Published on Wednesday, 8 February 2023 at 3:16:38 PM
A bustling crowd of about 230 residents and visitors gathered to attend Australia Day in Boddington. This year the Shire of Boddington once again partnered with Boddington Lion’s Club and Contract Aquatic Services to present a full day program of activities between the Boddington Rodeo Grounds and Boddington Swimming Pool. Many communities throughout Australia, including the Shire of Boddington, were successful in obtaining funding from the National Australia Day Council to increase activities that enable opportunities for the community to reflect, respect and celebrate.
The day commenced with the traditional community breakfast at the Rodeo Grounds catered by the Boddington Lions Club and the CWA Quindanning/Boddington. It provided a fantastic opportunity for local people to catch up as they return from being away during the summer holidays.
The ambience was enhanced by some beautiful flowers provided by Robyn Anderson, and background entertainment provided by Bill Higginson’s band. The event also reinforced local commitment to sustainability and minimising single-use waste with Boddington RRR donating reusable crockery and cutlery, as well as the All Washed Up group volunteers cleaning the items for the fifth consecutive year.
The formal proceedings included Charmaine Williams facilitating a Welcome to Country, as well as Eugene Smalberger, Deputy Shire President, providing an Acknowledgement to Country and presenting the Community Awards with assistance of Cr. Lee Lewis, Cr. Ian Webster and Cr. Andrew Ryley. Congratulations to:
· Citizen of the Year – Dennis Veitch
· Senior Citizen of the Year – Trudy Bryant
· Youth Citizen of the Year – Abby Metcalf
· Community Group of the Year – Boddington Hospital Auxiliary
As the weather warmed, Boddington Hospital Auxiliary operated the shuttle bus connecting the Rodeo Grounds with the Swimming Pool and the Family Fun Day was soon underway. Throughout the course of the day a variety of pool inflatables were set up along with two inflatable water slides to keep everyone cool. Hungry appetites were satisfied with a variety of takeaway food available. Background music was also performed live by 2 Broke Boys. The event also featured the Shire’s Chill Out Zone for the first time, an inclusive initiative to cater for those seeking downtime from the main event.
The event was well-received locally, as well as by visitors with some families from Perth enjoying a final, last minute overnight stay at Boddington Caravan Park to conclude the school holidays.
Thank you to everyone who attended!
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