Dear Fellow Countrymen,
Despite the celebration falling on a Monday, the spirit remained fervent. With temperatures reaching 32°C at 6 PM and cooling by 9 PM, over 20,000 people flocked to Quang Minh Temple.
The Temple was exceptionally prepared with 200 free parking spots, upgraded medical facilities, and well-organized food services. Over 200 volunteers worked tirelessly for 2 weeks following the historic Buddha Relics exhibition (which drew 17,000 visitors).
"Past and Present" Cultural Highlights
· Golden Apricot Path: A brilliant entrance reminiscent of a fairy land.
· Vietnamese Soul: Conical hat displays and a vintage cream-colored cyclo evoked memories of old Southern cities.
· Regional Colors: A blend of Hoi An lanterns, elegant lotuses, and meticulously handwritten New Year couplets.
· Rural Memories: Simple bicycles and oxcarts reminded guests of countryside life and the joy of leaving the fields for Spring festivities.
· "Success on Horseback" Painting: Featuring 8 majestic horses in oil, symbolizing unity and prosperity.
Distinguished Guests
The Temple was honored to welcome Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and over 50 federal and state officials:
· Hon. Jacinta Allan – Premier of Victoria.
· Hon. Daniel Mulino – Federal Member for Fraser.
· Hon. Ingrid Stitt – Minister for Mental Health, Ageing, and Multicultural Affairs.
· Hon. Natalie Suleyman – Minister for Veterans, Small Business, Youth, and Employment.
· Hon. Jo Brisky – Member for Maribyrnong.
· Mr. Trung Luu MLC – Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs.
· Representatives from Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Moonee Valley Councils, the Australian Vietnamese Women's Association, and the Vietnamese Museum Australia.
Sacred New Year’s Eve Proceedings
· 10:50 PM: Lion and Dragon dances led the delegation to 15 cultural stalls. Dr. Pham Phuc Nhan presented plans for the future 9-story Stupa and Multicultural Art Center.
· The Ceremony: The Premier pressed the button to illuminate the "Mã Đáo Thành Công" painting. Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan and the Sangha guided the delegation in the bell-ringing ceremony and New Year greetings.
· 11:25 PM: Official stage ceremony began with Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan's opening remarks on the spiritual significance of Tet.
· Speeches: Moving addresses were delivered by Premier Allan and Hon. Daniel Mulino, including a special message from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
· Midnight Countdown: Following the traditional red envelope (Li Xi) presentation to the Lion dance troupe, the countdown commenced, followed by firecrackers and a spectacular fireworks display.
By 12:20 AM, guests departed with fond memories, while thousands of devotees stayed to pray and receive New Year blessings. The celebrations continue tomorrow on the First Day of the Year of the Horse.
Nam Mo Hoan Hy Di Lac Ton Vuong Phat.
Reported by: Dr. Pham Phuc Nhan.
