Burgher Association Australia Incorporated

The Burgher Association Australia Incorporated is a community organisation established to represent and support the Burgher community in Australia, a group with roots in Sri Lanka and a distinctive European heritage. While its origins are tied to the Burghers—descendants of European settlers in Sri Lanka—the Association’s mission extends beyond serving just this community, aiming to foster social cohesion, cultural preservation, and mutual support among its members and the broader Australian society.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Burgher Association Australia Incorporated is to preserve and celebrate Burgher heritage, promote cultural understanding, and provide a welcoming space for social connection. Its vision is to be a vibrant, inclusive organisation that not only honours the past but also enriches the present through community engagement and shared activities.

Main Objectives

• To maintain and promote the unique cultural identity of the Burgher community in Australia.
• To offer social support and networking opportunities for members, including migrants and their descendants.
• To organise events and activities that encourage intergenerational connection and community participation.
• To provide a modern, affordable venue for both community and private functions, thereby supporting the Association’s sustainability.
• To publish regular newsletters and bulletins that keep members informed about community news, events, and historical articles.

Benefiting Groups

The primary beneficiaries are members of the Burgher community in Australia, including those who have migrated from Sri Lanka and their families. However, the Association’s activities and facilities are open to the wider public, making it a resource for anyone interested in cultural events, social gatherings, or venue hire. The organisation plays a complementary role to government services by providing a community hub that fosters belonging and mutual aid.

Types of Services and Activities

• Social and cultural events: Regular gatherings such as the Hopper Lunch, Thai Cuisine Lunch, and Christmas Lunch, which celebrate Burgher and broader Sri Lankan culture.
• Venue hire: The BAA Community Centre in Clayton, Victoria, is available for private functions including birthdays, anniversaries, corporate meetings, dances, yoga sessions, and more. The venue features modern amenities such as a commercial kitchen, PA system, projector, and automated screen.
• Publications: The quarterly BAA Bulletin includes photographs of recent activities, community news, obituaries, and articles on Burgher history and culture in Sri Lanka, Australia, and beyond.
• Membership services: Opportunities to join the Association, participate in committees, and contribute to the organisation’s direction and activities.

Through these services, Burgher Association Australia Incorporated not only preserves a rich cultural legacy but also provides a dynamic space for social interaction, community support, and cultural exchange, benefiting both its members and the broader Australian community.