The clear morning’s swift evolution into a 40-degree scorcher did not stop the crowd congregating to celebrate being Australian in the best part of the country.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

After the flag-raising and national anthem at 9am, activities including face-painting, tug-o-wars, raffles and the thong-throwing competition gave a lovely, regional reminder of the country we call home.

Live music was performed by local duo ‘Ol’ Spice’, with John Davies’ keyboard and Julian Littmann’s guitar, and vocals from both.

Face-painting was provided by impassioned Myall U3A Art Group members Jeanette Hart, Sandy Flinn and Pam Ness, who decorated their human canvases with all sorts of fantastical fascinations.

“Myall U3A is a great bunch, they pitch in when we need it,” Sandy said of her fellow artistes.

A small army of Lions members prepared food and fed the ever-growing crowd, the queue for food often teetering close to the edge of the estuary, such was the demand for an egg and bacon roll or sausage sandwich.

The relentless beating down of the sun was somewhat mitigated by an unprecedented four marquees set up by the Lions, providing some vital shade as high noon approached.

Tea Gardens Lions President Doug Allen had the privilege of announcing the winners of the local annual awards.

‘Citizen of the Year’ went to Debbie Booth and ‘Young Citizen of the Year’ was awarded to Reef Mirisch, both of whom came from the local Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Surf Life Saving Club.

“It’s great to celebrate Australia Day with music, fun, and honouring our citizens,” Doug added.

“Thanks also to MidCoast Council for preparing the park, power, and gardening services for the event.”

Kids were also enjoying Council’s new play area and swing circle, while some people took full advantage of the estuary’s convenient high tide to enjoy a cool-off as the mercury soared towards 40 degrees.

By Thomas O’KEEFE