SING AUSTRALIANA SONGS TO REMEMBER

Bowen residents are being invited to celebrate Australia Day with an afternoon of music, history and community spirit at the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club.

The free event, organised by the Rotary Club of Bowen, will take place from 3pm on Australia Day and aims to revive a tradition once hosted by the Bowen Historical Society many years ago.

Organiser Mark Steen said the afternoon would feature a mix of Australiana singalong songs, bush poetry and local history, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned venue.

“We’ll be singing classic Australian songs, with the lyrics projected on a screen so everyone can join in,” Mark said.

Adding a historical element to the celebration, Bowen Historical Society will present a short history and spiel of the Bowen jetty and what the future may hold for the iconic structure.

The afternoon will also include performances by two bush poets, as well as tea and coffee provided by Rotary volunteers.

Mark said the idea behind the event was to encourage people of all ages to reflect on Australia’s history and culture.

“I just felt we were lacking a bit in remembering Australiana, as young folk we used to sing songs, and it's been lost," he said."

"It's just about remembering our younger days when we were learning those songs ourselves."

While the event has a nostalgic focus, Mark said everyone was welcome to attend.

“It’s aimed at the older generation, but it’s really for anyone who wants to enjoy some music, history and a relaxed Australia Day afternoon.”

The Australia Day afternoon is free to attend, with all catering and supplies supported by the Rotary Club of Bowen.

Residents are encouraged to come along, bring a friend and enjoy a uniquely local way to mark the national day.

WHAT: Australia Day Event
WHERE: North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, Bowen
WHEN: Monday 26 January at 3pm

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