COMMUNITY members in Balranald shire are gearing up to celebrate Australia Day on Sunday.
The January 26 celebrations will take place in both Balranald and Euston, kicking off with a breakfast barbecue at Euston Recreation Reserve at 8am followed by a lunch barbecue at Balranald starting 11.30am at Greenham Park Hall and Grounds.
Balranald Shire Mayor Louie Zaffina said he was excited to be attending both of the events as mayor for the first time.
“I’m looking forward to presenting the award for citizen of the year,” he told The Guardian.
“In the previous years there was always a good turnout of people across the shire in both of the events.
“The Euston event is really big because lots of people from Robinvale come to attend.”
As well as barbecues, both events will have live entertainment and children’s activities.
Australian country singer and Robinvale local Don Costa will be hosting and performing live music in Euston, where there will also be jumping castles and face painting for children.
“Don is a familiar face in Euston and Robinvale,” Cr Zaffina said.
“I’m actually related to him and lots of us in Robinvale and Euston have known him all our lives.”
Providing entertainment in Balranald is the local Fijian choir and local musician Hutch Lawrie, with children’s entertainment including jumping castles and laser tag.
“Hutch Lawrie is a local Balranald guy who sings and plays electric piano. He provides good entertainment and the oldies really enjoy him,” Cr Zaffina said.
“And to have a local Fijian Choir perform is a really great way to celebrate and highlight the diversity in our shire.”
At both events, attendees will be able to hear from Balranald Shire’s Australia Day ambassador Dr Benjamin Veness who is a Churchill Fellow and president of the Australian Medical Students’ Association.
Travelling to United Kingdom, USA, China and Singapore to research student mental health, Dr Veness is now based in Sydney working in the public mental health sector to support children, young adults and families.
Cr Zaffina said he was glad to have Dr Veness attend the events and celebrate Australia Day with the community.
“He’s a really accomplished person,” Cr Zaffina said.
“It’s always great and inspiring to hear about someone’s achievements.”
Cr Zaffina, who is attending both of the events, said they would have something for everyone to feel included as Australians.
“Australia Day events are a great opportunity for people in the shire to meet up and celebrate where we live,” he said.
“People from any background can become Australian.
“We may not be a perfect country but I believe we are tolerant of people from all different cultures and walks of life.
“And I think Euston and Robinvale are a great example of diverse cultures coming together and celebrating Australia.”
There will be seating available at the events, however attendees were recommended to bring their own chairs if possible.
