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Crowds fill the City to celebrate Australia Day

Issued by Grace Carr, courtesy of City of Perth

Australia Day saw the skies above the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) light up as almost 140,000 revellers enjoyed a spectacular fireworks and drone display from across the City as part of the Hancock Prospecting Australia Day Celebrations.

City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said 26 January was a time for all to come together to reflect, respect, and celebrate, and the day’s diverse range of events and activities along the riverfront set the tone perfectly.

“With more than 70,000 people celebrating along the City’s riverfront, the atmosphere was incredible. The dazzling combination of drones and fireworks lit up the night, alongside carnival rides, thrilling stunt shows, diverse entertainment, and delicious food trucks—there was truly something for everyone to enjoy,” Mr Zempilas said.

“A massive thanks also goes to Cardile for the fantastic firework displays and Drone Sky Shows for the breathtaking drone show – a perfect combination timed to a classic Aussie soundtrack!”

The best views were found along Langley Park, but eventgoers also watched the light displays from vantage points around the Derbal Yerrigan, including Kings Park, South Perth, and apartments along Terrace Road and Elizabeth Quay.

“Thank you to those huge crowds for being so well-behaved and respectful, making for the perfect family-friendly event. And, of course, thank you to our Principal Partner Hancock Prospecting for partnering with the City of Perth to make the day such a clear success,” the Lord Mayor said.

The event was also assisted by our Funding Partner the Australian Government through the Australia Day Council.

Earlier in the day, the City welcomed 61 new Australian citizens, hailing from countries across the world, at the Australia Day Citizenship and Awards Ceremony.

“It was wonderful to see such a diverse range of people becoming new Aussie citizens at our iconic Perth Town Hall. We’re grateful and proud that so many people have chosen to make the City of Light their home,” Mr Zempilas said.

The Ceremony also saw the City honour local heroes through the Community Citizen of the Year Awards, recognising those who have positively and selflessly contributed to the Perth community this year:

  • Citizen of the Year – Joe Tuazama 
  • Youth Citizen of the Year – Zoe Cornelius 
  • Senior Community Citizen of the Year – Sandra Cornell
  • Active Citizenship (group or event) – Read, Write, Now

For all details on the award winners, see here.

The Australia Day celebrations may be over but the funs only just begun. FRINGE WORLD continues to paint the town pink across 41 City venues until 16 February, and Forrest Place brings foodies together every Friday night to enjoy the Twilight Food Markets.