THOUSANDS of proud Aussies will flock to locations across the South East today, decked out in costumes, Akubras and red, white and blue to celebrate Australia Day at annual community breakfasts and award ceremonies.
National pride will bring communities and townships together to recognise outstanding residents and enjoy a traditional Aussie breakfast in a relaxed atmosphere.
In the spirit of the day, money will be raised for local charities.
Mount Gambier City Council will hold its annual Australia Day breakfast at the Railway Lands from 7.30am.
A cooked breakfast provided by the Lakes Rotary Club of Mount Gambier will be available to purchase for $10 for adults and $5 for children, with all proceeds donated to Regional Foodbank and Boandik Lodge.
Attendees are reminded to bring their own crockery and cutlery for the chance to enter a lucky draw.
Entertainment will include North Gambier Primary School’s new arrivals program, Gentleman Prefer Blondes, Jason, Christy and Jimmy Wallace and Phoenix Music Studio.
A best dressed prize will be given and official proceedings will begin at 9.15am with the flag raising and awards ceremony.
Wattle Range residents can attend breakfast events in Millicent at Jubilee Park, Penola at War Memorial Park, Beachport at Lagoon Reserve or Kalangadoo at the Kalangadoo Institute.
Breakfast will be served by volunteers from local Lions clubs and community organisations.
Celebrations in each location will kick off at 8am and official proceedings will begin at 9am.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic rug or chair to sit on.
Grant District residents have been invited to attend celebrations at Tarpeena Football Oval from 7am.
The traditional barbecue lunch has this year been changed to a breakfast event due to the extreme weather forecast today.
The barbecue breakfast will be available by gold coin contribution and official proceedings will start at 8.30am.
Australia Day ambassador and former Operation Flinders executive director John Shepherd AM will make a special appearance.
