A busy day of celebrations planned
Australia Day celebrations in the Pilbara are expected to go off with a bang later this month, with a host of activities, including fireworks scheduled for Port Hedland and Newman.
Port Hedland residents can start their Australia Day celebrations by attending a special breakfast from 7.45am to 10.30am hosted by Soroptimist International Port Hedland at the ibis Styles.
The breakfast will include a flag-raising ceremony, entertainment, guest speakers and the presentation of the Premier's Australia Day Active Citizen Awards.
Mayor Kelly Howlett said the morning would also welcome 20 new Australian citizens at a ceremony to be held at Wanangkura Stadium.
"The ceremonious occasion will mark the beginning of a new chapter for 20 people, as they pledge their future to Australia and share with us their culture and tradition in choosing Australia as their new home," she said.
To keep cool, entry to the Gratwick and South Hedland Aquatic Centres will be free all day for the public.
The popular thong-throwing, truck-pulling and pie-baking competitions will all make a comeback this year at the Town of Port Hedland's community event at Wanangkura Stadium grounds from 5pm to 8.30pm.
The alcohol-free event will also host live entertainment, market stalls and children's activities before ending in a spectacular fireworks display.
"A magic show and pony rides are sure to be firm favourites with our younger community members," Ms Howlett said.
The pools at Newman and Marble Bar will be open for free on Australia Day to encourage families to stay cool while they celebrate the nation's birthday.
Shire of East Pilbara president Lynne Craigie said both towns would also conduct citizenship ceremonies and host the Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Awards.
"The Newman Aquatic Centre will host Australia Day celebrations from 10am to 1pm, with kids' activities, water inflatables, a free barbecue and main street markets," she said.
"The Newman football clubs will be hosting family fun days at Capricorn Oval from 2pm and then the fireworks will be on at 8pm."
