Where To Celebrate Australia Day
It commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in Sydney Harbour in 1788. The new colony was first proclaimed the Colony of New South Wales. In the following years other parts of Australia were colonised, leading to the names of our present states and territories.
On 1 January 1901, the colonies were federated as states of Australia, a nation of the British Commonwealth.
The public holiday is celebrated by most councils, often including a Citizenship ceremony and a barbecue. Some councils, including Yarra, Moreland and Darebin, have decided not to recognise the date, as it marks the beginning of oppression of the Indigenous people of Australia.
Following is a selection of some of the celebrations to be held on Friday 26 January 2018, as available at the time we go to print. For other Council areas, please check your Council website.
Brimbank
Kevin Wheelahan Gardens, 50 Devonshire Road, Sunshine.
Photo: alphacarhire.com.au
A free community barbecue begins at 8am. Official proceedings will take place from 10am–12noon. At this time 150 residents of Brimbank will take the pledge in becoming our newest Australian citizens.
For more information phone 9249 4000 or email australiaday@brimbank.vic.gov.au.
Maroondah
Ringwood Lake Park
From 10.30am, join in the fun of free rides on the trackless train, inflatables, face painting and a marvellous stage line-up of children’s performances (including some very special visitors from Trolls). There will also be a free barbecue. Please note this is a dog-free event.
For details phone 9294 5561 or visit the Maroondah website.
Monash
Monash Civic Centre, 293 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley
The celebrations will begin at 10am, and include Flag Raising, the Welcome to Country, and Citizenship oath-taking. Once the formalities are over, head outside to the Glen Waverley Library forecourt to enjoy the big brass sounds of Oakleigh City Band, the free barbecue and other fun activities.
For details phone 9518 3636 or visit the Monash website.
Casey
Australia Day events within the City of Casey will be held at numerous places, including Hampton Park, Cranbourne, Berwick and Tooradin. For details, visit the Council website http://www.casey.vic.gov.au/arts-leisure/events-activities/australia-day?.
Span Hanna
