Melbourne turns red and gold to show support for China as it battles the coronavirus epidemic
Melbourne landmarks will turn red and gold this Friday night in a show of support for China as the coronavirus epidemic continues to spread.
VIC News
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Melbourne landmarks will be lit up red and gold, the colours of the Chinese flag, to show support for China amid the fallout from the coronavirus crisis.
Flinders St station, Melbourne Town Hall and other buildings will be illuminated on Friday night as part of a state government campaign.
The move comes as Premier Daniel Andrews pledged to lead another trade delegation to China with 100 Victorian businesses.
With major concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus, and the death toll rising to more than 2000 people, Mr Andrews said it was time to show solidarity with the Chinese.
The government has dubbed its campaign ‘Stronger Together’.
As well as the light-up displays, the government planned to host a dinner for the Chinese community, including diplomats, businesspeople and students.
It comes as latest estimates show the coronavirus could cost the Australian economy between $8 billion and $12 billion in lost export revenue.
A study by Centre for independent Studies adjunct scholar Salvatore Babones found as much as $4 billion could be wiped from minerals exports alone, with the education and tourism sectors to bear the brunt of the fallout.
In Melbourne, ripple effects have been felt with the popular Chinatown restaurant Shark Fin House shutting last week.
In a statement on Thursday night, Mr Andrews said Victorians had a long history of standing by our Chinese communities, “and that’s what we need to be doing right now”.
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“We are with you during this challenging time — today, and every day, we are stronger together.”
Mr Andrews sparked controversy last October when he signed Victoria up for the controversial Belt and Road initiative.
Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton was among those critical of the agreement at the time and questioned whether it was in Victoria’s interest.