From thong throwing to billy cart racing and showing off motor vehicles – celebrating Australia Day in the Central Highlands means mixing the formal with the fun.
Central Highlands Regional Council is hosting four official Australia Day celebrations in Blackwater, Emerald, Springsure and Tieri.
Deputy Mayor Cr Gail Godwin-Smith said visitors can expect the traditional and a little extra.
‘All of our celebrations include a breakfast to start with, followed by Australia Day Award presentations,’ she said.
‘In Emerald we’ll also have our annual Australia Day citizenship ceremony and an Australia Day Ambassador to inspire us with their life story and experiences.
‘Blackwater will celebrate with a car, ute and bike show and have best dressed and home-made hat competitions.
‘Tieri will not only present Australia Day Awards but also announce the annual thong throwing master – after the competition of course.’
Cr Godwin-Smith said communities and businesses across the region are also doing their part to make sure nobody misses out on the opportunity to celebrate.
‘Springsure’s annual Billy Cart Dash that is well and truly a tradition, and I encourage people to support their local events this Australia Day.’
Central Highlands Regional Council Australia Day events schedule
- Blackwater – Blackwater Civic Centre – 8.00 am
- Emerald – Emerald Town Hall – 7.00 am
- Springsure – Springsure Hall – 7.00 am
- Tieri – Lions Park – 8.00 am