celebrate Australia Day.

Snags were sizzling on the barbecue, the song 'Down Under 'blaring as people young and old joined in the festivities around Bendigo.

Events were held throughout the City of Greater Bendigo, with most young families commemorating  the day at Lake Weeroona.

Thirty-six people became Australian citizens, while Bendigo Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year Linda Beilharz and Amethyst Downing greeted the crowd.

Bendigo mayor Lisa Ruffell said Australia Day was about recognising the achievements of people in the community and celebrating what it means to be an Australian.