By Brendan Rees
Aussie spirit was in full swing in Tooradin on Saturday for the annual Australia Day celebrations.
Hundreds turned out for the event held at Sawtell’s Inlet where the Lions Club of Balla Balla proudly presented a free family barbeque for the first 500 people, along with live music, prizes, entertainment, family movie and more.
Fun for the kids included a jumping castle, animal petting zoo, and face painting.
Families also enjoyed an open air cinema screening of the movie The Incredibles 2 with an orange sunset as a stunning backdrop.
A flag lowering service was performed by the Australian Air League Cranbourne.
Special guests included Federal Member for Holt Anthony Byrne, and Casey Councillors Rex Flannery, Geoff Ablett, and Mayor Amanda Stapledon.
Former Mayor of the City of Casey and Tooradin resident Colin Butler was the MC for the event while Australia Day Ambassador George Donikian also addressed the crowd.
President of the Balla Balla Lions Club Mladen Krsman presented a pin and scroll to Mr Donikian in recognition of his ambassadorship.
City of Casey Amanda Stapledon said the day was a time for reflection, celebration and harmony between the diverse communities of the region.
“It’s one of the most joyous days of the year,” she said.
“It was the most idyllic setting, they did a fabulous job; a beautiful day.”
