BREAKFAST barbecues drew huge crowds around Bendigo this morning, as people celebrated Australia Day with their local communities.

Sausages in bread and a chance to appreciate local community achievers was enough to entice hundreds out of bed as early as 8am.

Grab tomorrow's Bendigo Advertiser for full coverage of Australia Day celebrations around Bendigo

At Eaglehawk, special guest ambassador Father Bob Maguire struck a chord with the locals.

“I’ve heard this is the City of Greater Bendigo, but I think it’s closer to the greater part of Bendigo, isn’t that right?” the well-known priest asked the crowd.

Gallery: Australia Day in Bendigo 2012

Father Bob said the message of Australia Day was always changing, but was about moving with the times and accepting new people and new ideas.

“We’re creating a new Australia Day each year, it’s a work in progress,” he said.

Around Bendigo there were 11 community barbecues, mostly run by Lions Clubs.

Local citizen of the year awards were given out to residents who had done something notable for their community.

At Kangaroo Flat the Emu Creek Bush Band played their Aussie bush mix.

There were also rides for kids, with a Ferris wheel and jumping castle set up in Dower Park.

Were you at one of the barbecues this morning? Send us your pictures to cos@bendigoadvertiser.com.au.