Ching Ming commemorated

Rain auspiciously held off at the right moment yesterday for 25 people commemorating Ching Ming (Clear and Bright, or Tomb-sweeping, Day) in Beechworth’s Chinese Cemetery.

More than 2000 Chinese ancestors were remembered in the beautiful graveyard where they were interred at the end of lives in which they contributed so much to Beechworth during and after the colonial gold rush.

The commemoration was hosted by Kathryn Chivers, descended from a Chinese-born family, and Beechworth History and Heritage Society. Cemetery Trust chair Rosemary Barnett and trust member Lorraine Lucas also attended.

BHHS secretary Peter Kenyon introduced the commemoration and Kathryn spoke about its significance before Janice, from Beechworth’s Chinese community, spoke about the ceremonial protocols. Gifts of food, wine and incense were placed on the altar and ceremonial paper money was lit in the burning towers. Historian and writer Vivienne McWaters also spoke at the gathering.

Thank you to everyone who participated.