Master Wang, along with The Hon. Elise Archer MP, the representative of the Premier of Tasmania; Consul-General Long Zhou of the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Melbourne; Mr. Brian Chung, President of Chinese Communities Association of Tasmania; Mr. Daniel Chan, Former President of Chinese Communities Association of Tasmania, together on the evening of the Geng Zi New Year celebration.
The lion dance is an essential part of Lunar New Year celebrations. It symbolises joy, vigour and prosperity. The Holy Tantra Vajra Lion Dance of the Buddhist Academy brings with it the meaning of Buddha’s correct Dharma, wishing to bring the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha to the human realm.
Mr. David Daniels OAM, Chairman of Crime Stoppers Tasmania, and his wife Julie, arrive with beaming spirits to the reception area of the Geng Zi New Year celebration.
Geng Zi New Year celebration officially begins with a “Welcome to Country” ceremony performed by Aboriginal Elder, Aunty Eva Richardson, in palawa kani (Aboriginal language).
Over 200 guests attended the New Year banquet, including political, business and community leaders from all over Australia. Longtime friends and supporters of the Academy were also in attendance. Additionally, many practitioners from various headquarter and branches of the Academy worldwide came to Tasmania to join guests at the banquet, bringing their new year greetings to Master Wang and all.
Consul-General Long Zhou, of the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Melbourne, dots the eyes of the lions.
Upon the conclusion of the Geng Zi New Year celebration, the entire assembly of guests joined hand in hand, heart to heart, to sing “Auld Lang Syne”, and together hope for a brighter and more cohesive tomorrow.
Representatives of Chinese communities came together to celebrate the Geng Zi New Year.
Master Wang addressing the banquet.
Vajra Sheng-Yuan Young Living Buddha performing Rachmanioff Op. 23 No. 5 and, a pop song medley which he compiled.