On September 20, the Australia Minnan Association grandly held the 2026 Mid-Autumn Bo Bing “Champion of Champions” Grand Prix and Mid-Autumn Gala in Sydney. Representatives from the Chinese Consulate-General in Sydney, Australian politicians across various levels of government, leaders of community organizations, guests from all walks of life, and fellow Minnan compatriots gathered together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival and cherish their hometown ties.
The event kicked off with the opening ceremony of the Mid-Autumn Bo Bing game. Mr. Hong Jingwei, President of the Australia Minnan Association, threw the first dice to launch the tournament and bring good luck. Chen Binbin and Zeng Zhirong served as head judges of the event and distributed game dice to 26 referees. With the slogan “Celebrate Mid-Autumn, Win the Champion, Good Luck Comes,” the dice game officially began at each table. The crisp sound of rolling dice, laughter, and warm blessings echoed throughout the venue, creating a rich atmosphere of Minnan camaraderie and festive joy.
After fierce competition, the champions (Zhuangyuan) from 26 tables emerged and advanced to the “Champion of Champions” grand final. On that evening, the newly crowned champion, Ms. ANNE LIU (Liu Yueying), accompanied by Hui’an women in traditional attire, paraded around the tables to interact with guests and compatriots, sending good luck and Mid-Autumn blessings to everyone.
Immediately following the tournament, the Mid-Autumn Gala officially opened with the festive and vibrant performance Rhythm of the Harvest Drums for Good Days. Distinguished guests attended the gala by invitation, including Consul Ren Shuangjie and Consul Jiang Fang from the Chinese Consulate-General in Sydney; NSW Member of Parliament Jason Li; Mayor of Strathfield Council John Cai; Deputy Mayor of Parramatta City Council Charishma Kaliyanda (Chen Xiao); Georges River Councillors Nancy Liu and Ben Wang; as well as over 600 guests, community leaders, representatives of friendly associations, and members of the public.
On behalf of the association, Mr. Hong Jingwei, President of the Australia Minnan Association, delivered a welcome speech. President Hong stated that the Mid-Autumn Festival is a vital traditional holiday for the Chinese nation, and Bo Bing is a unique Minnan Mid-Autumn custom carrying wishes for reunion, happiness, and good fortune. Over the past year, with the support of all directors, supervisors, members, and fellow compatriots, the association successfully organized numerous cultural and community exchange activities, further strengthening connections and friendship among hometown members. Moving forward, the association will continue to serve fellow compatriots attentively, promote the association’s affairs, help younger generations learn about and inherit Minnan culture, and ensure that these cherished roots are passed down through generations.
Consul Ren Shuangjie, NSW MP Jason Li, Strathfield Mayor John Cai, Parramatta Deputy Mayor Chen Xiao, Georges River Councillors Nancy Liu and Ben Wang, as well as Gao Mingqing—President of the Australia Fujian Business Association, Honorary President of the Australia Minnan Association, and Chairman of Wanguo Gold Group—delivered warm speeches successively. They fully commended the Australia Minnan Association for its long-standing efforts and contributions to uniting and serving Australian Minnan compatriots, inheriting and promoting Chinese and Minnan culture, actively participating in community building, and promoting multicultural exchanges. They expressed hope that the association will continue to serve as a bridge to unite and empower the community, making further contributions to harmonious development within the Chinese community, deepening exchanges and cooperation among various ethnic groups, and fostering friendship between the peoples of Australia and China.
During the gala, it was also officially announced that the 13th Board of Directors and Supervisors of the Australia Minnan Association has been established, with Mr. Hong Jingwei re-elected as President.
Afterward, an award ceremony for the “Champion of Champions” was held. Generous prizes were awarded to the top winner (“Champion of Champions”), two runners-up (Bangyan), and four third-place winners (Tanhua). Principal guests presented awards to the winners and took photos to capture this joyful and auspicious moment.
The gala featured a rich and diverse lineup of performances. The chorus of the association song We Are Minnan People, performed by members of the Board of Directors and Supervisors, was warmly received. The program featured songs, dances, comedy sketches, a lucky draw, a grand group sing-along, and a DISCO segment. The familiar melodies resonated with overseas compatriots’ deep love for their hometown, showcasing the entrepreneurial, resilient, and united spirit of the Minnan people.
The annual tradition of honoring senior citizens was warm and touching. Continuing its tradition of respecting and caring for the elderly, the Australia Minnan Association presented red packets to seniors aged 65 and above, wishing them good health and longevity, reflecting the deep respect and care from the association and all members.
In a joyful atmosphere, Mr. Xu Jingcong, Chairman of the Board of Directors, delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the association. He expressed sincere gratitude to all distinguished guests, supporters from all walks of life, sponsors, board members, performers, staff, and volunteers for their hard work. He noted that the successful organization of this event reflected the deep friendship, unity, and mutual support among Minnan compatriots in Australia, hoping everyone would continue to support the association in building a more united and cohesive Minnan family.
During the event, honorary certificates were presented to sponsors who supported the association’s ongoing work and this specific event. The evening concluded with the classic Minnan song To Win, You Must Try Your Best (Love Will Win). Full of joy, warmth, and reunion, the event allowed Minnan compatriots in Australia to relive hometown traditions, strengthen bonds, and highlight the unique charm of Minnan culture, playing a positive role in spreading Chinese traditional culture in Australia, fostering multicultural exchanges, and deepening Australia-China friendship.
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