A state funeral has been confirmed for a much-loved and respected Bendigo icon.
As confirmed by the Victorian government last Friday, August 21st, that service for the late Russell Jack will take place at the Ulumbarra Theatre this coming Saturday (29th) from 11am.
Doors will open at 9.45am with seating available for up to 960 patrons.
The service is also being live-streamed online for those who cannot attend in-person.
In lieu of flowers, attendees have been encouraged to donate funds to the Golden Dragon Museum in his memory.
Mr Jack passed away earlier this month at the age of 91, leaving behind a number of significant contributions that celebrated the history and continued impact of Chinese culture in Bendigo.
His death brought about a wave of tributes from the city’s leaders and Victoria’s Premier, Ben Carroll.
“Russell loved Bendigo and Bendigo loved him,” Mr Carroll said in a statement.
“Over Russell’s lifetime of service, he built an enduring legacy for his community and our state.”
His predecessor Jacinta Allan, and fellow State MP Maree Edwards also offered praise for his achievements.
“Russell was one of the first people I met with after I was elected as the Member for Bendigo West,” Ms Edwards said.
“Even then, his passion and determination were unmistakable, as was his ambition for the future of the Golden Dragon Museum and the preservation of Bendigo’s Chinese heritage.
“Bendigo is immeasurably richer for his life and his service.”
Further recognition came from City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney, who described Mr Jack as “remarkable” and “a true gentleman”.
“Russell was a pillar of the Bendigo Chinese community, and leaves an incredible legacy and lifetime of community service, including of course the founding of the Golden Dragon Museum and creation of the Chinese Gardens,” Mr Cooney said.
“Russell was also synonymous with Easter in Bendigo, carrying the head of Imperial Dragons for decades, and was still involved with the iconic Bendigo Easter Festival this year.
“He was instrumental in ensuring Sun Loong was part of the celebrations to welcome the Olympic torch through Bendigo ahead of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. This was his second time carrying the torch through Bendigo, as Russell was also involved in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics torch relay.
“His many achievements include the award of the Member of the Order of Australia in the 1993 Queen’s Birthday Honours for preservation of Bendigo’s Chinese heritage, and he was named Victorian Senior Citizen of the Year in 1998 and Greater Bendigo’s Citizen of the Year in 2008.”
More information on the state funeral is available here: https://www.vic.gov.au/Russell-Jack
