Cries of Kung Hei Fat Choy, noisy firecrackers and the spectacle of lion and dragon dances will welcome in “The Year of the Ox” when the Lunar New 
Year is celebrated at Eastwood Plaza on Saturday, 31 January 2009, 11.00am-3.00pm.
Festivities will include traditional dances, as well as singing, martial arts, music and of course food.
Mayor for the City of Ryde, Clr Vic Tagg, praised the efforts of the local community and organisers (Eastwood Senior Citizens Association, Rotary and the Australian Asian Association of Bennelong) in putting on such a lively event with all-round appeal. “This is a great time of celebration for our local Asian population. The colourful drama of the lion dance and firecrackers make this celebration a popular fixture on our annual calendar of ‘must see’ events.
“Join us for a great celebration and stay on to enjoy the many excellent local restaurants providing some of the best Asian cuisine to be found in Sydney,” the Mayor said.
Although customs for Lunar New Year vary in different parts of the world, the underlying message is one of peace and happiness for family members and friends. We look forward to welcoming all residents to herald in the Year of the Ox.
Year of the Ox
The Ox is the sign of prosperity through fortitude and hard work. This powerful sign is a born leader, being quite dependable and possessing an innate ability to achieve great things. As one might guess, such people are dependable, calm, and modest.
The Lunar New Year dates from 2600 BC and changes from year to year depending on the lunar cycle. It corresponds to the new moon (black moon) in either late January or February. Traditionally, celebrations last for fifteen days, ending on the date of the full moon.
Media contact: Lee Kirkland, City of Ryde, T 9952 8083
