Published on Friday, 21 January 2022 at 10:10:44 AM
Next week’s Australia Day event will see Yamatji Naaguja man Derek Councillor lead a unique Australia Day Smoking Ceremony at the Geraldton Foreshore, where he will invite new citizens and community members to come together.
This will be a first for the City of Greater Geraldton’s Australia Day event and will be accompanied with respectful and relaxing activities such as a family concert with headline act Grace Barbé whose music is described as psychedelic rock, afrobeat, reggae and pop.
Local band Midnight Gypsies is set to play beforehand along with Jilkamarta Keesha Forrest Pananka, Harvest Guide and a performance from the Wilinyu Dancers.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn is looking forward to coming together with the community.
“Australia Day is a hard day for some and a celebration to others, and we have factored this into our planning by having a cultural and inclusive focus on the event,” he said.
“Derek Councillor leading a Smoking Ceremony is an exciting addition along with the Wilinyu Dancers and Jilkamarta Keesha Forrest Pananka performing on stage.
“Welcoming our 32 new Australian Citizens will be a treat along with celebrating the nominees and winners of the Community Citizen of the Year Awards.”
Geraldton and Mullewa’s Australia Day Ambassador Conrad Liveris will also take on Master of Ceremonies duties and help spread the word about equal opportunities as well as diversity.
Over in Mullewa, community members will be able to hang out at the Doc Docherty Pool from 8am where there will be a traditional barbecue breakfast followed by the Community Citizen of the Year Awards.
Geraldton’s event will be rounded out with the Europcar WA Fireworks Show taking place at approximately 8.30pm.
“Definitely bring the picnic blanket and some good company while getting a bite to eat at this chilled-out event,” added Mayor Van Styn.
The full Australia Day 2022 program is available to view by clicking here.
It is an alcohol free event that will take place on Wednesday 26 January from 7am – 9pm at the Geraldton Foreshore.
There will be QR codes at the entrance points to the event grounds and attendees are encouraged to check-in with them.
The City of Great Geraldton would like to thank valued sponsors Lotterywest and Europcar WA.
Back to All News