On 18 October 2026, the Chung Wah Association, Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC), and the Bayswater Historical Society met at the Bayswater Drill Hall for “Discover Bayswater’s Chinese Heritage Community.” The event was a chance to reflect on the journeys of early Chinese migrants in Bayswater and Perth, celebrate their stories, and recognise the difference they made to Western Australia. Local historian Kaylene Poon shared her own views on the area’s Chinese history. Among those attending were City of Bayswater Mayor Filomena Piffaretti and Legislative Council Member Pierre Yang, who joined others to remember, learn, and connect.
Have you ever wondered the stories behind the names on our street signs? For the volunteers at the Bayswater Historical Society, it was a journey of discovery, digging through old records and memories to find people who shaped the community, but whose names were often forgotten. That’s how they identified the story of Hu Che-Em, an early Chinese settler whose life and legacy had quietly shaped Bayswater. Naming a street after him honoured not just one man, but generations of Chinese Australians who have called Western Australia home for nearly 200 years. In fields, market gardens, and small shops, these families worked hard, supported each other, and helped build the active community we know today.
In his speech, Wang Fengzhong, Acting Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Perth, spoke about the Chinese tradition of effort and perseverance. He said this spirit was seen in how early Chinese migrants settled in Western Australia, worked hard, and helped build their communities. Dan Bull MLA, Member for Maylands, spoke about the value of multiculturalism and said Chinese history is not simply for the Chinese community but an important part of Western Australia’s joint history. Chung Wah Association President Mr Andy Yuan said naming a street after Hu Che-Em would recognise and honour the contributions of that generation of Chinese settlers.
CWCC Chairperson and Board Member Esther Chang said that CWCC’s Evergreen College welcomed about 1,400 participants in the past year, with more than a third coming from Bayswater. Evergreen College gives residents from different backgrounds a place to connect, helping seniors stay socially active in a familiar language and cultural setting while joining in community life. CWCC CEO Theresa Kwok said CWCC does more than provide community services. It also advocates for people, connects gaps, drives policy change, and helps build understanding and recognition of people from diverse backgrounds.
The event also included a community history exhibition, cultural performances, refreshments, and a charity silent auction. Items in the auction included Chinese calligraphy, paintings, and Aboriginal artworks. The money raised will support cultural heritage and preservation work. At the end of the event, City of Bayswater West Ward Councillor Cale Black gave Kaylene Poon an elm tree as a special memento.
From researching street names to working together as community organisations, the event shared the story of early Chinese migrants’ struggles and achievements. It reminded us that Chinese history is an important part of Australia’s common history. Bringing overlooked stories to light and recognising the contributions of people from all backgrounds is an important step toward building a more diverse community.
