'Once-in-a-lifetime' traditional mourning ceremony underway for Bendigo's Russell Jack

A state funeral is underway in Bendigo today for Russell Jack, a long-serving leader of the city's Chinese community. It is believed the traditional Cantonese mourning lion ceremony has not been seen in the region in living memory. What's next? The ceremony will end with the ceremonial burning of the white mourning lion. A state funeral unlike any other is being held in regional Victoria today to honour a long-serving leader of Bendigo's Chinese community. Russell Jack is being honoured in a traditional Cantonese mourning lion ceremony, believed to be the first in living memory for the region. Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has not attended today's state funeral, but former premier Jacinta Allan is a guest. Ms Allan paid tribute to Mr Jack after his death aged 91 this month, saying he "played a giant role in shaping" the city Bendigo is today. Mr Jack led the Bendigo Chinese Association for more than 30 years, established the Golden Dragon Museum and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for service to the preservation of Bendigo's Chinese heritage and culture. The traditional Cantonese white mourning lion is distinct from the bold, bright colours seen at celebrations like the annual Bendigo Easter Parade. Two members of Bendigo's lion team have been chosen to perform the white lion, with six others who will play a low, sombre beat on instruments. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for some members of our lion team," Bendigo Chinese Association president Doug Lougoon said. The mourning lion was made especially for the occasion in Hong Kong, by the same maker of Bendigo's newest, 125-metre dragon Dai Gum Loong. "There's a real great connection between the family and the dragon maker Master Hui," Mr Lougoon said. The mourning lion will accompany Mr Jack and his family through Bendigo's Dai Gum San Chinese precinct, and on to the state funeral service at Ulumbarra Theatre. The ceremony will continue at Bendigo Cemetery with the final rites and ceremonial burning of the mourning lion. The state funeral service is being livestreamed online. ABC Central Vic —local news in your inbox Get our local newsletter, delivered free each Tuesday