Story by Stephen Lin.

Photo assistance from Justin Tseng.

Despite the absence of boat racing, members of the Friends of Taiwan-CQU Club gathered recently for the traditional Chinese Dragon Boat Festival.

They enjoyed a half day of Zongzi-wrapping (a delicacy of steamed sticky rice dumplings) and rewarded their efforts with plenty of eating, chin-wagging and laughter.

The Dragon Boat Festival falls on the 5th day of the 5th month in the Chinese lunar calendar and, alongside the Tomb Sweeping Festival in April and the Mid-Autumn Festival, is one of the three biggest Chinese festivals.

Students and scholars at CQU are invited to social and cultural activities organised by this group.

Group members have been involved in producing the Rocky Chinese Radio Show at Radio 4 YOU in both Mandarin and Minnan dialect.

They have also presented a series of DVD documentaries, at Rockhampton campus last August, entitled 'An Enchanting Experience of Taiwan'. At each Multicultural Fair, they are keen participants in the Parade of International Fashions.

The Club provides companionship, friendship and support to assist students and scholars to survive a new life in Rockhampton and to maintain cultural touch with a dynamic Taiwan.

Members are keen to work with other organisations to help newcomers have an easier transition.

Together with Cathay Culture Promoters and the Rockhampton Chinese Association, they are eager to receive the 12 students from Shanghai due to start their life at CQ TAFE in the middle of July.

If you are interested in activities organised by Friends of Taiwan-CQU Club, please browse the website regularly: http://spaces.msn.com/fotcqu/ .

For membership, please contact Wayne Chen at 0431236 128 or email: wayne02021984@hotmail.com .

Photos: The wrapping of Zongzi in bamboo leaves (recently) and the 2005 Parade of National Costumes.