Born of the long association with the people of the region, the Bendigo Chinese Association is proud to present the Golden Dragon Museum – a living history of the Chinese people of Bendigo from the goldrush of the 1850’s to the present day. Having become the hub of Chinese cultural activity in Australia, the museum allows visitors to experience first hand. Chinese arts and crafts with visiting artisans and tradespeople.

The Yi Yuan (Garden of Joy) was a joint project between the Bendigo Chinese Association Inc., the City of Greater Bendigo, the Federal Government, the Victorian State Government and the City of Baoding (Hebei Province, China).

Based on the Imperial Palace in Beijing, the architecture and construction of the gardens is authentic in every way. The gardens also feature a Buddhist Temple, the Guan Yin Miao (temple of The Goddess of Mercy).

The Golden Dragon Museum dining room can seat up to 120 people. During museum hours, light refreshments are served. Bookings can be made for banquets, conference or special menus.

1992 - Appreciation of Services Rendered - Salvation Army in China Exhibition. Honorary Membership (Joan Jack) of Salvation Army Historical Society Australia Southern Territory (Victorian Chapter). MAA - Museum Professional of the Year (Joan Jack)

1993 - Cultural Tourism - Victorian Tourism Awards

1994 - Outstanding contribution by an individual (Joyce Tamblyn) - Victorian Tourism Awards.

2001 - Victorian Community History Awards for the Showing Face Exhibition. WIN TV Goldfields Tourism Awards - Arts Heritage & Cultural Tourism. WIN TV Goldfields Tourism Awards - Gold Award.

2002 - Victorian Awards for Excellence in Multicultural Affairs. Goldfields Tourism Awards - Heritage and Cultural Tourism.

2003 - Alcoa Regional Achievers Awards & Kleenheat Gas Community of the Year Award. Goldfields Tourism Awards - Heritage and Cultural Tourism

2004 - Bendigo Health Care Group (Certificate of Appreciation) in recognition of many years service & dedication to the hospital, from 1870s & continuing through until the present day. Our Chinese Association has been fundraising for local charities since 1871

2008 - Award for Meritorious Service in the Community. Individual (Russell Jack AM) - Victorian Awards for Excellence in Multicultural Affairs.

2009 - Victorian Community History Awards 2009. Best Audio-Visual / Multimedia Awards for Creating a Community Museum DVD