From the late 1800s until 1970, Loong proudly paraded in Bendigo’s Easter fair. Crafted by hand at the Sing Cheung workshop in Foshan, China, Loong was made using exquisite materials such as silks, mirrors, bamboo, kingfisher feathers, beads, and papier-mache.

During parades, Loong is adorned with pearl and flame regalia. The pearl entices him to play, while the flame symbolizes his power. However, due to his advanced age, Loong now spends most of his time sleeping at Bendigo’s Golden Dragon Museum, where he is publicly displayed. He holds immense cultural significance for both the local Bendigo community and the State of Victoria. In fact, Loong is listed in the Victorian Heritage Register (H2120), signifying his importance as a state-level heritage treasure.

After a long career of ceremonial parades, Loong and his regalia have become delicate. Heritage Victoria funded a project in Round 6 of the Living Heritage Program to repair and restore Loong. 

The grant was used for cleaning, repair, and stabiliSation of his bamboo structure and fragile surface. Grimwade Conservations services were tasked with removing old repairs, creating new support stands, reattaching loose decorative elements, dust removal, and cleaning his 1,376 scales.

Bendigo Chinese Association members worked with conservators to ensure the best practice and culturally appropriate treatment for Loong. The project received two prestigious national awards. Now that conservation work is complete, Loong can rest comfortably on his new supports until his next ceremonial awakening.