ECHUCA-MOAMA'S Australia Day ambassador has praised the Aussie spirit in the wake of our devastating bushfires.
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“For me there is nothing more Australian than the people who make this country so great. Mates helping mates, strangers helping strangers,” Katryna Robinson said during her speech at Campaspe Shire and Murray River Council's Australia Day event on Sunday.
Kat founded the charity ‘Every Little Bit Helps’ in 2014 after seeing homeless people sleeping rough on her daily commute in Sydney.
For five years, the charity has been collecting unused toiletries, putting them together in care packs and distributing them to people through homeless shelters, women’s shelters and other outreach homeless services.
“This charity never would have started if I didn't listen to Australian stories. By listening, I discovered that for many a toothbrush and a bar of soap is something that cannot be relied upon ... and hardship for many is very real,” she said.
“There are many Australians who have had a very difficult summer. More than 2600 homes lost, 33 lives lost, more than one billion animals lost, we have towns in ruins but their spirits are unbroken.
“Through this continuing crisis there have been countless volunteers who have given up their family time and taken time off work to battle these fires.
“As heartbreaking as this crisis has been, it's always heartwarming to see how Australia is responding to this emergency, from major fundraisers and corporate support to a simple lemonade stand.
“Australians are digging deep and doing everything they can to get this nation back on its feet quickly.
“Our sense of community, courage and kindness is what makes Australia special and that is what sets us apart from others.
“Never before has our unity been greater.
“May the Aussie spirit always shine as brightly as it does here today.”
Moama Botanic Gardens provided a picturesque setting for the Australia Day award ceremony, which saw hundreds of people gather to celebrate the achievements of our residents.
Organised by Echuca-Moama Rotary Club, the event included a cooked breakfast, flypast by Echuca Aero Club, citizenship ceremony, entertainment by Murray Singers and Echuca-Moama Theatre Company, award presentations and display by Echuca-Moama Historic Vehicle Club.
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