Mayor weighs in on Australia Day date change debate

Regional Council Mayor Keith Campbell is looking forward to the region's 10th annual Australia Day ceremony.

South Burnett Regional Council Mayor Keith Campbell. Picture: Jessica McGrath

SOUTH Burnett Regional Council Mayor Keith Campbell is looking forward to the region's 10th annual Australia Day ceremony, despite recent controversy surrounding the date of celebration.

"It's an opportunity for us to look at the big picture in terms of Australia as a nation and all the great and wonderful achievements that the nation has made via the great people who have lived through the times since our nation was born," Cr Campbell said.

Cr Campbell said he had not yet been approached by anyone within the South Burnett about a date change for Australia Day.

"We have had a lot of strong support within the South Burnett to preserve the date of Australia Day and keep it on January 26," he said.

"I respect that there are some indigenous people who choose not to celebrate Australia Day on this day; for whatever reasons. But we also have some indigenous people who have been nominated for awards in the past as a part of The South Burnett Australia Day.

"I encourage that we should respect the fact that our indigenous elders have been here for the longest period of time. But, with the European settlement they have then been able to work towards developing our nation Australia in a great way that respects both cultures."

The South Burnett's 10th annual Australia Day ceremony is set to be held in Blackbutt on Friday, January 25.

Cr Campbell is looking forward to seeing The South Burnett community come together to celebrate Australia becoming a nation.

"We have a great variety of cultures in the South Burnett. So Australia Day on January 26 is an opportunity to celebrate our unity and oneness as a nation," he said.

"What is equally important is to take a look at us as the South Burnett region and as a community and those who have done wonderful things within our community.

"Australia Day is also a great day to remind our residents that we do live in this wonderful nation of Australia. But it doesn't just happen without a lot of effort. It's the people and their gifts, talents, attitude of interest, and hope for fellow man that helps us to go above and beyond as a nation."

Cr Campbell said he was truly thankful for this opportunity to celebrate South Burnett as a thriving community in Australia.

Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire mayor Arnold Murray has been contacted for comment.