NEWCASTLE
A big day of events to celebrate Australia Day is on offer across the Newcastle local government area on January 26.
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The highlight is set to be power boat races on Newcastle Harbour. The two day Australia Powerboat GP kicks off at 8am in the Honeysuckle Precinct.
It promises “fast, colourful action with five classes of formula powerboats competing in an exciting extreme sport”.
The circuit style racecourse will guarantee spectators a great view from any vantage point on the harbour frontage in Honeysuckle.
Also on the water is the Australia Day Newcastle Harbour Swim. Entrants will take the plunge at the Stockton Ferry Wharf, swimming to Queens Wharf.
The 700m single crossing starts at 10am.
The 1400m double crossing is on at 11am.
Come and join in on a legal swim across the Harbour and help raise funds for Stockton Surf Club.
The entry is $50 entry, $20 for kids 12-13. There are prizes.
To sign up visit oceanswims.com.
For the full schedule of Australia Day Events visit: newcastle.nsw.gov.au
Lake Macquarie
Lake residents wishing to take part in the city’s Australia Day celebrations should head to Speers Point Park.
It is the site of the Lake Macquarie Festival.
It’s a chance to soak up the sun, enjoy tunes from Thirsty Merc and be amazed by the fireworks finale at 9pm.
Council’s acting manager community planning, Wes Hain, said the Lake Mac Festival is always a popular day out for families.
“More than 20,000 people attended last year’s celebrations and with an exciting program scheduled for this year’s event, I would expect even more people to join in the fun,” Mr Hain said.
“From kids’ activities to a family movie and live entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
The festival will start at noon with a flag raising ceremony and the movie Red Dog: True Blue on the big screen.
Throughout the day, there will be free kids’ activities, local entertainment and the annual Scouts Canoe Race.
On stage are some Australian rock favourites, with Thirsty Merc will headline an amazing line-up of live entertainment.
They will be joined on-stage by Last Stand - the Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes show, Boys Light Up and Monsters of Rock Down Under.
For more information: lakemac.com.au.
