On 26 February 2026, Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) held its 14th Lunar New Year Longevity Luncheon at the Balcatta Community Hub. More than 300 guests attended, including over 60 seniors aged 90 and above. The gathering was filled with smiles and a sense of connection, celebrating the long lives and strong community bonds.
The event was conducted in Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and English, creating an inclusive and lively atmosphere. Seniors played games and won horse plush toys, bringing lots of laughter. The God of Fortune took photos with guests. Lucky draws and a countdown added excitement before everyone tossed the traditional Lo Hei salad, which symbolises abundance for the coming year.
This year marks the rare Year of the Fire Horse, which happens only once every sixty years. In her speech, CWCC Board Chair Mrs Esther Chang said the Fire Horse represents passion, hope, and moving forward. She pointed out that these qualities are seen in the seniors being honoured, whose strength and determination inspire everyone in the community.
This year's theme was “Together, We’re Evergreen.” CWCC CEO, Mrs Theresa Kwok JP, said that longevity is a way of life for everyone, not just seniors. She explained that being active, staying mentally engaged, and keeping social connections help people live an 'evergreen' life. She encouraged everyone to take on this outlook in their own lives and communities.
The stage program highlighted both culture and community. The CWCC’s ensemble played traditional Chinese music, and the Qingya Xuan Dance Group performed graceful dances. Tai Chi demonstrations showed both strength and smooth movement. Volunteers and seniors shared a touching wheelchair dance. Vietnamese seniors in traditional dress brought extra colour and energy, showing the community’s multicultural spirit.
One of the highlights was the lion dance by the Chung Wah Dragon & Lion Dance Troupe. The sound of drums and cymbals filled the room as lions moved through the crowd. Guests gave red envelopes and shared wishes for health and good fortune. Donations were also given to the Autism Association of Western Australia, showing the seniors’ strong community spirit.
Several distinguished guests also shared heartfelt remarks. Ms Sook Yee Lai MLA, representing the Western Australian Government, compared the community spirit to a herd of galloping horses, moving forward together with strength and unity. Federal Member of Parliament Hon.
Mr Sam Lim MP said that Australia’s multicultural harmony comes from the hard work of earlier migrant generations. Mr Andy Yuan, President of Chung Wah Association, spoke about the importance of respecting elders and family values in the community. Consul General Madam Fu Lihua from the Chinese Consulate in Perth praised CWCC’s ongoing support for seniors and encouraged everyone to keep working together for the community.
As people enjoyed their meals and talked with each other, the luncheon became a way to honour the seniors who had helped shape the community. The event showed that, even as times change, respecting elders, celebrating multicultural harmony, and building community bonds remain important values.
In this Year of the Fire Horse, CWCC’s main message is to support a lively and inclusive society, honour tradition, and move forward together.
