THIS week we chat with the marvellous, almost-decade-long Bendigo Chinese Association Lion Team member Phoebe Skinner.<\/p>\n
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How did you become a Lion Team member in the beginning?<\/strong><\/p>\n I had gone to a Harvest Moon Festival one year and saw that the team was allowing the kids to have a look under the lion. I went to check it out and I just instantly felt a connection and needed to find out how to join the Lion Team. Ironically, after some family research I found out that I am sixth-generation Chinese to Louey Ah Sam, also known as Samual Lock, who was born in China and came to Bendigo via ship during the gold rush.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What motivated you to get involved?<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s funny actually, I used to be so scared of the Chinese lions as a child. It wasn\u2019t until the one interaction at the Harvest Moon Festival that I knew I wanted to join the team. My first training session was an eye opener and I realised how cool it was and that I needed to be involved.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What is your role in the Lion Team and how long did it take you to learn that role?<\/strong><\/p>\n My role currently is as a senior. I started when I was nine years old in late 2013 and I\u2019m currently coming up on 10 years of being in the team. Through the years I went from junior, to intermediate and senior. As I gained more knowledge and strength for lion dancing, the more I grew to become the senior lion dancer I am today.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Are there any particular themes that the Lion Team likes to feature in its work?<\/strong><\/p>\n The main theme the team loves to do that I can think of is definitely Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year is always a very busy time for us yet is always the best atmosphere for the team.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are some highlights or fond memories you have from being in the Team so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n One of the best highlights for me was when I got to bless one of my first lions, Minty the Green Lion. There are always good memories made with the team. Bus trips, performances and training are always fun.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n How can people check out the Lion Team and get involved as well?<\/strong><\/p>\n You could definitely contact the Bendigo Chinese Association, check out the Chinese museum and enquire about us there. We also have come and try days throughout the year.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n