Cr Sandner donned his mayoral robes and welcomed some of Australia’s newest citizens to what he described as “our lucky country.”

“Today you are out here celebrating our nation’s special day,” he said.

“In Greater Bendigo we choose to make it an outdoor fun family occasion.

“We do this because we love the outdoors and it’s a vital part of our national culture.

“These celebrations are important because they give us an opportunity to reflect on our past present and future and celebrate all that is great about this lovely country of ours.”

Cr Sandner said Australia had come a long way in a short time.

“Today it is the 224th Australia Day,” he said.

“We celebrate what it is to be an Australian and how our country has been the land of opportunity for millions of migrants including the first wave of early settlers.

“The day has become an event to celebrate how people from all parts of the world have come to create a tolerant, safe and prosperous democracy and this is one of the absolute unique features of this lovely country of ours.

“We take it for granted but this is a rare and precious achievement, particularly when you look across the globe at the unrest in some other countries.

“We can only prevent such unrest by respecting people of all cultures and religions and by treating all visitors and settlers as we wish to be treated ourselves.

“We live in a country where we are free to express our political views and feelings on key issues.”

Cr Sandner said Australians had the capacity, resilience and spirit to rise to meet any future challenges.

“Australia Day is a day to reflect on the things we have done through our individual and collective endeavours and to make this country what it is today so we can feel justly proud of our achievements.”

Cr Sandner said Australians had many things to celebrate, including the beauty of the natural environment and the abundance of community and recreational facilities.

“Let us celebrate this Australia Day in recognition of all those things that enrich our daily lives and give thanks to the fact that we live in this magnificent country,” he said.

“It’s up to all of us to hold on to our traditions that we’ve made in such a short time of being here in this country and look how we can use these to build great qualities to build a better future for us all.”