It all began in 2012, the 'Perth Chinese New Year Fair’, hosted by the Chung Wah Association, has become one of the most anticipated events for the Western Australian community. This annual festival aims to pass down traditional Chinese culture and celebrate the Lunar New Year, attracting thousands from the community and presenting a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
The festival's opening ceremony took place in the Northbridge Piazza. It was hosted by the president of the Chung Wah Association and distinguished guests. The dazzling display of firecrackers marked the ceremony, while the lion and dragon dances brought auspiciousness and good fortune for the new year. The festival then unfolded in a joyous atmosphere, with James Street and surrounding areas bustling with parades, cultural performances, and stalls.
This year celebrates the Year of the Dragon (Loong). Chinese culture has always seen the dragon as a mystical, sanctified, and special-significance creature. The dragon is the only fictional animal in the Chinese zodiac, but it holds a unique and vital place. Its status, rooted in ancient traditions, symbolises auspiciousness and authority. It embodies positive traits such as courage, wisdom, strength, power, and glory. The dragon represents power, dignity, wisdom, and good fortune in Chinese culture. It is not just a symbol among the zodiac but a mythological legend in the hearts of the Chinese people, carrying rich cultural connotations and spiritual meanings.
As part of the festival, Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) also actively participated by setting up a stall on James Street. The CWCC team took this opportunity to extend New Year greetings to the community while showcasing the various services offered by CWCC, including the "Carer Gateway" and " care finder program". Our CWCC team also prepared engaging games and adorable dragon-shaped toys as prizes, attracting long queues outside the stall.
The festival is a joyful event and an excellent opportunity to promote community unity and multicultural exchange. Through such activities, we experience the festive atmosphere and enhance understanding and communication between different cultures. The successful celebration brings joy to the Asian and the greater community while adding a vibrant touch to Perth's multiculturalism, showcasing the city's inclusivity and vitality.
Chung Wah has been servicing the WA community since 1909, dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, Chung Wah CC has 40 years of professional care experience helping seniors and people with disabilities improve their well-being and better integrate into the community. This year's theme, "Celebrating Our Cultural Strands," reflects our 40 years of commitment to understanding, integration, and moving forward together for a more harmonious and better community for all.
