Hornsby Shire Council is inviting residents to celebrate Australia Day at beautiful Fagan Park on Sunday 26 January, with a day of Fun, Food and Live Beats. From 10.30am, the park will come alive with entertainment, food trucks and plenty of splashy fun for the kids.

Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy a full stage program featuring local talent, cultural performances and live music. Young ones can cool off with water activities including a slip‘ n’ slide, dunk tank and bubble machines, while roving entertainers keep the atmosphere buzzing.

Stage Schedule

• 10.30am – 11.30am: Citizenship Ceremony

• 11.30am – 12.00pm: Gawura Cultural Immersions – First Nations cultural dance

• 12.15pm – 1.00pm: The Funky Monkeys – family-friendly favourites

• 1.15pm – 2.00pm: The Lily Guerrero Band – vibrant Latin rhythms

The fun continues throughout the day, with the Friends of Fagan Park showcasing the area’ s unique heritage. Fagan Park itself has a rich past. Once part of the Fagan family’ s rural estate dating back to the late 1800s, the grounds preserve a glimpse of early farm life in the district. The original homestead and outbuildings were gifted to Hornsby Shire Council and are now carefully maintained

to protect their heritage significance. Visitors can view heritage farming equipment, explore the formal gardens and learn more about the pioneering families who helped shape Galston and the wider Hornsby district.

There will also be plenty to see and do, including tours of the historic Netherby Homestead, blacksmithing demonstrations, heritage vehicle displays and the chance to wander the gorgeous gardens. Classic Aussie treats will be on offer, including a BBQ, lamingtons and homemade jams.

Hornsby Shire Mayor Warren Waddell says he is excited to bring the community together to celebrate, reflect and pay respect.

“ We’ re proud of the great diversity of cultures and backgrounds that call Hornsby Shire home, and this Australia Day is a chance to enjoy great music, food and family fun while connecting with local heritage,” he said.

Fun, Food and Live Beats! is assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council, and will be held at Fagan Park, Galston, from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

Parking is available on site for $ 7 per vehicle, or visitors can hop on a free shuttle bus from Hornsby Station. Those planning to enjoy the water play should bring swimmers or clothing suitable to get wet. For details, visit hornsby. nsw. gov. au / AustraliaDay.