Eddy Kontelj not disappointed by lack of Australia Day celebrations in Geelong

Those expecting an Australia Day extravaganza in Geelong following council’s controversial move to once again recognise the day may be a little disappointed.

Geelong council will contribute $37,500 in funding for the 2026 Rippleside Family Fun Day that will again be held on Australia Day. Picture: Alison Wynd

City Hall will return to conducting an Australia Day citizenship ceremony but it will not hold any of its own events despite one councillor pushing for a waterfront extravaganza.

Geelong council’s recently endorsed 2025/26 budget did not contain any funding for Australia Day celebrations, other than $37,500 for the 2026 Rippleside Family Fun Day that is organised by the Lions Club.

Eddy Kontelj led the charge late last year to reverse a May 2023 decision that committed council to cease referring to January 26 as Australia Day, move citizenship ceremonies from the day, and deliver formalised First Nations events.

Mr Kontelj later outlined events that could be held on Australia Day from 2026 onwards, however it is understood he did not advocate for any funding during the budget process.

He floated the idea of a waterski stunt show on Corio Bay, fireworks, street parade, an aerobatic display by the Air Force Roulettes, and an outdoor concert involving local schools and choirs.

Mr Kontelj also said the floating Christmas tree should remain until the end of January, be lit up in green and gold and have Australian music projecting from it for the week leading up.

Geelong’s floating Christmas tree won’t be incorporated into Australia Day celebrations. Picture: Alan Barber.

Mr Kontelj said he was not disappointed by the lack of council-led celebrations because “there are a number of initiatives that we can build on and support that will take no, or very little funding”.

Mr Kontelj cited the reintroduction of citizenship ceremonies, the Rippleside event funding, and “council flying Australian flags proudly where possible at council-owned facilities and flag poles”.

“And encouraging the community and local businesses to fly Australian flags as well,” he added.

“This is something we commenced this year very successfully – I already have my Australian flag flying proudly and permanently at my home.

“It is going to be a great Australia Day next year and I am looking forward to celebrating with the Geelong community and the visitors to our city with much excitement, particularly since we adopted the 26th January (Australia Day) report earlier this year.”

Geelong councillor Eddy Kontelj. Picture: Facebook.

Community groups and event organisers keen to hold Australia Day events can apply for funding through council’s $200,000 community events stream, with applications expected to open later this month.

More than $220,000 of council’s $1.2m major events budget has been allocated to the Festival of Sails, which is held over the Australia Day long weekend.

The event is seen by City Hall as a key part of the Australia Day program, delivering community celebrations along the Geelong waterfront.

Originally published as Eddy Kontelj not disappointed by lack of Australia Day celebrations in Geelong