AUSTRALIA — The Werribee Asia-Pacific Expo 2025 and Made in Nepal Promotion Event, organized by the Werribee Business and Tourism Association (WBTA), concluded on a high note, celebrating innovation, cultural exchange and regional collaboration.
Held under the theme “Innovation, Culture & Connection in Asia-Pacific,” the event brought together government officials, business leaders, innovators, academics, and multicultural community representatives from across the region.
The program took place at the Wyndham City Council premises and was hosted by MC Deborah Dickinson.
The event opened with a welcoming address by Cr Jennie Barrera, followed by keynote remarks from several distinguished speakers who emphasized the importance of strengthening Asia-Pacific ties through trade, tourism, technology and cultural partnerships.
A major highlight of the expo was the official launch of the book “Power of Habits,” authored by Dan Ghising, unveiled by MP Kathleen Mathews-Ward. She praised the book for its insightful content and acknowledged the author’s creative contribution.
Additional speakers included:
- Gajendra Maharjan – Mayor, Godawari Municipality, Nepal
- Raju Thapa – Mayor, Kathekhola Rural Municipality, Nepal
- Raymond Loh – Community Leader
- Mohan Tamang – Founder, Mach24 Orbitals and an internationally recognized young space-technology enginee
Several individuals were honoured for their exceptional contributions in community service, entrepreneurship, education, technology and social impact.
Award recipients included:
- Cr Jenny Barrera – Wyndham City Council
- Cr Jasmine Hills – Wyndham City Council
- Cr Larry Zhao – Wyndham City Council
- Cr Chris Miles – Merri-bek City Council
Additional recognitions were presented to:
Walter Villagozalo (OAM), Graeme Kent (OAM), Jim Gasbert, Raymond Lo, David Bradkey, Narayan Kandel, Taranjeet Kaur Maharjan, Raju Thapa, Rachana Shrestha, Mohan Tamang, and Ram Kumar Shrestha.
Among the various exhibition booths, the Nepal Stall became a key attraction, showcasing:
Made in Nepal products
Tourism promotional materials
Space-technology displays,Entrepreneurial innovations
Traditional Nepali handicrafts
The stall added vibrancy, cultural richness and strong engagement to the expo.
A high-level panel discussion featured prominent speakers:
Prof. Jagannath Aryal – University of Melbourne
Prof. Mimme Watts – Federation of University ASRIC (African Union Community)
Raymond Loh – Lions
Christina Chia – Victorian President, Women Chiefs of Enterprises International Australia
Cr Jasmine Hill – Wyndham City Council
Panelists offered insights into education, technology, cultural diplomacy, entrepreneurship and emerging opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region.
The event also featured vibrant cultural performances, B2B networking sessions, multicultural interactions and Global Market Stalls, creating an energetic and inclusive atmosphere throughout the day.
Even after the formal closing, networking among participants continued actively, reflecting the event’s positive momentum.
Event coordinator Dan Ghising expressed gratitude to all participants, noting that the Werribee Asia-Pacific Expo 2025 played an important role in strengthening economic, cultural, tourism and technological ties between Nepal and Australia.
He officially declared the successful conclusion of the event with appreciation for all contributors and attendees.