shepparton came alive with a vibrant celebration of culture, sport and community spirit at the Vaisakhi Hockey5s Festival. Held at the Shepparton Hockey Centre, the event brought together people from all walks of life to commemorate Vaisakhi, the Sikh festival that marks the harvest season and the formation of the Khalsa in 1699. This unique festival blended tradition with modern sport, providing a day of exciting hockey action, cultural performances and delicious food. One of the many highlights of the day was the Hockey5s tournament, where local and regional teams showcased their skills in the fast-paced, thrilling version of hockey. The festival's tournament provided an excellent platform for both seasoned players and beginners to take part in the fun while embracing the spirit of Vaisakhi.

The Vaisakhi festival also offered attendees the chance to immerse themselves in a range of traditional activities. A stunning martial arts performance captivated the crowd, showcasing skill and discipline in a traditional style. The martial arts display was a powerful reminder of the rich history and martial heritage of the Sikh community, blending athleticism with cultural pride. One of the more interactive elements of the festival was the turban workshop. Attendees both young and old, had the opportunity to learn the art of tying a turban, an important and meaningful part of Sikh identity. Volunteers guided participants, providing insight into the history and significance of this practice, making it an enriching cultural experience for all.

Face painting stations were set up, where children and adults alike could adorn themselves with vibrant colours and designs, further enhancing the festive atmosphere. Traditional dishes were available for all to enjoy, including savoury snacks, drinks and hearty curries served with rice. The Vaisakhi exhibition was another highlight, offering a closer look at Sikh history, culture and the significance of Vaisakhi.

The Vaisakhi Hockey5s Festival was not just a celebration of sport and culture, it was a true representation of community spirit. The event brought together people from all backgrounds, united by the joy of sharing and experiencing something new. It provided an opportunity for people to learn about Sikh culture in an open, inclusive environment, while also enjoying the fun of a hockey tournament and the vibrancy of traditional performances. The success of the event is a testament to the strength of Shepparton's multicultural community and its ability to come together to celebrate important cultural events in a respectful and joyous way.

A big thank you to all of our junior and senior teams for participating, and congratulations to tournament winners BCA Blue (junior division) and Aussie Punjabi Sports Club (senior division).

A special thank you to the Victoria State Government Multicultural Festivals and Events Program, Goulburn Valley Hockey Association, Greater Shepparton City Council, and event partner Sikh Alliance Shepparton, who all made this evet possible. Also, thank you to special guests Kim O’Keeffe MP (Member for Shepparton), Sam Atukorala (CEO Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District), Anthony Brophy (Councillor for Greater Shepparton City Council) and Wendy Lovell MP (Member for Northern Victoria Region) for attending the event.