Leeton Shire Council invites residents and visitors to come together for a meaningful and inclusive program of events for Australia Day 2026, embracing the national theme Reflect. Respect. Celebrate.
Mayor Cr George Weston said Australia Day is an important opportunity for the community to connect, acknowledge the past and celebrate what unites us.
"Australia Day is a time to reflect on our shared history, respect the diverse cultures and experiences that shape our nation, and celebrate the values of community, inclusion and belonging," Cr Weston said. "Leeton's Australia Day program offers opportunities for people of all ages to come together in ways that are respectful, welcoming and genuinely reflective of our community."
Murrami:
- Celebrate Australia Day with Murrami's CWA at the Community Hall from 7.30am. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, cereal, tea, and coffee in a family-friendly alfresco setting.
Leeton:
- The day will begin with a free barbecue breakfast hosted by the Rotary Club of Leeton at Mountford Park from 7.30am, with music and entertainment provided by the Leeton Town Band.
- Official proceedings will commence at 9.15am and will include a citizenship ceremony welcoming seven new Australians to Leeton Shire.
- Following the official proceedings, attendees are invited to enjoy a bush tucker lunch featuring a modern take on delicacies such as emu spring rolls, marinated kangaroo, witchetty grub pizza, lemon myrtle cheesecake and wattle seed ice cream courtesy of Michael Lyons of Sandhills Artifacts.
- A new addition to the 2026 program will see the historic Roxy Community Theatre host free screenings of iconic Australian films Bran Nue Dae and Backyard Ashes, commencing at 12pm, offering a family-friendly way to celebrate Australian storytelling and culture.
- Celebrations will continue at the Leeton Regional Aquatic Centre from 3.00pm to 7.30pm, with free entry and activities including inflatable races, pool games and classic Aussie favourites such as lamington and pie-eating competitions. The Lions Club train will also be running, with the Pool providing a safe and welcoming space for all ages.
Whitton:
- The Whitton Pool will also have free entry on the day.
The Australia Day program will be complemented by the Yarning Breakfast, to be held at Gossamer Park from 7.30am to 11.00am on Sunday 25 January 2026. Facilitated by Western Riverina Arts, the intergenerational event invites young people to interview parents, grandparents and community members to capture local memories and oral histories. All are welcome to attend and contribute to preserving Leeton Shire's stories. The event is proudly assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
Cr Weston said Council was pleased to welcome Michael Tomalaris as Leeton's 2026 Australia Day Ambassador.
"Michael's career and community advocacy reflect the values we celebrate on Australia Day," he said.
Mr Tomalaris is one of Australia's most respected sports broadcasters and a leading voice in cycling for more than three decades, best known for his long-running SBS Tour de France coverage, including Cadel Evans' iconic 2011 victory. A passionate advocate for cancer research and mental health initiatives, he was awarded France's National Order of Merit in 2022 for his contribution to cycling and cultural exchange.
