Council extends a big thank you to residents for taking part in the Australia Day – Survival Day community event, held in Castlemaine last Friday.
The day included a moving Welcome to Country by Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Uncle Rick Nelson, a citizenship and awards ceremony and a Survival Day concert.
In 2018, under the leadership of Dja Dja Wurrung Elders, Council made the decision to formally dual name events held on 26 January as Australia Day – Survival Day, acknowledging the issue of how celebrations on this day impact First Nations people, and to provide a platform for education and healing through truth-telling.
Council recognises that 26 January is a day of mourning for many First Nations people, and respects their right to mourn as well as their right to celebrate survival.
The Survival Day concert featured local performances programmed by Uncle Rick, who was also the MC.
Photos: Tarrangower Times
2024 Australia Day Awards
Council is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Australia Day Awards:
- Citizen of the Year
Debbie Hamilton
- Young Citizen of the Year
Claire Mitchell
- Senior Citizen of the Year
Barb Templar
- Community Event of the Year
Taradale Mineral Springs Festival
“Congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their incredible work in the community,” said Mayor Driscoll.
“We’re so lucky to have such passionate and dedicated people in Mount Alexander Shire, and I’d like to thank the winners for their hard work and generosity.”
Along with the presentation of the Australia Day Awards, six people took the pledge to become Australian citizens at the community event (pictured with Mayor Driscoll).
“A big congratulations and welcome to everyone who received their Australian citizenship today,” said Mayor Driscoll.
“Our Shire is an incredibly welcoming and open place, and I’m sure you’ll see friendly faces everywhere you go.”
See the full coverage in the issue.
This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 2 February 2024.
