The Rooster is traditionally considered to be a favourable sign. His crow signals the break of dawn and the beginning of a fresh start, driving away the ghosts and evil spirits of the night. He is the only creature of the Chinese zodiac with wings and, as such, is regarded as the messenger that connects the two worlds of heaven and earth.

He has five virtues: knowledge, military expertise, courage, benevolence and credibility. His crest, `kwan'', means coronet, and represents the pen, the symbol of knowledge, while his claw symbolises the sword of military skills. When confronted by an enemy, the courageous Rooster fights till the end without retreat. When he finds food he shares it to show his benevolence and he demonstrates his credibility by never failing to crow on time.

2005 is the year of the Green Wooden Rooster. Green is the colour of hope, of Spring, and of Youth, so this year will be exceptionally good for the application of scientific achievements to production and new creative work. Wood symbolises family values and astrologers say the family will constitute an integral part of everyone"s life this year. Practicality, business attitude and diligence will be valued highly and those who pay attention to even the slightest details will achieve remarkable heights

The Rooster is a very fertile bird, so tradition tells us that this will be the best time to find your true love and form a family of your own. Roosters are also communal creatures so 2005 promises to be a lucky one for joint ventures. Astrology suggests we should sign as many business contracts as possible and form new partnerships in the upcoming year. However, no matter the business, family interests should always come first!

The Rooster Person. Those born in rooster years are described as having a strong desire to be constantly at the centre of attention. Cheery, sharp and humorous, the magnificent Rooster will never pass up an opportunity to recount his adventures and specify his accomplishments. He is a flamboyant personality, feisty and obstinate, the proud extrovert who loves to strut his stuff. Outwardly confident, the Rooster is also a trustworthy, hardworking individual who speaks frankly with no qualms or reservations.

Roosters are very loyal. They detest dishonesty or mockery of any sort for they are direct and honest people who expect those around them to be the same. Roosters are happiest when they are surrounded by others, at a small party or a large social gathering, in some way enjoying the spotlight. A Rooster will either like you, or he won't - there's no middle road. Although they are vocal with opinions and ideas, Roosters are pretty tight-lipped about their personal emotions and feelings and rarely wear their hearts on their sleeves. They are intensely private people.

East meets West

The upfront Aries Rooster is blunt, yet witty, unafraid of criticism and fond of sharing his points of view. Honest and trustworthy, this Rooster expects the same of others.

The hard-working Taurus Rooster is motivated, industrious and reliable and finishes what he starts, but must learn to relax more.

The sharp-minded Gemini Rooster is an efficient organiser who loves a good, solid debate, often on political or environmental issues.

The loving Cancer Rooster is a kindly and sweet individual who enjoys the company of friends, family and animal companions. But beware if he shows his claws!

The flamboyant Leo Rooster is full of energy and charisma but also deeply sincere and compassionate.

The logical Virgo Rooster, although extremely efficient at completing tasks too difficult for others, may sometimes be too detail-oriented.

The organised Libra Rooster is sophisticated and urbane, admired for his good taste and attractive appearance.

The determined Scorpio Rooster is a motivated goal-setter who hides his deep emotions.

The open-hearted Sagittiraius Rooster is a likeable free spirit, honest and down to earth with a tendency to sometimes put his foot in his mouth.

The practical Capricorn Rooster wants to succeed, and his intellect and drive make him want to be in charge.

The non-conformist Aquarius Rooster is creative and clever but needs motivation.

The sensitive Pisces Rooster is just as stubborn, yet not as blunt as other Roosters. He considers the feelings of others and avoids confrontation or discord.

Whatever Rooster you may be, whatever animal of the Chinese zodiac you are, this year of 2005 will bring creativity, diligence and family strengths to the fore. The official day of the New Year is 9 February, the Tiger month, make sure you wear something green and don't, whatever you do, eat fowl on that day.

Sun nien fai lok ! Gung hay fat choy !

Susanna Duffy is a Civil Celebrant, grief counsellor and mythologist. She creates ceremonies and Rites of Passage for individual and civic functions, and specialises in Croning and other celebrations for women. http://celebrant.yarralink.com