THE Bendigo Easter Festival holds a special place on the calendar for many central Victorian families, and those beyond.
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Few would argue, one of the major lures at Easter for the young, and young-at-heart, is the presence of the Bendigo Chinese Association and the world’s longest imperial dragon – Sun Loong.
Many recall as small children, the fear and excitement that came with the noise of the firecrackers, drums and the dragon’s others supporting sections.
But those few years of hiding behind their parents quickly passed, and those small children became older children who learned to love all that came with Sun Loong and his friends.
Those children have become parents and grandparents who now love sharing that experience with their own children and grandchildren.
Sun Loong first appeared in the Easter procession in 1970, after the retirement of Loong.
Loong came to Bendigo to aid local charities and was a significant feature in the procession since 1892. He now rests in the Golden Dragon Museum.
Just as he was replaced in 1970 and crowds learned to love Sun Loong, so too will they learn to love the next dragon that will wind its way through our streets at Easter.
Following a condition report into the 100-metre long Sun Loong, it is possible he will make his last appearance in two years.
The Bendigo Chinese Association is making plans to replace Sun Loong, and will next month travel to Hong Kong to meet with dragon makers about possibilities for his retirement.
Should they continue to plan, Sun Loong will make his final solo appearance next year before joining the new dragon to travel through the parade together in 2018.
This was a tradition started in 1970, when Loong and Sun Loong paraded together.
Sun Loong will also then be retired to the museum to be preserved for future generations.
There will be many who will be sad to say so long to Sun Loong, but with that comes excitement as to what the next dragon will bring to our Easter showcase.
The Bendigo Chinese Association says its aim is to preserve and promote Chinese heritage and culture in our region – and retiring Sun Loong ensure this continues.
Nicole Ferrie, editor