Thursday, 8 February 2024

 Eden FOSTER (Mulgrave) (10:02): I rise today to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the vibrant Chinese and Vietnamese communities across the Mulgrave electorate and to all those communities who are celebrating the joyous occasion of the Lunar New Year. In recent weeks I have had the privilege of meeting and celebrating with many different cultural communities and attending numerous local Lunar New Year celebrations. It has been a privilege to witness the richness of our cultural heritage and to connect with our multicultural community leaders and various cultural groups, including the South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Associations Council, the Springvale Indochinese Mutual Assistance Association, the Springvale Asian Business Association, the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association, the Vietnamese Museum Australia, the National Council of the Australian Federal Chinese Association and the Golden Flower Chinese Friendship Association.

Our Chinese and Vietnamese communities particularly form a significant part of my electorate. They play an integral role in our community, enriching our lives with their traditions, values and delicious cuisines. I thank them for their ongoing commitment to fostering unity across our great state.

The Lunar New Year represents a time of renewal, reflection and hope. Let us embrace the spirit of the Year of the Dragon with optimism and determination. May this new year bring us closer and deliver prosperity and success across our community. Xīn nián kuài lè. Chúc mừng năm mới.