Official proceedings, including the Australia Day awards and citizenship ceremony will still be held on Australia Day at the Singleton Civic Centre on January 26.

Though Australia Day festivities may be a bit different this year, Cr Sue Moore (Singleton Mayor) hopes the community will join in on the early celebration.

“The Committee decided on a change of format for 2019, with the Australia Day long weekend celebrations beginning on the Friday evening with Twilight; a free community event featuring live music, food and wine and children’s activities,” she said.

“The decision to move the community event to Australia Day eve was made after last year’s celebration saw temperatures soar into the 40’s, affecting crowd numbers and posing a safety risk.”

“By moving the community event to the evening, we hope to see attendance numbers increase as it fits in the cooler part of the day, with a more relaxed atmosphere.”

“The public holiday also sees many families go away for the long weekend, so we hope by shifting the event to the Friday evening, more people will be able to attend before heading off on holidays.”

Along with live music from the Jade Holland Band, Twilight will feature a range of free family-friendly activities.

“Twilight is a celebration of what it is to be an Australian, and what better way than to kick back and enjoy a summer sunset with family and friends away from the heat of the day, with kid’s activities, amazing Hunter Valley food and wine and the trendy beats of the Jade Holland band to bring in the long weekend in style,” Cr Moore added.

“Face painting, jumping castles, a balloonist and craft stations will keep the kids entertained all night long, while Mum and Dad can relax with friends with a glass of wine, listening to live music and enjoying delicious food.

“Twilight will also see the return of the classic car showcase, and the army’s tug-of-war competition which is always an amazing spectacle.

“We really encourage everyone to stop by the Civic Green and celebrate with us.”