On Australia Day last Sunday, the Orbost community gathered at Forest Park to celebrate the values that define our nation: a fair go, democracy, freedom, and our people.
The event, hosted by the Orbost Rotary Club, featured a variety of festivities that brought together residents and visitors in a spirit of camaraderie and national pride.
The morning began with a free breakfast provided by the Rotarians, ensuring no attendee started the day hungry.
Egg and bacon rolls, cereals, fruit salad, tea, coffee, Milo, and juice were on offer, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Families then took part in traditional Australian games.
The formal proceedings commenced with the raising of the Australian and Aboriginal flags by the Orbost Girl Guides, assisted by Orbost RSL flag marshal Peter Morrison.
Members of the Orbost Community College Choir performed stirring renditions of the National Anthem and I Am Australian.
East Gippsland Shire councillor Ian Trevaskis addressed the crowd, quoting a previous Snowy River Mail article:
“On Australia Day, we celebrate all the things we love about Australia; a sense of a fair go, lifestyle, democracy, the freedoms we enjoy but particularly our people. Australia Day is about acknowledging and celebrating the contribution that every Australian makes to our contemporary and dynamic nation. From our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to those who have lived here for generations, to those who have come from all corners of the globe to call our country home.”
Trevaskis highlighted the diverse nationalities that make up the local community and enrich Australian society.
A special moment of the ceremony was the recognition of four local centenarians: Bob Trewin, Ella White, Marjorie West, and Margaret Kleinitz, who all celebrated their 100th birthdays in 2024.
Each was presented with a certificate and gifts to mark the milestone.
The Community Event of the Year award went to the Orbost Community Christmas Carols, which was praised for revitalising the event and strengthening its place in the local festive season.
The other nominee was the Orbost Annual Poker Run.
Nominees for Young Citizen of the Year included Austin Millgate, Giaan Woerz, and Alana Farley, with Alana taking home the award.
Alana recently became a volunteer with the Orbost CFA and has a long history of dedication to the Orbost Hockey Club.
She has contributed through canteen duties, field maintenance, selling raffle tickets and providing transport for fellow players.
Additionally, she has served as a coach and umpire, representing East Gippsland beyond the local community.
This year’s Citizen of the Year award went to ‘Dick’ Johnstone, a well-respected figure in Orbost.
Best known as the Brigade Captain of the Orbost CFA, Dick has dedicated 16 years to the role.
He is also a skilled auctioneer, lending his talents to fundraising events such as the Orbost Poker Run and Jarrah’s Journey.
A recipient of the CFA National Medal, he has played an integral role in the Victorian Youth Development Program, mentoring young individuals, and shaping future leaders.
For more than 20 years, he has also been involved in the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
Dick is known for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his community.
His contributions embody the true spirit of Australia Day, making him a well-deserving recipient of the prestigious award.
The celebrations concluded with Orbost local, Bev Weir, reciting a poem and the cutting of the iconic Australia Day ’26ers’ lamington cake, generously donated by the Orbost Bakery by Rotarian, Judy van der Vlugt.
