BATHURST has kicked off its Australia Day celebrations the only way it knows how, with a barbecue breakfast out at Eglinton.
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The annual tradition got under way at 8am with a ceremony that included a flag raising, singing of the national anthem and a few words from the special guests.
"Australia Day is a time to reflect on what we love about our community and our nation," mayor Bobby Bourke said.
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He said there was a good crowd for the event and used his address to acknowledge all the volunteers who made the event possible, as well as the hard-working NSW Rural Fire Service personnel.
The crowd also got to hear from Bathurst's Australia Day ambassadors Lana and Roger Borg, who support the homeless and disadvantaged through their meal-providing initiative, Mama Lana's Community Foundation.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said their story was a reminder about what 'community' means, as were the efforts of RFS volunteers who have been battling fires across the state.
"We have a strong community spirit across this country and it's what makes me say I'm proud to be Australian," he said.
In addition to a barbecue breakfast, the event at Eglinton offered a car display and novelty activities.