2012 was no different with a large crowd of families, couples, business people and organisations celebrating the national day with breakfast in Jubilee Park yesterday.

With great weather and a slight breeze the morning was considered perfect.

Many residents donned their Aussie clothes and hats, with some residents even dressing up their dogs in the Australian

spirit.

This year catering was done by the Cootamundra Rotary Club, taking on the reins from the Retirement Village Auxiliary.

There was a variety of breakfast options available including a full breakfast with bacon, eggs, sausages and grilled tomato on the plate, cereal, bacon and egg rolls and tea, coffee and cold refreshments.

The morning began with the raising of the Australian flag, conducted by members of the 256 Army Cadet Unit Cootamundra, followed by the singing of the National Anthem by local youngster Sarah Faulks, a student of Geraldine Ryan’s Singing School.

Pastor Rob Donald from the Anglican Christ Church led the community prayer with Brian Grewal again acting as the master of ceremonies this Australia Day.

Bruce Ward, a poetry lover again kept the audiences entertained with his recital of ‘Wheat’ by CJ Dennis, a poem from the early 1900’s which was chosen as 2012 marks the Year of the Farmer.

Bob Guy gave an amusing performance featuring a poem, which was written by Muttama resident Martin Boyle.

For the second year in a row ‘Beaconsfield Street’ band entertained the crowd featuring locals Alan Thompson, Ben Visser and former Cootamundra man Keith Holder along with Steve Barlow and Rob Campbell.

As always light and sound technician and Cootamundra High School science and entertainment teacher, Ben Pepper ensured everyone no matter where their location in Jubilee Park was, could hear what was being said.

This was a special year for newly elected mayor Doug Phillips who had the honour of presenting the Australia Day award winners with their framed certificates.