2026 Australia Day, Survival Day and Connection Day events in Byron Bay region

A RANGE of Australia Day and Survival Day events will take place across the Byron Shire on Monday 26 January.

The Ocean Shores Community Association will celebrate Australia Day at Ocean Shores Public School from 2pm to 5pm. Highlights include a mullet throwing contest, an Aussie singalong and an awards ceremony.

The nearby Ocean Shores Tavern kicks off celebrations from 12pm, featuring a pie-eating competition, thong throwing and other games with prizes.

In Byron Bay, a Survival Day/Invasion Day event will be held at Apex Park, overlooking Main Beach, from 10am to 2pm. Organised by Byron Shire Councillor and proud Bundjalung woman Delta Kay, who also runs Explore Byron Bay Indigenous tours, the event will feature Indigenous speakers, music and storytelling.

 

The Merrigingi Foundation is presenting Connection Day at Torakina Park in Brunswick Heads, aimed at bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities together to connect, remember and celebrate the love of country. The event begins at 10am with an opening ceremony and Welcome to Country.

Throughout the day, there will be kids’ activities, face painting, live performances, DJs, and an open mic. A high-tide bridge jump is scheduled for 2.30pm. Environmental groups, including Save Wallum, will also be in attendance.

There will be a closing ceremony at 5pm, before the Chameleon Collective presents DJs into the night, under the light of the half moon.

Organisers said Connection Day is guided by the values of Yubbrah Yirrabal (“oneness of spirit”) and Yubbrah Belogaman (“one blood”). Grounded in Bundjalung Minjungbal Jugun culture and led by Elders, the event emphasises truth-telling and provides space for learning, reflection and cultural respect.