THE Lions Club of Lake Charm/Mystic Park hosted a most enjoyable Australia Day breakfast at Gorton Point.

The weather was perfect with a nice breeze off the lake cooling the gathering and keeping unwanted flies away.

Flooding thwarted last year's celebrations, but nothing was going to stop the expressions of patriotism this year, with wishes from organisers that there be no floods, drought, locusts, mice plagues and that the pesky rabbits will soon diminish.

Cr Lui Basile was guest speaker, kindly filling in at the last minute when the ambassador scheduled for Kangaroo Lake was unable to come.

Cr Basile shared the experiences of his own family, who immigrated from Italy following the war, carrying all their worldly goods in two suitcases.

The Kerang lawyer drew parallels from their lives as to how Australia is a land of opportunity for anyone prepared to 'have a go'.

Many people later commented on how interesting and relevant were his words.

Brett Parkes was astonished to be named recipient of the local Citizen of the Year Award. This was to mark the unstinting work he put in during and after the floods last January; a popular and well-deserved recognition of assistance 'above and beyond'.

Rick Grosvenor kindly donated a couple of boxes of freshly picked peaches for all to consume.

Cr Basile also presented a plaque in the shape of Australia to Lindsay Hogg, president of the Lakes Arts and Cultural Association, awarded by the Shire of Gannawarra for the best community group/event. Well done for the efforts in providing such diverse experiences over the years for the benefit of our community.

Gannawarra Shire Council was also thanked for its donation towards breakfast expenses.