Cumberland City Council has celebrated local businesses in Berala with a traditional lion dance weaving through Berala's business district today, to bring prosperity and good fortune as part of Lunar New Year celebrations.
Mayor Steve Christou joined residents and local businesses, leading the performance and showcasing Cumberland City's diverse and multicultural community.
"Today's atmosphere was incredible, and it provided a perfect opportunity to celebrate Lunar New Year and the Year of the Ox, which represents strength, resilience, and perseverance," Mayor Steve Christou said.
"Lunar New Year is celebrated globally, and Australia has one of the biggest celebrations outside of Asia, particularly in Berala where over 45 per cent of residents are from Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean or Vietnamese backgrounds.
"While Council didn't run a street festival as we have in previous years, a traditional lion dance was a great chance to celebrate Lunar New Year and activate some good fortune in Berala following the recent cluster."
The lion symbolises power and wisdom, and the dance is performed to bring prosperity and luck. Mayor Christou said Council was committed to helping local businesses recover from COVID-19 following last year's outbreak.
"Berala businesses were hit hard financially by the COVID-19 outbreak at Christmas and the area basically became a ghost town for many weeks.
"Many of the business owners have been requesting assistance and support from Council to help bring shoppers back and we're glad that Council could play a role today.
"This not only celebrates the beginning of a new year, but it also represents coming together, new beginnings and a fresh start."
For businesses recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, information on Council support and assistance is available at: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy
