Members of the Chinese community and honoured guests celebrated the start of the Chinese New Year at Blackrock Casino on Saturday evening.
This year is a significant one in many aspects. Consul General (People’s Republic of China in Durban) Fei Mingxing explained it was currently 40 years since the Chinese reform and opening of its borders in 1978.
He also said: “This year China celebrates its 70th year as a republic and South Africa its 25th year since the fall of apartheid. Let us applaud both on these milestones.”
The evening had begun earlier with a model show, a martial arts demonstration and a lantern dance by members of the Huanxing Art Troupe.
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Formalities were handled by hosts Chen Chao and Andy Hsu.
Following Fei’s speech, Amajuba District Mayor Dr Musa Ngubane was welcomed to the podium, where he spoke first on the ambitions and hopes of many going forward into 2019.
“The Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate and to count one’s blessings. We must pause and reflect on what took us forward together.”
The evening concluded with more cultural performances, the presentation of certificates to dignitaries and the red envelope ceremony.
Red Envelopes
Children were invited to the stage to receive their envelopes.
Organiser Judy Hsiao explained red envelopes are traditionally given to children by parents and by bosses to employees as ‘lucky money’ to herald a good year ahead.
Red envelopes are symbols of good luck and happiness and aim to bring joy and appreciation for the New Year.
Year of the pig
Explaining the significance of the Year of the Pig, Hsiao explains it is the last animal of the Chinese Zodiac and is seen as carefree and happy.
As such, residents could expect to tie off their loose ends.
“They can expect to end off this chapter in their lives with enthusiasm but also have a down to earth approach like the pig.”
Hsiao has organised the annual Chinese New Year event in Newcastle for five years, ever since becoming a member of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce.
She was drawn to this role through her interest in art and dance.
The night was enjoyed by many.
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