United Community Sport and More: Wycheproof Celebrates Australia Day
(By Jackie Noonan)
A friendly atmosphere set the tone for the morning; Australian flag bunting fluttered high, flags adorned seating, and Aussie-themed music filled the air, creating a strong sense of pride just before the warm weather made its presence felt once again.
The aroma of a sizzling barbecue welcomed visitors as they arrived for a delicious breakfast, freshly brewed coffee, and warm smiles from volunteers.
Representing the Lions Club, Alex Morrison welcomed attendees and outlined the morning’s program. He was joined by Martin Duke, president of Wycheproof Alive, and later by Buloke Shire Councillor Stephen Barrat, who summarised the overarching Buloke Australia Day award winners.
Alex encouraged those present to take in their surroundings, the monuments, history boards, and the foresight of the late Mrs Mac Milburn, whose vision transformed a community and ensured Centenary Park would be enjoyed for years to come, and particularly on Australia Day.
Talented local musician Koen Phyland set the perfect tone for the morning, delivering a stirring performance of the National Anthem and officially opening the celebrations.
Australia Day Address
Australia Day guest speaker Brad Robinson captured the full attention of the crowd. Brad, Wycheproof Campus Manager at East Wimmera Health Service, delivered a thoughtful, engaging and warmly received address that reflected the very heartbeat of community life in Wycheproof.
Brad spoke of Australia Day as a moment to pause amid the busyness, reflect on what matters, and recognise the people and places that shape daily life. In a town like Wycheproof, he noted, community isn’t an abstract idea, it is lived through neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers quietly stepping up, and people showing up when it counts.
He highlighted the events and organisations that give structure and rhythm to the town, from iconic gatherings such as the Mt. Wycheproof Cup and the King of the Mountain, to the sporting clubs that foster teamwork, friendships and belonging across generations. These, Brad said, are far more than fixtures on a calendar, they are social anchors that keep the town connected and vibrant.
Brad also acknowledged the vital roles played by the Community Resource Centre, Men’s Shed, local school, health services and businesses, describing them as the steady pulse that sustains Wycheproof day in, day out. Particular recognition was given to volunteers and emergency service personnel, along with the families who quietly support them.
In a personal and uplifting moment, Brad shared that Australia Day 2025 marked his wife becoming an Australian citizen, a reminder that regional communities like Wycheproof continue to be shaped and strengthened by those who choose to belong.
He concluded by encouraging pride in the town’s resilience, fairness and inclusiveness, and reminded those present that Wycheproof’s future will be built on the same values that already define it – care for one another, strong relationships, and a willingness to step forward.
It was a sincere, incredibly well-balanced address that resonated strongly with the audience and celebrated the people who keep the rhythm of Wycheproof community life beating strong.
Accolades
Martin Duke introduced a new tradition to the proceedings, whereby the outgoing Citizen of the Year presents the award to the incoming recipient. Jackie Noonan reflected on her own surprise win and experiences before handing over the honours to the 2026 Citizen of the Year, Lauren Thompson. With a playful nod to local sporting pride, Jackie suggested the award might inspire Lauren to work towards leading another Calder United premiership, drawing a cheerful round of applause from those in attendance.
Leadership United Two Towns
Wycheproof Citizen of the Year Lauren Thompson has demonstrated outstanding service through her unwavering commitment to community sport and volunteer leadership across the Nullawil and Wycheproof communities.
Over several years, Lauren played a pivotal role in guiding the complex amalgamation of the two sporting clubs, culminating in the successful establishment of the Calder United Lions. As a member of the steering committee, she provided calm, inclusive leadership throughout a sensitive process, contributing to key decisions including the club’s name and mascot, and assisting in the development of the club’s Constitution, laying a strong foundation for future governance.
Lauren continues to serve the club in demanding volunteer roles, including club secretary and “A” grade netball coach. These roles reflect her willingness to lead by example and her deep commitment to ensuring the sustainability of local sport.
Her contribution has delivered lasting benefits to both communities, preserving vital sporting opportunities and strengthening football and netball as important social anchors. Through her leadership, Lauren has fostered a positive and inclusive club culture, uniting two proud towns under a shared identity.
As a wife and mother of three young boys, Lauren is an inspirational role model, demonstrating that meaningful community involvement is achievable alongside family life. Her leadership, values and generosity of time have strengthened community connection, pride and resilience well beyond the playing field.
Young Citizen of the Year
Jessie Fawcett was unable to attend on the day, with her award accepted by her cousin, Lilly.
Jessie is an outstanding young person who consistently demonstrates excellence across school, sport and community life. Academically, she performs at the top of her class and is a talented all-round sportswoman. In recognition of her leadership, character and inclusiveness, she was selected by her peers as School Captain for 2026.
Jessie has volunteered for many years across community organisations and events in Wycheproof and Nullawil, including junior tennis coaching, netball canteen and catering, umpiring, senior citizens’ activities and participation in the Wycheproof Youth Group. She is known for her reliability, strong work ethic and positive attitude – qualities essential in small rural communities.
Growing up rurally, Jessie understands the importance of shared responsibility and community involvement. Alongside her volunteer commitments, she also holds part- time employment, contributing to the local economy.
Jessie is a positive role model for young people and an excellent example of how youth leadership and volunteering help rural communities thrive.
Event of the Year
While no formal nomination was received for the Event of the Year category this year, Wycheproof continues to host a remarkable number of successful and well-supported events which play a vital role in bringing people together and strengthening local connections.
Organisers and community members were encouraged to submit nominations in future years, ensuring these events are recognised and celebrated for the important contribution they make to community life.
Centenary Park’s History
As proceedings continued, Alex Morrison again highlighted the lasting legacy of Mrs Mac Milburn, the late mother of Betty Taylor, and her pivotal role in establishing Centenary Park. He reflected on the site’s origins, noting it was once occupied by the railways and shire dams before being transformed into four acres of parkland through community working bees organised by the Lions Club and driven by Mac’s vision, fundraising and more.
It was fondly recalled that “…Mac didn’t go to many meetings, she simply got things done. She made things happen”, she planted the seeds, quite literally, for what has become a much-loved community asset. Today, Centenary Park stands as a picturesque gathering place, a local landmark, and a welcoming halfway tourism stop for travellers between Melbourne and Mildura, along the Calder Highway.
Not Simply a Seat
Continuing the theme of reflection and appreciation, attendees were invited to then gather at a significant seating area within the park. There, Betty Taylor, surrounded by Lions Club members proudly wearing their blue polo shirts, officially cut the matching blue ribbon to unveil a refreshed tribute space.
The new seating replaces an older arrangement and features improved layout and positioning, enhancing both function and presence. Dedicated to Mac’s legacy, the
updated area looked impressive on the day and promises to be enjoyed by the community for many years to come.
What Would We Do Without Them?
The Lions Club and Wycheproof Alive are two vital groups making a real
difference across the community. Like all country towns, Wycheproof is fortunate to have clubs quietly working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.
Set-up, pack-down, pre-planning, catering and furniture relocation, it can appear effortless, but of course, it is anything but. A sincere thank you goes to both the Lions Club and Wycheproof Alive for their dedication in delivering the 2026 Australia Day program. Special mention to Lions Club members who led the seat precinct makeover, along with locals Adam Lovell for refreshing the plaque, and Geoff Durie for his welding expertise.
And to those who couldn’t make it, may this reporting encourage you to join in 2027. Bring your family and friends along, every contribution helps ensure our community celebrations remain memorable and strong for years to come.
