10 Outstanding Sri Lankans in Australia to be Honoured at the Lankan Fest 2025

Melbourne is set for its biggest Sri Lankan celebration yet as Lankan Fest marks its 10th anniversary this Sunday, 16 November, at Crown Riverwalk.The milestone event celebrates a decade of culture, unity, and community pride — and honours the Sri Lankan Australians who continue to inspire the next generation.

This year introduces the Luminary Awards, recognising ten outstanding Sri Lankan Australians for their leadership, service, and achievements:

• Professor David de Kretser AC – Former Governor of Victoria and respected medical researcher.

• Shemara Wikramanayake – Macquarie Group CEO and global business leader.

• Peter Kuruvita – Celebrated chef who has taken Sri Lankan flavours to the world.

• Distinguished Professor Buddhima Indraratna AM – Leading engineer and academic shaping global infrastructure.

• Dr. Nithi Kanagaratnam – Cultural icon whose music has inspired generations.

• Mr. Victor Melder – Founder of Melbourne’s Sri Lanka Library and champion of literary preservation.

• Dr. Lionel Bopage – Advocate for justice, equality, and community empowerment.

• Dr. Bandu Dissanayake – Former Honorary Consul General dedicated to strengthening bilateral ties.

• Dr. Mohamed Mohideen OAM JP – Humanitarian and multicultural leader in Victoria.

• Shanaiah Fernando – Emerging golf talent representing the next wave of Sri Lankan Australian excellence.

Festival Highlights

• The Wild Cookbook Returns – Charith Silva brings his high-energy live cooking demos.

• Authentic Sri Lankan Food & Culture – Traditional dishes, cultural showcases, and heritage displays.

• Expanded Kids Zone – Face painting, games, treats, and all-day fun for families.

• Live Entertainment – Dance Troupe, Live bands & DJs.

Lankan Fest ’25 is more than a festival — it’s a celebration of identity, connection, and community strength.

Join the festivities on 16 November at Crown Riverwalk for a full day of culture, food, music, and inspiration as the Sri Lankan Australian community celebrates 10 remarkable years of Lankan Fest.

Stay tuned with Aus News Lanka – the leading platform for news for Australians.