After spending eight of the last 15 years leading the education team at the Australian Embassy in Beijing, Iain Watt says the key to Australia retaining its strong position as competition increases both from within China and internationally is maintaining its reputation for quality qualifications. He spoke to Sophie Loras in the lead up to his return to Canberra.

The City of Sydney will host its annual Twilight Parade on January 29 to welcome in the auspicious Chinese Year of the Dragon.

The event will showcase more than 2,900 local and international performers, including 135 artists from Chengdu –showing off their stunning Panda Puppets, Fire Dragons and ethnic dancers. A unique mix of dynamic live music, amazing floats, flamboyant dragons, dazzling costumes and illuminated zodiac lanterns will be highlighted against a background of light projections along the Parade route.

Who are going to be the top 10 people or groups making the most impact in the Chinese world, and on Australia’s relations with China, in the Dragon Year of 2012? Rowan Callick looks at the names to watch out for in China over the next 12 months.