countdown to australia day

Time: 8:00 PM
Location: McCrae Lighthouse, Port Phillip Bay

Event Overview:

As dusk settles over Port Phillip Bay, the sun begins to set, casting a breathtaking glow over the water and the iconic McCrae Lighthouse. At 8:00 PM, guests are invited to gather in anticipation of a meaningful evening celebrating community and culture.

Lighthouse Illumination:

At precisely 8:00 PM, the lighthouse will glow in a serene blue, mirroring the evening sky. From the lighthouse platform, a long Aboriginal didgeridoo performance will resonate across the bay, marking the beginning of our special ceremony.

Cultural Welcome and Night Sky Ceremony:

Young Aboriginal community members will gather around a campfire, where a warm welcome will commence. The night sky ceremony involves brushing gum leaves over the fire to spark stars, representing the Milky Way, planets, and countless stars of the night sky. An Aboriginal storyteller will narrate traditional stories as the ceremony unfolds, deepening our cultural connection.

Lighting of the Earth & Community Participation:

The community will come together to illuminate a 6-meter diameter Earth, symbolizing unity and respect for the land. Youth from the McCrae community will carry lanterns shaped like the Southern Cross constellation, adding to the night’s celestial display.

Australia’s Cultural Celebration:

The evening will be enriched by a performance from the youth community of Mornington Peninsula, showcasing a beautiful Australasian ceremony that celebrates community coming together as one. The event will highlight Australia’s rich history and diverse culture through captivating performances and meaningful traditions.

Join us in celebrating Australia, our land, and our community—an evening of cultural pride, storytelling, and connection under the stars.