Resilience celebrated at Dunsborough Australia Day

The resilience of Australians and their ability to bounce back from adversity will be applauded at the Australia Day Ceremony in Dunsborough this weekend.

Former Busselton Councillor and community services worker Sue Riccelli has been invited to be special guest speaker, and says it’s this resilience that is a part of Australia’s DNA.

“What has always amazed me is how people bounce back from real trauma and hardship.

“When people ask what makes an Australian, and it’s so multi-cultural now, for me it’s having that strength and resilience to get through the hard times,” she said.

“So many Aussies will put on a brave front, but underneath we go through some really tough times.

“And we tend to really shine when we do, whether it be difficulties such as a major fire, a disaster or someone that has survived family domestic violence, I think it’s the courage Australians show that’s impressive.

“It brings out the best traits in Australians when we go through hardships.”

The Dunsborough ceremony is being organised by the Dunsborough and Districts Progress Association.

Recently elected President, Llewyn Green, said Ms Riccelli had always fought strongly to maintain Dunsborough’s character, particularly in efforts to ensure building height restrictions.

“She is passionate about the Dunsborough community, so we believe she is a good choice as the main speaker for our ceremony this year,” Mr Green said.

Five people will receive their citizenship certificates at the ceremony, and there will also be Naturaliste Awards presented for outstanding contributions to the Dunsborough community.

The ceremony will be held on the foreshore by the flag poles, near the end of Dunn Bay Road.

The event will begin at 9.30 on Australia Day, Sunday January 26.