At the Australia Day Awards Ceremony on the 26th January 2026 at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre we were absolutely delighted to receive on behalf of all the community groups involved in the delivery of the Traralgon Community Christmas Parade Market and Grottos the Community Event of the Year 2026. It is a wonderful recognition of the contributions of the community groups that make up the committee, the sponsors, the emergency services, the parade participants, the market traders and all those who come along and enjoy a fantastic day out that is fun for the whole family.

The Parade was one of several exciting events that were nominated this year.

The award was presented to the Commitee Chair, Rae Mackay by the Mayor Sharon Gibson. Sharon was accompanied by Councillors Darren Howe, Jenny Campbell and Dale Harriman.

Rae thanked all who contributed to the day and to the delivery of the Parade, Market and Grotto, an excellent team effort.