Murch comes together for Australia Day

Kids ran around waving flags and proudly wearing Murchison badges, while many in the crowd embraced the occasion with Australia Day-themed outfits.

The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with a strong sense of community on display.

Murchison Australia Day Committee president Tino Catania took to the main stage at around 9am for the official opening, leading the service with grace while speaking about what makes Murchison such a great community to live in.

“It’s great to see a day like this all come together, which wouldn’t be possible without the many volunteers and sponsors,” Mr Catania said.

“It’s been a lovely morning and day, and I hope everyone has enjoyed it.”

The Rights of Affirmation were read by Elliott Hall, and guest speakers included Murchison Primary School’s 2025 school captain, Macy Harrap, who shared what being Australian meant to her, and Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell.

Mr Birrell praised Macy’s words, saying he too was proud to be a regional Australian, while reflecting on change and expressing his admiration for the land and the people who made regional towns like Murchison such a great place to call home.

However, one speech in particular stood out to many and left some in the crowd reaching for a tissue — the address was delivered by state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland.

Powerful, raw and deeply moving, Mrs Cleeland spoke of the hardship faced by the Longwood township and surrounding communities across the Strathbogie region, through the recent bushfires.

While acknowledging a region forever changed, her underlying message was one of hope — that it is through hardship that the best of the Australian spirit is revealed, with resilience and generosity shown far and wide.

She reflected on the toughness of both the land and its people, noting Australia Day was a time to pause and reflect on what truly mattered.

City of Greater Shepparton councillor Paul Wickham, Mrs Cleeland and Mr Birrell all helped present awards during the formalities.

Murchison Primary School students were recognised, spectacular Christmas light displays over the festive period were acknowledged, photo competition winners were announced and the Love Murchison event was named Community Event of the Year.

“It’s great to be able to bring an event like Love Murchison to the town and have all the community groups come together,” Neighbourhood House Murchison manager Jessie Boer said.

“Hopefully we will see it all come together again this year and then become an annual event for the town.”

Esther Ewart received the Junior Sports Award, while Margaret McMaster was left speechless for a few moments after being named Citizen of the Year.

“When you come to a town like Murchison you just have to get involved,” Mrs McMaster said.

“It’s been a great pleasure and a great town. I feel very humbled.”

Finishing off the formalities, and before the pool stayed open for a day of splashing and celebrations, the popular duck race saw kids racing to the pool to push the winning ducks to the finish line.

And, the 25-year time capsule was opened in front of the full crowd.

There were 62 items inside the capsule, including old newspapers and many tightly sealed letters addressed to individuals, each waiting to be collected.

The News will cover these stories in more detail over the coming weeks.

“All in all, it was a wonderful way to end the celebrations, with the duck races for everyone to enjoy and the unveiling of the contents of the 25-year time capsule,” Mr Catania said.

“What a way to celebrate Australia Day.”