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On Saturday, 21 February 2026, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) hosted the 2026 ABAW Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to Box Hill for one of Victoria’s largest Chinese New Year celebrations. The festival brought together residents, families, businesses and visitors from across Victoria in a vibrant celebration marking the Year of the Horse.

Held along Bank Street in Box Hill and surrounding public areas, the festival featured a full-day program of cultural performances, community activities and market stalls. Traditional lion and dragon dances, alongside multicultural stage performances, highlighted the diversity of Melbourne’s communities and reinforced the ABAW ’s role as a major platform for cultural exchange and community engagement.

More than 100 food and market vendors participated in the event, offering a wide range of cuisine, handmade products and locally operated business offerings. Interactive cultural experiences, including calligraphy demonstrations and heritage workshops, provided opportunities for visitors from diverse backgrounds to engage directly with traditional cultural practices. The evening concluded with spectacular fireworks displays, providing a memorable finale shared by the entire community.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, ABAW President Ms Bihong Wang reflected on the deeper meaning of the festival:

“Today, Box Hill becomes more than a precinct. It becomes a meeting place of histories, journeys and dreams.”

“Festivals like today remind us that prosperity is never created alone. Businesses need community, families need neighbors, new migrants need friendship and communities need unity.” said ABAW President Bihong Wang.

The event was attended by representatives from local, state and federal government, diplomatic representatives, community leaders and business partners. Over many years, government and community institutions have maintained ongoing engagement in supporting multicultural initiatives and community participation across Victoria.

ABAW extends our sincere appreciation to our Title Sponsors, Golden Age and Local: Residential, whose leadership support played a vital role in bringing this large-scale community celebration to life. ABAW also gratefully acknowledges the support of event sponsor Stonemart, together with other valued sponsors and partners, for their continued contribution to fostering cultural connection.

The festival was proudly supported by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, the Victorian State Government, and the City of Whitehorse, whose collaboration and ongoing support continue to strengthen community engagement in the region.

ABAW also recognises the invaluable contributions of performers, stallholders, volunteers and the organising team, whose dedication, professionalism and countless hours of preparation ensured a welcoming and successful event experience for all attendees.

As a not-for-profit organisation known for fostering collaboration between business, culture and community, ABAW remains committed to supporting local economic development, strengthening cross-cultural understanding and creating inclusive spaces where communities can come together.

Following the success of this year’s festival, ABAW looks forward to continuing to work with partners, supporters and the wider community to deliver meaningful cultural events that celebrate diversity and bring people together across Melbourne in the years ahead.

On 7 February 2026, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW), with the support of Manningham Council, hosted the Manningham Chinese New Year Festival at Jackson Court, Doncaster East. The event brought together local residents, families and visitors in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

The festival featured a diverse and engaging program throughout the day. From multiple dragon and lion dance performances to a wide range of food and cultural market offerings, the festival created an open and inclusive space for celebration. An evening fireworks display brought the event to a fitting close. These experiences provided an opportunity for people from diverse cultural backgrounds to come together, connect and foster greater cross-cultural understanding.

As ABAW President Bihong Wang noted, “Chinese New Year is also about values we all understand: gratitude, renewal, and wishing good health and prosperity for others. And that is exactly what today represents — our community coming together, with open hearts, to celebrate what we share and what makes us unique.”

“Events like today are not just about entertainment — they create real impact. They support local traders and small businesses, create opportunities for community organizations, strengthen belonging for new migrants and long-term residents, and showcase Manningham as a vibrant and welcoming place to live and work” said ABAW President Bihong Wang.

Representatives from local, state and federal government, diplomatic representatives, community leaders and partners attended the festival, reflecting broad support for multicultural initiatives and cultural celebration.

The successful delivery of the festival was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors and partners. ABAW sincerely thanks its Title Sponsor, Aoyida International Express, for its leadership support and commitment to community connection. ABAW also acknowledges its Major Sponsor, Bendigo Community Bank (Doncaster East / Templestowe Village), for supporting local community events and contributing to a stronger, more connected community.

ABAW further recognizes the valued support of its other sponsors and supporters, including Bupa, The Glen Asian Grocery, LingoAce, Silver Star Motors, WPM Automotors, Rhema, He Pai, TT Accountants, We Unite, Fortis Risk Solutions, Bivi Home, Aus Primefoods Wholesaling, Success Finance Services, Ark Express, Super Car Auto Care, Rptecture Architects, Mustard Seed Lawyers, Bulk Bargains, Holiday Asia Travel, One Touch Computer, Success Finance Services, Golden Lily Restaurant, Bloom Studio of Dance,   Australia Chinese Calligraphers Association, Australia Dunhuang Arts Academy, LynnM’s Beauty, VICETA WANG, as well as community and cultural organizations that contributed to the delivery of the event. The festival was also supported by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs and the Jackson Court Trader Association, whose continued support helped make the event possible.

ABAW also extends its appreciation to the dedicated stallholders, performers and volunteers whose hard work and enthusiasm played a vital role in creating a welcoming and well-organized event. Their efforts were central to the festival’s success and to the positive experience shared by all who attended.

As a not-for-profit community organization, ABAW has long been committed to supporting small businesses, building cross-cultural connections and delivering initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and local economies. The Manningham Chinese New Year Festival reflects this ongoing commitment, serving as a platform for cultural exchange, community participation and shared celebration.

As the community reflects on this year’s festivities, ABAW looks forward to continuing to work with partners, supporters and the wider community to deliver meaningful cultural events that celebrate diversity and bring people together in the years ahead.

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

On Monday, 10 November 2025, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) officially launched the 2026 ABAW Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival at a media release event held at Box Hill Central. The launch brought together representatives from all levels of government, business leaders, and community partners to celebrate the upcoming festival and its vision for cultural connection and community growth.

The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) is proud to announce the return of one of Melbourne’s most anticipated cultural events — the 2026 ABAW Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival, to be held on Saturday, 21 February 2026, from 11:00 AM to 11:59 PM.

Stretching along Bank Street, Box Hill and the surrounding carparks, the festival will once again transform the heart of Box Hill into a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. This year’s theme embraces the spirit of the Year of the Horse — symbolizing energy, perseverance, and forward momentum. Visitors can look forward to an action-packed day featuring:

• Spectacular lion and dragon dance performances, including a grand showcase featuring up to eight lions.
• A full-day multicultural stage program, highlighting community talent, cultural dance, and an evening DJ set to close the celebrations on a high note.
• Over 100 food and market stalls, offering authentic Asian delicacies, handcrafted goods, and family-friendly activities.
• Traditional heritage workshops, including Chinese calligraphy, paper-cutting and DIY craft sessions.
• A special cultural showcase presented by ABAW, featuring art groups from Quanzhou, Fujian. The program will include Nanyin classical music, traditional puppet theatre, flower hairpin art (Zan Hua) and Gaojia opera, bringing the essence of Southern Fujian’s intangible cultural heritage to Box Hill’s main stage.
• An interactive “Stamp & Treasure Hunt”, where visitors can collect stamps across the precinct to redeem limited-edition prizes.

Beyond the festivities, the event carries a deeper purpose: to promote multicultural understanding, support local economic development, and celebrate the shared identity of the Australian Chinese community.

“For over a decade, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse has been a driving force in our community, fostering collaboration between business and culture, and bringing people together across generations and backgrounds.” said Gabriel Ng MP, Federal Member for Menzies.

“This festival is more than a calendar date. It’s a platform for social cohesion and community economic development,” said ABAW President Bihong Wang.

“When neighbors meet, eat and celebrate together, trust grows. When local businesses take part — from dumpling houses to tech start-ups — jobs grow. And when young people see their culture celebrated in the heart of their own city, confidence grows. The benefits live well beyond the fireworks.”

The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) successfully hosted the AI & Productivity Forum, an in-depth discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping business operations, workforce efficiency, and innovation across industries.

The event provided a practical platform for business owners, educators, and professionals to exchange ideas on how AI can enhance productivity while maintaining human creativity and ethical responsibility. Participants highlighted the rapid benefits of automation in drafting, design, translation, and data analysis, freeing employees to focus on higher-value work and client engagement.

Discussions also addressed key challenges including privacy, data security, governance, and the growing capability gap between large enterprises and small-to-medium businesses. Many attendees emphasized the importance of accessible training, sector-specific playbooks, and plain-language resources to help SMEs adopt AI safely and effectively.

The forum underscored that the future of productivity lies not only in technological advancement but also in collaboration between government, business, and community sectors. By promoting responsible innovation, organizations can harness AI to improve efficiency while ensuring fairness, transparency, and human oversight.

As a non-profit association committed to empowering multicultural businesses and fostering sustainable community development, ABAW continues to build bridges between business, technology, and society. Through initiatives like the AI & Productivity Forum, ABAW aims to support Victorian enterprises in navigating digital transformation with confidence and inclusivity.

The ABAW 2025 QVM Moon Festival celebrated the richness of Asian culture, community, and connection, showcasing vibrant traditions, performances, and culinary delights at the heart of Melbourne. Bringing together families, community members, cultural groups, and local businesses, the Festival created a space where heritage and celebration intersect, inspiring joy and connection across Victoria’s multicultural community.

This landmark celebration highlighted the dedication of community groups, performers, and local businesses in bringing Melbourne’s Asian culture to life. On September 27–28, the Moon Festival, hosted by the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) in partnership with Melbourne City Council, transformed Queen Victoria Market into a vibrant cultural hub, welcoming visitors from across the city and beyond.

The weekend created an environment that fostered connection, enjoyment, and cultural appreciation. More than a festival, the ABAW Moon Festival is a platform that celebrates the creativity, heritage, and collaboration within Victoria’s multicultural community, ensuring traditions are shared, stories are heard, and the next generation is inspired to engage, learn, and contribute to a thriving, inclusive cultural landscape.

A special thank you to our sponsors: The Glen Asian Grocery, Bupa, and Westpac, whose support made this celebration possible.

The 2025 ABAW Business Excellence Awards showcased the very best of multicultural business leadership, celebrating the vision, innovation, and achievements of Victoria’s Asian business community. Bringing together industry leaders, senior executives, and distinguished community representatives, the Awards shone a spotlight on those driving meaningful impact, inspiring growth, and shaping the future of cross-cultural commerce.

Six months of planning.
Seven expert judges.
Over 100 inspiring nominees.
Twelve award categories.

This landmark celebration highlighted the remarkable dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of individuals and organisations shaping the future of multicultural business. On August 28, the Awards Gala Dinner, hosted by the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW) with support from Business Victoria, was held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), concluding successfully under the witness of Victoria’s political and business leaders.

The evening created an environment that fostered recognition, connection, and celebration of excellence. More than an accolade, the ABAW Business Excellence Awards is a platform that brings the tireless efforts of multicultural entrepreneurs to light, ensuring their stories are heard and their contributions recognised, while inspiring the next generation of business leaders to pursue innovation, excellence, and meaningful impact within the community.

The CareConnect 2025 Networking Event, held on June 26th, was an exciting and highly successful gathering, bringing together over 100 passionate professionals from the NDIS, Home Care, Healthcare, and Allied Health sectors! The atmosphere was electric as industry leaders, innovators, and care experts connected to explore new opportunities and shape the future of care services.

We were honoured to welcome distinguished guests from Business Victoria and Manningham Council, whose continued support is pivotal in driving progress within the sector. A special thank you to Alkira and Active Community Group for joining as panellists and sharing their invaluable insights into the evolving care landscape.

A heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors, Able Living and Yang He, for making this event possible, and to Business Victoria and Manningham Council for their unwavering support in advancing the care industry.

With inspiring discussions, dynamic networking opportunities, and a strong sense of community, CareConnect 2025 showcased ABAW’s ongoing commitment to fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation within the care sector. We are excited to continue hosting events that bring together professionals to drive positive change and strengthen our community.

Stay connected with us for more exciting events and initiatives! Follow ABAW on our website and social media channels for the latest updates.

Following the successful conclusion of the 2025 Manningham Asian Cultural Festival, the Manningham City Council held an official reception to formally express its gratitude to the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse Inc. (ABAW), the principal organiser of the event. The reception recognised ABAW’s outstanding contribution to promoting cultural diversity, strengthening community cohesion, and delivering a vibrant and inclusive celebration for residents throughout the municipality.

The reception was attended by key representatives of the Council, including:

• Cr. Deirdre Diamante, Mayor of Manningham
• Cr. Anna Chen, Councillor
• Cr. Jim Grivas, Councillor
• Cr. Laura Mayne, Councillor
• Mr. Andrew Day, Chief Executive Officer
• Ms. Lee Robson, Director of Community Engagement
• Mr. Andy Waugh, Economic Development Coordinator
• Ms. Vanessa Bove, Manager of Economic & Cultural Activation

In recognition of ABAW’s leadership and dedication, the Council presented the organisation with the “Festival Partnership Appreciation Plaque,” symbolising its sincere appreciation for ABAW’s professionalism and impact on the community.

ABAW remains committed to fostering multicultural engagement and collaborative partnerships, and looks forward to continuing its work with government and community stakeholders to deliver meaningful, high-quality initiatives that benefit the wider public.

The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) hosted its highly anticipated April Networking Event at the Golden Lily in Box Hill, with around 100 attendees from various sectors of the community.

The evening kicked off with warm welcomes to distinguished guests, including Mr. John Mullahy, State MP for Glen Waverley, representing the Minister for Small Business, Ms. Natalie Suleyman, and Mr. Andrew Davenport, Mayor of the City of Whitehorse. The event provided a vibrant atmosphere for networking, allowing attendees to forge meaningful connections, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations.

It also highlighted ABAW’s commitment to promoting community spirit and fostering business growth within the region. Special thanks were given to Golden Lily for their excellent hospitality, and the event was a success thanks to the continued support from partners, sponsors, and attendees.

Looking ahead, ABAW is excited to continue hosting events that bring together local businesses and encourage community engagement.

For updates on future events and initiatives, ABAW invites you to follow their website and social media channels.