On 2 February 2025 I had the honour of representing the Premier of New South Wales and the Minister for Multiculturalism at the Lunar New Year celebration ceremony at Mingyue Lay Temple. As we welcomed the year of the wood snake, the celebration was a vibrant cultural and spiritual gathering, bringing together community leaders to mark the new year with joy and tradition. The festivities featured a spectacular dragon dance, firecrackers and a fireworks display, all symbolic traditions in Chinese culture believed to bring good luck, health and prosperity in the new year. I extend my sincere appreciation to the venerable monks, community leaders and dedicated volunteers for organising such a warm and meaningful event. I extend my heartfelt thanks also to chairman Mr James Chan, OAM, and president Mr Vincent Kong, OAM, for the kind invitation. May the year of the wood snake bring wisdom, health, happiness and prosperity to all.