Shires wave the flag

AUSTRALIA Day celebrations in several towns across Cardinia and Casey will give residents the chance to celebrate what’s great about the nation.
Flag raisings, presentations of Australia Day Awards and fun activities will be taking place at a range of locations throughout the municipalities.

Cardinia

Pakenham: Cardinia Cultural Centre from 11am to 2pm. Festivities include the mayor’s Australia Day address, presentation of the shire’s Australia Day Awards, a citizenship ceremony and free community barbecue.
There will be an array of fun activities including face painting, an animal farm, Landcare display and native plant giveaway.
The event’s Australia Day ambassador is former Australian cricketer and Victorian Sheffield Shield player Paul Sheahan.
Cockatoo: Festivities running from 8.30am to 11am at Alma Treloar Reserve.
The Australian flag will be raised before the presentation of Australia Day Awards. Residents can help themselves to sausages, pancakes and fruit platters at the reserve.
Kooweerup: Eggs and bacon will be served up for breakfast at the Kooweerup Community Centre.
Activities run from 8.30am to 10.45am, including performances from the Kooweerup Secondary College band, poetry readings and presentation of the town’s Australia Day Awards.
The event’s Australia Day ambassador is Sally Browne, an award winning business entrepreneur, fashion designer and philanthropist.
Lang Lang: A community breakfast will kick off proceedings at the Lang Lang Memorial Hall.
The town’s community singers and primary school’s choir will perform at the event.
Community Achievement Awards will be presented and there will also be a citizenship ceremony.
International ambassador for the children’s charity Variety and former director of the Fitzroy Football Club Doug Christie is the event’s Australia Day Ambassador.

Casey

Berwick: The Rotary Club of Berwick will host activities at Pioneers Park between 11am and 3pm.
The celebration will feature live performances, food stalls, coach rides, and a flag raising ceremony.