Young Learners Shine as “Chinese Bridge” Celebrates 25 Years in Australia Regional Preliminary

Darwin, NT — Late May 2026

Young Chinese language learners from across northern and western Australia took centre stage in late May as the overseas preliminary round of the “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition for primary school students was successfully held in Darwin organised by CLTANT.

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The event brought together participants from the Northern Territory, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory. This year’s competition carried added significance, marking the 25th anniversary of the globally recognised “Chinese Bridge” program.

Organisers extended their warm congratulations on the milestone, highlighting the competition’s long-standing role in encouraging Chinese language learning and strengthening cultural ties between Australia and China.

Among those featured in the event were Uy Tien Giang from Charles Darwin University and two students from Bakewell Primary School. Their confident performances and enthusiasm for Mandarin reflected the growing interest in Chinese language education among Australian students.

Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian also marked the occasion with a video message, congratulating the program on its 25th anniversary and reaffirming continued support for its development. Ambassador Xiao said the Chinese Embassy in Australia would keep building on the success of “Chinese Bridge” by organising a wide range of Chinese language and cultural activities.

He described the initiative as an important platform connecting people from both countries — “a bridge of language, a bridge of friendship and a bridge of hearts”.

Several Australian contestants also shared their experiences in a video segment, reflecting on how the competition has helped them improve their language skills, deepen their understanding of Chinese culture, and broaden their global outlook.

Since its launch 25 years ago, more than 240 Australian participants have travelled to China to compete in the global finals. The program has played a meaningful role in promoting people-to-people exchange and mutual understanding between the two nations.

This year’s regional preliminary once again demonstrated the strong commitment of educators and students alike, as well as the continued relevance of Chinese language learning in Australia’s multicultural landscape.

The event has also attracted media attention, including coverage by People’s Daily Online, further underscoring its importance in fostering educational and cultural engagement between Australia and China.

As “Chinese Bridge” celebrates its 25th anniversary, organisers expressed confidence that the program will continue to inspire young learners and strengthen connections between the two countries for years to come.