Past Events

ABAW Launches 2027 Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival with Golden Age Returning as Title Sponsor

The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) has launched preparations for the 2027 Box Hill Chinese New Year Festival, planned for Saturday, 13 February 2027, at a media launch and networking event held at Fountains Restaurant, Box Hill Institute.

ABAW President Bihong Wang announced Golden Age’s return as Title Sponsor, alongside confirmed supporters ANZ, BOQ, Bupa, Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme, Foot Solutions and Asian Inspiration.

Notable speakers included Notable Speakers

Ms. Bihong Wang – President of ABAW

Cr. Kirsten Langford – Mayor of City of Whitehorse

Mr. Gabriel Ng MP – Federal Member for Menzies

Dr. Carina Garland MP – Federal Member for Chisholm

Mr. Matt Gregg MP – Federal Member for Deakin

Mr. Paul Hamer MP – State Member for Box Hill, Minister for Roads and Road Safety. Representing Mr. Paul Edbrooke MP – Minister for Police, Minister for Crime Prevention, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Multicultural Affairs

Richard Welch MP – Shadow Minister for Industry, Shadow Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Shadow Minister for AI and the Digital Economy

Mr. Evan Mulholland MP – Shadow Minister for Transport Infrastructure, Shadow Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Affairs. Representing Ms. Jess Wilson MP – Leader of the Opposition Victoria

Mr. Damien Hehir – Development Director of Golden Age Group

Notable VIPs

Mr. Nick McGowan MP – Legislative Council for Northeastern Metropolitan

Ms. Sally Houget – Liberal Candidate for Box Hill

Ms. Prue Cutts – Individual Candidate for Ringwood

Cr. Peter Allan – Whitehorse City Councillor

ABAW was honoured to receive bipartisan support for the festival.  The Victorian Liberal Party announced a commitment of $150,000 annually if elected at the 2026 state election, while Victorian Labor announced annual funding of $100,000 if returned to government.  ABAW warmly welcomes both commitments as recognition of the festival’s cultural, community and economic contribution to Box Hill.

“We want people of all backgrounds to feel welcome, and younger generations to experience the traditions that mean so much to their families,” President Wang said.

President Wang highlighted the festival’s role in connecting families, sharing traditions and introducing local businesses to new customers. She thanked the 2026 sponsors, ABAW members, committee, operations team, volunteers and media for their contributions.

The networking event encouraged guests to exchange ideas and explore business collaboration.

“We look forward to welcoming you to the festival on 13 February 2027,” President Wang said.

Festival Details

Planned date: Saturday, 13 February 2027

Location: Bank Street Box Hill, VIC 3128

Further festival information and updates: www.abaw.org.au

For sponsorship opportunities and media enquiries, please contact [email protected].

ABAW Brings Community Together Through Free Floristry Workshops

The Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) has celebrated a successful first session of its free community floristry workshops, delivered by Box Hill Institute and supported by SRL. The workshop brought participants together to explore their creativity, learn new skills and connect through the shared experience of flower arranging.

From watching demonstrations to creating their own arrangements, participants transformed classroom learning into personal expressions of colour, shape and balance. Trimming stems, pairing flowers and adjusting each placement, they discovered how the same materials could take on different forms through individual ideas and choices.

As the session progressed, floral arrangements became a reflection of each participant’s creativity. Different combinations of colour, flowing lines and layers revealed a range of styles, with every finished piece capturing the care and thought behind its creation. The final display offered an opportunity to appreciate one another’s work and celebrate what they had learned.

Beyond the arrangements themselves, the workshop created a welcoming space to pause, focus on a creative activity and meet new people. This shared learning experience reflects ABAW’s commitment to supporting mental wellbeing and strengthening social connections through accessible community activities.

Following the success of the first session, ABAW welcomes more community members to discover the joy of floristry. The free workshop series continues on selected Saturdays through April 2027, welcoming beginners and flower enthusiasts alike.

Stay connected with ABAW for upcoming workshop dates and registration announcements. Places are limited, and community members are encouraged to follow ABAW’s official channels for opportunities to join future sessions.

For available dates and registration enquiries, contact [email protected].

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

On Saturday, 8 August 2026, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) proudly hosted the 2026 Victorian Business Excellence Awards Gala at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs, government representatives, community leaders, sponsors, partners and supporters from across Victoria for an evening dedicated to recognising excellence, leadership and meaningful contribution.

More than an awards night, the Victorian Business Excellence Awards represented a celebration of enterprise, diversity, innovation and the people helping shape Victoria’s future. The event provided an important platform to recognise outstanding businesses and individuals whose achievements, leadership and commitment continue to make a positive impact across a wide range of industries and communities.

Throughout the evening, guests came together to celebrate award recipients and finalists across multiple categories, reflecting the breadth and strength of Victoria’s multicultural business community. The Gala also created valuable opportunities for attendees to connect with one another, strengthen relationships and build new links across business, government and the wider community.

The Awards highlighted the important role that diverse businesses, entrepreneurs and community leaders play in driving Victoria’s economic growth, creating employment, encouraging innovation and strengthening social cohesion. It was also an opportunity to acknowledge the many sponsors, partners, judges, volunteers and supporters whose contribution made the Awards possible.

ABAW congratulates all award recipients and finalists on their outstanding achievements and extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who attended and supported the 2026 Gala. Through the Victorian Business Excellence Awards, ABAW remains committed to building a strong and respected platform that celebrates achievement, promotes opportunity, strengthens connections and showcases the contribution of Victoria’s diverse business community.

On Wednesday, 17 June 2026, the Asian Business Association of Whitehorse (ABAW) hosted its Members’ Networking Event at Golden Lily Restaurant, bringing together around 90 members, business owners, community representatives and partners for an evening of connection, engagement and collaboration. The event provided a warm and welcoming platform for attendees to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new contacts and strengthen relationships across Victoria’s diverse multicultural business community.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a selection of food and drinks while taking part in informal networking and meaningful conversations with fellow members and local business leaders. The relaxed setting encouraged open discussion, new introductions and the sharing of business ideas, experiences and opportunities. For many attendees, the event served as a valuable opportunity to expand their professional networks, learn more about the work of other local businesses and explore potential areas for future collaboration.

The program also included raffle draws, which added an enjoyable and interactive element to the evening and helped create a lively atmosphere among guests. As part of ABAW’s ongoing commitment to supporting local economic participation, business growth and cross-cultural connection, the networking event reflected the importance of bringing people together in an inclusive and supportive environment. ABAW remains committed to creating opportunities for members to build meaningful relationships, strengthen community ties and grow alongside one another.

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

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.

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.”