Australia Day saw the skies above the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) light up with Australian community spirit, with almost 120,000 revellers gathering to watch a spectacular fireworks and drone show presented by Hancock Prospecting.
City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said 26 January was a time for us all to come together to reflect, respect and celebrate and the diverse range events offered on the day set the tone perfectly.
“With around 60,000 people filling Langley Park and Supreme Court Gardens they were both buzzing with summer fun, there was homegrown music to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture at the Birak Concert, and entertainment and rides for the whole family on Langley Park,” Mr Zempilas said.
“A massive thanks also goes to Cardile for the fantastic firework displays and Drone Sky Shows for the drone show – what a breathtaking combination timed to a classic Aussie soundtrack!”
The best views were found along Langley Park but event goers also watched the light show displays from vantage points all around the Derbarl Yerrigan including Kings Park, South Perth and apartments along Terrace Road and Elizabeth Quay.
“Thank you to those huge crowds for being so well behaved and respectful, making it the perfect family-friendly event. And, of course, thank you to Hancock Prospecting for partnering with the City of Perth to make the day such a success,” The Lord Mayor said.
The event was also assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Day Council.
Earlier in the day, the City welcomed 50 new Australian citizens hailing from countries across the world at the Australia Day Citizenship and Awards Ceremony.
“It was wonderful to see such a diverse range of people becoming new Aussie citizens here in the iconic Perth Town Hall. We’re grateful and proud that so many people have chosen to make the City of Light their home,” Mr Zempilas said.
The Ceremony also saws the City honour local heroes through the Community Citizen of the Year Awards, recognising those who have positively and selflessly contributed to the Perth community this year:
- Citizen of the Year – Jane Armstrong
- Youth Citizen of the Year – Kate Kirwin
- Senior Community Citizen of the Year – Paul Ennis
- Active Citizenship (group or event) – Sensorium Theatre
For all details on the award winners, see media release (put in after ceremony)
