Big Australia Day celebrations planned for Charters Towers

Preparations are in full swing for Australia Day celebrations in Charters Towers.

It kicks off from 9am on Tuesday, January 26 for the Australia Day ceremony at the Arthur Titley Centre.

A pool party is also being planned at the Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool from 4pm.

Mayor Frank Beveridge said he’s excited to welcome four-time Paralympic cyclist Chris Scott OAM to the Region to be part of the local celebrations.

“Chris is the first Para-cyclist to be inducted into the Cycling Australia Hall of Fame,” said Mayor Beveridge.

“During his career he claimed 10 Paralympic cycling medals, including six gold medals, and was named Captain of the 2004 Australian Paralympic team.

“His visit will allow residents to hear from and meet a very committed, dedicated and inspiring Australian,” said Mayor Beveridge.

Mr Scott is visiting as an Ambassador as part of the Australia Day Ambassador Program.

Every Australia Day high-achieving Australians are sent to more than 300 community celebrations across Australia.

The Australia Day celebrations will include a Citizenship Ceremony, which welcomes one new citizen from Papua New Guinea. There is also the presentation of the Citizen of the Year, among many other accolades, at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony.

Mayor Beveridge said the Australia Day Awards acknowledge and reward the community.

“Australia Day is a time for all Australians to come together to reflect, respect and celebrate,” he said.

The Australia Day Celebrations are assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

A COVID-19 Safe Plan will be in place for all Council run events and activities. Council will continue to monitor and adhere to the advice from the Federal and State Governments.

For more information go to www.charterstowers.qld.gov.au/events.