Bellarine community enjoy Portarlington Australia Day celebrations

HUNDREDS of people gathered in Newcombe Street in Portarlington on Thursday (January 26) to mark the Australia Day holiday, with activities, guest speakers and live entertainment for spectators to enjoy.

Hosted by the Portarlington Community Information Booth group, the event had a range of activities for children and their families to take part in including a social bowls competition, a variety of musical performances and the popular dog parade.

Event organiser Phil Cameron said the Portarlington Community Information Booth were thrilled with the turnout and community atmosphere on the day.

“It was a really lovely day, with lots of people around enjoying the activities and music,” he said.

“The Australia Day Doggy Fashion Parade was really well attended, we had 19 entrants and 100+ enjoying watching from the Rotunda Forecourt and outdoor cafés.

“There was a huge colourful, noisy, eye catching procession of motorbikes and vintage cars along Newcombe Street which was also entertaining.

“The live music from the Rotunda featured the band Wintersong medley of Australian songs and heartfelt music from Pepper Willow.

“We also had 60 plus competitors who strived for a win in the Portarlington Bowls Club Social Bowls competition.”

Mr Cameron said the event was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, but hopes to continue to build the celebration back to pre-pandemic levels which will continue as a predominantly outdoor event that the community can enjoy from the streets.