Wednesday, 18 February 2026

 Meng Heang TAK (Clarinda) (10:11): I extend my very best wishes to all those celebrating Lunar New Year 2026. With its spirit of renewal and hope Chinese New Year is something that resonates with all Victorians and is something that we as Victorians can all celebrate in the spirit of togetherness. From my family to yours, from Bright Moon temple to Hoa Nghiem temple, let us continue to celebrate. We saw this on the weekend at the Springvale Lunar New Year celebrations. This year’s celebrations were again a roaring success. It was wonderful to join and celebrate with community together with many of our colleagues from this place and others, from the local member for Mulgrave Eden Foster to the upper house member for the south-east Lee Tarlamis, the Minister for Small Business and Employment, the local mayor and many councillors from different councils. Congratulations and thank you to the Springvale Asian Business Association; their president Daniel Cheng – once again you did it; many of the former presidents – Hoang Tran, Martin Lee, Stanley Chang, Tom Huynh and Frankie Chen; and all the executive and volunteers – another wonderful festival, and everyone involved should be extremely proud. This year we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse, a powerful symbol of energy, independence and determination inspiring us to move forward with confidence, courage and purpose. These traditions remind us of the importance of connection, gratitude and hope.