THE community is invited to cool off at a series of free family-friendly pool parties across Port Stephens to celebrate Australia Day on Tuesday 26 January 2021.

Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says while celebrations will look a little different, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“Australia Day is a time to get together and celebrate everything that makes Port Stephens such an incredible place.

“While COVID-19 has meant we’ve had to make some changes, we think it’s really important to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to celebrate.

“What better way to celebrate than with pool parties? We’re opening the gates to our pools at Tomaree, Tilligerry and Lakeside for a series of COVID Safe events.

“Australia Day is usually stinking hot, so it will be great for our community to cool off with a swim, enjoy a BBQ feed, listen to local performers and have some fun with giant pool games.

“At Tomaree, we’ll also be holding a movie night for those who want to stay a little longer.

“Plus at Karuah, the RSL will be holding an event for the local community with a fresh produce competition and an auction with proceeds going to the local Rural Fire Service,” he said.

“The citizenship ceremony and Port Stephens Annual Awards will be held at a small civic ceremony at the new Medowie Social. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this will only be open to award recipients, conferees and Councillors.

“The new venue provides the perfect backdrop for this special ceremony, and is a central location for all of our invitees,” he said.

Join us for COVID Safe events on Tuesday 26 January 2021 at Tomaree Aquatic Centre, Tilligerry Aquatic Centre, Lakeside Leisure Centre and Karuah RSL.

More details to come in January 2021.