Celebrate Australia Day In Hinchinbrook

Australia Day is almost here, and the Hinchinbrook community is invited to a full day of fun, festivities and family-friendly activities across the shire.

The day kicks off at 9am on Monday, the 26th of January with the 2026 Hinchinbrook Shire Australia Day Ceremony at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall. Residents can enjoy Australiana entertainment, witness a Citizenship Ceremony, meet the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador, and celebrate the achievements of local citizens with the presentation of the Australia Day Awards. After the ceremony, cool off with family and friends at the pool and keep the celebrations going.

From 11:30am at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre, the Making Waves Australia Day Pool Party promises a splashin’ good time for all ages. DJ tunes, bubble fun, craft activities, outdoor games, pool toys, face painting and a sausage sizzle are all on offer. This event is proudly hosted by Hinchinbrook Shire Council and the Aquatic Centre, with support from the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

Meanwhile, in Forrest Beach, festivities run from 9am to 1pm at Progress Park, with the Community Function Centre on Wattle Street as a backup if the weather is showery. The day features a free sausage sizzle, drinks and lamingtons, plus great entertainment for the whole family. Residents can even have a go at some quirky record-breaking challenges, including thong throwing for the kids, broom tossing for the ladies, and shovel throwing for the men. Market stalls and Emergency Services demonstrations will also be on display.

Even if you don’t feel like leaving home this Australia Day long weekend, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the festivities with family and mates. Fire up the BBQ in the backyard and serve up some classic Aussie favourites while enjoying good conversation and laughter. Turn up the tunes and start a listening party to countdown Triple J’s Hottest 100 songs of 2025, singing along to your favourite hits from the past year.

For those who love the great outdoors, why not head out for some fishing or crabbing in the region’s beautiful waterways, soaking up the sunshine and fresh air? And if you’re in the mood for something a little more relaxed, organise a Crocodile Dundee movie night, complete with popcorn, lamingtons, and plenty of laughs as you revisit this classic Aussie film.

No matter how you celebrate, the long weekend is a perfect chance to relax, have fun and make memories with the people you care about. There’s something for everyone on Australia Day in Hinchinbrook. Grab your friends and family, enjoy the sunshine and let's celebrate our national day together.