Southern Grampians Shire - Civic Events

Australia Day offers us an opportunity to reflect on the rich and diverse journey of our nation’s history and the stories that shape our lives. It is a day to acknowledge the contributions of all Australians and to celebrate the unique perspectives that each of us brings to our community.

As we come together to celebrate, we also take the opportunity to respect and understand the perspectives of all Australians, particularly First Nations peoples, whose histories and cultures are foundational to our identity. Together, we can foster an environment where every voice is valued and heard.

Nominations for the 2025 Southern Grampians Shire Community Awards, presented on Australia Day 2025, are now closed. 

Year after year, these prestigious awards honour the very best in our community and shine a well-deserved spotlight on their achievements. These awards are open to individuals and groups who best exemplify core values within our community.  

Australia Day - 2025 Town Celebrations

Hamilton: 
10.30am. 
Hamilton Botanic Gardens (wet weather alternative Hamilton PAC). 
Official Southern Grampians Shire Celebrations including flag raising, performances by local musicians, Citizenship ceremony, Australia Day Award presentations and free BBQ by Hamilton Lions Club. 

Balmoral: 
10.30am. 
Seymour Park, corner of Glendinning and Stirling Streets. 
Flag raising, guest speaker Mr Neville Trotman and free community breakfast. 

Branxholme: 
5.30pm.  
Heritage Park, off Henty Highway. 
Free BBQ and salads, BYO chairs, picnic rugs and drinks. 

Cavendish: 
9.00am. 
Cavendish Town square, Scott St. 
Flag raising ceremony, guest speaker, Free community Breakfast. 

Coleraine: 
8:00am. 
Coleraine Tourist Information Centre, Pilleau St. 
Flag raising ceremony, award presentations, free breakfast.

Glenthompson: 
12:00 Noon. 
Lions Park, Glenthompson. 
Flag raising ceremony, guest speaker, BBQ lunch.

Penshurst: 
8.30am.  
Penshurst Botanic Gardens, Martin St. 
Flag Raising Ceremony, Guest speaker, Penshurst Citizen of 2025 Award.

Tarrington: 
8:00am. 
Reserve Rotunda, Tarrington. 
Flag Raising, Guest Speaker Mayor Councillor Dennis Heslin & Free community breakfast. 

Wannon: 
12:00 Noon. 
Wannon Falls Reserve. 
Free community lunch, BYO Chairs, picnic rugs and drinks. 
Wicked Wildlife Presentation. 

For further information, contact us at ausday@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au or phone 5573 0444.

Each year National Reconciliation Week celebrates and builds on the respectful relationships shared by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.

Reconciliation Week is a time for Australians to learn about the history and culture of our First Nations people and to work towards achieving true reconciliation. We encourage everyone to learn about, celebrate, and immerse themselves in the richness and resilience of First Nations cultures. Together, we can pave the way towards a more unified and respectful Australia.

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is an annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers.

As we mark this year's National Volunteer Week, the Southern Grampians Shire Council would like to extend its gratitude to the dedicated and talented volunteers who enrich our community.

This annual celebration is an opportunity to recognise the countless individuals who generously donate their time, skills, and passion to make our region thrive.

Many volunteers support Council initiatives directly, such as the TAC L2P program, Friends of the Botanical Gardens, Friends of the Gallery, and our Tourist and Information Centres. Their involvement is vital to the success of these programs, and without their dedication, the wide array of activities available in our region would simply not be possible.

Celebrated on 3 December International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), is recognised throughout the world. This important day is aimed to increase awareness and foster an understanding of the experiences and contributions of people with disabilities. It’s a time to celebrate their achievements and contributions within our communities. Let’s come together to recognise the invaluable roles that individuals with disabilities play in our community and work towards a more accessible and inclusive future for all.