Community events to celebrate Australia Day will be held across Narrabri Shire on Wednesday, January 26.

The shire’s Australia Day Ambassador Lana Masterson will be the official guest at events in Narrabri, Boggabri and Wee Waa.

Lana Masterson runs Down The Track, an innovative and lifesaving youth program based in Lake Cargelligo, Central West NSW, reported The Australian newspaper when Lana was nominated as a Local Hero in 2021.

“Down The Track targets the region’s most marginalised young people, mainly aged between 10 and 20.

“More than 90 per cent are Indigenous and all live in the drought-ravaged, under-resourced region and face family violence, suicide, unemployment, homelessness and poor mental health.

“Almost single-handedly and with compassion, dedication and care, Lana has united police, teachers, politicians, businesses and Elders to keep kids alive, out of jail and thriving.

“Lana’s Down The Track program provides mentorship, practical education, training, employment and wellbeing support.

“It has allowed young people to gain skills, participate in social enterprise, become work ready and re-engage in their community.

“Since the program’s 2016 inception, youth crime has fallen significantly.

“Just as importantly, it has created a connection between all involved and given young people a sense of worth.

“Humble and tenacious, Lana’s commitment is total and her door always open to youth in need.”

The community is invited to Australia Day events being held across Narrabri Shire on January 26, 2022.

Events are as follows:

WEE WAA
Where: Namoi Echo Museum, Rose Street/Wee Waa Pool, Alma Street.
Time: From 7am.
Program: Breakfast and entertainment. Museum open. Free pool entry from noon to 6pm.

BOGGABRI
Where: Boggabri Memorial Swimming Pool, Laidlaw Street and Caxton Street.
Time: From noon.
Program: BBQ lunch and entertainment. Free pool entry from noon to 6pm.

NARRABRI
Where: Narrabri Aquatic Centre, Tibbereena Street.
Time: From 1pm including kids’ activities, entertainment and barbecue lunch.
Program: Official award ceremony commencing at 4pm. Free pool entry from noon to 6pm.

Narrabri Shire Council will monitor the current COVID situation and advise of any changes to these events.

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