Funding bolsters Golden Dragon Museum

BENDIGO’s Golden Dragon Museum has welcomed a one hundred-thousand-dollar contribution from the Federal Government towards the repair of imperial dragons Sun Loong and Loong after vandals caused significant damage to them in May last year.

A 43-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman from Seabrook were arrested soon after and charged with seven counts of criminal damage for the vandalism.

The funding will also help pay for a security upgrade at the museum for the protection and preservation of the approximately 30,000 objects in its collection.

The contribution adds to $800,000 committed in the 2025-26 Federal Budget to progress planning for the redevelopment of the venue.

“Like so many, I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear of the vandalism of our much loved and celebrated imperial dragons, including Loong,” Federal member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said.

“The Government understands (the) historical significance of Bendigo’s imperial dragons.

“This funding will help contribute to the repair of Bendigo’s much-loved dragons, who are iconic symbols of our country’s rich Australian Chinese culture and history.”

On a recent visit to the museum, Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs Julian Hill said Australia has always been a multicultural continent and preserving and honouring its diverse cultural heritage sends a powerful message about the society’s identity.

“Lisa Chesters is such a powerful advocate for Bendigo’s people, businesses and heritage and I’m super excited to have her show me around and see firsthand the works and plans underway,” he said.