Celebration of a nation events a hit

AUSTRALIA Day festivities kicked off at the Bendigo Jockey Club last week as attendees braved the heat, with temperatures rising to thirty degrees by 10am.

After COVID-19 impacts the previous year, stall holder Lola Olsen said it was good to return to selling her flowers at the market held in conjunction with the event, something she’s done for the last 15 years.

“It was cancelled last year so it’s so good to be back again and it’s in a beautiful location,” she said.

Despite the heat, Ms Olsen said organisers has accounted for Bendigo’s unpredictable weather.

“It’s all undercover which is a big help for us,” she said. “Being in the shade is good for us and good for the customers.”

The annual public event was moved from Lake Weeroona to the racecourse due to COVID restrictions.

The change of location didn’t put a damper on the day, as thousands turned out to enjoy the event.

“Lake Weeroona is a beautiful place but because of the COVID restrictions we couldn’t get in again, but I’m pretty happy with the setup today,” Ms Olson said.

The event had something for everyone to enjoy and musician Luke Owens said that relocating the celebration to the Jockey Club was a good idea.

“I think the change of venue has definitely made it easier for people,” he said.

“It’s a fantastic location, but I think parking is certainly advantageous at the Jockey Club and the facilities, and the room for vendors, make it an overall wholesome experience.”

Stalls with food and drinks made it easy for patrons to stay hydrated and energised.

The event also featured a petting zoo, where families could pat and feed calves, chickens, geese, and goats.

“I think like each and every year, people come out for a day of good company and the things that make Australia what it is,” Owens said.

“People are coming together which is a large part of what’s been lost the last couple years. Unity and connection are the things we value.”

Later in the day the Huntly-Epsom community came together at the Huntly Memorial Hall.

There was a warm feel amongst the attendees, despite the thunderous and rainy conditions on the night.

“It’s great to celebrate Australia day. It’s a free tea and we have entertainment as well,” event organiser Geoff Lawry said.

“We haven’t held it for the last two years because of COVID. It’s a good feeling to be back.”

Poor weather conditions forced the event inside, but that wasn’t enough to dampen the spirits of the community.

“We usually have the event outside in the Garden of Remembrance at Huntly Hall but because of the inclement weather we had to shift into the hall,” he said.

The event started with an acknowledgement of country by City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf, which was then followed by the national anthem, performed by the Eaglehawk Brass Band.

Huntly residents were also treated to a performance by local country singer Jo Woodward.