Douglas Shire Council will host a COVID-safe Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony at the Port Douglas Community Hall on Tuesday 26 January.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, both events will be restricted to award winners, new citizens and their families and friends.

And a tropical sizzle will add to the activities. Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre will cook a free barbecue breakfast from 7.30am.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the free breakfast was a chance for the general public to grab a coffee and breakfast while saying “hi to our local champions”.

“Although we will have restricted ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we still have a fantastic opportunity to come together as a community to celebrate our local champions and welcome our new Aussies.

“Those vying for Australia Day Awards are truly amazing people who deserve to be recognised for their service to the community,” said Mayor Kerr.

Mayor Kerr will officially welcome 28 new citizens from New Zealand, France, Thailand, Germany, Italy, India, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Hungary and the United Kingdom.

Key Times:

• 7:30am: Free BBQ Breakfast
• 9:30am: Citizenship Ceremony
• 11am: Australia Day Awards