Lawrence community organisations, the Lawrence Over Fifties Club, Lawrence Historical Society and Lawrence Golf and Sports Club are working together this year to celebrate Australia Day. Celebrations commence with the flag raising and official ceremony in Lawrence Park at 9am. Guest speaker will be Mr Mike Gillespie, author of the book, “Lawrence. The History of a Clarence River Settlement.” Mr Gillespie compiled this book during his time as principal of Lawrence Public School and the first print was released in the year of the Bicentenary of Australia and the 120th anniversary of public education in Lawrence. Morning tea will be provided, following the ceremony, and participants can enjoy Australian country style refreshments. Celebrations will continue at the Lawrence Golf and Sports Club, with an excellent BBQ lunch for a gold coin donation. There will be plenty of entertainment and a competition for the ‘Best Dressed Aussie’. ‘The First Fleeters’, will have a stand at the Golf Club. These are descendants of the First Fleeter’s and people will be able to check their ancestry with them and possibly discover convict heritage. The Lawrence Museum will be open to visitors during the day, with free admission. Roz Jones