Lighting Up Connection: Celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival with the Gold Coast Hongkongers (September 2026)

On Saturday, TMC's Community Action for a Multicultural Society (CAMS) Program had the privilege of supporting the Gold Coast Hongkongers at their Mid-Autumn Festival lantern-making event, a warm and colourful celebration of culture, family and community.

Representing TMC, CAMS Officer for Northern Gold Coast, Jake Coates, joined community members as they came together to create lanterns and share the traditions of one of the most cherished festivals in Chinese and Hong Kong culture.

A festival of reunion and light

The Mid-Autumn Festival is held on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, when the moon is said to be at its fullest and brightest. For many families, it is a time of reunion, gratitude and togetherness, marked by sharing mooncakes, admiring the moon and carrying glowing lanterns.

Lantern-making is a much-loved part of the celebration, especially for children. The event gave families the chance to take part in this tradition hands-on, while also opening the door for the wider community to learn about the festival's meaning and significance.

Building connection through culture

Beyond the crafting, the event was a chance for people to connect. Community members shared stories and traditions, families spent time together, and newcomers and long-time residents alike found a welcoming space to celebrate. Events like this help preserve cultural heritage for younger generations while strengthening social ties across the Gold Coast.

Why partnerships matter

At TMC, we recognise that strong communities are built through partnerships. By working alongside multicultural organisations and supporting community-led initiatives like this one, the CAMS Program helps create opportunities for cultural celebration, social inclusion and meaningful community engagement.

We sincerely thank the Gold Coast Hongkongers for their collaboration and for the important role they play in fostering a connected, inclusive and thriving community on the Gold Coast.