Gordon Bradbery
2024-06-04
The interview with Gordon Bradbery, the Lord Mayor of Wollongong, conducted on 4 th June 2024, provides an insightful reflection on his contributions and relationship with the Nan Tien Temple over the years. Born in Tamworth, New South Wales and having served as a Uniting Church Minister before becoming Mayor, Bradbery has been a significant figure in promoting multicultural and interfaith dialogue within the community. His initial connection with the Nan Tien Temple began even before his tenure in Wollongong, highlighting his early knowledge of the Temple and its cultural significance.
During the interview, Bradbery discussed key milestones of Nan Tien and its profound impact on Wollongong's social and cultural landscape. He emphasised the transformation brought by the Temple, the Nan Tien Institute and the symbolic Nan Tien Bridge, which not only revitalised a bland part of the city but also promoted interfaith harmony and attracted numerous visitors. The Lord Mayor highlighted events like Buddha's Birthday and the Chinese New Year, which have significantly increased the city's visibility and cultural richness, further cementing the temple's role as a vital part of Wollongong's heritage.
Bradbery also reflected on the broader significance of the Temple, noting its contribution to education, mental health and the promotion of mindfulness and harmony. The recent designation of Nan Tien Temple as a New South Wales heritage site underscores its importance in representing Wollongong's diverse traditions. The interview concluded with Bradbery expressing his hope for the Temple to continue its valuable contributions to the city's well-being and spiritual enrichment, maintaining its role as a beacon of cultural diversity and peace.
