Taree's RiverStage with the Manning River as its backdrop made for perfect setting to celebrate what it is to be Australian, a fact acknowledged by proud Biripi man, Russell Saunders OAM as he gave the Welcome to Country at the 2021 Australia Day celebrations.
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The project was the brainchild of local Rotary and Lions clubs. "I take my hat off to them for their vision," Uncle Russ said. "It's a wonderful stage." It was the second only official function held at the river stage, the first being the official opening.
Earlier, master of ceremonies Bruce Moy acknowledged the importance and uniqueness of the Manning River and paid tribute to those involved in establishing the river stage, which features artwork by Uncle Russ and Josh Wood.
An estimated more than 250 people gathered on the riverbank for a morning of celebration and an afternoon of entertainment.
A highlight was the announcement of the Taree Australia Day community awards and honours on the day went to:
- Community group of the year: Taree RSL Sub-branch
- Junior citizen of the year: Wingham High School captain Billy Callaghan
- Ken McDonald sportstar of the year: Cyclist Alex Cross (see story back page)
- Community achievers of the year: Lennora Chatfield and Leonard King
- Citizen of the year: Tanya Brown
Guest speakers reflected on the 2021 theme, Respect, Reflect, Celebrate. Myall Lakes MP Stephen Bromhead spoke about the community's resilience in facing drought, fires and then a pandemic. He said more than 40 people in the area had contracted COVID-19, including two cases in nursing homes, but there were no deaths and no health care workers affected.
Taree High students Amber Kelleher and Sasha Fordham broke down the 2021 theme, starting with "respect" and beginning their research as millennials do, using Google. They went on to explain how broad the definition of respect was and how it was imbedded in their school life. They concluded that we all had one Australia, and one life to live, "so lets' make it a bloody good one."
"We are all part of the Australian story," ambassador Kasey Brown told the audience. She went on the share her story, which started in Taree where she was able to find her passion for sport. As a professional squash player Kasey has toured the world.
When she retired, she returned home. "I could not think of a better place to move back to," she said.
She spoke about the unsung heroes in our community, those who volunteer "a huge amount of their time with no recognition." A teacher at Old Bar Public School, Kasey has volunteered as a lifesaver the Taree-Old Bar SLSC.
On the theme of respect, Kasey said her teaching role has led her to find out more about the culture and history of the Biripi people. "We should all recognise the harsh truths of Australian history and celebrate our future together."
On a personal note, Kasey said one of the biggest lessons she has learnt since moving back to Australia is to appreciate the little things. "I now take 10 minutes every morning to dive into the ocean and look at the sun rising over the water. I couldn't think of a better place to be or a better way to start my day."
Australia Day celebrations, organised by the Combined Service Clubs at Taree, kicked off with a barbecue breakfast on the riverbank. Following the presentation of awards and morning tea a concert featured the Chatham High indigenous dancers and music by Jim Bird, Matt Zarb, Wingsong Choir, the Silver Strummers and The Trapps.
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