A long, long time ago a creature surfaced in China threatening and eating men, women and animals.

Only the Lion with its wild mane and fierce growl scared away the creature. When the creature did return many years later, the Lion was performing duties for the Emperor and the people decided to fake the Lion’s appearance - shaking its wild mane and growling to once again chase the creature to oblivion.

Hence the Lion Dance performed during auspicious occasions is believed to bring happiness and luck and scare evil away.

As part of the Chinese New Year festivities, this tradition is also believed to bring much prosperity to the community.

At CQU Brisbane International Campus, a crowd of students and lecturers alike gathered to witness the ridding off any bad luck that threatened the Year of the Rooster.

As the drums pounded away, the Little Buddha teased the Lion with a fan, slowly enticing it towards the sweet gifts prepared for it. The Lion pranced about boasting its strength and agility.

As a reward, the Lion is presented with gifts and he retires to chase more bad luck while spreading happiness and prosperity.

Meanwhile, students and staff at CQU Brisbane tucked into fried rice and beef and pepper stir fry at ease in the knowledge that the Year of the Rooster can only bring more joy and fortune.

Photos: The Lion enters CQU Brisbane International Campus. Campus Director Geoff Wessling offers gifts to the Lion on its arrival.