2024 Yinnar and District Australia Day Celebrations

An egg and bacon breakfast was once again supplied to a crowd of approximately 150 by the Yinnar and District Lions club.

The entertainment for 2024was provided by Lucas Hobbs, an ex-Kurnai student who presented a wide range of songs and music.

The Yinnar cubs and scouts led by Jess Cook, then raised the Australian flag.

Yinnar and District Community Association treasurer, Kevin Young was the MC for the day.

The message “What does Australia Day mean to me?” was beautifully presented by the Yinnar Primary School Captains, Bonnie, Quade, Dusty and Hudson.

Mayor, Councillor Darren Howe, then gave a speech on behalf of Latrobe City emphasizing the importance of unity both in the local and wider community.

The Yinnar and District Citizen of the Year was presented to Jan Smith by 2023 winner Sandy Hegarty, in recognition of her community involvement for over 40 years.

This included working on the committees of the kindergarten, primary school and as secretary for the Yinnar Football Netball Club. Jan was also a Brownie leader and over the years has knitted countless numbers of beanies, blankets and scarves for the homeless as well as beanies for the Latrobe Valley hospital.

At Christmas time, she took on the role of Santa’s helper and replied each year to hundreds of letters from the local children.

Jan also utilised her computer skills to create reports for the Yinnar newsletter as well as being her husband’s secretary for the YDCA and Lions club – a very worthy recipient.

Fortunately, the rain held off just long enough to finish the formal proceedings.

It was a wonderful start to Australia Day celebrations which were enjoyed by all.