'Once-in-a-lifetime' traditional mourning ceremony underway for Bendigo's Russell Jack
The traditional Cantonese mourning lion ceremony has not been seen in the region in living memory.
A state funeral is currently in progress in Bendigo for Russell Jack, a prominent figure in the city's Chinese community. The ceremony is believed to be the first of its kind in the region in recent history, as it features a traditional Cantonese mourning lion procession. The lion, made especially for the event in Hong Kong, will be accompanied by six musicians playing a somber melody.
The lion will be taken on a procession through Bendigo's Chinatown and to the state funeral service at Ulumbarra Theatre. Notable guests include former Premier Jacinta Allan, who paid tribute to Mr Jack's significant contributions to the city. Mr Jack, who passed away at the age of 91, served as the leader of the Bendigo Chinese Association for over three decades and established the Golden Dragon Museum.
He was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia for his dedication to preserving Bendigo's Chinese heritage and culture.
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