Lighting up NHQ this Diwali

Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus. In line with Fire and Emergency’s open and inclusive culture, our people came together to celebrate Diwali at NHQ on 17 November 2021.

Deputy Chief Executive Organisational Strategy and Capability Development, Russell Wood, lit the traditional LED lamp to welcome Goddess Lakshmi and was joined by Mitchell Murray, Tanya Dednam, Venkat Raghavan, Stefan Tiefenbacher and Elizabeth Church for opening remarks.

The kitchen area on Level 4 was decked up with bright and colourful lanterns and  LED diyas (a small cup-shaped oil lamp made of baked clay) and Rangoli (an art form traditionally performed by women using dyed powders to create patterns on floors and courtyards) to add to the festivities.

Our people at NHQ wore traditional Indian clothing and were entertained with dance performances, solo singing, bingo and awards with gifts and treats. There were also Indian delicacies and sweets including the popular samosas, ladoos, chakli, almond halwa.

Diwali usually lasts five days and is celebrated during mid-October and mid-November. Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

Fire and Emergency has also created some resources to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Diwali. The resources focus on taking a few simple precautions, you will reduce fire risks for yourself and your family. You can access these on the Bookshelf on the Portal.

A very happy Diwali to everyone celebrating!