Before Bendigo icon Sun Loong can make its much-hyped visit to Melbourne, organisers require volunteers who can carry the imperial dragon through the streets of the Victorian capital.
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The 100-metre dragon – the longest outside China – will parade outside the Melbourne Museum on Sunday.
It is Sun Loong’s first appearance outside of Bendigo since arriving in the city in 1970.
Bendigo Chinese Association president Doug Lougoon called on regular dragon carriers and their friends to visit the Golden Dragon Museum or the BCA rooms on Tuesday or Wednesday to register interest in taking part.
Volunteers will eat breakfast together in Bendigo on Sunday before being taken by bus to Melbourne for the event. The bus is scheduled to return to Bendigo about 5pm the same day.
“We need the dragon carriers, and anybody who carries our lead banners,” Mr Lougoon said.
There are also spaces available for girls aged 10 to 18 who wanted to dress as princesses for the parade.
The record-breaking dragon was dismantled this week in preparation for the journey to Melbourne, where it will be re-assembled with assistance from the Melbourne Museum staff.
It was the first time in almost 30 years that the dragon was taken a part, Mr Lougoon said.
The BCA president described the the process as good practice for Sun Loong’s retirement, during which time the dragon will be put on permanent display.
“We've been able to get on top of a few maintenance things you couldn’t without taking [Sun Loong] apart,” he said.
After Sunday’s event, the dragon will remain on show at the museum until late February. Upon its return the hunt will again resume for Easter parade carriers.
The 2018 parade has been slated as the dragon’s last.
An update on the search for a manufacturer to replace Sun Loong is expected later this week.
A funding target for replacement Dai Gum Loong was exceeded in November when the federal government announced it would contribute $250,000.