Bendigo has had the first glimpse of its new Imperial Dragon, Dai Gum Loong, which is nearing completion in Hong Kong.
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The image, of the dragon’s head, features a beautiful ornate design, similar to his predecessors Loong and Sun Loong
It has taken less than a year to complete the project – the City of Greater Bendigo and Golden Dragon Museum signed a contract in May last year with celebrated Hong Kong dragon maker Master Hui to construct Dai Gum Loong.
The dragon – which is expected to arrive in Australia by March – will make its debut in the Bendigo Advertiser gala parade during the Easter festival.
To finish the dragon-making process, Dai Gum Loong’s head, neck and tail will be blessed in a Hong Kong temple on February 2.
Mayor Cr Margaret O’Rourke, Golden Dragon Museum General Manager Anita Jack and Bendigo Chinese Association President Doug Lougoon will attend the blessing.
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Ms Jack said the traditional blessing was intended to prepare Dai Gum Loong for his journey to Bendigo.
“The blessing ensures safe travels for Dai Gum Loong and is an important component of the dragon making process,” she said.
“From a cultural perspective it is important to have the mayor attend the blessing and represent the Greater Bendigo community, which Dai Gum Loong will become a part of.”
Cr O’Rourke said she was looking forward to attending the blessing and meeting the people who had created Dai Gum Loong.
“This has been an important project for our community that has attracted Local, State and Federal Government investment, as well as significant private donations. The arrival of Dai Gum Loong will be an exciting chapter in our City’s history and I am delighted to represent our community at the blessing,” she said.
The mayor’s travel is supported by Council and expenses will be accommodated within the current budget.
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