Australia Day means different things to different people. To me, the day provides an opportunity to celebrate what is good about the nation we have become, the freedoms we enjoy and the environment we are blessed to live in.
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It is also traditionally an opportunity to acknowledge the quiet work of those who strive to make our society even better.
In Lake Macquarie, we have many outstanding community contributors, some of whom were honoured at our Australia Day Awards on Monday night. This year, we presented awards across six categories to individuals and groups who have made a difference in our community.
I congratulate our winners: John Cleary (Citizen of the Year), Frank Mieszala, (Volunteer), Toby Kable (Young Citizen), Kayla Berry and Grace Turbit (shared – Junior Young Citizen), Cardiff Area Sustainable Neighbourhood Group (Community Group), and Wangi Centenary Celebrations and Cupcakes for Kids with Cancer (shared – Community Event).
Another very special Australia Day tradition is our Citizenship Ceremony, and this year I will have the honour of welcoming about 100 new citizens of Lake Macquarie.
After that, I will be heading down to the Lake Macquarie Festival at Speers Point Park from noon, to celebrate Australia Day with other members of our community, enjoying free activities and, of course, fireworks at 9pm. Visit lakemac.com.au.
Cr Kay Fraser, Mayor
