Community & Business
19 January, 2024
Shire defends Australia Day event
MAREEBA Shire Council has defended itself against criticism for holding an Australia Day event on the day before the national celebration.
When news of the Great Australian Bites event hit Facebook recently and people realised the event was on 25 January instead of Australia Day, criticism flowed as people alleged council had bowed to the controversy surrounding it.
Around 80 councils throughout Australia have now moved Australia Day events such as citizenship away from 26 January.
But council says, that is not the reason for the date they chose.
“Until recently, council has held its Australia Day events on the eve of Australia Day, as this allows community members to attend the various Australia Day events happening across the shire,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.
“Once again, the Dimbulah Community Centre is hosting an Australia Day event and the Mareeba Turf Club are holding Australia Day races on the 26 January as well.
“Council decided to host our event the evening before on Thursday, 25 January to give all events an opportunity for maximum attendance.”
