Lockyer Valley Australia Day celebrations
For a big program of celebrations and entertainment to mark Australia Day, Friday 26 January, look no further than what’s on right here in the Lockyer Valley.
The Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony will be held at the Gatton Shire Hall at 9am and Lockyer Valley Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said the ceremony was a time for everyone to come together to celebrate members of our community who have enriched the lives of others in the region.
“Australia Day is an opportunity for us to reflect, pay respect and celebrate.
“At the same time, we pay tribute to the individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to our local community or achieved exceptional results in sporting, environmental, or cultural endeavors.
“This year, we were thrilled to receive 46 nominations.
“We will also welcome our newest citizens to the region at the Citizenship Ceremony, which will follow on from the Awards.
“I offer my sincere congratulations to all nominees, who have all made significant contributions to our community,” Mayor Milligan said.
The 2024 Australia Day Ambassador for the Lockyer Valley is Gerrard Gosens, who is a vision-impaired adventurer, three-time Paralympian, project manager, chocolatier, small business owner, sports coach and motivational speaker. He most recently represented Australia in the Para-triathlon at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and has represented Australia at the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games in the team sport of Goalball.
Gerrard returned to his former sporting love, distance running, and represented Australia at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games in the 5000 metres, 10,000 metres and marathon (42.2km). He has also represented Australia at the 2012 Marathon World Cup, 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games and six Athletics World Championships.
Gerrard was honoured with an Order of Australia Medal in 2012 for his outstanding service to sport and people with disability.
“Highlights of this year’s event include Rebecca Lee Nye, who will perform the National Anthem, morning tea by Native Oz Bushfoods, live music by Rheanna Leschke during morning tea, and the chance to paint your own boomerang with Hogarth Arts after the ceremony.
“We are proud to present this free, family-friendly event for our community to enjoy.
“This is a wonderful way to start 2024 and come together as a community to tip our hats to those community members who are committed to making our region the wonderful place it is.
“So, gather your zinc, pack a picnic, get the family together and come on down to help us celebrate those who add value to this great region,” Mayor Milligan said.
Tickets are now available at lockyertickets.com.au
For more information, email lockyerevents@lvrc.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 1300 005 872.
