Docklands dragon to roar again

The Docklands dragon will roar again, returning to Harbour Esplanade after a year in hibernation.

The 100-metre long, illuminated dragon will be installed on Harbour Esplanade this month in celebration of Chinese New Year.

Thursday, February 19 signals the beginning of the lunar new year and a major celebration will see the dragon accompanied by floating lanterns, dragon boats, drummers, dance troupes, fire twirlers and lion dances.

Sponsored by City of Melbourne, China Southern Airlines, Eureka Skydeck, Destination Docklands and Lend Lease, the dragon is part of wider Chinese New Year celebrations across Melbourne.

Eureka Skydeck general manager John Forman said this year, in addition to the dragon, five illuminated dragons would also be positioned along Harbour Esplanade and food trucks would also visit.

“We also have 1000 good luck lanterns to hand out at the beginning of the celebrations on February 19,” Mr Forman said.

“I’m very excited about growing Chinese New Year in Docklands,” he said. “It’s another step forward in growing Chinese New Year festivities across Melbourne.”

The dragon will be in place on Harbour Esplanade from February 19 through to March 1. Entertainment will accompany the dragon on the evenings of February 19, 20, 27 and 28.

For more information about Chinese New Year celebrations across Melbourne visit http://www.cnymelbourne.com.au