Families gathered at John Paul College (JPC) this week to appreciate the celebration of Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Horse, as part of the College's commitment to strive for Unity in diversity.
In Lunar tradition, the Horse is associated with energy, optimism and progress, symbolising a year of forward movement and renewed opportunity.
| Lunar New Year is one of the world's most widely celebrated cultural events, observed by more than a billion people globally. From Vietnamese Tết to Korean Seollal and Chinese New Year, the celebrations share the lunar calendar while reflecting distinct customs, foods and traditions, offering a rich opportunity for cultural understanding and connection.
Grounded in its Christian Ecumenical identity, the College celebrates key seasons of the Christian calendar while also recognising and appreciating the cultural traditions represented within its diverse community of more than 57 nationalities.
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Principal Mr Craig Merritt said the celebration reflects the College's commitment to unity grounded in faith.
“Our Ecumenical faith calls us to lead with love, kindness and respect," Mr Merritt said. “Celebrating Lunar New Year reflects our commitment to honouring the rich cultural traditions within our community. When families see their heritage acknowledged and valued, it strengthens belonging and deepens the unity that defines John Paul College."
For many families, Lunar New Year is centred on reunion and togetherness.
Parent Helen Duan said the celebration traditionally begins on New Year's Eve and centres around food, family and festivity. “We have a family get-together, eating traditional food. It's all about family getting together and having a good time," she said.
Parent Jennifer Wang said the College celebration provided a meaningful opportunity to honour cultural heritage and strengthen community connections. “Emphasising our culture is important to us, especially living in Australia," she said. “We feel honoured that our traditions are recognised here and that families can come together to celebrate."
She said seeing the celebration acknowledged within the school community was particularly significant. “We didn't know each other before, but through this event, we are able to connect with other families."
Parent Nikki Liddell said attending the celebration was also an opportunity to learn more about another family's traditions. “It gives me the chance to better understand another part of their culture and how a friend celebrates it," she said. “I came along to support her and her traditions."
Mr Merritt said recognising important cultural celebrations builds genuine understanding across the community. “When we acknowledge the celebrations that matter to our students' families, we send a clear message that cultural identity is valued here," he said.
“We are building classrooms where curiosity replaces assumption, where every child has a story worth telling, and where students grow up knowing how to genuinely connect across difference. That's not just good education. It's good humanity."
The celebration featured traditional decorations, festive food and cultural performances, bringing JPC families together in a vibrant expression of unity, appreciation and shared joy.
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