Australia Day Celebration Draws Over 1,200 Despite Heat

The SEQLD region came together in a vibrant display of community spirit on January 26th for the annual Australia Day celebration at Highfields Pioneer Village.

Event organisers have declared the day a tremendous success, with preliminary estimates confirming over 1,200 attendees braving 37 degree heat to enjoy the festivities. The event, running from 9am to 5pm, offered a rich program celebrating Australian heritage, culture, and community.

The impressive turnout is a testament to the hard work and dedication of a great team of volunteers who planned and managed the day’s extensive activities. “We are absolutely thrilled with the community’s response,” said Event Secretary Tegan Boden. “To see so many families and individuals from all walks of life enjoying the day together was exactly what we hoped for. This success is squarely due to our incredible volunteers, whose months of preparation and tireless effort on the day made everything run seamlessly.”

The program featured something for everyone. The day commenced with entertainment by Greg Carter on the Outdoor Stage, setting a lively tone. Highlights included immersive historical demonstrations like milking and buttermaking in the Dairy Pavilion, sheep shearing, and blacksmithing.

Cultural elements were strongly represented with an Indigenous Dance Workshop led by Don Nikkelson and a powerful didgeridoo performance. The official ceremony at 2:00 pm saw a flag-raising, the national anthem, and a guest address from John Griffiths on “What Australia Day Means to Me.” The afternoon was packed with family-friendly activities, from the popular animal nursery and mini-train rides to the Damper Making Competition.

Continuous entertainment across multiple stages, including performances by Anita Ree, Cactoblastis, and bush poet Mel Lancaster, kept the atmosphere festive. Other notable moments included the dedication of a memorial plaque for Atherton Griffiths at the museum, the official opening of ‘Tim’s Room’ by Mr. Trevor Watts MP, and dynamic tent pegging demonstrations by the 11th Light Horse (GPA).

“The energy was fantastic from start to finish,” Tegan added. “From the buzzing Bushranger Cafe and delicious sausage sizzle to the children’s laughter at the balloon twisting and ‘Clock O and Friends’ show, the event truly captured the collaborative and celebratory spirit of our community.

We extend our deepest gratitude to every volunteer, performer, demonstrator, and sponsor, including Heritage Bank, who helped bring this day to life,” she went on to say. “The organising committee looks forward to building on this success for future community events.”

About the Highfields Pioneer Village Event Committee:
The Highfields Pioneer Village Event Committee is a volunteer-driven group dedicated to organising an inclusive, family-friendly community event that honours Australia’s history, celebrates its diverse culture, and fosters local community connections.

Submitted By:
Jody Dodds,
Treasurer,
Ph 4696 6309