Thoona celebrates Australia Day

Little did he know he would also also pick up the Benalla Rural City Citizen of the Year award later in the day.

A community spokesperson said the day began with a flag-raising ceremony performed by Max James and emceed by Phillip Irvine.

“Entertainment (was provided by) Russell Ellis singing Australian country songs,” the spokesperson said.

"(He also spoke to the audience) about his work at El Questro Station in the Kimberleys in Western Australia.“

Benalla Rural City Cr Peter Davis was on hand to present Barrie Irvine with his first award of the day.

“About 50 people attended the morning with a free breakfast in the Thoona Progress Park and the entertainment in the Thoona hall,” the spokesperson said.