On Australia Day, more than 500 community events and activities will be held across the country with the support of the National Australia Day Council (NADC).
In the Clarence Valley, Grafton Midday Rotary are hosting an event in Grafton’s Market Square entitled ‘We’re all part of the Story’, and local residents are being invited to participate to reflect, respect and celebrate together.

Grafton Midday Rotary has collaborated with Grafton Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council and local Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yagel First Nations people to share their history, stories and culture on the day.
President of Grafton Midday Rotary Robert Blanchard is encouraging the Clarence Valley community to come along and share the afternoon with family and friends, listen to each other’s stories, and experience Australia’s traditional First Nations culture.
“The free event will run in Market Square on January 26 from 1pm and the whole community is welcome to enjoy an afternoon of cultural arts, crafts, games and music,” he said.

“The event will also include a complimentary lunch of Australian favourites and samples of traditional bush tucker.

“The stage will be alive with entertainment from local Aboriginal bands, Lennox Monaghan, Maanyung & Mundaway and the Ryan Martin Trio.

“It’s an event not to be missed.”
NADC Chief Executive Karlie Brand said on Australia Day we reflect on the past, present and future, listen and respect each other’s stories, contributions and aspirations, and celebrate being Australian together, fair and free.
“This year, the NADC received a record number of grant applications from local government authorities and community organisations to support local Australia Day events and activities, including Grafton Midday Rotary,” she said.
“We live on ancient country, our history began more than 65000 years ago, and on Australia Day, we reflect on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture and how European settlement forever changed how they lived their lives.
“We also celebrate the waves of migration that helped forge Australia’s place as one of the world’s great multicultural successes.
“On Australia Day, we celebrate thousands of generations of enduring culture, learn more about the country we live on and listen to new perspectives on our history, and we celebrate being part of a proud, ancient, multicultural nation that values the contribution of each and every citizen.”