One of the great things about January is that, just as you’ve finally dragged yourself back to work, the Australia Day public holiday arrives like another Christmas gift. Hooray!
If you’re one of those lucky enough to still be on holidays, then despite every single day being like another glorious Saturday morning, there’s plenty of reason to get out and celebrate with your country-folk.
In a time when it’s so easy to identify the troubles of the world, Australia Day is the time to appreciate just how well we all get along down here. Our knack for establishing such a wonderfully functional version of multiculturalism is something we can all take pride in on January 26.
Australia Day Live!
The focus on Australia Day is the announcement of the Australian of the Year Awards. Young Australian of the Year, as well as the Senior Australian of the Year and the Local Hero supports the major award, meaning the entire community is recognised for its efforts to make Australia a better place. We wish the ACT nominees all the best for the announcement on Sunday 25 January. Here are the local entrants:
Australian of the Year:
Glenn Keys (owner of Aspen Medical and philanthropist)
Young Australian of the Year:
Patrick Mills (professional basketballer and Indigenous heritage promotor)
Senior Australian of the Year:
Sandra Mahlberg (humanitarian and volunteer)
Local Hero:
Damian De Marco (child sexual assault campaigner)
Plus, as usual, the announcement will be followed by a big live show. this year, Australian singer-songwriter and national treasure, Paul Kelly, will bring his folk magic. After that, Jessica Mauboy will bring the party with her awesome combination of pop and R&B.
So, regardless whether you’ll be watching the cricket, attending the mosque, enjoying a Pad Thai (or all of those things!) have a great time celebrating our little corner of the world. We’ll be joining you, so be sure to check out OutInCanberra’s Australia Day Guide to see what’s on offer over the three-day weekend.
