There are plenty of ways to mark Australia day this Thursday 26 January, 2017.

Here’s a few suggestions if you live anywhere between Karuah and Bulahdelah.

The Karuah RSL has put together a program of very Aussie activities from thong throwing, to fun bowling, fireworks and a local produce display and auction.

If you’re in the Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest area, head to Moira Parade Park near the Hawks Nest Wharf where the festivities kick off with a sausage and bacon and egg roll sizzle from 8am.

The Lioness Club has been running the Australia Day activities for the last 25 years.

“Every year we are as busy as ever, and the participation from the local residents and visitors increases,’’ Lioness President Linda Allen said.

The Flag Raising Ceremony starts at 9am with the assistance of Mr Barry Whiteman from the Tea Garden RSL Sub Branch,

Mr Ian Dunlop, 2016 Citizen of the Year and Dale Stubbs, Young Citizen of 2016.

The 2017 Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year Presentation will take place at 9.30am.

The official ceremonies over, there’ll be three-legged races, sack races, live music, stalls and a flypast at midday by the RAAF Hawk Squadron.

Further north, “The Bulahdelah Bowling Club has barefoot bowls starting at 8.30am, cost $10 per person and a free barbeque lunch to follow,” General Manager Allan Freihaut said.

Heading into the late afternoon, there’ll be a memorial to Betty Bramble by the Historical Society, short film festival and a barbeque at the Bulahdelah Courthouse from 5.30pm.

By Margie TIERNEY