BENDIGO’S campaign for a new Imperial Dragon has received the backing of the state government.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced a $250,000 contribution towards Sun Loong’s restoration and replacement while in Bendigo for Labor’s regional caucus on Thursday.

“In the scheme of things it’s not a big amount of money, but it’s a very important investment,” Mr Andrews told the Bendigo Advertiser during a live video interview.

He said retiring 47-year-old Sun Loong and helping the city procure his replacement, Dai Gum Loong, was “about keeping Bendigo strong.”

The Bendigo Easter Festival draws 60,000 visitors to the city each year.

The Imperial Dragon is at the heart of the celebrations. 

“So we’re very pleased, after very strong representations from Jacinta [Allan] and Maree [Edwards] and others to make that investment,” Mr Andrews said.

The state government’s donation brings the Sun Loong 750 campaign closer to its goal of $750,000.

Sun Loong 750 Committee chair Richard Guy welcomed the state government’s contribution, but said there was still a long way to go.

He was hopeful the federal government would match the state’s investment in the project. 

The Sun Loong 750 campaign raised $187,000 to June 30. 

Sir Richard Branson is among those who have committed to ‘chip in’ to fundraising efforts.

Mr Guy said the state government’s support gave the campaign “enormous momentum”.

“This is wonderful news and we are very grateful for the assistance given,” he said. 

Golden Dragon Museum general manager Anita Jack said the state’s investment enabled the committee to start proceeding with all the orders for the new dragon.

“We were hoping to have the dragon here by 2019,” she said. 

“It’s looking like it will be on time.”

She said the state government’s announcement enabled the committee to look at the procurement of the dragon and dragon makers.

A dragon maker has yet to be confirmed. 

Ms Jack said dragon makers had been asked to provide a sample of a dragon scale, to ensure Dai Gum Loong was the best fit for Bendigo.

Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan, said the funding announcement was great for jobs, local businesses and the city’s future. 

“Not only will Bendigo continue to be home to the world’s longest dragon, it’s Easter Festival will be bigger and better than ever,” she said. 

Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, said the contribution highlighted the importance of the event.

“The Easter Festival brings the whole community together each year to celebrate all that is great about Bendigo,” she said.

“With a new Chinese Dragon, this event is set to go from strength to strength.”

To contribute to the Sun Loong 750 campaign, visit www.daigumloong.com.au