00:02We have had so many celebrations here, but really things kicked off last night.
00:08Chinatown was absolutely teeming with people here in Melbourne,
00:12and we saw similar scenes right across the country.
00:14This, of course, is such a meaningful and significant time for Chinese communities,
00:20but also so many other countries celebrate the Lunar New Year.
00:24So this is the new year based on the lunar calendar, also known as the Spring Festival.
00:28And we are going to be seeing celebrations for two more weeks.
00:32We're going to be seeing things like lion and dragon dances.
00:36They are going to be performing non-stop in various locations,
00:40particularly here in Melbourne for the next couple of weeks.
00:42There are going to be family events in Chinatown.
00:45They're going to be different demonstrations.
00:47This is really such an important time in the calendar.
00:52Also, we are going to be celebrating the Year of the Horse.
00:56Now, the horse is known for its speed, for its stamina, also its stubborn streak.
01:02And this year is the Year of the Fire Horse.
01:05Now, basically what we're being told is, imagine double fire.
01:10So that's possibly a bit of a sneak peek of what's in store for the year ahead.
01:14Now, as we know with the Lunar New Year, food is such an important part.
01:19It's all about family and rituals and reunions, honouring ancestors as well.
01:25And there are different foods that have different symbolisms.
01:27I got a sneak peek earlier with some of them.
01:29So there's what's called a longevity noodles, also prosperity salad.
01:34As you can see behind me, fish are a really important part as well.
01:39A symbol of good luck and prosperity.
01:42And, everyone's favourite, dumplings.
01:44Now, it is said, the more dumplings you eat is going to indicate
01:49the more wealth you have in a year.
01:51So, Gemma, that means I've got to get busy.
01:54I've got to go eat some dumplings.
01:56So I'm going to leave you now and continue on the celebrations.
01:58They're going to continue for the next couple of weeks,
02:00culminating on the 15th day of Lunar New Year,
02:03which is the Lantern Festival.
02:04So lots to come for the next couple of weeks.
02:06Yeah, I think we can all jump on board with that.
02:08Emma Rebellato, thank you.
02:09Emma Rebellato, thank you.
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