Sun Loong

Bendigo Chinese Dragon

Sun Loong, meaning 'New Dragon', arrived in Bendigo from Hong Kong to replace the retiring Loong Dragon in 1970. He was created by Lo On Kee, a traditional Chinese dragon craftsman.

Sun Loong is the longest Imperial (five clawed) dragon in th world and measures more than 100 metres in length. He requires 52 people plus 52 reliefs to carry him. Sun Loong is covered in 4,500 scales, 90,000 mirrors, 30,000 beads and his head weighs 29kg.

Before he first appeared in 1970, he was blessed and brought to life by 101 year old Mr James Lew, who dotted the new dragon's eyes wth chicken blood. Sun Loong was first awoken to accompany Loong's last Bendigo Easter procession in 1970.

Follow this link to see Sun Loong at the 2007 Bendigo Easter Festival : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKG0yq2fpms