January 26 is a special day in my calendar each year. Firstly, I get the privilege of officially welcoming new Australians, as they become citizens. Then, I join our whole community in celebrating at Lake Mac Festival.
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Before the fun starts in the park, I will have the honour of welcoming 90 new Australians as they become citizens.
As mayor of Lake Macquarie, one of my most rewarding tasks is officiating at citizenship ceremonies several times a year. It gives me the opportunity to meet people who have come to Lake Macquarie from all parts of the world and hear about their personal journeys.
Australia’s strength lies in its people. Our people have made Australia what it is, building our nation into a vibrant, open and diverse society of which we can all be proud. It will be a gratifying day for me and an extra special Australia Day for our new citizens.
It is a perfect time to reflect on the things that make our community strong and to think about how lucky we are to live in such a great country, and wonderful city. I invite everyone to join me at Speers Point Park this Saturday to celebrate all the things we love about Australia at Lake Mac Festival.
I always have a great time at the festival and this year will be another fantastic event with a packed program. Make sure you get down to the park from noon for the flag raising ceremony and national anthem, before the fun starts with a movie on the big screen, free kids' activities and the annual Scouts canoe race.
From 4.30pm the music starts, and this year we have Australian rock legends The Choirboys headlining an amazing line-up of live entertainment. The fireworks finale will then take us out with a bang from 9pm. I hope you can join me.
LIBRARIES
I have some wonderful memories reading to children at our local libraries. But libraries are more than just books.
They are essential community spaces that offer magnificent learning opportunities and programs for all ages, so it is important we continue to innovate and introduce new activities to meet the needs of our community.
Consultation on council’s draft Lake Mac Libraries Strategic Business Plan is open for comment, so please have your say by visiting shape.lakemac.com.au/libraries-strategy
Kay Fraser is mayor of Lake Macquarie Council.