From Morawa and Perenjori to Carnarvon and Kalbarri: How the Mid West-Gascoyne celebrated Australia Day 2023

Whether it was honouring local heroes, having a dip in the pool or the ocean, being entertained by some lively acts or watching the night sky explode in colour, Mid West towns celebrated Australia Day last week. While debate about changing the date of Australia Day rages on across the country, sparking protests in capital cities, it’s apparent many people, especially in the country, are still in the mood to celebrate the national day, turning out in droves at community events. Family-friendly events, market stalls and activities — including a firefighters’ slippery slide — were organised at Kalbarri’s foreshore last Thursday, culminating in an evening concert and stunning fireworks display, which lit up the night sky and wowed onlookers. Organiser Loni Visser, who has been running Kalbarri’s Australia Day event since 2018, believed the town needed the event to continue. “Trying to run the show to the same level that Sport and Recreation did was hard but I gathered a crew and we did it,” she said. “Thanks to the help of the Kalbarri Development Association, we have been able to get grants from the National Australia Day Council, so there’s no more burden on the businesses to donate.” Many Mid West councils recognised their local volunteers and residents who have given back to the community. Morawa’s community citizen of the year winner was wildflower expert Leonie Aspin, who said she was “touched” and “humbled” to receive the honour, especially after such a difficult year. “It has been a year of much adversity since the death of my dearly loved partner, Ray. But with our love of the bush, it gave me the protection and strength to carry on with another wildflower season,” she said.