The National Australia Day Council (NADC) is supporting community groups to host local events on 26 January 2024.
The NADC, based in Canberra, is a not-for-profit owned by the Government and run by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Together with the Australia Day National Network, an affiliation of state and territory organisations, the NADC helps coordinate the celebration of Australia’s national day.
One core focus is to acknowledge inspirational Aussies via the Australian of the Year Awards, and each community has been encouraged to nominate their inspirational locals.
Throughout the Snowy Valleys region local events have been meticulously planned. The Adelong Progress Association will be hosting its celebration from 11am at the Adelong Services and Citizens Club, with a free morning tea.
Batlow starts Australia Day with an 8am breakfast at the Batlow Memorial Park, followed by entertainment from local musicians and the Batlow awards ceremony.
Talbingo Community Association is holding celebrations at the Miles Franklin Park, with a barbecue dinner from 5pm, followed by their awards ceremony.
Tumbarumba Rotary Club will present its local awards with celebrations starting from 10:30am at the Tumbarumba Creekscape. The day includes a barbecue lunch and local entertainment.
The Tumut Historical Society is officiating the Tumut celebrations, starting with breakfast at 8am in Bila Park held by the Rotary Club of Tumut, and with the awards ceremony beginning at 9am.
After Australia Day, Snowy Valleys Council will host the winners from each community at a separate event, in acknowledgement of their achievements.
But it’s not just the Snowy Valleys celebrating.
Many clubs across Australia will be offering BBQ breakfasts, special sports tournaments, live music and comedy, or deals on Aussie food – from lamb to lamingtons.
Doncaster Bowling Club begins celebrations at midday, with a barbecue, barefoot bowls and other entertainment followed by speakers.
Wonthaggi Power Football Netball Club is hosting its tenth Australia Day Weekend Swap Meet from 6am on the 28 January, with barbecues from 7am-12, a car show and stalls.
And Trinity Beach Sports Club is going all-out with ‘The Biggest Back Yard Party in the Beaches’.
Events and offerings include live music, barbecue meal deals and lamb on the spit, a jumping castle and bucking bull, a bungee run and Gladiator ring, along with classic games like sack races, thong-throwing and pie-eating competitions.
Overall, many local clubs are putting on their best over the Australia Day weekend to celebrate the Australian spirit: honouring local Aussie achievers and uniting their communities through festivities and reflection.
