Cultures converge at Liverpool's Australia Day celebration

Liverpool City Council’s popular Australia Day event at Woodward Park on Saturday evening brought people from all walks of life together to celebrate.

“Australia Day is a cherished celebration for the thousands of migrants and refugees who have come to call Liverpool home,” Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said.

“We have citizens who were born in countries as far and wide as Afghanistan and Zimbabwe.

“Our city’s multicultural fabric is proudly highlighted in all of our major celebrations, however Australia Day remains the premier opportunity to celebrate our diversity as the city’s greatest strength.”

To reflect Liverpool’s multicultural identity, food was at the heart of the celebrations, with stalls selling delicious international cuisine and My Kitchen Rules’ Josh and Austin sharing one of their favourite dishes in a well-received main stage cooking demonstration.

“Food serves as a clear connection to our diverse community, but when you throw plenty of free and affordable family-friendly entertainment into the mix, you’ve got a recipe for a hugely successful event,” Mayor Waller said.

“People were enthralled with our headline act Mashd N Kutcher’s live performance, the fireworks and all the other fun, free entertainment for children, including the petting zoo, Aussie Outback Arena shows and the nostalgia of the Carnival Zone.

“Australia Day in Liverpool was the celebration of choice for thousands of people from South West Sydney.”

Council’s free community celebration was held at Woodward Park on Saturday 26 January at a new time of 5pm – 10pm, serving as a trial for people to enjoy the fun, carnival atmosphere while avoiding the heat of the day.

“Early feedback from event attendees is that our Australia Day celebration was a winner,” Mayor Waller said.

“A huge thank you to everyone behind the scenes for making Australia Day such a huge success and to Seven Network’s My Kitchen Rules coming on board as a proud supporter.

“I encourage attendees to visit listens.liverpool.nsw.gov.au to provide feedback that will allow us to continue delivering exceptional Australia Day experiences.”