Foreshore fun and fireworks

Sydney-based cover band Furnace and the Fundamentals will join an exciting line-up of activities and entertainment for the City of Greater Geraldton’s Australia Day celebrations.

Furnace and the Fundamentals are a high-energy six-piece, covering everything from Mark Ronson to Queen and Beyonce.

They’ll join local musicians She Lion, C4, and Julian Webb on the main stage at Stow Gardens.

The foreshore will be a hive of activity throughout the day, with several free activities for the whole family including a children’s beach party, and market and food stalls and games.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the foreshore would be buzzing.

“Australia Day is about celebrating the diversity and culture of our great nation,” he said.

“We are putting on a fantastic family-friendly celebration for everyone to come and enjoy.

“Our picturesque foreshore will be centrestage for a long list of activities in Geraldton.”

Australia Day activities will begin at 8am with the Champion Bay Surf Life Saving Club Open Water Swim Challenge.

The Menshed Geraldton will be open throughout the day, with free demonstrations of wood-turning.

Mid West seniors are invited to join the Rotary Club of Geraldton for a free afternoon tea and live performances by the Geraldton City Band at the QEII Centre.

Children can explore the ocean at the Museum of Geraldton’s Under the Sea event, running at the grassed area near Forrest Street.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Ultimate Watersports will be open all day, offering a wide range of water-based activities, such as jetskiing and wakeboarding.

A mesmerising fireworks display sponsored by Rigters Supermarkets will wrap up the celebrations on the Geraldton foreshore.

On the day, 35 new Australians will be welcomed at a citizenship ceremony and the winners of the Premier’s Australia Day Community Citizen of the Year Awards will be announced.

Mr Van Styn said Australia Day was the perfect time to celebrate the hard work of local community members.