Jessica Watson, who sailed around the world when she was just 16 years old, has been announced as the Australia Day ambassador for Ballina shire this year.
Ms Watson captured the hearts of her fellow Aussies when she sailed into Sydney Harbour on 15 May 2010, having achieved her dream of sailing around the world solo, non-stop and unassisted.
Now she is also a best-selling author, documentary maker, the subject of a feature film and an inspiring and in-demand speaker.
‘I’m looking forward to coming to the beautiful Ballina Shire and sharing my story on Australia Day,’ Ms Watson said.
The Ballina Shire Council is holding its Australia Day celebrations at the Lennox Community Centre, starting at 10 am.
The day kicks off with a smoking ceremony, welcome to country, citizenship ceremony,
music performances, ambassador’s address, and the announcement of the Australia Day Awards.
Nineteen nominations have been received across the categories of Sports, Young Citizen, Senior Citizen, Community Event and Local Hero. The Awards will recognise all nominees as well as the winner for each category before announcing the Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year.
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