Celebrations start early

The Wagstaffe community will be kicking off its Australia Day celebrations early with a twilight jazz and blues picnic on Saturday, January 24.

The Jazz Community Picnic at the Water's Edge will feature the talents of local blues band Soul Connection.

The event will be held from 6pm to 9pm on the grounds of the Wagstaffe Hall near the ferry wharf.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, chairs and rugs.

Australia Day celebrations on Monday, January 26, will commence with a flag-raising ceremony and community breakfast from 8am at the Wagstaffe Hall.

Actor and writer Mr Graeme Blundell will MC the event while local resident Mr John Jordan will be guest speaker.

Wagstaffe Australia Day coordinator Ms Veronica Crowe said the event would take place "rain, hail or shine".

"Australia Day is a great way for communities to come together and enjoy the entertainment and activities on offer," Ms Crowe said.

"Australia Day celebrations at Wagstaffe offer families a fun and relaxing Australia Day weekend on the foreshore of Brisbane Water.

"The Wagstaffe community welcomes all local residents and holidaymakers to enjoy the fun and free entertainment on offer.

"In case of bad weather, the event will be held in Wagstaffe Hall."

The event is sponsored by Gosford Council and coordinated by the Wagstaffe-Killcare Community Association.

Clare Graham, 14 Jan 2009 Interviewee: Veronica Crowe, Wagstaffe-Killcare Community Association Press release, 13 Jan 2009 Lisa-Maree Schell, Gosford Council