12 February 2018

WA celebrates the Lunar New Year of the Dog

Western Australia will welcome the Lunar New Year of the Dog in spectacular style, with thousands of people flocking to festivals across the State to see lion dancing, drumming and firecrackers.

Lunar New Year is based on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, with Friday, February 16, 2018 marking the first day of the Year of the Dog.

The annual Chung Wah Perth Chinese New Year Fair, held in Northbridge on Sunday, February 18, is expected to be attended by more than 80,000 people.

More than 25 Chinese community associations will participate in the Chung Wah Perth Chinese New Year Fair, which includes food stalls, performances and cultural demonstrations.

The McGowan Government proudly supports the Chung Wah fair with $15,000 from the Office of Multicultural Interests' Community Grants Program and $20,000 from Lotterywest.

WA has a dynamic Chinese population with more than 27,000 China-born people calling the State home and more than 100,000 Western Australians with Chinese heritage.

More information about Lunar New Year celebrations is available at http://www.omi.wa.gov.au

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"Lunar New Year is a time when closer ties are forged between communities and everyone in WA can join a celebration that has become a highlight of our annual cultural calendar.

"I wish everyone in the WA Chinese community Gong Xi Fa Cai and hope the Year of the Dog brings much peace, prosperity and joy."

Comments attributed to Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia:

"WA can reflect proudly on being one of the most multicultural States in Australia.

"The strength of our cultural diversity owes much to the vibrant WA Chinese community, which has played an important role in the cultural, economic, political and social life of this State.

"Gong Xi Fa Cai to everyone celebrating Chinese New Year across the State."