In early February, the Victorian branch of the Australia China Business Council hosted a lavish Chinese New Year event for 450 people at Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria in conjunction with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Australia and the NGV. The event kick starts the Year of the Snake for further business and cultural links between the State of Victoria and China.
A powerful symbol of the Australia China relationship glided across the floor of Federation Hall in the National Gallery of Victoria. A water snake with inspiration from street artist Bee Dwo Lin, brought a renewed impetus and expectations of good fortune, wealth, longevity, peace and prosperity to the Australia-China business community in Melbourne.
In early February, the ACBC Victoria, in conjunction with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria, hosted an elaborate Chinese New Year event celebrating the year of the Snake, for 450 people in the NGV’s Great Hall.
The prestigious event had special significance in symbolising the growing links between business and culture, public and private sectors, and partnerships across borders. Supporting the partnership, were sponsors the Bank of China, KPMG and Brown Brothers.
The event was opened by NGV Director Dr Tony Ellwood, President of ACBC Victoria Jason Chang and Secretary General of CCCA Richard Lan, who welcomed guests. The Premier of Victoria, the Hon Ted Baillieu MP affirmed his support, as did the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne, Mr Shi Weiqiang.
Consul General Shi who is also Co-Patron of ACBC Victoria noted that over 150 companies had invested in Victoria and are becoming more involved in the development of the local economy and society. Many are active in charities, donating to education and medical research.
*Pictured rght: Artist Bee Dwo Lin and her Water Snake.
The Hon Ken Smith, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly concluded the formalities and gave the toast. Guests included Mr John Richardson, State Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Mr Justin Hanney, Deputy Secretary Department of Business and Innovation and Mr Jason Yeap OAM.
After the formalities concluded, guests had an exclusive tour of the Asian Gallery and the collection of Chinese traditional art.
In 2015, the NGV will host the unique Beijing Palace Museum Collection, first in a series of business, personal and cultural initiatives being developed at State level between China and Victoria. It will be the first time this collection to be exhibited in Australia.
While the Federal Government’s Asian Century White Paper is a blueprint for Australia’s relations with the region, the Victorian government, led by Premier Baillieu has also broken new ground with its China Strategy and ‘Supermission’, fostering business, educational, civic and cultural ties. ■
To read more about ACBC Chinese New Year hosted events across Australia, visit: www.acbc.com.au
