Southern Grampians Shire - Civic Events

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Southern Grampians Shire Council host and participate in many annual events which are recognised both nationally and internationally.

If you wish to find more information on what is happening around you and, in your area, continue reading below. 

 

 

Australia Day

Australia Day offers us an opportunity to reflect on the rich and diverse journey of our nation’s history and the stories that shape our lives. It is a day to acknowledge the contributions of all Australians and to celebrate the unique perspectives that each of us brings to our community.

As we come together to celebrate, we also take the opportunity to respect and understand the perspectives of all Australians, particularly First Nations peoples, whose histories and cultures are foundational to our identity. Together, we can foster an environment where every voice is valued and heard.

Year after year, our prestigious awards honour the very best in our community and shine a well-deserved spotlight on their achievements. These awards are open to individuals and groups who best exemplify core values within our community.   

Australia Day - 2026 Community Awards

Citizen of the Year - Ian Murray 
A community leader with a huge heart. From decades of volunteering to bringing people together during drought, Ian’s steady, selfless service has helped the Glenthompson community thrive.

 

Young Citizen of the Year (aged 25 and under) - Seamus Byron
An outstanding young leader making a big impact. As Regimental Sergeant Major of the Monivae Army Cadets, Seamus leads with maturity and purpose and gives back at every opportunity.


Community Event of the Year - The 2025 Medicine Ball
This is community at its best. This extraordinary event brought together volunteers, sponsors and supporters to raise $160,000 for a new mammogram machine, showing what’s possible when a community unites.

Community Recognition Award Winners - Caroline Kissel, Clem Egan, Wayne Nagorcka, Judy Doyle, Renae Porter, Neil Sandford, Gordon Cordy, Richard Benson, Australian Breastfeeding Association and Jacqui Tribe. 

For further information, contact us at ausday@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au or phone 5573 0444.

 

 

 

ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day has been one of the most important dates on Australia’s calendar since 1916. At first, it gave people a chance to honour the original ANZACs – the Australians and New Zealanders who fought at Gallipoli. It then became a day for those who had served in the First World War. With Australians experiencing the Second World War, wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations that have followed, ANZAC Day has become an occasion to honour all who have worn our country’s uniform in service.

 

For information on your local ANZAC Day service, contact your local RSL sub-branch or see below service locations.

 

Friday April 25, 2025

  • Hamilton
6:30am- Dawn Service at Melville Oval Cenotaph
10:00am- March commencing at Gray Street pedestrian crossing (Infront of NAB)
11:00am- Commemorative Service at Melville Oval Cenotaph
  • Balmoral
10:15am- March from Balmoral Post office
10:30am- Commemorative Service at Balmoral Memorial
  • Cavendish
8:55am- March from Police Station to Cenotaph
9:00am- Commemorative Service at Cenotaph
  • Coleraine
6:30am- Dawn Service, Coleraine Cenotaph
10:30am- March from Sub-Branch to Cenotaph
  • Penshurst
6:00am - Dawn Service at Penshurst Cenotaph
  • Dunkeld
6:30am- Dawn Service at Dunkeld Cenotaph
  • Glenthompson
10:15am- March from Hall to Cenotaph
10:30am- Commemorative Service Glenthompson Cenotaph

 

National Reconciliation Week

Each year National Reconciliation Week celebrates and builds on the respectful relationships shared by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.

Reconciliation Week is a time for Australians to learn about the history and culture of our First Nations people and to work towards achieving true reconciliation. We encourage everyone to learn about, celebrate, and immerse themselves in the richness and resilience of First Nations cultures. Together, we can pave the way towards a more unified and respectful Australia.

 

 

National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week (NVW) is an annual celebration to acknowledge the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers.

As we mark this year's National Volunteer Week, the Southern Grampians Shire Council would like to extend its gratitude to the dedicated and talented volunteers who enrich our community.

This annual celebration is an opportunity to recognise the countless individuals who generously donate their time, skills, and passion to make our region thrive.

Many volunteers support Council initiatives directly, such as the TAC L2P program, Friends of the Botanical Gardens, Friends of the Gallery, and our Tourist and Information Centres. Their involvement is vital to the success of these programs, and without their dedication, the wide array of activities available in our region would simply not be possible.

 

 

 

International Day of People with Disability

Celebrated on 3 December International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), is recognised throughout the world. This important day is aimed to increase awareness and foster an understanding of the experiences and contributions of people with disabilities. It’s a time to celebrate their achievements and contributions within our communities. Let’s come together to recognise the invaluable roles that individuals with disabilities play in our community and work towards a more accessible and inclusive future for all. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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