Australia Day ambassador an inspiration

Residents from across the Wee Waa district gathered at the Namoi Echo Museum to mark Australia Day and celebrate our wonderful community.

“We had a huge crowd,” said Julie Dowleans OAM, who helped to organise and host the event.

“It’s been absolutely brilliant, and early morning is a great time because it’s not too hot.”

Many attendees said a highlight of the gathering was meeting Narrabri Shire’s 2023 Australia Day ambassador Taylor Corry.

“Taylor is absolutely amazing and to bring her family with her to share the day too was lovely – her mum was here, her grandma and her partner,” added Julie.

Taylor grew up at Anna Bay in the Port Stephens local government area.

The 27-year-old swimming sensation made her Paralympics debut in London at the 2012 games, and impressively won two silver medals.

“I am so excited to be celebrating Australia Day with you,” said Taylor.

“The story of Australia is a great story. On Australia Day we reflect on the past, present and future.

“We listen to and respect each others’ stories contributions and aspirations, and celebrate being Australian,” said Taylor.

“I have been a member of the Australian Dolphins swim team since 2011 and have had the enormous privilege of representing Australia on several occasions, my first being at the age of 16 at the Global Games in Italy but I would have to say the highlight of my swimming career so far was being part of the very successful swim team at the Paralympic Games in London, winning two silver medals in the 200-metre freestyle and 100-metre backstroke.

“Representing Australia are the proudest moments of my life.”

Taylor shared with the crowd what her friends said when she asked them to say one word and their first though when she said ‘Australia’.

“They came up with: Milo, beaches, lamingtons, Tim Tams, Vegemite, meat pies, red dirt, sport and our Indigenous history,” explained Taylor.

“Although as an Indigenous woman, I believe much more needs to be learnt.

“My message to all Australians would be: always be proud to be Australian. And to young Australians: always follow your dreams no matter what they are – push through.”

Close to 90 people, including Narrabri Shire councillor John Clements and deputy mayor Darrell Tiemens, attended the Australia Day event, where guests were offered a free breakfast and museum tour.

“This is the best bacon and egg roll,” exclaimed Natasha Buschkowsky about the Lions Club’s breakfast.

Gamilaraay woman Helen Wenner started official proceedings with the Acknowledgement of Country, deputy mayor Darrell Tiemens gave an address, and the crowd was treated to music by the Wee Waa Community Band and a poem by Max Pringle OAM, as featured in The Courier recently.

“It was lovely for Helen to come down too – she did a great job,” said Julie.

“I think people really enjoyed everything: the band and having a walk through the museum.

“For people to have a look, even if they live here, it’s good to look at the treasures we’ve got and we always welcome new members and volunteers at the museum.”