But yesterday, the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council excelled in giving the region a day to remember with many activities and plenty of opportunities for people to get involved in the spirit of our national day.

And once again our community was able to celebrate the many quiet achievers who make our region so special.

The breakfast in Jubilee park kicked the day off in impressive style and was followed by the Australia Day Pool Party. Importantly, both were family friendly events and attracted crowds worthy of the day.

The Cootamundra Citizen of the Year Belinda Campbell was a worthy recipient of this honour, as were the many others whose contributions were recognised.

Such individuals don’t do what they do for the recognition, but because they believe in their community and are keen to goive back. 

Sadly, Australia Day is fast becoming a day when various interest groups jump on the bandwagon to promote their own cause, overlooking what January 26 is really about.

And while there is understandably frustration and, in some cases, anger from the Aboriginal community around this date, we should not forget what this day represents to many Australians.

Reconciliation with the indigenous community is a work in progress and has come a long way in the past few decades and while there remains a journey ahead, there is genuine goodwill to progress these issues.

Similarly, our community has been welcoming of all people from around the world and it could be argued, this willingness to embrace different cultures and beliefs is what has made our nation so great.

Today is a day that we should be celebrating the “quiet achievers” – those in our communities who give so willingly of their time and expertise.

Their contributions make a very real difference and Australia Day – far from being a “celebration” of the landing of the First Fleet, is a day when we can recognise the amazing people who do so much for our communities.

Let’s not argue over the date – but ensure the focus is on the people – not the history. Similarly, it’s time our focus shifted away from celebrities, sportspeople and state and federal politicians, and returned to those “average” residents who make a difference – day in, day out.