The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) launched the 2027 Manningham Lunar New Year Festival at a media event on 9 October 2026, attended by government representatives, community leaders and sponsors.
Presented by ABAW in partnership with Manningham Council, the festival will take place at Ruffey Lake Park on Saturday, 30 January 2027, bringing together residents of all ages and backgrounds.
Guests at the launch included ：
Speakers
Ms Bihong Wang | President, Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW)
Cr Jim Grivas | Mayor of Manningham
Mr Gabriel Ng MP | Federal Member for Menzies
Ms Nicole Werner MP | State Member for Warrandyte
The Hon. Matthew Guy MP | State Member for Bulleen
Mr Richard Shi | Vice President, Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW)
VIP Guests
Cr Deirdre Diamante | Deputy Mayor of Manningham
Cr Anna Chen | Councillor, Manningham Council
Connecting communities through culture
ABAW President Bihong Wang said the festival would unite diverse communities and create opportunities for families, community groups and local businesses. She thanked Manningham Council, its economic development team, ANZ, Bupa and other partners for their support.
Ms Wang highlighted Lunar New Year’s meaning of family, reunion and hope, and its role in sharing traditions and strengthening cross-cultural understanding.
Manningham Mayor Cr Jim Grivas said diversity was one of the city’s greatest strengths. He said the celebration would build on the recent Manningham Asian Cultural Festival’s success and strengthen community connections.
Federal MP Gabriel Ng recognised ABAW’s contribution to multicultural exchange and local economic opportunities, expressing continued Federal Government support.
Victorian MP Matthew Guy acknowledged ABAW’s efforts to enrich local cultural life and expressed his support for the 2027 celebration.
An invitation to participate
The programme will feature cultural performances, workshops, exhibitions and interactive activities, welcoming families familiar with Lunar New Year traditions and first-time visitors.
ABAW and Manningham Council invite local community groups, schools, businesses and volunteers to help bring the celebration to life.
Supporting local businesses
To support Manningham’s small businesses, ABAW is offering a 50% discount on stall fees to all food and beverage businesses and product-based small businesses located in Manningham.
Event Details
Event: 2027 Manningham Lunar New Year Festival
Date: Saturday, 30 January 2027
Venue: Ruffey Lake Park, Manningham, Victoria
Presented by: Asian Business Association of Whitehorse in partnership with Manningham Council
Media Enquiries
For further information, interviews or participation enquiries:
Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.abaw.org.au
