The Wushu, Tai Chi, Qigong Australia (WTQA) Festival held on Sunday, 5 October, 2025 turned out to be more than I expected. Lion and Dragon dances opened the festival in traditional Chinese style – vibrant colours, pulsating and loud music from the drums, cymbals and gongs accompanying the performances. I was captivated by the energy and enthusiasm of the performers as they coordinated their actions to bring the Lion and Dragon to life. Nostalgia enveloped me as I recalled past Chinese festivals celebrated in a similar fashion.
Our Celestial Tai Chi teams performed 2 routines – Celestial Yang Levels 1 to 3 (see video) and the Lotus Qigong (see video). To our surprise, the music we had been practicing with for our performances were replaced by unfamiliar music pieces. Undeterred, we went with the flow and performed in a calm and relaxed manner.
The other WTQA members showcased their unique styles, techniques and passion for their particular form. I was particularly fascinated by one group with their slow, gentle, flowing and mesmerising Tai Chi movements. As I watched their performance, my mind transitioned into a meditative state. I was reminded of the Philosophy Master Class where Grand Master Eng Chor mentioned Tai Chi as the art of moving meditation.
The Melbourne University Tai Chi and Wushu Team closed the Festival on a high energetic note. It was well choreographed, flawlessly executed, demonstrated great teamwork and skills in various forms.
An afternoon well spent stimulating my senses and discovering other forms in Wushu, Tai Chi and Qigong.
I look forward to future WTQA festivals.
Yen Thomson, Trainee Instructor
Box Hill Centre
Updated: 26 November 2025
