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.

Year after year, our 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.  

Find an event near you: Monday 26 January 2026

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 BBQ by Hamilton Lions Club. 

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

Branxholme: 5:30pm  
Heritage Park, off Henty Highway. 
Community dinner, BYO chairs, picnic rugs and drinks. 

Byaduk/North Byaduk: 8:30am  
Byaduk Sports Pavilion, 1 Byaduk-Penshurst Rd. 
Flag Raising and community breakfast 

Cavendish: 8:30am 
Cavendish Town square, Scott St. 
Flag raising, Cavendish community awards, guest speaker, music and community breakfast. 

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

Dunkeld: 8.00am 
Dunkeld Memorial Park, Parker Street. 
Flag raising, local award presentations, guest speaker and community breakfast. 

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

Penshurst: 10:30 am  
Penshurst Botanic Gardens 
Flag Raising, guest speaker, music, Penshurst Citizen of the Year Award and community BBQ lunch. 

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

Australia Day - 2025 Community Awards

Winners will be published following the Hamilton Australia Day event on 26 January 2026.

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

Friday April 25, 2025

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.