Banana Shire’s annual Australia Day celebrations will take place at Jambin Recreation Grounds on January 26th, 2023. The day will start with a poets’ breakfast at 7am followed by an Official Awards Ceremony and Citizenship ceremony at 9am.

Entertainment will include an array of activities including a giant mud pit, jumping castles, face painting, a petting zoo and a kids break-out zone.  Live music and a licensed bar will provide entertainment for adults, while rooster chases, wheelbarrow races, thong throwing, and a tug of war will allow some friendly competition.

The highlight of the day will be a mudpit scavenger hunt, where particpants can search for hidden prizes in the mud. This will be the first time this activity has been included in Australia Day festivities and is sure to be a hit with all ages.

Mayor Nev Ferrier is excited about this year’s festivities: “The organisers of this year’s Australia Day event at Jambin have really put their heart and souls into making it fun for everyone,” he said. “I encourage the community and visitors to the Shire to attend a true country Queensland event, with something for everyone,” he added.

The day will also include a classic car display and static engine display as well as food trucks and a fresh fruit stall.  January 26th will mark the official opening of the new Jambin Post office, making it a very special event for the local community.

Banana Shire Council received 20 nominations across six categories for the 2023 Banana Shire Australia Day Awards.

The categories include:

• Citizen of the Year
• Community Event of the Year
• Community Group or Team
• Junior Sportsperson
• Volunteer of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year

Award recipients will be announced at the event in Jambin on 26th January 2023.