John Alexander (Bennelong, Liberal Party) | Hansard source

Today is the final day of festivities that mark the Chinese new year. The lunar new year is a big event in my electorate, as we have some of the largest Chinese and Korean diasporas in Australia. Today is the Chinese Lantern Festival, which features lion dances, fireworks and, of course, lanterns.

The last two years have seen muted celebrations, for obvious reasons. But this year, the party was back in Eastwood. I was delighted to attend a number of events. We held a lion dance two weeks ago, at the beginning of festivities. We walked around Eastwood with dancers and red envelopes, all organised by my dear friend Tony Tang. It was great to see Eastwood festivities roaring back to life.

Later that week, I joined the member for Reid, the Prime Minister, a host of MPs and local Chinese and Korean residents as we celebrated the new year with a traditional feast. On the weekend, I joined the newly elected mayor, Jordan Lane, for the council celebration organised by Dr Felix Lowe.

Eastwood has traditionally been one of Bennelong's busiest hubs, and the lunar new year festivities have been among its greatest attractions. COVID hit the area badly. Many shops remain boarded. But this last fortnight has shown that our spirit remains unbroken and recovery is on track.

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