Greater Shepparton Mayor Dinny Adem said celebrations around the region will feature flag raising ceremonies, guest speakers, Australia Day Ambassadors, entertainment and the presentation of the 2016 Australia Day Awards.
“Australia Day is fantastic opportunity for all citizens, regardless of their background to come together to celebrate our country and what it means be Australian,” Cr Adem said.
“I encourage all residents to take pride in their country on 26 January and reflect on who we are as a nation.”
“Australia Day is a day for people from every walk of life to celebrate the things we love about our country.
“It is time to celebrate our freedom as individuals and as a nation, our lifestyle and culture, our land and its beauty, our history and our indigenous past and our opportunities and future.”
The following events will take place in Greater Shepparton:
Mooroopna
The event will commence at 10.30am at Ferrari Park, with a flag raising ceremony, an address by Australia Day Ambassador Marion Lau OAM and the presentation of Australia Day awards. There will also be a bbq at the conclusion of the official proceedings.
Toolamba
Toolamba’s event will commence at 11am at the Toolamba Recreation Reserve and guests will hear from Australia Day Ambassador Kevin Murray. Australia Day awards will also be presented. A free bbq will take place at the end of proceedings.
Arcadia
A free breakfast will be held from 8am at the Arcadia Recreation Reserve and Community Centre. Attendees will hear from Australia Day Ambassador Andrew Asten.
Dookie
A free breakfast will be held from 8am at the CWA Gardens. Attendees will hear from Australia Day Ambassador Bronwyn King. There will also be a flag raising ceremony and awards presented.
Shepparton
Shepparton’s event will commence at 8am in the Queen’s Gardens with a flag raising ceremony. Guests will hear from Australia Day Ambassador Wesa Chau. More than 60 people will take part in a citizenship ceremony and Australia Day awards will be presented. There will also be a free bbq brunch available.
Murchison
Murchison’s events will commence at 8am at the Murchison Swimming Pool. Attendees will be able to enjoy a bbq breakfast followed by formal activities including an address from Australia Day Ambassador Stan Alves. Australia Day awards will also be presented alongside other awards including Colouring & Writing award Garden/Christmas competition winners and “Spirit of Murchison” photography winner.
Tatura
A free breakfast will be held from 8.30am at the Tatura Italian Social Club. Australia Day awards will be presented and attendees will hear from guest speaker Matthew Hopcraft, a former Masterchef contestant.
For profiles on the Australia Day Ambassadors visit http://www.australiaday.vic.gov.au/ambassadors/
