With more than 20 club members at the helm, the flag-raising and traditional Aussie barbecue breakfast went ahead as planned. About 15 members of the public - mostly Valentine natives - attended the breakfast.

Valentine Lions Club member Richard Taylor, who was in charge of cooking the sausages, said the rain was "harmless".

"We've had several wet Australia Days over the years and it doesn't bother us, it gives you something to talk about," he said.

A senior citizens' morning tea and cricket match were held later as the rain cleared.