On 3rd February, the “When Koala Meets Panda” Chinese Cultural Workshop Lantern Festival Special, hosted by Chinese Consulate-General in Brisbane and organized by Multicultural Community Centre (MCC), was successfully held in Newmarket. Consul-General Dr RUAN Zongze, MCC director Mrs Jeannie Mok OAM, State Member Mr Jimmy Sullivan MP, Mr Peter Russo MP, Brisbane Councillor Vicki Howard made remarks at the event. Deputy Consul-General Ms LI Suyun, young diplomats and community leaders Mr Michael Ma, Mr Lewis Lee OAM joined the Lantern Festival celebration with more than 150 participants, including 70 students from primary and high schools.
In his opening remarks Dr Ruan said, the Lantern Festival is the conclusion and climax of Chinese New Year celebration. I wish everyone a happy afternoon when experiencing Chinese culture. MCC has made persistent efforts in promoting Queensland multiculturalism. The “When Koala Meets Panda” School Art Competition held by Consulate-General and MCC has now been a signature-brand event in local community. China and Australia celebrated the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties last year, bringing new opportunities to the bilateral relations. We will continue to work with all parties in Queensland to promote mutual understanding and China-Australia, China-Queensland friendship.
In their remarks Mr Jimmy Sullivan MP, Mr Peter Russo MP, Cr Vicki Howard and Mrs Jeannie Mok OAM said, the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council attach great importance to multiculturalism. The cultural workshop celebrates the Lantern Festival and introduces Chinese culture. It brings fun to communities and enhances mutual understanding and friendship. Looking forward to more “When Koala Meets Panda” events in the future.
The cultural workshop had many sectors including making Tangyuan (glutinous rice ball), paper-cutting, lantern DIY, Chinese musical instruments, calligraphy， etc. Accompanied by their families, students tasted Tangyuan and experienced all the cultural activities. In the happy laughter and cheerful voices, children said they looked forward to next cultural workshop.
