Australia Day is a time to reflect, celebrate and honour the qualities that make this a great country. A game of Cricket won’t go astray either.
Modern day Australia is one of technological innovation, global awareness and vibrant cultural diversity. It is a place where a thong goes on your foot and slang is almost a formal language. Through our geographical isolation Australians have learnt to do and experience things in a uniquely beautiful way and all without needing to ride the kangaroo to work.
Australia Day is about firing up the BBQ and having a yarn with your mates about the sporting efforts of our nation’s athletes. It’s about enjoying the breathtakingly gorgeous paradise of our bush and beaches whilst playing a game of cricket.
But it’s also about acceptance.
It’s about embracing the evolved cultural landscape of our country and acknowledging the traditional owners of the land. It’s about recognising our history, never forgetting what happened. but reconciling to move forward together. Australia Day is a celebration of our nation and achievements and as such should be a time for fun and relaxation.
Hornsby and Ku-ring-gai are both holding free to attend Australia Day celebrations and they look like a fantastic way to spend the day.
Hornsby Shire Council is providing live entertainment at Hornsby Park from 11am – 3pm and will also hold various activities to keep you and the young ones amused throughout the day.
The main event will be presented by Farmer Dave; a former sheep farmer turned reality TV star. He will also be conducting two 25-minute shows with his rescue dogs at 11:50 am and 2:25 pm.
Filled with a variety of performers the stage will be frequented by Didgeridoo player Ryka Satrick and a collection of other talented local vocalists, dancers and musicians. More information can be found here.
With the opportunity to meet crocodiles, get your face painted and navigate a petting zoo this is a “kid friendly” event. There is plenty of street parking in Dural and Williams St plus Hornsby train and bus stations are only 100 metres from Hornsby Park.
Ku-ring-gai Council is holding a Citizenship and Awards Ceremony at Bicentennial Park, West Pymble from 3pm – 5pm with Australia Day ambassador Susie Maroney. This event will recognise 120 new citizens and present outstanding residents with Australia Day Awards.
In the evening, there will also be a concert running from 5:30pm – 9pm. The programme includes performances from well know Aboriginal group ‘Descendance’ and ‘Lah Lah’s Big Live Band’ and will finish with a magnificent fireworks display by ‘Foti Fireworks’.
There will also be a variety of food stalls designed to excite all interests of the pallet. This will include a sausage sizzle held by the Lions Club of St Ives, Yan’s Asian Caterer and The Natural Pancake Company specialising in Mini Dutch Pancakes.
Ku-ring-gai Council urges the public to utilise the free shuttle bus system operating from Gordon Station.
With so much going on this Australia Day it is important to remember to plan ahead and make sure you and your family have a safe and enjoyable day. There are many things to be thankful for living in this country and our environment is one of them so please ensure you use all bins provided at the events.
And if Taylor Swift does manage to get number one on Triple J’s top one hundred? Don’t shake it off just remember, that’s not a song, this is a song!
