Hundreds of people filled Mount Gambier’s Cave Gardens on Sunday morning to celebrate Australia Day.
The festivities kicked off with a hearty breakfast provided by the Lakes Rotary Club of Mount Gambier.
There was plenty of family friendly entertainment, including a jumping castle, henna and eco glitter tattoos and a wildlife demonstrations by Australian Bush Buddies.
The council also acknowledged its 2025 Citizen of the Year recipients on stage, with certificates presented by City Mayor Lynette Martin.
The Citizen of the Year was awarded to Trudi Shelton, Senior Citizen of the Year was presented to Rodney Summers, Young Citizen of the Year given to Brad Hann, the Mount Gambier Family Truck Show was named the Community Event of the Year, and the Active Citizenship Award was presented to the Mount Gambier Breast Cancer Awareness Group.







Mayor Martin said the awards celebrated the contributions of individuals and community groups who go above and beyond for the community.
“This year we recognise some outstanding community members who so generously provide their time, resources and goodwill to benefit others,” she said.
The Australia Day event was also interpreted on stage in Auslan, the language of the Australian deaf community.
In addition, accessible matting was laid on the lawn, allowing better wheelchair access for attendees.