COMMUNITY groups across Greater Bendigo have planned a large range of festivities for this year\u2019s Australia Day celebrations on Thursday, 26 January.<\/p>\n
The main attraction will be held at Lake Weeroona from 10am to 3pm and be hosted by the Rotary Club of Bendigo Sandhurst.<\/p>\n
Along with the Rotary art and craft market punters will be able to enjoy family activities, community displays, live entertainment and a barbecue.<\/p>\n
Other smaller events are also planned for Axedale, Elmore, Heathcote, Junortoun, Mia Mia, Eaglehawk, Golden Square, Huntly, Maiden Gully and Strathfieldsaye.<\/p>\n
City of Greater of Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the day is a time to \u201cacknowledge the success and growth of our nation and communities\u201d and encouraged residents to \u201cconsider what they value most about where they live.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you to the community groups and volunteers that have worked hard to plan local activities,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Cr Metcalf also said it\u2019s important to recognise 26 January can be a day of mourning for First Nations people and to make sure the day is celebrated respectfully.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith the support of traditional owners and First Nations people locally, I hope we can all continue to grow our understanding of what has happened in Australia\u2019s history,\u201d she said. \u201cAnd find ways to connect with Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung culture.\u201d<\/p>\n
The day is also a celebration of those who\u2019ll be formally be becoming Australians, with Cr Metcalf leading a ceremony to welcome 70 new citizens.<\/p>\n
Both indoor and outdoor pools in the area will have free entry on the day, contact your local swimming centre to confirm times.<\/p>\n
Head to bendigo.vic.gov.au<\/strong> to see what is happening in your area on the day.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Australia Day events across the region!<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n