Mooroopna Australia Day a success

By Djembe Archibald

Jan 28, 2024

The sun shone bright over Mooroopna’s Ferrari Park as hundreds of residents gathered to celebrate the country they call home.

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The Mooroopna Australia Day celebrations began at 10.30am on Sunday, January 28 and kicked of with iconic songs such as I Am Australian, Waltzing Matilda and Home Among The Gum Trees.

After a round of applause for the entertainment, the ceremony began.

Vintage: Cars were on show throughout the morning’s event. Photo by Djembe Archibald

Speakers included community members, City of Greater Shepparton deputy mayor Sam Spinks and members of parliament Sam Birrell, Kim O’Keeffe and Wendy Lovell.

Speeches tackled a wide range of topics such as the conversation around January 26, why Australia is so important to people and the history of Australia, beginning from the Dutch invasion.

Cr Spinks presented the recipients with their awards.

Following the proceedings, attendees enjoyed a snag and free drinks provided by Mooroopna Rotary Club.

Happy days: Mooroopna Rotary Club president Richard Speedy accepted the Community Event of the Year on behalf of Mooroopna Rotary Club. Photo by Djembe Archibald

Mooroopna Rotary Club was presented with the Community Event of the Year award, not only for Mooroopna but also for Greater Shepparton as well.

Michael Ford

Michael Ford was presented the Sports award.

He was a member of the Intellectual Disability Cricket team, that played in Brisbane in February 2023, the team won all games as well as the grand final.

He was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome when he was approximately 12 years old.

He is extremely passionate about his work as a disability support worker, he demonstrates empathy for people who have different abilities.

When accepting the award, he had some thank yous for the people in his life that support him through his work and passions.

“I want to thank my girlfriend Erin and my mum and dad for putting up with me,” Mr Ford said with a laugh.

Marilyn Banfield

Marilyn Banfield was presented the Mooroopona Citizen of the Year award.

She has been dedicated to the community for 70 years and has committed herself to several areas of the town.

She was a teacher, a member of the Anglican church and a dedicated member of local theatre being involved in musical directing, costume design and more.

She has been the organ player at her church for more than 50 years.

She has also volunteered with the Goulburn Valley Community Centre for more than 20 years after recognising the need for support for domestic violence victims.

“Never in my life did I think I’d receive this amazing award,” Mrs Banfield said.

“There are so many things I could say in this moment, but I just want to thank my wonderful family who have been very much involved with this town.”