The Filipino Australian Community of Albury Wodonga (FACAW Inc) has been quietly making a big difference in the lives of many Filipino families in the Border region. From helping new migrants settle in, to running cultural events and joining local festivals, this community group has become a familiar and welcoming presence in Albury Wodonga and nearby towns.
One of their recent highlights was joining the Golden Horseshoe Festival held in Beechworth, Victoria in April this year. For the first time, the FACAW dancers were invited to take part in the festival’s cultural performances and street parade.
Dressed in colourful Filipino attire, the performers showcased traditional dances on stage, then joined the afternoon parade, proudly marching with the Philippine and Australian flags and their Bayanihan Spirit banner. Some of the dances were inspired by tribal movements from the Igorot people of northern Philippines.
FACAW President Josie Maxwell said the event gave both long-time residents and new arrivals a chance to be part of something meaningful.
Josie says, “Many of the FACAW community have settled in the Border region since the mid-1970s but some of our Filipino community members have only very recently arrived in Albury Wodonga and that participating and volunteering in the Golden Horseshoe Festival is a wonderful way for our newest community members to connect with and feel a part of the local community, enhance social cohesion and cultural inclusion, promote local arts and culture and foster collaboration with the general public and other groups.”
FACAW was formed in 2005 and became an incorporated group in 2009. It’s run entirely by volunteers and is best known for its annual Fiesta Filipina, which brings people together to enjoy Filipino food, music and dance.
The group also offers practical support, helping community members with information on work, education, health and how to access local services. Their Facebook page is a go-to place for newly arrived Filipinos looking for help or connection in the Albury-Wodonga area.
At the heart of FACAW’s work is the Filipino value of Bayanihan – helping one another without expecting anything in return. And through each dance, shared meal or friendly chat, they continue to build stronger links between cultures and generations.
To learn more about the group, email Josie Maxwell at judymypet@yahoo.com.au.
