Australia Day Celebrations

January 26th marks Australia Day and each state has its celebrations. People go to the beach, to shows, have picnics or barbeques, and in some places around the state, and the country, there were ceremonies for citizenship or awards for recognition of community service.

I was honoured to be nominated for the Australian of the Year Awards for 2008 and when I received my letter of congratulations and certificate, I was extremely surprised. I had to keep re-reading the letter to really believe it had happened. For many years now I’ve been assisting others, mainly women who are mothers, to set up business at home so they can be there for family and it is my community work in this area that was being recognised.

I didn’t attend any of the events in Melbourne and chose to spend a quiet time at home. But if I’d been one of the finalists I would have been out amongst others celebrating. I was pleased that Lee Kernaghan won. I am a country music fan and I would much rather know that someone who I can relate to, has won the award. But I am also aware that he’s raised heaps of funds to help and support farming communities suffering in drought-afflicted areas. He has a passion in that area, just as I have a passion helping in an area close to my own heart.

Australian of the Year, Australia Day Award, Lee Kernaghan