Australia’s Geelong city has lit up key streets in the colours of Nepal’s national flag, sending a powerful message of solidarity to families and communities affected by the devastating floods and landslides in Nepal.
The City of Greater Geelong illuminated catenary lights around Moorabool Street and the Moorabool and Malop Street area in red, blue and white, expressing support for the Nepali community in Geelong and around the world.
According to the council, the special lighting began over the weekend and is expected to continue throughout the week.
The council also expressed its sympathy to everyone affected by the floods and landslides in Nepal, with particular thoughts for families still waiting for news of missing relatives.
Nepali Community in Geelong Holds Candlelight Vigil
The Nepali community in Geelong has also been coming together to mourn the victims and show solidarity following the disaster.
On August 30, the Geelong Nepalese Association organised a candlelight vigil at Johnstone Park. Despite being arranged at short notice, the gathering drew hundreds of local Nepalis, members of other communities and local representatives.
Geelong Nepalese Association president Niraj Karanjeet said the gathering was intended to remember those who lost their lives, stand with families waiting for news of missing loved ones, and bring the community together during a difficult time.
The devastating flood in Nepal’s Bhotekoshi River region on August 26 caused significant loss of life and property.
Homes, roads, bridges and hydropower infrastructure were among the facilities damaged, while search and rescue efforts have continued in affected areas.
Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority had also warned that the risk of further flooding remained, urging residents in vulnerable riverside areas to stay alert.
Thousands of kilometres away from Nepal, the red, blue and white lights glowing across Geelong now carry a symbolic message: Nepal is not alone in its time of grief.
For the local Nepali community, the illumination is more than a display of colour. It has become a symbol of compassion, respect and solidarity from the Australian community towards families and loved ones facing the disaster back home.
