The City of Ballarat is promoting a suite of events that will be delivered on Australia Day/26 January this year.
In striking a balance that acknowledges and respects that there are differing community views and experiences around the day, the City of Ballarat will continue to deliver multiple events on the national day.
The day will begin with the sixth annual Survival Day Dawn Ceremony at Lake Wendouree, followed by the annual Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony, then the fourth annual Australia Day Picnic in the Park at Victoria Park, concluding with the final Summer Sundays concert in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens.
The events will follow the Australia Day Community Awards Ceremony, which will be held on Thursday 23 January.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves recognised there were diverse opinions regarding Australia Day/26 January among the Ballarat community, resulting in the continuance of Council's decision to hold a range of events on the day that are both celebratory and a chance to reflect.
"The program planned for the day supports our diverse community and the history we share," she said.
"By delivering multiple events, we can create a sense of unity on the day and provide a space for different voices and experiences to be shared and heard.
"It's vital we can acknowledge everything we have achieved as a nation, while reflecting on the past."
See further detail around events on the day's events below:
Australia Day Community Awards Ceremony
The Ballarat Citizen of the Year, Ballarat Young Citizen of the Year, and Community Event of the Year will be awarded on Thursday 23 January.
The Ballarat Australia Day Community Awards are provided by the National Australia Day Council (NADC) and are administered by local Councils throughout Australia.
Traditionally the ceremony is held on the evening before Australia Day. However, due to the long weekend this year, the event will be held prior to the weekend to maximise attendance.
2024 Community Award Winners
Survival Day Dawn Ceremony
The fourth annual Australia Day Picnic in the Park event will be held at Victoria Park between 11am and 3pm.
The event will be held next to the Inclusive Play Space on Oak Avenue and will feature great food, market stalls, kids' activities and entertainment.
Families may also wish to bring their own food to make a picnic to the alcohol-free event.
Last year close to 5000 people attend the event, with similar numbers expected this year.
