Australia Day 2020: Ryde Council concert fundraiser for bushfires
FROM kids rides and live music to local firefighters taking the stage, Australia Day festivities will be kicking off at North Ryde Common with a focus on bringing the community together amid the bushfire crisis. SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING
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FROM kids rides and live music to local firefighters taking the stage, Australia Day festivities will be kicking off at North Ryde Common with a focus on bringing the community together amid the bushfire crisis.
For the first time this year, Australia Day fireworks will not be on display at Ryde Council’s concert on Sunday January 26 in a show of respect of bushfire victims.
“The tragedy of bushfires across NSW have had their impact on locals here in Ryde. After much deliberation, the City of Ryde has decided not to proceed,” Mayor Jerome Laxale said.
“We will now double our efforts and use the event as a major fundraiser for the victims of this disastrous bushfire season.”
Australia Day festivities this year will be focussed on raising much-needed funds for the Salvation Army Bushfire Disaster Appeal.
A special Wall of Hope will be set up at North Ryde Common dedicated to bushfire-affected communities. Event-goers will be able to purchase eftpos gift cards for families and communities needing bare essentials.
Collection buckets will also be on display to support the work of the Rural Fire Service.
“Crucially, the Australia Day concert will also serve as a major fundraiser for the victims of this disastrous bushfire season, so please attend and give generously,” Cr Laxale said.
Festivities will start at 11am with a citizenship ceremony followed by the presentation of the 2020 Ryde Citizen of the Year Awards at North Ryde School of Arts.
A rock concert will kick off at 5pm at North Ryde Common. Aussie rock Thirsty Merc band will headline the show, with their set running from 8pm.
Earlier, three young bands will take part in the Battle of the Bands, competing for this year’s title.
The winning band will go home with $1000 cash and a Mastering session at Studios 301.
Cr Laxale encouraged all locals and families to enjoy the many events and festivities on offer.
“I hope to see you all at North Ryde Common this Australia Day for a great day of entertainment that will cater to people of all ages,” Clr Laxale said.
More details: northerndistricttimes.com.au
Full Australia Day Concert Schedule
5.00pm - Battle of the Bands: Phat Reef, To the Last Second, Under Weather
6.00pm - Thong throwing competition
6.20pm - Official welcome
6.30pm - Audio Vixen
7.30pm - Thong throwing competition
8.00pm - Thirsty Merc
9.00pm - Event concludes