General News
30 January, 2026
Mayor’s Australia Day message
HINDMARSH Shire Council mayor Ron Ismay spoke to the crowd at Dimboola on behalf of the council and welcomed the turnout despite the hot weather.
Giving apologies for Aunty Nancy Harrison being absent for Welcome to Country, Cr Ismay acknowledged “for some, it is a day to celebrate, while for others, it is a day of deep reflection” but sought “to be reminded of the common bond we share, to be connected by the desire for unity and the promise and safety, stability and prosperity”.
“Australia Day is a day to reflect, respect and celebrate being part of our nation's story and diverse community,” he said.
“What Australia Day means to each of us depends on who we are, where we came from, and how we became to be Australian.
"As Australians, there is an abundance of things to be proud of, our democracy, our values, the strength, diversity and generosity of our people and our beautiful natural environment.”
With a reflection on the nation’s history, he asked the crowd to read along with him, the Australian Citizen Affirmation: As an Australian citizen, I affirm my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect and whose laws I uphold and obey.