The Southern Downs will welcome 24 conferees from as far and wide as the Philippines, India, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Brazil, Spain, the United States and El Salvador at the Australia Day Ceremony in Allora.
Local council invites anyone from the breadth and width of the Downs to attend, plus visitors, in support of the conferees, and to witness the reception of the Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Awards.
Southern Downs Mayor, Cr Melissa Hamilton said "shared values" will be evident.
“Australia Day is about recognising our shared values, welcoming new citizens and honouring local heroes who make our community stronger,” she said. “It is a day to come together, celebrate our identity and foster the spirit of unity that defines the Southern Downs.”
Inspired Communities councillor, Morwenna Harslett was equally spurred to issue a broad welcome, saying that what "excites" her most is "seeing families, neighbours and newcomers gather side-by-side, enjoying music, food and laughter".
"That’s the heartbeat of our region," Cr Harslett said., "(And) I encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the festivities and share in the pride of being part of this community.”
Celebrations will include "a family-friendly morning tea with lamingtons, scones and meat pies" as well as live music.
The Australia Day 2026 Citizenship Ceremony and community awards event is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
Council conformed that as of the end of 2025, more than 25,450 people from 160 countries had been invited to attend one of more than 425 citizenship ceremonies hosted by local government councils and other organisations nationally, as part of their Australia Day events program. Of these, more than 18,800 people from over 150 countries have been invited to become citizens on this Australia Day at one of more than 325 ceremonies.
Snapshot of event details:
Allora Community Hall, 55 Herbert Street
9am – 10am: Citizenship Ceremony
10am – 11am: Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Awards
11am – 12pm: Traditional Aussie morning tea
