Australia Day 2026

Southern Grampians communities will come together on 26 January to mark Australia Day, celebrating the shared values, stories and people that shape our modern nation. 

Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect on who we are as one of the most diverse societies in the world, while acknowledging the full story of our history. It is also a time to recognise the everyday Australians who strengthen our communities through service, generosity and civic pride. 

In the Southern Grampians, we celebrate the occasion with gatherings in all of our townships with the focal point being the annual gathering at the Hamilton Botanic Gardens. This flagship celebration will recognise outstanding local volunteers and community leaders through the awarding of Council's Community Recognition awards, will welcome Australia’s newest citizens, and bring residents together through live music and a free community barbecue prepared by the Hamilton Lions Club. 

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin said that Australia day is an important an important moment for connection and reflection.  

“Australia Day is a time for all Australians to acknowledge their history, even the difficult and painful chapters. When we know where we come from, when we honour the world’s oldest continuing culture and embrace the diversity of modern Australia, we put ourselves in the best position to move forward together with confidence and purpose,” Cr Heslin said.  

All Australia Day events across the Shire will begin with a flag-raising ceremony and will include complimentary refreshments, with many events supported by local volunteers and community groups. 

“I encourage residents to meet up with family, friends, and neighbours at their local Australia Day community celebration,” said Cr Heslin. “These celebrations don’t happen without the dedication of our volunteers, and I thank them sincerely for the time and care they give to bringing our communities together.” 

Below is a summary of the events happening across the Shire:  

Hamilton:  
10:30am - Hamilton Botanic Gardens (wet weather alternative is the Hamilton PAC)  
These are the official Southern Grampians Shire celebrations including flag raising, performances by local musicians, Citizenship ceremony, Australia Day Award presentations and BBQ by Hamilton Lions Club.  

Balmoral 
10:30am – Seymour Park, corner of Glendinning and Stirling Streets 
Flag raising ceremony, guest speaker and a community breakfast. 

Branxholme 
5:30pm – Heritage Park, off Henty Highway 
BBQ and salads. BYO chairs, picnic rugs and drinks. 

Byaduk / North Byaduk 
8:30am – Byaduk Sports Pavilion, Byaduk–Penshurst Road 
Flag raising ceremony and community breakfast. 

Cavendish 
8:30am – Cavendish Town Square, Scott Street 
Flag raising ceremony, Cavendish Community Awards, guest speaker, music and a community breakfast. 

Coleraine 
8:00am – Coleraine Tourist Information Centre, Pilleau Street 
Flag raising ceremony, award presentations and community breakfast. 

Dunkeld 
8:00am – Dunkeld Memorial Park, Parker Street 
Flag raising ceremony, local award presentations, guest speaker and a community breakfast. 

Glenthompson 
12:00pm – Lions Park, Glenthompson 
Time capsule opening with community lunch. 

Penshurst 
10:30am – Penshurst Botanic Gardens, Martin Street 
Flag raising ceremony, guest speaker, music, Penshurst Citizen of the Year Award and a community barbecue lunch. 

Tarrington 
9:00am – Reserve Rotunda, Tarrington 
Community breakfast. 

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