2011 Australia Day National Conference,

Waikerie Australia Day Spectacular

ByDavid Gwynne –

Chairperson

Waikerie

• Known as the ‘Citrus Capital’ of Australia

• Situated 170km north-east of Adelaide

• Located in the heart of the Riverland on the Murray River

• A population of around 5000 people

Council Information

• Amalgamated with Loxton in 1997 to form the District Council of Loxton Waikerie

• The council has an area of 7,957 square kilometres

• Combined population of approximately 12,000 people

• The majority of our industries are: Citrus, Grapes and Cereal Crops

Waikerie’s first Australia Day Spectacular was held back in 1996. It has now become a tradition where people from all walks of

life come together to celebrate the Australian

way of living. With an array of food and wine, as

well as the best entertainment on offer.

The event incorporates the following activities –

• Combined Church Service

• Loxton/Waikerie Council Community Awards

• Ambassadors Program – special guest

• Carnival atmosphere with food and refreshment stalls

• Wine tasting marquee

• Children's fun park

• Spectacular fire works display

• South Australia’s most popular party bands

Australia Day Spectacular

• Centrally located on the town oval

• Is held either Australia Day eve or the night of Australia Day itself.

• This event has now been running for 16 years.

• Crowd size approx. 2500 people

This event is successful because –

• From the onset, admission has always been (and still is) a gold coin donation

• Caters for people of all ages

• Brings communities together no matter what their religion or nationality

• A dedicated group of volunteers who work tirelessly to make this spectacular event the huge success that it has become

Tips –

• Have a hard working and dedicated organising committee

• Advertising and promotions in all media outlets

•Business houses, service and sporting clubs to fully support event

• Total support from local council, either in kind or monetary