A large crowd gathered not only to enjoy the delicious Aussie barbecue breakfast and morning tea but to also acknowledge our local citizens for their wonderful service to the community.

Following breakfast Michael Brady, general manager of Bogan Shire welcomed everyone to our Australia Day celebrations.

The crowd proudly stood and accompanied our Ambassador, Andy Paschalidis with the beautiful rendition of Advance Australia Fair.

Rev Rick of the Anglican Church then led us in a prayer for a peaceful, united Australia.

Mayor Ray Donald presented his address before introducing the Australia Day Ambassador Andy Paschalidis.

Andy, a media personality and former soccer player represented Australia in indoor soccer.

Andy, ‘Mr Football’ to many fans has played soccer since the age of nine and has played grade cricket for Earlwood for 23 years.

Then it was onto the Australia Day Awards.

The nominees and their achievements throughout the year were outstanding. Bogan Shire residents can be really proud of the many exceptional individuals in our shire.

The 2010 winners were:

Citizen of the Year Nominees were - Col Wright, Di Hughes, Noni Dutton, Dione Carter, Melanie Cameron, Peter Lupton, Margaret Dunn and Jacqui Chapman, with Col Wright being named Citizen of the Year.

Young Citizen of the Year Nominees were - Elizabeth Hoy, Courtney Lane, Cassie Healey and Declan Hoare, congratulations to joint winners Courtney Lane and Cassie Healey.

Junior Sportsperson of the Year Nominees were - Nelson Salter, Jessica Bonello, Oliver Hoare and Daniel Pumpa, Nelson Salter was the winner of this section.

Community Event of the Year - Duck Creek Picnic Races.

Announcing of the colouring competition winners followed and some very delighted children came forward to collect their prizes.

Best decorated Aussie hat competition.

Judging was difficult as the entries were really well done but the winners were duly announced and the prizes were presented by our Ambassador Andy Paschalidis.