Lions Feature in the Bendigo Gala Parade 2016 Photo by Kylie ParkinsonOn the weekend, Bendigo hosted the Bendigo Easter Fair, a three day extravaganza event. The three day festival included bands, art and woodturning exhibitions, markets, performances in the parks, a torchlight procession and fireworks on Saturday and culminated on Sunday with the Bendigo Gala Parade.
The Bendigo Chinese Association is a large part of the success of the festival having started the tradition back in 1871 and perform with their dragon and lion teams throughout the event.
Lachie Grant, 12, a fifth generation Bendigonian is a proud member of the Central Victorian Lions Team who performed over the festival as part of the celebrations. It has been a lifelong love of lion dancing for Lachie whose family have never missed a Procession.
“He began at the age of two putting on shows for family and friends by laying under a blanket and then pretending to be a Lion and Wake up, as I was made to make drum noises with my hands and knees.” Lachie’s Mum, Suzie recalls.
Lachie’s dream of joining the Central Victorian Lions Team came true three years ago. Over this time he has graduated to training with the senior Lions Team that requires him to train longer hours. He trains every Monday night from 6-9pm except for school holidays though leading up to the Chinese New Year and the Bendigo Easter Fair he trains extra hours if needed. The dedication and challenges are welcome by the Grade 6 student.
“I love all of it, the costumes, drumming, team work, being part of the team and the learning about the Chinese culture. But mostly I love making the Lion come alive.”
Lachie’s family are very proud of his involvement with the Chinese Association which accepts applications from anyone of school age.
“As a parent it very rewarding. I’m extremely proud of Lachie. We live in a wonderful town of Bendigo who embraces traditions and the Chinese culture. Lachie gets to fulfil his childhood dream of becoming a Lion, walking every year in the Easter Parade plus performing at different locations around Bendigo over Easter. We have never missed a Parade.”
The next major event for the Bendigo Chinese Association will be the Harvest Moon Festival which will be celebrated in September. It is celebrated in many forms throughout many Asian countries sharing the common themes of thanksgiving for the harvest, future prosperity and the health of families and friends.
Date: Saturday 17th September 2016
Time: From 2pm
Venue: Dai Gum San precinct, 1-11 Bridge Street, Bendigo
Cost is free.
Family activities include Lantern Making Workshops at the Golden Dragon Museum, Traditional Chinese Dance and Lion Dance Workshops and a public Lantern Parade and performance.
