Celebrate our community’s achievements on Australia Day

Published on 22 January 2020

Mildura’s 2020 Australia Day event will see 40 residents become our region’s newest Australian citizens, while an impressive 14 nominees will vie for Australia Day honours, providing our community with plenty to celebrate.

To be held at Nowingi Place from 8am on Sunday 26 January, Council’s annual Australia Day event provides Sunraysia residents with a chance to recognise the outstanding achievements of local people and groups over the past 12 months.

Mildura Mayor Simon Clemence encouraged the community to embrace the event.

“Australia Day is a chance for our community to stop, sit back and recognise the achievements of the amazing people we’re so fortunate to call our own,” Cr Clemence said.

“Our Australia Day award nominees often quietly go about their business, not looking for recognition, and these awards are a way to ensure the broader community get to hear about their dedication, hard work and selfless contributions.

“Just to be nominated for an Australia Day award is a huge accomplishment and I congratulate this year’s nominees, as well as those who put their names forward.”

This year’s Australian Citizenship conferees represent a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds from no less than 21 different countries, including Iraq, Vietnam, Nepal, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Scotland.

Mildura’s Australia Day Ambassador this year is Diane James AM, who became a Member of the Order of Australia for her service to conservation and the environment, particularly through the development of coastal planning and management in Victoria.

Ms James is currently chair of Goulburn Murray Water and Southern Rural Water, as well as chairing the Order of Australia Association in Victoria.

There will be a host of entertainment and activities on offer for families throughout the morning, including a thong-throwing competition, free face-painting, jumping castles, henna tattooing, backyard cricket, and Ready Steady Go Kids to entertain the children.

Residents will also be able to take in live music with local act Jason Wall Duo performing classic Australian songs as well as a special performance by With One Voice Choir.

The live performances will culminate in local talent Chloe Niutta singing the national anthem.

In addition to the live entertainment, a barbecue breakfast will be available for purchase, along with tea and coffee, fresh juice, ice-cream and more. Residents can also bring their own picnic meal along with them.

Residents planning to attend our Australia Day event are encouraged to take note of any forecast warmer weather and prepare accordingly, including wearing a hat, applying sunscreen and drinking plenty of water on the day.

2020 Mildura Rural City Council Australia Day Award Nominees

Citizen of the Year

Jeanie Schmidt

Max Whiting

Michael Clifford

Peter Willersdorf

Raymond House

Robin Yetman

Young Citizen of the Year

Cheyenne Cochrane

Genevieve Pragt

Jarrod Searle

Jemma Cochrane

Jessica Baker

Community Event/Project of the Year

Mildura City Heart Murals

Mildura Weir Parkrun

Willowfest Veterans Cricket Championships

Media enquiries 
Ben Piscioneri
p) (03) 5018 8689 
e) ben.piscioneri@mildura.vic.gov.au