Dumplings, lanterns and gluten balls galore are being readied as preparations for Chinese New Year celebrations get under way across Melton.
At noon on Thursday, February 19, Melton’s Chinese community will usher in the year of the goat.
Melton Chinese Friendship Association secretary Vivien Yang says the celebrations are about welcoming a fresh start.
“It’s about celebrating the new year that’s coming,” Ms Yang said. “There’s lots of food, games and family and friends.”
According to Chinese superstition, those born in the year of the goat will have bad luck next year. To avoid the wrath of the God of Age, people should wear something red.
“Whoever is born in the year of the animal, they need to buy a red belt and should wear the red belt for one year for good luck and good fortune,” Ms Yang said.
The friendship association meets every Wednesday from 10am-1pm to learn English, eat “lots of yummy food” and practise tai-chi.
Thang On, a Vietnamese-Chinese migrant, is looking forward to entering the new year with his friends at the association.
“We communicate with each other and it’s really good,” Mr On said.
Melton Chinese Friendship Association
For more information about the group, phone 8358 4877.
