Harmony Under the Moon — Chinese Mid-Autumn Gala 2025
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- Oct 8
- 4 min read
Hosted by the Victoria Shandong Fellowship Association to celebrate cultural diversity and community connection across Victoria.
📍 Box Hill Town Hall · October 5th, 2025
👥 Over 1000 guests from diverse backgrounds gathered to celebrate community, culture, and connection.
A Night of Cultural Harmony and Shared Celebration
Under the glow of a bright full moon, the Victoria Shandong Fellowship Association hosted the “Harmony Under the Moon — Victoria Rhythms, Hearts United” Mid-Autumn Gala at Box Hill Town Hall.
The event attracted over 1,000 participants from across Victoria — including families, students, seniors, and new migrants — creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. It was both a celebration of Chinese cultural heritage and a reflection of Victoria’s multicultural spirit, where people from all walks of life gathered to enjoy art, friendship, and a sense of shared belonging.
Throughout the evening, the venue was filled with music, laughter, and conversation. Guests from diverse backgrounds shared stories and performances that embodied the festival’s universal themes of reunion, gratitude, and harmony.
Message of Reflection and Connection
During his remarks, President Jordan Chen warmly welcomed all guests and extended his sincere festive greetings. He expressed the Association’s ongoing commitment to acting as a bridge — connecting cultures and serving Victoria’s diverse community.
“No matter where we are, the spirit of Mount Tai and the Yellow River remains our backbone; the essence of Qilu culture runs through our veins.”— President Jordan Chen
His heartfelt words drew warm applause and resonated with guests from all backgrounds, symbolising friendship and unity across cultures.
A Gathering of Distinguished Guests
It was a grand and inspiring evening, filled with distinguished guests, warm fellowship, and a strong sense of community.The hall shone brightly with the presence of leaders from politics, business, and the wider community, all united in celebration.
We were honoured to welcome an impressive list of dignitaries, including:
Mr. Jiechao Chi, Commercial Counsellor, Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Melbourne
Mr. Gabriel Ng, Federal Member of Parliament
Mr. Richard Welch MP, Victorian Member of Parliament
Mr. Aiv Puglielli MP, Victorian Member of Parliament
Mr. Andrew Davenport, Mayor of Whitehorse
Mr. Keith Wolahan, Former Federal Member of Parliament
Mr. Bruce Atkinson, Former President, Victorian Legislative Council
Cr. Kirsten Langford, Councillor, City of Whitehorse
Mr. Zhenliang Chen, Former Chair, Victorian Multicultural Commission
Their attendance was not only a recognition of the contributions made by Victoria’s Shandong and Chinese communities, but also a strong endorsement of the continuing importance of Chinese culture in Australia’s multicultural society.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and energy — familiar voices, laughter, and heartfelt exchanges reflected friendships that transcended region and culture, uniting everyone in warmth and mutual respect.
Celebrating Excellence and Community Spirit
The evening also featured award presentations recognising the dedication and contribution of community members and young participants:
🏆 Outstanding Committee Member Awards
🎙️ “Little Orator 2025” Youth Award
🤝 Volunteer Excellence Awards
These awards celebrated the volunteers, youth, and organisers who have worked selflessly to support cultural programs and promote community cohesion. Their passion and service embody the values of respect, compassion, and civic participation that form the foundation of Victoria’s multicultural community.
A Feast of Culture and Connection
The Gala featured an impressive lineup of performances, including traditional Chinese folk dances, the dynamic Chinese drum performance, elegant Eastern dance routines, and modern instrumental ensembles blending Eastern and Western music styles.
Beyond artistic enjoyment, the program offered an opportunity for the broader Victorian public to experience and learn about Chinese culture in an inclusive setting. As the familiar melody of “Victoria Rhythms, Hearts United” filled the hall, hundreds of guests joined in song — voices uniting across languages, generations, and backgrounds to celebrate shared humanity under the same moon.
Community Learning and Inclusion
The 2025 Victoria Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration demonstrated the positive role of multicultural events in promoting community inclusion, learning, and wellbeing across Victoria.
Inclusive Participation:The celebration welcomed more than one thousand residents from diverse cultural backgrounds who came together to enjoy the performances and share in the festive atmosphere. The active presence of senior participants made the event a warm and meaningful platform for intergenerational connection and community interaction.
Community Collaboration:Community service organisations, non-profit groups, AI education and training institutions, and music education providers participated by hosting stalls at the venue. They offered visitors information on health, learning, and arts-related programs, creating opportunities for dialogue and engagement. This cross-sector participation allowed people of different ages and cultural backgrounds to connect through shared interests — integrating education, creativity, and community service within a multicultural celebration.
Community Impact:Held at Box Hill Town Hall, the event reached audiences across the City of Whitehorse and neighbouring suburbs. Through cultural and artistic exchange, it encouraged greater understanding and respect among people from different backgrounds, highlighting the cohesion and inclusiveness that define Victoria’s multicultural society.
Reflection and Gratitude
The Victoria Shandong Fellowship Association expresses heartfelt appreciation to all volunteers, performers, sponsors, and community partners whose dedication made the celebration possible. The success of this event lies not only in its large attendance but also in the genuine connections and mutual appreciation fostered among attendees.
“By celebrating together, we share our traditions while learning from one another — building a more inclusive and compassionate Victoria.”
Looking Ahead
As the moonlight fades and a new season begins, the Association remains committed to:🌏 Promoting mutual learning and respect across Victoria’s diverse communities💫 Encouraging intergenerational participation and inclusive community engagement🏡 Supporting cultural exchange, wellbeing, and friendship between Australia and China
Through shared celebrations and continued collaboration, the Association will keep contributing to a more connected, caring, and inclusive Victoria — where diversity is valued, and every voice is heard.
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