General News
8 February, 2026
Special thanks from the Rotary Club of Warracknabeal Australia Day committee
Rotary Club of Warracknabeal Australia Day committee secretary Wendy Hewitt had high praise for the organisers and volunteers for a successful Australia Day celebration.
Rotary Club of Warracknabeal Australia Day committee secretary Wendy Hewitt had high praise for the organisers and volunteers for a successful Australia Day celebration.
About 300 people attended despite the forecast heat and enjoyed a cooked breakfast from 8 am, while the Warracknabeal and District Band displayed their talents, playing a 30-minute set of songs.
"The celebration reflected the Australia Day theme of Reflect, Respect and Celebrate," she said.
"Once again, the Racecourse proved to be an excellent venue for the big crowd, and the organisers, the Rotary Club of Warracknabeal, were grateful for its preparation by the racecourse management and staff."
Ms Hewitt said that the Rotary Club also acknowledged the grant received from the National Australia Day Council, which enabled the event to run.
Guest musician Darryn Wardle joined the Warracknabeal Scout Group and Guides in the singing of the National Anthem after they opened the official program with the flag parade.
"Darren is a popular Wimmera musician, and the crowd enjoyed several of his favourite songs about Australian life and landscape, especially as he shared related personal stories to each one," she said.
"It was wonderful to have such a top-class entertainer with us on Australia Day."
Ms Hewitt said it was such a privilege to have Guest speaker Alex Morcom who is the daughter of Mick and Carolyn Morcom, born and raised on the family farm just out of Warracknabeal, shared her journey from local school girl to AFLW star player.
Another highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the Unsung Hero Award. This award is only presented in exceptional circumstances, making it all the more special.
The committee decided that Maryann Conduit's exceptional contribution to the community made her a worthy recipient this year, as so much of her work is done behind the scenes, and she was well deserving of this award.
Ms Hewitt said there were so many people to thank who made the day possible and such a success.
"So many individuals and organisations helped to make the day a success- The National Australia Day Council, Warracknabeal Racecourse management and staff, Guides and Ms Groups, Russell Brown PA technician, award nominators, judges and presenters, Wimmera Mallee News, Yarriambiack Shire Council, APEX, SES and Community Centre volunteers, Belinda Penny and Sandi Rickard - photography and promotion," she said.
“Plus community members who came along to support the day.”