AUSTRALIA Day is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate being an Australian citizen and to recognise and reflect on the common bonds we all share.
We can be proud of who we are as a nation.
We share values such as equality of opportunity, mutual respect and tolerance, freedom of speech and religion, and commitment to democracy and law.
These values are what the Aussie principle of a ‘fair go’ is all about.
Active citizenship is about getting involved in our local community and displaying values such as respect, inclusion and helping others.
Every year Redland City Council presents Australia Day Awards to recognise individuals and organisations who make valuable contributions across all areas of Redlands Coast.
So much of what makes Redlands Coast special is its people – whether they are a volunteer supporting those in need or working for our wildlife or environment, someone dedicated to bringing our community together, an outstanding leader or someone who is excelling in the arts or sport.
Some of these local community heroes may be well known and highly visible but others are less obvious as they work behind-the-scenes giving freely of their time, knowledge and enthusiasm to improve the welfare and wellbeing of the community.
The Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards provide a great opportunity to recognise these people and show them how much they are valued and appreciated.
This year’s Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards include 20 finalists across eight categories including Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year.
Council will also be presenting achievement awards to some of our outstanding SES volunteers.
Citizenship ceremonies are another important part of Australia Day celebrations.
Redland City Council hosts several citizenship ceremonies each year to welcome people who have decided to make their home in our city with, on average, more than 850 people choosing to become Australian citizens each year.
On Australia Day 2026, Council will host a ceremony in which about 170 residents from 40 countries will become Australian citizens.
Whatever you are planning for Australia Day, I encourage you to take some time to reflect on and pay respect to the cultures, stories, histories and people who make Australia such a wonderful place to live.
