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Thousands of Sydney residents and tourists watched the "Hong Kong" dragon boat plying the waters at the Chinese New Year Dragon Boat Races in Darling Harbour, Sydney, today (February 16, Sydney time), an event sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (HKETO).
The dragon boat bearing the name "HONG KONG" took part in the keenly contested competitions, which attracted more than 100 dragon boat teams. Throughout the races, there were unceasing cheers among excited spectators as boats rowed to the beat of the drum.
Director, HKETO, Ms Lorna Wong, while presenting a trophy named after HKETO to the winners today, noted that this was the sixth year HKETO had joined the annual dragon boat races in Darling Harbour. "This festive event brings a lot of joy and excitement to the Sydney community and we are delighted to be part of it again."
The Dragon Boat Races were part of the City of Sydney's Chinese New Year Festival, which is also one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside China.
HKETO is proud to take an active part in joining the City of Sydney to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Apart from the dragon boat races, HKETO has also co-presented a Hong Kong film with the Sydney Film Festival on the third day of the Year of the Rat. On February 12, HKETO co-hosted a Chinese New Year reception with Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Hong Kong Tourism Board and New South Wales Chapter of the Hong Kong-Australia Business Association attended by over 600 guests comprising senior politicians, government officials, business and community leaders.
Ends/Saturday, February 16, 2008
Issued at HKT 16:41
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