THE official Australia Day gathering for the Nambucca Valley this year took place at the Unkya Reserve, Eungai Creek.

The theme for this year was ‘Reflect, Respect, Celebrate – We’re all part of the story’.

A large number of locals from all over the Nambucca Valley and adjoining districts turned up for a day of fun, delicious food and great music.

The day got underway ‘officially’ with a Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Martin Ballangarry OAM and a Welcome to Country by Aunty Raelene Ballangarry.

The Mayor of the Nambucca Valley, Cr Rhonda Hoban OAM, addressed the gathering and said, “Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect on the positives and the negatives of the past, be thankful that we are here in the Nambucca Valley and look to make a better future.”

The official Australia Day Ambassador to the Nambucca Valley this year was former Superbike World Champion Warwick Nowland.

Warwick’s engaging personality and fascinating stories delighted the crowd at Eungai Creek.

For those who were on the hunt for a bargain there were many market stalls to choose from however the most popular stall of the day was the free balloon sculptures and glitter tattoos that the kids could not get enough of.

Many of those gathered took the opportunity to learn traditional Gumbaynggirr basket weaving under the skilled tutelage of Aunty Lauren Jarrett.

President of the Unkya Reserve Committee, Lisa Hall, told News of the Area, “Considering the threat of wet weather and Covid concerns, I am delighted with the turnout and consider today to be a great opportunity for all of our community to gather together in this wonderful part of Australia.”

 

By Mick BIRTLES