COMMUNITIES across the Port Stephens Council area will come together over the Australia Day weekend to enjoy family-friendly celebrations, from pool parties and community breakfasts to citizenship ceremonies and live entertainment.
With events planned across several suburbs, residents and visitors are encouraged to take part while being mindful that times or activities may be adjusted in response to weather conditions.
Pool Parties
Families can cool off and celebrate at free Australia Day weekend pool parties hosted by Lakeside Leisure Centre and Tomaree Aquatic Centre.
Both venues will offer free pool entry, inflatables, water slides, a sausage sizzle, refreshments and a range of activities suitable for all ages.
Event details: Saturday 24 January 2026, 10am to 3:00pm.
Locations include Lakeside Leisure Centre, Raymond Terrace, and Tomaree Aquatic Centre, and Salamander Bay
The pool parties are supported through National Australia Day Council grant funding.
Raymond Terrace
The Raymond Terrace community will gather at Riverside Park for a full day of celebrations hosted by the Rotary Club of Raymond Terrace.
Festivities begin with the Great Aussie Breakfast at the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club, followed by the official ceremony, including the Citizenship Ceremony and the Port Stephens Annual Awards.
Event details: Monday 26 January 2026, 8am to 2pm, Riverside Park, Raymond Terrace.
The program includes a RAAF fly past, markets, food trucks, children’s rides, a car club display and live music.
The event is supported by Veolia and delivered in partnership with Port Stephens Council and local volunteers.
Nelseon Bay
Fly Point Park will host a full day of celebrations featuring live music, dancing, an army band, a RAAF fly past and a visit from the Australia Day Ambassador.
The Citizenship Ceremony will take place at 1pm, alongside more than ninety market stalls, food trucks, children’s activities and classic car displays.
Parking will be available at Neil Carroll Rotary Park.
The event is coordinated by the Port Stephens Council Nelson Bay Sub Committee, with support from Veolia and Marquis.
Karuah
Karuah RSL will host a day-long celebration supported by Port Stephens Council, featuring bowls, live entertainment and popular community competitions.
Highlights include the annual thong-throwing competition, a fresh food competition with proceeds donated to the Rural Fire Service, and a fireworks display at 9pm.
Lemon Tree Passage
The Tilligerry Lions Club will host a community-focused celebration at Henderson Park, featuring a Great Aussie Breakfast available for purchase, live music and family activities.
The celebrations continue later in the day with Lemon Jam, hosted by the Tilligerry Community Association.
By Sis HIGGINS
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