Community members assemble at Coleman Park

A WONDERFUL gathering of approximately 100 community members assembled at Coleman Park for what was a picture day with the beautiful weather for Australia Day. 

Jenni Keerie officiated the Korumburra event with Cr Nathan Hersey conducting the Acknowledgement to Country. David Jackson from the RSL unfurled the flag, and Terry Lay and Christine Ross sang the National Anthem. 

MP Melina Bath spoke of how Australia Day means different things to different people. Addressing that history can mean the good with the bad and how she personally visits her aunty for guidance on matters with First Nations. She also acknowledged John Davies and his role with the Men’s Shed, with a focus on mental health as well as thanking those who volunteer and how volunteering is the heart of a community. 

Jenni Keerie then read the two verses from the 1987 ‘’I am Australian’’, a now famous song after Bruce Woodley from the Seekers and Dobe Newton from the Bushwakers formed:  

I came from the dreamtime from the dusty red soil plains

I am, the ancient heart, the keeper of the flame

I stood upon the rocky shores

I watched the tall ships come

For 40 thousand years I’d been the 1st Australian

I came upon the prison ship bowed down by iron chains

I cleared the land, endured the lash & waited for the rains

I’m a settler

I’m a farmer’s wife on a dry and barren run

A convict, then a free man,

I became Australian. 

Jenni then went on to read the 1908 Poem by Dorthea Mackellar - Core of the Heart/My Country. 

Cr Bron Beach spoke on the contribution of Korumburra’s South Gippsland Citizen of The Year nominee, John Davies and his impact on the community. John mentioned he was born in England and came to Australia almost 50 years ago – initially staying three years. When the three years was up, he returned “home” for a short period after missing England, but before long, John wanted to return to his newfound home in Australia.

The crowd then enjoyed music, singing and banter from Terry Lay and Christine Ross whilst indulging in the Lions Club sausages, Koringal ladies various Australian-shaped biscuits and Kelly’s Bakery lamingtons; all of which were well received. 

Simonne the face painter was kept busy creating some lovely faces on the children and the Italian Social Club was on hand to show the crowd how to play bocce. 

All in all, a very socially enjoyable two hours in beautiful weather at Coleman Park.