(Minghui.org) Falun Dafa practitioners participated in the Easter Gala Parade at Bendigo, Victoria on March 31, 2024. The annual Easter Carnival is Australia’s oldest community cultural celebration, and has brought joy to local residents and visitors for 150 years. In particular, the highlight of the festival – the costume parade, attracts tens of thousands of people.
There were numerous bands, cultural and art groups and clubs in the parade, showcasing Australia’s cultural diversity.
The Australian Tian Guo Marching Band’s performances were applauded throughout the parade route. The band members wore ancient Chinese white and blue official costumes which many people said were eye catching. They also said the music and the sound of gongs and drums were exciting. The band marched in synchronised steps, and led the Falun Dafa group. The various teams of the Falun Dafa group featured colorful costumes and exuberant performances. Among them, the dragon dance performance appeared for the first time.
The practitioners wished to convey the message of hope to spectators through their performances, and were greeted with cheers and praise along the route. People also took photos and videos.
Organisers Look Forward to Practitioners’ Participation Next Year
Parade organisers talked with practitioners after the parade, and said they admired their performances, promotion of traditional Chinese culture and the spiritual practice Falun Dafa.
One said, “Your procession is beautiful and helped us learn about Chinese culture. People need to try the practice (Falun Dafa).”
The organisers said they liked the practitioners’ performance and looked forward to their participation next year.
Manager: Falun Dafa Conveys a Great Message
Paul Henderson, a governmental department manager, watched the parade. He said he participated in the parade a few years ago.
“The Falun Dafa entry is very long and colorful, giving people a bright feeling, and the music is also great. The band is outstanding!”
Henderson said he heard of Falun Dafa. “I participated in the Bendigo parade many times, so I know about Falun Dafa. The message they convey is great. The principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance are good and powerful.”
People Learn About Dafa
Henry Zhang and his wife Shirley Zhang participated in the parade. Mr. Zhang is a drummer in the band.
“The spectators cheered, applauded, took photos and videos when they saw our procession. I think it was a highlight of the parade. It’s wonderful to have so many people learn about Dafa,” he said.
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