A range of community groups have planned Australia Day activities for residents on Sunday January 26.
The main Australia Day event, presented by the Rotary Club of Bendigo Sandhurst, is again on at Lake Weeroona and runs from 10am - 3pm, with official proceedings starting at 10.30am.
The event will feature a BBQ, live entertainment, family activities, community displays and the popular Rotary market.
Smaller events are also planned for Axedale, Eaglehawk, Elmore, Heathcote, Huntly, Maiden Gully, Mia Mia and Strathfieldsaye.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said Australia Day was an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be Australian.
"Australia Day is a time to acknowledge the growth and success of our nation and communities everywhere, and the people that contribute to making Australia a great place to live," Cr Metcalf said.
"As we gather in communities across Greater Bendigo, I encourage residents to consider what they value most about where they live and to enjoy the opportunity to spend time with family and friends.
"Thank you to the community groups and volunteers that have worked hard to plan local activities.
"However you choose to mark this day, it is important that we do so respectfully and recognise it can be a day of loss and mourning for many First Nations Peoples. It is important we all continue to grow our understanding of Australia's history."
On Friday January 24, the Bendigo Spirit will host the Adelaide Lightning at Red Energy Arena, with free entry for children aged 14 and under. Then on Saturday January 25, the Moonlight Market returns to the Hargreaves Mall from 3pm to 8pm. The Bendigo Art Gallery will be open daily, and free general admission includes the major exhibition Rob McHaffie: We are family, which ends January 27.
For those looking to cool off at a local pool, there will be free entry to all indoor and outdoor pools on Sunday January 26 and Monday January 27. Please contact your local pool to confirm opening times.
