Time and date of Release: 3.45pm on February 07 2024
Fire and Rescue NSW has hosted a special Chinese Lion dancing ceremony to welcome prosperity and happiness during the services 140th year.
With the Lunar New Year festivities starting on Saturday 10th March, FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, and other firefighters welcomed the performance in the stations engine bays by the Chinese Youth League Lion and Dragon dance troupe.
The procession through number one station, City of Sydney, Australias busiest, aims to promote good fortune and ward off any evil spirits.
The Lion Dance is one of the most important traditions of the Chinese New Year.
FRNSW Area Commander Metro East, Darryl Dunbar, said the performance also celebrates the fire services close ties with the communities in Sydneys Chinatown and Haymarket districts in particular.
Its a terrific gesture during what is FRNSWs 140th year and we work closely with the states Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, especially around our fire prevention and preparedness activities, Chief Superintendent Dunbar said.
Evil spirits Im not aware of any per se, but were happy to have the Lion Dance drive them out, as we celebrate the Chinese New Year and Fire and Rescues 140th birthday next Wednesday 14th February, he added.
Media note – Footage of the Lion Dance is available here: https://vimeo.com/manage/
