Big crowds at celebrations

I LOVE Australia, I love Australia Day - those were the words of Loddon Mayor Dan Straub last Thursday.

The Terrick Ward councillor was guest speaker at celebrations in Inglewood, Tarnagulla and Newbridge.

In a message echoed across the shire where large crowds attended town and district activities, Cr Straub said: “For me and many others, Australia Day has a special place in our hearts.

“It is a time to reflect and celebrate modern Australia and its great diversity in landscape and in culture.

“Modern day Australia is unique, our lifestyles have been shaped by our environment and the need for necessity which drives innovation.

“We live in peace, and we respect our democracy and we have a desire to share a common future.”

At Boort, the official ceremony preceded a day of activities in Nolen’s Park organised by the agricultural and pastoral society.

Local and bus industry legend Hazel Whitmore directed her address to young people.

“You can do ... a simple word but so forceful. You can achieve despite your background, you can achieve despite your origins and beliefs, you can achieve despite the many challenges that will happen in your life, you can achieve big things just by starting with small things,” said Hazel.

Deputy chief officer of Fire Rescue Victoria James Dullard told the crowd at Jarklin, this year hosting the East Loddon celebrations, that his fortunate career don’t just happen.

“My fortunate career has come about by presenting and accepting opportunities. Getting started is the hardest bit,” said Mr Dullard, who grew up on the family farm at Pine Grove, shore his first 100 sheep at Mitiamo and played a football season with the Superoos. “Opportunities come to you.”

Lions clubs had a key role organising and catering for celebra- tions - barbecues at Jarklin, Inglewood and Wedderburn.

And Alica Leech again organised a swimming carnival at Inglewood that saw youngsters enthusiastically cooling off.

The 5-6 years section was won by James Milgate, 7-8 years Edmund Wilson, 9-10 Abby Wilson and 11-12 Xander Wilson. Mandy Cragg was the star in adult events.

And in every community there were congratulations for Citizen of the Year Howard Rochester, Young Citizen Jake Murphy and ward community award recipients. Australia Day was big on local celebrations.