The Omani Students Society of Victoria (OSSV) has celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Sultanate of Oman by hosting a cultural Exhibition at the Federation Square in Melbourne on 13th November 2010.

The Exhibition commenced with an opening ceremony. Present were the Honourable Laurie Ferguson and Maria Vamvakinou both Federal Members of Parliament, Councilor Brian Shanahan for the City of Melbourne, Judy Maddigan and Khalil Idi Victorian Members of the Victorian Parliament, His Excellency Mr Hamed Alhajri, Consul General of Oman and members of the Consular Corps in Melbourne.

The Hon Laurie Ferguson was the guest of honor and expressed in his speech during the opening ceremony, that he was impressed by the comprehensive renaissance witnessed by the Sultanate of Oman led by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The Hon Ferguson who has just returned from visiting Oman, stressed the importance of organizing such exhibitions to introduce other cultures and civilizations to Australia. The president of OSSV Mr. Qasim bin Mohammed Al Ma’amari who organized the exhibition mentioned in his address how much he enjoys living and studying in Australia with his family. Mr Al Ma'amari also spoke about how proud the students were in organizing and hosting the exhibition especially as it marks a momentous occasion such as Oman's 40th National Day. Following the speeches the exhibition was opened for the public to view.

Almajd, a traditional Omani Folklore band and perhaps the most famous musical group in Oman, played throughout the day. Their unique instruments and dancing thoroughly entertained the audience. Guests also took their time visiting the five exhibition tents that showcased the traditions of Omani, heritage, tourism, costumes and jewelry and Omani food and hospitality. The exhibition was supported by Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Media, and Department of the public authority for craft industries, Ministry of Higher Education, the Consulate General of Oman in Australia, Federation Square and Alsafwah schools.