Box Hill Corps flies the flag for the Army at annual festival

The Box Hill Corps Brass Band, led by Corps Officer Major Karyn Wishart, marches into Melbourne’s Box Hill Town Hall to kick off the annual Dragon Boat Festival.

BY LERISSE SMITH

More than 2000 people celebrated the launch of Melbourne’s annual Dragon Boat Festival in a burst of colour and culture, with Box Hill Corps Brass Band kicking off the event in spectacular style.

A vibrant blend of tradition, community spirit and connection thrilled the predominantly Chinese-Hong Kong participants, with the Box Hill Town Hall event not only brightening the weekend but also powering a meaningful cause.

Salvos team members including volunteer Multicultural Community Connectors helped promote the vital work of The Salvation Army at the Dragon Boat Festival.

The event shone a spotlight on The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal and the life-changing work of the Salvos within the local community.

“The event was a vibrant and joyful celebration of culture and tradition,” reflected Leanne Wong, Salvos Relationship Manager of the Multicultural Community.

“With Box Hill home to a vibrant and growing Chinese community, this event provided a valuable platform to connect, share our mission and raise awareness of The Salvation Army’s local services and church programs.

“Our presence at this event reaffirmed our commitment to walking alongside the community – not only as a provider of practical support, but as a trusted friend who honours and embraces the unique cultural identities that enrich our neighbourhood.”

This young festival attendee was one of many that took part in the fun at the festival - a joyful celebration of culture and tradition.

The annual Dragon Boat Festival honours Qu Yuan, an ancient Chinese poet and loyal politician who drowned in the Miluo River. Qu Yuan was so beloved that people quickly paddled boats on the river to rescue and recover his body. Though their efforts were unsuccessful, the annual tradition of dragon boat racing was born to commemorate his legacy.

Fun, fellowship, and friendship were at the heart of the day as Leanne teamed up with Box Hill Corps Officer Major Karyn Wishart and Community Engagement Worker Linh Dang to share inspiring stories about the real-life impact of the Salvos’ missional work on people’s lives with the festival attendees.

With all hands on deck at the appeal stall, Salvos team members eagerly chatted with festival goers sparking meaningful conversations and encouraging support for the Salvos ongoing missional work.

Click through the slideshow below for more photos of the Army’s involvement at the festival.