Community focus for Australia Day events

Baw Baw Shire Council will host the annual Australia Day awards ceremony at the Warragul Country Club function room at 6pm on Wednesday, January 25.

Mayor Joe Gauci will host a flag raising and citizenship ceremony in Warragul’s Civic Park from 10.30am on Australia Day, Thursday January 26, with a free community barbecue to follow.

Cr Gauci thanked the community groups leading Australia Day events across the municipality.

“Unfortunately the Warragul Australia Day event does not have a lead community group running the event this year, which will see a reduced program for the event.

“However, the Drouin, Warragul and District Apex Club will be hosting a free community barbecue at the conclusion of council’s official flag raising and citizenship ceremony.”

Australia Day breakfast ceremonies will be held as in previous years, with the Drouin event commencing at 7.30am (bookings essential) and Trafalgar at 8am.

To reserve seating for the Drouin breakfast ceremony, contact Council’s customer service team on 5624 2411 before Friday, January 20.

Council will sponsor community groups as part of its commitment in celebrating the region’s history and achievements on Australia Day.

Community groups in Aberfeldy, Cloverlea, Darnum, Drouin, Hill End, Jindivick, Labertouche, Longwarry, Narracan, Neerim South, Shady Creek, Rawson, Tanjil South, Tetoora Road and Yarragon will host free barbecues and a range of activities throughout the day.

“Let’s really embrace the Australian spirit and together celebrate with pride our common Australian identity,” Cr Gauci said.

Residents can find details of all council sponsored Australia Day events on the council website or pick up a program from customer service centres or at the West Gippsland Arts Centre.

Seat bookings for the awards ceremony are essential and can be made by calling Noelle Novak on 5624 2874 before Friday, January 20.