Singleton residents are being encouraged to get into the spirit of Singleton online this Australia Day to share what it means to be an Australian as part of Council's virtual celebrations.
While ongoing COVID-19 restrictions have prevented the Singleton Australia Day Committee from hosting traditional family-friendly events, Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore said the global pandemic doesn't change that Australia Day is a great occasion for us to learn more about each other, reflect on what we love about Australia and celebrate what makes this the best country in the world.
"2020 was a challenging year for everyone, and one that reinforced, yet again, the power of human spirit in overcoming even in the most devastating of circumstances - it's this spirit of community and resilience that has shaped our nation, and there are countless examples of this in Singleton," she said.
"Australia Day is a great occasion for us all to reflect about what we love about home and celebrate what makes Australia the best country to live, work and visit.
"While COVID-19 restrictions mean we can't come together for our usual Australia Day celebrations like Twilight, that doesn't mean we can't still share what being Australian means in Singleton. That's why we are encouraging all residents to get involved online by posting their favourite Aussie tradition, pastime, recipe and photos at home to Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #SpiritofSingleton.
"Whether you're enjoying a barbeque in Rose Point Park, playing backyard cricket at home, or taking a dip at the Gym and Swim, post your pic with the hashtag #SpiritofSingleton for your chance to win - there are 25 $50 Spend in Singleton gift cards to be won just by posting your photo."
A formal Australia Day ceremony will be held on January 26, 2021 to announce the Singleton Citizen and Young Achiever of the Year, which will be livestreamed to the community because of current COVID-19 requirements that limit the number of attendees. Cr Moore said it was more important than ever to recognise our community's unsung heroes.
"Australia Day is the day we celebrate our outstanding citizens and welcome our new Australian citizens. We are making sure that still happens and involves as many people as possible through a livestream at 9.30am," she said.
"Hear from our Australia Day guest, Charles Croucher, welcome our newest Australian citizens, and watch the announcement of the Singleton Citizen of the Year.
"I am looking forward to seeing as many people as possible get involved online using the #SpiritofSingleton hashtag to celebrate what it means for all of us to be Australian, and to commemorate Singleton's contribution to the nation."
Singleton's Citizen of the Year nomination profiles will be posted to Singleton Council's Facebook page from Monday 11 January 2021. Follow @SingletonCouncil for more information.
