The bulk of Goulburn's Australia Day celebrations will have a change of venue next year.
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Although kicking off at 7.30am Victoria Park with a free barbecue for the first 500 people, and a junior cricket match at Seiffert Oval, the day's main activities will held at the city's Waterworks.
Council general manager Warwick Bennett said the venue was not only picturesque but would allow more water-based activities for the January 26 celebrations.
"I think it will be more fun and enjoyable for the community," he said.
Stand-up paddle boarding, pedal boats with water blasters, kayak events and a giant pontoon for 'pool noodle jousting' are among just some of the offerings.
The council has engaged Walking on Water and Ulladulla Surf School to host the activities. Fully qualified coaches will provide all equipment and instruction.
Shuttle buses will run from Victoria Park to the Goulburn Historic Waterworks between 9am to 2pm.
The event will also include a traditional Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country in First Nations language to begin the official ceremony. In addition, there will be an Indigenous Art and Culture Expo which will be managed and run by a member of the Aboriginal community.
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Market stalls will be held as usual. The official ceremony starts at 10am and will include awards to the Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Event of the Year, as well as any special achievement presentations.
The Australian citizenship ceremony is another highlight along with a live performance of the national anthem. Following the ceremony, Leaving Reality and the Hume Conservatorium Scholarship holders will perform live music.
A council spokesman said water activities would run from 9am to 5pm and finish with a barbecue.
If the Wollondilly River doesn't appeal, the Goulburn Aquatic Centre will also be open with free entry on Australia Day from 9am to 5.45pm. The Aquarun inflatable will be operational from 11am to 2.30pm. Participants will be required to pass a 15 metre swim test to participate and abide by lifeguard instructions.
Meantime, nominations are open for local citizen, young citizen and event of the year awards until 5pm Friday, December 17. They can be posted to Attention Australia Day Committee, Locked Bag 22 Goulburn NSW 2580 or emailed to shae.aliffi@goulburn.nsw.gov.au
Alternatively, follow this link to lodge electronically.
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Louise Thrower
If you have a story to tell, drop me a line at louise.thrower@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0418 229 678.
If you have a story to tell, drop me a line at louise.thrower@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0418 229 678.
