Geelong Council Shocks Residents with Australia Day Celebration Reinstatement
The City of Greater Geelong has voted to bring back Australia Day celebrations on January 26, reversing its earlier decision amid community feedback.
Geelong, Australia Day, Victoria, Council, Community
Geelong: So, guess what? The City of Greater Geelong just decided to bring back Australia Day celebrations on January 26. They had previously thought about canceling it, but after hearing from the community, they changed their minds.
At a meeting on Tuesday, the council voted to reconsider their earlier decision. They want to prepare a report for the next meeting in January to discuss the details.
Last year, they had a different plan after talking with First Nations Peoples and the community. But it turns out many folks in Geelong weren’t happy with that decision.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj is all for celebrating Australia Day. He mentioned that it’s a national day set by the federal government, and local councils shouldn’t decide on the date.
He believes Australia Day is a time to reflect on what’s great about the country. However, he also said they wouldn’t jump the gun on any decisions until the report is ready.
Interestingly, other councils in Victoria have made similar moves. For instance, the City of Greater Bendigo shifted its citizenship ceremony to January 25.
Even the Strathbogie Shire Council changed its mind about celebrating on January 26 after initially voting against it. Community groups, like the Eurora Australia Day Committee, have been vocal about wanting to keep the national day alive.