Celebrating all Australians at Anglesea

HUNDREDS of people are expected to gather in Anglesea tomorrow (January 26) to recognise and celebrate the contributions of all Australians who have helped shape the nation.

The Celebrate Australia event will take place on the Anglesea riverbank and is open to all members of the community.

The Anglesea Lions Club has hosted the event for more than 40 years, providing a welcoming and inclusive occasion that strengthens community connection.

The event will once against be officially recognised by the Australia Day Council and its key message of “Reflect. Respect. Celebrate” will be central to the morning’s activities.

Celebrate Australia coordinator Jim Tutt said the celebration was especially important in today’s uncertain global climate.

“It’s so important that we celebrate all Australians” Mr Tutt said.

“The Anglesea Lions Club has been part of the local community for more than 50 years and has contributed around $300,000 to local, state and national causes.”

This year’s Australia Day ambassador and guest speaker will be Mukhles Habash, who arrived in Australia as a refugee from Iraq in 2016 and now works as an interpreter at Barwon Health.

He will be joined by Van Hong Trinh, who arrived in Australia as a refugee in January 1980 and later founded Hong Trinh Electrical in Ocean Grove.

The family-friendly event will run from 8.30am to 11.30am and will feature live music, a jumping castle, face painting and a free sausage sizzle.

The Anglesea Lions Club encourages everyone to attend and take part in a morning of reflection, respect and celebration.

The Anglesea RSL Sub-Branch will also host an Australia Day get together in the rear garden of its rooms at 30 Murray Street from noon to 4.30pm.

The event will feature live music, and food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Organisers say a gold coin donation on entry would be appreciated.