Brisbane: On Sunday, 6 July 2025, the Tibetan Community of Queensland Inc. hosted a dignified and culturally significant celebration to commemorate the 90th Birth Anniversary of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama under the global theme “Year of Compassion.” The event brought together a distinguished gathering of federal and local government representatives, interfaith leaders, multicultural organisations, and supporters of the Tibetan cause to honour His Holiness’ lifelong commitment to peace, non-violence, compassion, and human dignity. 

The program commenced with the formal reception of invited guests, followed by the national anthems of Tibet and Australia. A Welcome to Country ceremony was respectfully delivered by Kapun Morris, acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land. This was followed by a Butter Lamp Offering led by Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Senator Paul Scarr, and Councillor Sandy Landers. A Birthday Tribute Song performed by the children of the Tibetan community and a ceremonial cake-cutting added warmth and joy to the opening moments of the event. 

A Long-Life Prayer for His Holiness the Dalai Lama was led by Geshe Tenzin Choden, followed by the ceremonial offering of scarves (Khatag) to the portrait of His Holiness and the serving of traditional Tibetan butter tea and sweet rice (Dresil). Lobsang Nyima, President of the Tibetan Community of Queensland Inc., delivered a welcome address expressing gratitude to all guests and reaffirming the community’s commitment to preserving Tibetan identity and values in Australia. 

The event featured addresses from esteemed Guests of Honour. Councillor Sandy Landers, Chair of Council and Councillor for Bracken Ridge Ward, delivered remarks on behalf of the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, conveying the city’s respect for His Holiness’ legacy and the contributions of the Tibetan community to Brisbane’s multicultural fabric. Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Senator for Queensland and representative of the Australian Greens, commended the resilience and cultural richness of the Tibetan people and reiterated her party’s continued support for their rights and heritage. 

A pivotal moment of the celebration was the powerful and unequivocal statement delivered by Senator Paul Scarr, Shadow Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs. Referring to the resolution adopted at the 15th Tibetan Religious Conference regarding the succession of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Senator Scarr stated: 

“The Australian Government should take the resolution that was passed at the 15th religious conference, with respect to the succession process for the Dalai Lama, and there should be no external interference in that process—no external interference in that process. And the Australian Government has a moral obligation to actually make its views known with respect to those issues. It should have the courage to make its views known with respect to those issues.” 

This statement was met with resounding support from attendees and widely regarded as a significant affirmation of Australia’s moral responsibility to support the Tibetan people’s religious freedom and cultural autonomy. 

Among the distinguished attendees were Medal of the Order of Australia recipients, government official & Political Representatives, Multicultural Australian Representatives, Local Government & Council Representatives, Religious & Spiritual Leaders, Community & Cultural organisations, Chenrezig Institute Representatives, Langri Tangpa Centre, human Rights Advocacy and Tibetan around from the Brisbane.  

A special photographic exhibition titled A Brief Biography of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama was displayed during the lunch break, showcasing key moments in His Holiness’s life and his global advocacy for non-violence and human rights. To honour their presence, all special guests were presented with a copy of His Holiness’s most recent publication, Voice for the Voiceless. 

The afternoon cultural program featured an array of performances reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of Tibetan and Himalayan traditions. A standout highlight was the performance by the Mongolian Community Association of Queensland, who presented a culturally rich traditional dance, symbolising the deep friendship and solidarity between the Mongolian and Tibetan peoples. The Bhutanese community also made a meaningful contribution through a heartfelt solo performance titled Gung Gi Thridu Nima La, delivered by Tshering Dema. These multicultural acts added significant depth to the event, underscoring shared values of harmony, respect, and cultural preservation. The community performers from all age groups enriched the program with traditional songs, dances, including the poetic offerings. 

The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Vice President Lobsang Dolma, acknowledging the tireless efforts of volunteers, performers, and guests who contributed to the event’s success. Raffle draws, games, and the traditional Tibetan circle dance (Gorshey) followed, providing a joyful and unifying close to the day’s celebrations. 

The 90th Birth Anniversary celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama was not only a tribute to a revered global spiritual leader, but also a reaffirmation of universal values—compassion, justice, freedom of belief, and cultural dignity. The Tibetan Community of Queensland extends its heartfelt appreciation to all who attended and supported the event and remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the values that His Holiness has long championed.