The founder of the Sydney Children’s Festival, Thuat Nguyen AM, has bowed out at the opening of yesterday’s festival after 27 years.

He said the 42 festivals his team had organised had “brought joy to countless children and families and helped build harmony in the community”.

“Every successful journey has a moment when the torch must be passed. And today, I am filled with pride and excitement to announce that our organisation is entering a vibrant new chapter. It is time for new energy and a fresh perspective to lead us forward,” he said.

In front of a long lineup of senior Federal and State Politicians, community leaders and thousands of community members at the 2025 festival in Playford Park, Padstow, Mr Nguyen introduced his successor, Tuan Dang, whom he described as “a remarkable individual”.

“He is a passionate advocate for children, a visionary leader, and someone who I know will continue to build on our legacy with great care and dedication,” he said.

Addressing the festival crowd for the first time as President, Tuan Dang said:

“Few individuals embody the spirit of service and resilience as profoundly as Mr Thuat Van Nguyen AM, the founding president of the Children’s Festival Organisation and a towering figure in multicultural community building across Australia.

He is more than a historical figure – he is the reason I believe in the power of community. From my earliest days in Scouts to my current role leading the Children’s Festival, his example has shaped my values, my leadership, and my heart. His humility, vision, and tireless dedication continue to inspire everything I do.

Since 1999, this festival has grown into a cherished tradition, and for over 26 years, the Children’s Festival Organisation has proudly contributed to creating spaces where joy, diversity, and community spirit thrive.

We deeply appreciate the continued support from all levels of government, as well as our business and community sponsors. Your partnership ensures we can keep serving children for years to come — because they are our future, and investing in them means investing in a stronger, more inclusive society.”

Meanwhile, the Federal Minister for Education Jason Clare told the crowd:

“Australia is made up of people from countries all around the world. People of different backgrounds are all living here in harmony and that isn’t always easy. It takes work. It takes leadership and, Thuat, you are a guiding light for all of us. Thank you for your leadership over 27 years.”

He was supported by the State Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Jihad Dib, representing the Premier of NSW, Chris Minns, who also praised Mr Nguyen for his contribution to community harmony.

He told the crowd that the Children’s Festival:

“Over all these years has brought us all together in all our diversity. We all love the Australian story of diversity and the part that all of us play. But especially, what we see here most of all is the children.”

Hundreds of children of many different backgrounds spent the day presenting cultural performances on stage, creating craft works, enjoying rides and eating delicious food.

Many others dressed up in traditional costumes to take part in the impressive parade of cultures through the festival site.