There's no more quintessential Aussie gathering than the neighbourhood barbie and City of Ryde is putting on the mother of all barbecues to celebrate Australia Day on 26 January.
Ryde's Backyard BBQ takes place from 2.00-9.00pm at Meadowbank Park with a fun-packed day of delicious food, great entertainment, plenty of fantastic kids' activities and, of course, a firework finale.
The kids can take part in free craft activities, including cookie making workshops, free face painting and an Australian wildlife show.
At the skatepark there will be free skate workshops, as well as other free sports activities for the family to enjoy.
There's also plenty of opportunity to sing and dance, with fantastic entertainment by award-winning kids' group Tiptoe Giants, dance troupe Avenue D, the Matt Vail Duo, and Sunset Socialites before the fireworks end the day in spectacular style.
City of Ryde Mayor Clr Sarkis Yedelian OAM said Australia Day remained a vital part of Council's calendar.
"Australians – both existing and new – are unified by tolerance, acceptance, empathy, and compassion and on Australia Day, we reflect on our past, accept the truth of our history and respect that we all have a contribution to make to the Story of Australia," he said.
"We also know how to have a good time – and a great Aussie barbecue in a magical backyard setting like Meadowbank Park is the perfect way to celebrate."
Clr Yedelian will also be presiding over two special Citizenship Ceremonies at Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club. The first, on Thursday 25 January will be held in conjunction with City of Ryde's Citizen of the Year Awards and the second will be on Australia Day itself.
"As a migrant myself, it gives me great joy and pride to oversee these ceremonies, knowing that our new community members could not have chosen a better place to live, to work, to play, and to raise their families," he said.
For more details, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/AUSDAY
