text: [{"text_idx": "#000008", "text": "Irreechaa is branched into two seasons, Irreechaa Arfaasaa and Irreechaa Birraa. The former celebrates the end of the dry season on the top of a hill or mountain while the latter celebrates the end of the wet season at a lake, river or sea."}, {"text_idx": "#000009", "text": "Traditionally the day is celebrated by the Oromo people every year and it is a form of thanks giving to Waaqa (God) for helping them pass from the darkness of winter to the bright and blooming season of Spring."}, {"text_idx": "#000010", "text": "During the ceremony, people of all ages carry a bundle of fresh grass and dip it in a lake, river or sea. The grass represents life, fertility and prosperity. The lake represents life and the calm beauty of nature."}, {"text_idx": "#000011", "text": "Irreechaa has been observed by the Oromo people for more than 6400 years and here in Melbourne, it is not something that is religious-orientated or to diminish other religions, but an event to celebrate togetherness and joy with people from all walks of life."}]