Civic Events, Awards and Ceremonies

Citizens

Council conducts a number of civic events throughout the year.

Citizenship ceremonies are hosted regularly by Council on behalf of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. The Mayor conducts the ceremonies where new citizens take their citizenship pledge, and are welcomed into the community.  Livestream and recordings of the Ceremony can be accessed by the location: Council Chambers Livestream or Burnie Arts Town Hall Live.

ANZAC Day Council works closely with the RSL Burnie Sub-Branch to conduct the services held on 25 April each year. The dawn service and 11am service are conducted at the Burnie Park cenotaph. A large number of community groups, schools, organisations and elected members come together to lay wreaths in a moving service that demonstrates our community's honour for the memory of those who fought and served in all conflicts.

Remembrance Day is another important day in the calendar, with a service conducted at 10.40am on 11 November each year, culminating in two minutes of silence at 11am. Once again, wreaths are laid at the cenotaph in memory of the fallen.

Burnie’s Community Recognition Awards celebrate individuals and groups who make outstanding contributions to the local community. These annual awards honour dedication, leadership, and the positive impact made through volunteering, innovation, or service in Burnie.

Reflect, Respect, Celebrate

Burnie is taking an inclusive approach to celebrating key community milestones, following the Australia Day theme: “Reflect. Respect. Celebrate.” This recognises our evolving national identity, past, present and future by honouring the diversity, values, and contributions of all community members.

Since 1994, Australia Day has been held on 26 January nationwide, but for many, particularly First Nations people, the date holds different meanings. As our community evolves, so must the way we celebrate, with a focus on inclusion, respect, and unity.

Key Events:

đź“…  Australia Day Festivities (26 January): Council supports Rotary with hosting a free family-friendly celebration for all, acknowledging our shared history and diverse community.

đź“… Citizenship Ceremonies (various dates): Council facilitates dedicated, respectful events welcoming new Australians throughout the year, linked with Harmony Week, Refugee Week, and Australian Citizenship Day.

đź“…  Community Recognition Awards (May): Aligning these awards with National Volunteering Week to celebrate our local heroes, emphasising their importance in our community.

 

Strategic Alignment with Making a Better Burnie 2044:

  1. Culturally Rich and Vibrant Communities: Respects diverse perspectives, celebrates our collective future, and welcomes new citizens.
  2. Democratic and Engaged Communities: Responds to community sentiment and builds trust through inclusive celebrations.
  3. Liveable Local Communities: Fosters connection and belonging, creating spaces where everyone feels welcome.