Traditional Cantonese mourning lion ceremony held for Bendigo community leader Russell Jack

Bendigo, Victoria, hosted a unique state funeral for Russell Jack AM, a revered figure in the city's Chinese community, marking a significant cultural event.

The funeral service included a traditional Cantonese mourning lion ceremony, an event believed to be unprecedented in the region for generations. This solemn ritual, distinct from the vibrant lion dances seen during celebrations, involved a white mourning lion and somber musical accompaniment.

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It's a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for some members of our lion team.

Russell Jack, who passed away at 91, dedicated his life to preserving Bendigo's Chinese traditions. He led the Bendigo Chinese Association for over three decades, was instrumental in establishing the Golden Dragon Museum, and was recognized with a Member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to Chinese heritage and culture.

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played a giant role in shaping the city Bendigo is today.

Family members stated that Mr. Jack "devoted his life to ensuring that Bendigo's Chinese traditions did not disappear." The ceremony culminated with the ceremonial burning of the white mourning lion and traditional paper offerings at the Bendigo Cemetery, a poignant farewell.

The white mourning lion, specially crafted in Hong Kong by the same maker of Bendigo's large dragon, Dai Gum Loong, accompanied Mr. Jack's family through the Dai Gum San Chinese precinct. The event underscored the deep connection between the community, its heritage, and the artisans who help preserve it.

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devoted his life to ensuring that Bendigo's Chinese traditions did not disappear