Manningham to Welcome the 2026 Chinese New Year Festival on 7th of February
The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) is pleased to announce the 2026 Manningham Chinese New Year Festival, which will take place on Saturday 7 February 2026 at Jackson Court. The festival is one of Melbourne’s significant multicultural celebrations and invites families, residents, and visitors to welcome the Year of the Horse through a vibrant program of cultural activities and community engagement.
Speakers in Attendance
- Ms. Bihong Wang – President of ABAW
- Cr Jim Grivas – Mayor of City of Manningham
- Mr. Gabriel Ng MP – Federal Member for Menzies
- Ms. Nicole Werner MP – State Member for Warrandyte, representing the Leader of Opposition Victoria, Ms. Jess Wilson MP
- The Hon Matthew Guy MP – State Member for Bulleen
- Mr. Jazz – AYD International Express Representative
- Mr. Richard Shi – Vice President of ABAW
VIP Guests
- Cr Dierdre Diamante – Deputy Mayor of City of Manningham
- Cr Anna Chen – Councilor, City of Manningham
- Cr Kirsten Langford – Mayor of City of Whitehorse
- Cr Peter Allan – Councillor, City of Whitehorse
- Mr. Andrew Day – Chief Executive Officer, City of Manningham
Sponsors and Partners
- Major Supporter: Manningham City Council
- Stage Sponsor: Bendigo Community Bank Doncaster East and Templestone Village Branch
- Event Sponsor: Bupa
Stakeholder:
- Jackson Court Traders Association
- Victoria Police
- The Salvation Army
ABAW Leadership Highlights Community and Organisational Values
During the media launch, ABAW President Ms. Bihong Wang emphasised the organisation’s mission to connect business, community, and culture.
Ms. Wang said, “This festival is more than a celebration. It brings together established and emerging communities, creates opportunities for young people to participate and lead, and gives local traders a larger platform to share their stories. Events like this strengthen cultural understanding while supporting the small businesses that keep our precincts vibrant.”
ABAW Vice President Mr. Richard Shi added, “We sincerely appreciate the support of Bendigo Community Bank Doncaster East and Templestone Village Branch. ABAW will contribute five thousand dollars to strengthen multicultural engagement and bring renewed vitality to the local business precinct.”
Festival Highlights
- Traditional Lion Dance and New Year Fireworks
The festival will begin with an energetic lion dance bringing prosperity and festive cheer. In the evening, a Lunar New Year fireworks display will illuminate the Jackson Court precinct and create a memorable celebration for families.
- Intangible Cultural Heritage Activities
Visitors can participate in hands-on activities including lacquer fan art, hawthorn candy stick making, and a calligraphy booth presented in partnership with the Australian Chinese Calligraphers Association. All proceeds from the calligraphy booth will be donated to The Salvation Army.
- Stamp and Prize Hunt
A family-friendly activity encouraging visitors to collect stamps from designated booths and redeem a limited-edition festival gift.
- Multicultural Stage Performances
A full schedule of performances featuring local artists and cultural groups from across the community.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday 7 February 2026
- Time: 11.00 am to 9.00 pm
- Location: Jackson Court, Doncaster East
The festival is proudly organised by ABAW with the support of Manningham City Council, local partners, and community organisations. ABAW looks forward to welcoming residents and visitors to Jackson Court for a joyful and inclusive Lunar New Year celebration.
Food and market stall applications for the festival remain open, and local businesses are encouraged to express their interest in participating.
For media enquiries, please contact：
Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.abaw.org.au
