Tasmania's cultural and linguistically diverse community has been on show at the Lunar New Year Festival today, which is taking place for the first time since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister for the Arts and Liberal Member for Clark, Elise Archer said the event was a shining light on Tasmania's calendar of cultural events.
"It was my pleasure to attend and launch today's Festival and to see our diverse community thriving, and to also celebrate our close relationships across East Asia," Minister Archer said.
"Tasmania's diverse communities play an enormous role in our State, and it is important to our Government to nurture and build caring and inclusive communities.
"It's fantastic to see everyone together again today, taking part in the entertainment, food and family activities on offer."
Minister Archer played an official role in the ceremony to usher in the Year of the Rabbit, and was invited to 'dot the eyes' of the lion which, in Chinese culture, is to empower and enliven it to fulfill its duty of bringing about protection, good luck, health, and prosperity to those present.
"Cultural events like this celebrate the significant and valuable contribution of our diverse communities, and the ways in which they enrich our Tasmanian way of life, and which continue to be one of our State's greatest strengths," the Minister said.
"The Lunar or Chinese New Year is not just about the festivities though – it provides an opportunity for family and friends to unite and celebrate a new year and new the opportunities it brings.
"I congratulate the Festival organisers led by the Chair James Lee, from the Chinese Community Association of Tasmania, and wish good fortune to everyone in attendance and their families and loved ones, for the year ahead," added Minister Archer.
