Gundagai’s 2024 Australia Day Ambassador Mark Warren (left), is here pictured in 2018 with Harden-Murrumburrah’s Emma James, Young Sportsperson of the Year.
Australia Day celebrations in the Parks this year are shaping up to be a morning where residents and visitors can socially interact with their peers, enjoy time out with family and friends and acknowledge the contributions people make to their communities.
Each year Australia Day is celebrated in Cootamundra and Gundagai with a delicious breakfast cooked by our local community stalwarts the Lions Clubs. Patrons can purchase breakfast and enjoy the atmosphere whilst supporting a very worthwhile cause. Lions Club members in both towns undertake so many community projects and certainly make a difference to the way we enjoy our communities.
Albert Park in Cootamundra will come alive from 8am with breakfast, free entertainment provided as always by local band Coota Connections. There will be a display of classic and vintage cars, who always attend the event and bring a touch of nostalgia and wonder at these beautifully restored vehicles. The Cootamundra Youth Council will be manning a jumping castle for the youngsters to have some fun.
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) mayor Cr Charlie Sheahan will host a Citizenship Ceremony before the presentation of Australia Day Awards. Mr Ethan Butson a 28-year-old radiation oncology medical physics registrar and scientific inventor is the Ambassador, and his story will be inspiring to all.
In Gundagai the popular Carberry Park will see Andrew Wotz entertain the crowd, with his unique music and rendition of the popular classics, whilst CGRC Councillor Abb McAlister (pictured above) will welcome Ambassador Mark Warren. Mr Warren is a dynamic broadcaster, MC, and auctioneer. Son of famous Junee expat and legend broadcaster Ray “Rabbits” Warren. Mr Warren will no doubt captivate all with his stories.
Both centres are fortunate that local SES members will be in attendance on the day and provide much needed support with the set up and pack up. The SES involvement has always been an integral part of the success of Australia Day in the Parks. Council appreciates the efforts these volunteer members put in on the day.
Presentation of Australia Day Awards commence at 10am, where very worthy recipients are acknowledged for their contributions to our communities.
The events wind up with the cutting of the Australia Day cake.
Local swimming pools will be hosting pool parties in the afternoon, a great place to cool down, continue to respect, reflect, and celebrate a day where we recognise the achievements that many people and organisations bring to our communities.
CHANGE OF VENUE FOR COOTAMUNDRA
