I AM writing this letter to express the disappointment that my husband and I felt with the so-called "celebrations" which were organised for Australia Day, in Ballarat.
We searched various publications, looked up the internet, and made many inquiries as to what had been arranged.
We were told the activities at the lake were the only celebrations offered.
We later found out about the naturalisation ceremony and community award presentations which were to be held at the art gallery, but...it was private. Only invited guests could attend.
We were so disappointed to hear this.
We moved to Ballarat about six years ago, after having lived in one of the provincial cities in Victoria, with about 10,000 people. Australia Day celebrations were very different there.
There was always a function in the botanical gardens, or the town hall if weather did not permit the gardens.
An Australia Day Ambassador gave an address, followed by the usual barbecue food being available — usually hosted by one of the service clubs.
To finish the day there were children's activities.
We went to the lake, but it was all geared to a children-only type of entertainment.
After we had eaten our picnic tea, we decided not to wait for the fireworks. Nothing, really, to wait for.
It was probably the most disappointing effort we have ever attended on Australia Day.
We felt that making the activities at the art gallery private was an insult to the citizens of Ballarat, and to the people either being naturalised or receiving awards.
Surely, if a place the size of one I mentioned could encourage us to have pride in Australia Day with well-organised functions, a place the size of Ballarat could do a lot better.
STEPHANIE KENT
Ballarat East
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