MORE COVERAGE: Australia Day in central Victoria
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
AUSTRALIA Day encouraged thousands of Bendigo people to get out and appreciate the country they live in.
City of Greater Bendigo mayor Peter Cox said numbers at Lake Weeroona were consistent with previous years.
Cr Cox said Australia Day was an opportunity to reflect on all that was great about the local community.
“We are so fortunate, we have excellent schools, health and sporting facilities, access to the arts and an economy that continues to go from strength to strength providing various job opportunities,” Cr Cox said.
"It's a great celebration.
"The spirit is alive and well."
Cr Cox said 2015 was a significant year for celebrations.
"It marks 100 years since Gallipoli and 100 years from the death of William Vahland, the architect.
"Mr Vahland was also chair of the Bendigo Land and Building society for 20 years.
"He worked very hard to get people to build their own home."
Cr Cox said it was a day people realised more than any other day that there was a strong sense of community.
"The day really builds spirit," he said.
The day really builds spirit
- Mayor Peter Cox
"It's good to acknowledge so many volunteers that are involved in a wide range of community events."
He said from one side of Bendigo to another people had volunteered their time to improve the town.
"So many volunteers who give so much," he said.
"I want to thank them all."
Cr Cox said the weekend welcomed many visitors to town.
"It supports local business, particularly cafes and hotels," he said.
Cr Cox said Eaglehawk had a record crowd at the gardens.
Rotary Club of Eaglehawk Australia Day Committee chairman Colin Anderson said the morning had been a success.
"The day is about getting together to have a good time anywhere you want to in Australia," he said.
"It's also an opportunity to acknowledge local heroes from the area.
"Through the ambassador program we will have speakers form the community present during the day."
Stalls from community groups and local stores were set up around the lake.
The Bendigo Woodturners group displayed their handmade wares and demonstrated wood turning and other crafts.
Group president John Phillips said the Australia Day event was an opportunity to show what they do.
"We have been here as long as it has been here," he said.
More than 80 people gathered at the Maiden Gully park to celebrate Australia Day in their own style.
Student of the year from Marong Primary School Bridget Hayes said she was very surprised to win her award.
Cooper Filbey said the best thing about Australia was all the sport he could watch.
"I like basketball and watching cricket, but not so much playing it," Cooper said.
"I like V8 Supercars too."
Steve Filbey said he planned to go fishing later today with his family at Cairn Curran.
"We love the river," he said.
“We are also welcoming of people from various beliefs and cultures and it is wonderful that they will also share Australia Day celebrations with us.
“I hope everyone will get into the spirit of our national day through the range of events on offer.”
In addition to the planned celebrations there was free entry to all outdoor swimming pools including Bendigo Aquatic Centre, Bendigo East, Brennan Park, Elmore, Golden Square, Goornong, Heathcote, Kangaroo Flat, Marong, Raywood and White Hills.