Come together to reflect, respect and celebrate Australia Day this year at three destinations across Cairns.
From the north to the south, Council is inviting the community to enjoy a free snag, live entertainment and plenty of fun at the Beach Party at Holloways Beach in the north, the Pool Party at Tobruk Memorial Pool and south to the Party in the Park at Gordonvale.
Mayor Bob Manning said Australia Day 2021 was an opportunity for the Cairns community to reflect on the challenges of the past year, respect the sacrifices and contributions of those who responded in a time of need and celebrate being together and being Australian.
“In the past year Australia has faced immense challenges – from bushfires to floods and of course the coronavirus pandemic,” Cr Manning said.
“Australia Day is a day for us to respect and thank first responders, frontline workers and the many others who worked through fire, flood and pandemic to protect life and property.
“Australia Day is also a time to get out and enjoy everything that’s great about living in Tropical North Queensland.
“There are lots of family-friendly activities to enjoy across the city, so why not get everyone together and celebrate with your community.”
Cr Manning urged residents to prepare for the possibility of a wet Australia Day in Cairns to avoid letting the weather dampen the fun.
“We live in the tropics and it’s the wet season, so if it’s raining, slip on a pair of thongs, grab an umbrella and embrace our tropical weather,” he said.
The 2021 Australia Day Awards will be announced by Cr Manning at a special breakfast event on Monday 25 January, at the Pullman International.
Biggest ever citizenship ceremony
This year’s Australia Day will also take on extra significance for 200 Cairns residents, who will on Tuesday morning become Australians in the largest citizenship ceremony ever held by Council.
The special citizenship ceremony will be held at Cairns Performing Arts Centre to welcome the new citizens, who hail from 47 countries of origin.
“It is fantastic that so many of our residents will become Australian citizens this year on our national day,” Cr Manning said.
“Next Tuesday, 200 people from all around the world will join our Australian family and add to our city’s rich culture.
“I always look forward to citizenship ceremonies because there is no greater demonstration of how lucky we are to live in this country and the desire of thousands of others to do so.”
#Ends
*Note – in the event of a Severe Weather Warning, see Cairns Regional Council’s Facebook page for updates.
EVENTS
Pool Party (central)
Council has teamed up with Tobruk Memorial Pool for the Australia Day Pool Party. Entry to Tobruk Pool will be free and there will be a host of games, come and try events, and a free sausage sizzle.
Activities include:
- Come and try activities with water polo and underwater hockey
- Kids games
- Discounted Wave Rider rides
- The chance to win prizes from Star FM with ‘Acapella Under the Umbrella’, and lucky duck diving
- Screening of Secret Life of Pets 2 at 11amthanks to Optus
When: Tuesday 26 January 2021, 9am to midday.
Where: Tobruk Memorial Pool, 370 Sheridan St Cairns North
Beach Party (north)
Enjoy a community event to celebrate what’s great about our nation at Holloways Beach. Activities include a free sausage sizzle, food and market stalls, live music and entertainment, competitions and prizes. Best parking is at Raintrees Park.
When: Tuesday 26 January 2021, 8am to 11am
Where: Holloways Beach, Casuarina Street
Party in the Park (south)
Presented by the Great Pyramid Race Committee, the iconic and historic Norman Park in Gordonvale will play host to this year’s southern community celebration.
Free sausage sizzle, live music and Aussie themed activities.
When: Tuesday 26 January 2021, 11am to 2pm
Where: Norman Park, Norman St, Gordonvale
