Sally Sitou (Reid, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Xinnian kuaile. Gongxi facai. Chuc mung nam moi. Saehae bok mani badeuseyo. Happy Lunar New Year! This is a tradition shared by so many cultures across Asia as well as throughout my electorate of Reid. During the month of February there will be celebrations in Rhodes, Burwood, Lidcombe, Homebush West and Wentworth Point.

Growing up, I always loved this time of year. It meant time with family, lion-dancing, good food and red pockets. But it has taken on a new meaning for me now. As I attend celebrations across my electorate, I marvel at how diverse the crowds are. Lunar New Year in Australia has transcended the Korean, Chinese and Vietnamese communities. It's a tradition embraced by people from all backgrounds, and what a beautiful reflection that is of our multicultural story.

Last Sunday, I accompanied the member for Strathfield, Jason Yat-Sen Li on a street walk with a difference, accompanied by lion dancers. We brought lions into businesses all up and down Burwood Road, sharing good fortune for the year ahead with the business owners. Over the next few weeks, I'll be attending many events across the electorate, to wish everyone good health and good fortune over this coming year.

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