Community celebrates our heroes- Maddison and Mikayla, from Pakenham, joined in the patriotic

AUSTRALIA Day celebrations in several towns across the region will give residents the chance to celebrate Australia and local heroes.
Cardinia Shire will be a bustle of activity on Tuesday 26 January, with celebrations to include the presentation of Cardinia Shire’s Australia Day awards, honouring the Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Event of the Year and the recipient of the Community Service Award.
Cardinia Shire mayor Graeme Legge said Australia Day was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to get together and celebrate everything that is special about the nation.
“This is a great time to reflect on what we have achieved and take pride in our community,” he said. “There will be a number of fun, free events held throughout the shire so I encourage everyone to come along and enjoy a great day together.”
A total number of 32 nominations have been received for Cardinia Shire’s Australia Day awards.
The awards will be announced at the major celebration at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham and new citizens will also be welcomed at the ceremony.
Residents will not have to go far to wave the flag, sing the anthem or enjoy a sizzling hot snag as Australia Day events also include gatherings at Kooweerup, Lang Lang and Cockatoo.
And in Baw Baw, events will be held at 13 locations on Australia Day.
The main celebrations and presentations will take place in Civic Park Warragul with community activities in Drouin, Jindivick, Longwarry, Neerim South, Poowong East and other towns.
A free community barbecue and entertainment will be provided in Warragul, including a jumping castle, face painting, YMCA activities, and balloon artists and a vintage automotive display and emergency services display.
A highlight every year is the cutting of the 26ers’ birthday cake to celebrate people born on Australia day.
The full Australia Day program for all locations in Baw Baw is available at www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au.
City of Casey nominees and events will be announced shortly.