And eventually, she adds, “dragons became symbolic and a part of the Chinese culture.” So, as we step into 2025’s Year of the Wood Snake, let’s keep the spirit of the dragon alive.

The spirit of Ballarat's very own dragon has presided over many of the city's most important historical events.

Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented ... with springtime," Dr Xin continues. The guardian spirit of the Eastern direction, the dragon looks towards the rising sun and the new year.