Welcoming the Chinese New Year with a touch of culture

The Chinese New Year has officially dawned, bringing the promise of new hopes and dreams.

Welcoming the Year of the Dog, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry is determined to bring a touch of the Orient to the Newcastle community. This follows the New Year celebrations hosted by the chamber at Blackrock Casino and Ruyi Restaurant.

With fireworks, cultural dances and traditional food, the Chinese community celebrated not only their new year. But embraced their heritage with fellow Newcastillians, while setting their sights on a brighter tomorrow.

During the celebrations, Newcastle Mayor Makhosini Nkosi commended the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “The chamber acts as a welcoming committee to investors and helps address issues.”

Furthermore, bringing stability to the business sector, Cllr Nkosi believes the business owners can help minimise unemployment.

“We cannot afford to have a child go to bed hungry. No can we afford a man not have an income to supply for his family. We cannot afford to have a mother raising a family to worry about where the next meal is coming from.”

While looking at the future, Cllr Nkosi believes the new year promises to be one of promise. “I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a Happy New Year and as we usher in the Year of the Dog, lets remember it comes with new hopes and expectations,” he concluded.

A night of socialising, reigniting old friendships and forging strong family bonds, the event is one to be remembered. Through the night’s merriments, guests are now looking forward to creating a year of love, compassion and success.

The Newcastillian wishes its Chinese readers a Happy New Year!