VESAK MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER OF WA HON COLIN BARNETT MLA
MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
HON COLIN BARNETT MLA
I am delighted to have the opportunity to extend my very best wishes to the Buddhist Council of Western Australia for the celebration of Vesak Day – the most important date of the Buddhist calendar.
Vesak Day is a day of great significance for Buddhists as it is a time to celebrate and pay homage to Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death.
More than 2,500 years ago, Buddha renounced the privileged life of a prince to search for knowledge that can transcend suffering and attain enlightenment. Today, his teachings and ideals inspire millions around the world, including Western Australia’s growing community of Buddhists.
According to the 2006 Census, Buddhism is Australia’s fastest growing religion and is one which contributes to making Western Australia one of the most culturally and religiously diverse States in Australia.
The Western Australian Government recognises that our religious and cultural diversity is one of our greatest assets and adds immeasurably to the social, cultural and economic prosperity of our State.
I congratulate the Buddhist Council of Western Australia for its contribution to Western Australia and particularly for fostering a spirit of understanding, cooperation, friendship and goodwill in our broader community.
May the celebration of Vesak Day be a reminder to us all of Buddha’s teachings of peace, tolerance and compassion.
(signed)
Colin Barnett MLA
PREMIER
