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Subscriber only From awards presentations to sailing and citizenship ceremonies, Australia Day celebrations took a range of different forms around the Whitsundays. The sailing season was officially opened on Australia Day with a blessing of the fleet and a sail past at the Whitsunday Sailing Club. Residents also enjoyed an Australia Day Family Fun Day at the club, with more than 40 families taking to the water to try their hand at sailing.
“There is no greater privilege than our citizenship.
“It’s a lifelong commitment to Australia’s shared values, including respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual, the rule of law and democracy, and equality of opportunity for all people.”
Cr Willcox said Australian citizenship ceremonies were an important part of the nation’s celebrations and held special significance for those becoming citizens and the broader Australian community. Mikhaila Flint, Michelle Wright and Jack Handley all received awards at the Australia Day award ceremony for Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Proserpine and surrounds last year.
More than 12,000 people will receive citizenship at the many ceremonies being hosted by local councils across the country on Australia Day.