The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) concluded its 2025 calendar with a warm and memorable Christmas Party at Golden Lily Restaurant, bringing together more than 120 members, multicultural business leaders and government representatives for an evening that celebrated community, collaboration, and shared achievement.
Held in Golden Lily’s heritage dining rooms, the event reflected on a year defined by record-breaking festival attendance, sold-out business forums and the continued growth of ABAW’s care-sector network.
Honoring Partnerships and Community Leaders
ABAW President Ms. Bihong Wang opened the evening with a Welcome to Country acknowledging the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people, followed by expressions of appreciation for the evening’s premium sponsors: Yanghe Wine, Bio-E, Melrose and Hydrodol.
The Christmas Party was also honored by the attendance of distinguished government guests. Their presence demonstrated the strong and ongoing partnership between government and the multicultural business community. Attendees included:
- Dr Carina Garland MP, Federal Member for Chisholm
- Mr. Will Fowles MP, State Member for Ringwood
- Mayor Cr Kirsten Langford, City of Whitehorse
- Deputy Mayor Cr Kieran Simpson, City of Whitehorse
- Cr Andrew Davenport, City of Whitehorse Councillor
- Cr Peter Allan, City of Whitehorse Councillor
Ms. Wang also extended sincere thanks to Whitehorse City Council and Business Victoria for their continuous support and strategic collaboration throughout the year.
Networking Across Sectors
From 7:00 pm to 8:15 pm, guests enjoyed a vibrant networking session where business owners, community representatives and sponsors exchanged insights and explored new partnerships while discussing plans and projections for 2026. Government leaders engaged with members, contributing to an atmosphere of connection and shared purpose across the dining rooms.
Seasonal Festivities and Lucky Draw Highlights
The festive spirit reached its high point during the Lucky Draw, with guests celebrating an array of prizes including premium blind boxes, Yanghe luxury baijiu sets and vouchers from local traders. The cheers, laughter and group photos captured against the ABAW media backdrop will become highlights of the organisation’s 2025 year-end wrap.
Looking Ahead to 2026
President Wang concluded the evening by announcing ABAW’s major first-quarter events:
- Manningham Chinese New Year Festival on Friday 7 February 2026 at Jackson Court
- Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival on Saturday 21 February 2026 on Bank Street and the surrounding precinct
“These festivals are not just events,” Ms. Wang emphasised. “They are platforms for cultural celebration, economic activation, and genuine community connection. We welcome sponsors, exhibitors, and volunteers to join us in building strong momentum for the Year of the Horse.”
Season’s Greetings from ABAW
ABAW extends its warmest wishes to all members, partners and community residents for a joyful Christmas, a prosperous New Year, and a restful summer break.
