Cessnock is lucky enough to have had some fascinating Australia Day ambassadors over the years, and 2018’s special guest will certainly have some interesting stories to share.
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Narelle Campbell – who has led four over-winter teams in the remote Australian Antarctic Territory – will be the ambassador for Cessnock’s official celebrations at East Cessnock Bowling Club on January 26.
Ms Campbell lived and worked in temperatures below minus-40 degrees as a station leader at Mawson in 2008, Casey in 2010, Macquarie Island in 2012 and Davis Station in 2014.
This included working alongside biologists on the Emperor Penguin Project and contributing to the protection of a pristine and fragile wilderness.
It was no easy feat living in such an isolated location with no fly-in, fly-out luxuries – Ms Campbell had to step up during emergencies including medical evacuations and aircraft recovery incidents.
She has also spent a lot of time spreading the wonder of Antarctica to many community and school groups in Australia.
She was nominated for the NSW Australian of the Year award in 2015.
Cessnock mayor Bob Pynsent said he looks forward to welcoming Ms Campbell to the local government area and learning about her personal experiences.
“It will be a privilege to hear from Narelle, who has had an exceptionally adventurous life,” Cr Pynsent said.
“It’s pretty difficult to imagine what it would be like to experience some of the world’s most isolated and hostile conditions.”
Ms Campbell said she is absolutely honoured, proud and humbled to be an Australia Day Ambassador.
“Australia Day to me is a wonderful way to respect our country and see all the communities across our nation come together, no matter what background or walk of life,” she said.
“It is a time we can all think along the same theme.”
The ceremony will start at 10am and includes welcoming the city’s newest Australian citizens and recognising the community’s outstanding contributors and achievers from 2017 with the presentation of Australia Day awards.
All are welcome to attend the ceremony, and are advised to arrive early as seats may fill quickly.
Cr Pynsent said it is important that the community recognises how lucky it is to call Australia home.
“On Australia Day we celebrate our wonderful unique culture and our people. We also welcome new Australians and it is with great pride I welcome the newest members of our community on this special day,” he said.
A free barbecue lunch and the Mayoral Cup Twenty20 cricket match will follow at East End Oval (next to the club).
Residents are encouraged to cheer on local players and enjoy a family day out with free face painting for the kids.
The weather will likely be warm so be sure to pack a hat, sunscreen and a comfy chair.
The game will start at 12.30pm, with the trophy presentation at 3.30pm.
