Kicking back to enjoy a holiday
AUSTRALIA Day plans are limitless, with locals opting either for a relaxed one soaking up some of the region’s natural beauties or heading to one of the many events planned around the region.
With Australia Day falling on a Tuesday, it’s not surprising that some took Monday off for a rare chance at a four-day weekend.
Speewah local Kirsten Ford said she would be spending the day at home having a barbecue and swimming in the creek with the family after a relaxing long weekend spent at the beach.
“We’ve been to Ellis Beach. We came down and had breakfast — cooked bacon and eggs on the barbecue. We’ve been to the beach nearly every day (this weekend),” Ms Ford said. “You can’t beat the beach.” Daniel and Mary Piat also describe the beach as an Australia Day priority, with plans for a breakfast barbecue at the Australia Day Holloways Beach Party.
The Trinity Beach locals moved from the south of France 45 years ago and have completely adopted the Australian way of life, describing swimming and sunshine as what Australia is all about.
Kiara and Zaphia Sumner from Whitfield said they usually spent the day out on a boat, but this Australia Day would be enjoyed at a creek with friends and family.
For those who don’t have plans yet, there are options all across the region.
Tobruk Memorial Pool is expecting a crowd of more than 2000 people for Australia Day celebrations, which include underwater hockey and a free sausage sizzle.
The Reef Hotel Casino is celebrating The Flavour of Australia with all the favourite Aussie Day foods.
The Big Pub Malanda will be holding toad racing and thong-throwing competitions, along with a prize for the best “bogan”.
Locals can take advantage of the once-yearly opportunity to jump on the Kuranda Scenic Railway for half price.
Tablelands Regional Council and Mareeba Shire Council are both holding Australia Day award ceremonies which can be viewed online via Zoom for interested viewers.
DON’T HAVE AUSTRALIA DAY PLANS YET? SEE A FULL LIST OF OUR AUSTRALIA DAY EVENTS AT WWW.CAIRNSPOST.COM.AU