Sunnybank was the site of Brisbane’s Moon Festival last weekend, with stunning lantern displays, traditional dancing and music. This year, a martial arts comedy performance and Chinese magic show had the crowd roaring with laughter and gaping in wonder.
Over 25 stall holders took advantage of the crowds to sell their wares on the South West corner of the famous intersection marking the unofficial heart of the Chinese precinct. With 47 Asian restaurants in the immediate vicinity and public toilets associated with the shopping centres on each corner the public was able to relax in a comfortable and orderly manner that Fortitude Valley has struggled to provide.
The move from the Valley to Sunnybank sends a powerful message to the Brisbane City Council the official China town is simply not meeting the demands of the community. The celebrations will move to the Valley this Saturday for a follow up performance. Westender will view the crowds with interest.
The moon festival traditionally celebrates the northern hemisphere harvest and is akin to our Harvest Festival, also associated with the enormous golden full moon of the Autumn equinox. Moon cakes are the traditional food of the celebration. Watch out for them in Asian stores near you.