A cracker of a day

By Sheree Hoddinett  

From splash-tastic thrills to laid-back tunes by the water and a step back in time, Australia Day across the community is shaping up to be an absolute ripper for 2026. 

If your idea of celebrating starts with slipping, sliding and laughing until your cheeks hurt, Sandstone Point Hotel is the place to be from 10am on Monday, January 26. Ready to slip, slop, slap and slide this Aussie Day? Grab your kit, pack your sunnies and make tracks early, because the legendary 50-metre slip ’n’ slide is back and this year it’s bigger than ever. Four lanes promise more speed, more splash and plenty of friendly competition, whether you bring your own inflatable (under one metre wide) or body-surf your way down the slide. 

Every pre-booked slide pass not only locks in your spot but also puts you in the draw to win a XXXX Prize Pack or a Comiskey Butcher meat tray, not bad odds for a bit of fun in the sun. Off the slide, the vibe stays classic Aussie, with live tunes on the lawn, kangaroo relay races, kids’ activities and plenty of room to throw down a picnic rug. Best of all, entry is free, making it an easy choice for families and groups of mates keen on a cracker of a morning by the water. Check out all the details via sandstonepointhotel.com.au/event/aussie-day/ 

As the afternoon rolls in, the celebrations continue at Music in the Park on Bribie Island. From 1pm to 5pm at Brennan Park, Bongaree, locals and visitors alike are invited to gather their family and mates for an unforgettable Australia Day afternoon. With free entry and a relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere, it’s the kind of event that captures everything people love about the day. 

The main stage program kicks off at 1.05pm with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Mick, followed by performances from Beth Lucas at 1.30pm, Kiani Jazz at 2.45pm and crowd favourites Anthems at 4pm. Food trucks will be on hand to keep hunger at bay, while children’s activities ensure the little ones are just as entertained as the grown-ups. With live music rolling all afternoon and the water glistening nearby, it’s the perfect excuse to settle in with a picnic rug, folding chairs, sunscreen and plenty of water and soak up the true-blue Aussie vibes. Visit whatsonmoretonbay.com/events/music-in-the-park-bribie-island. 

For those who prefer their Australia Day with a side of heritage and history, Caboolture Historical Village is hosting a relaxed celebration from 9am to 2pm. Set among more than 70 historic buildings, the village comes alive with classic cars, motorcycles, vintage machinery and hands-on demonstrations that bring the past roaring back to life. The grand parade at 1pm is a highlight, showcasing old machinery, rare tractors and vintage vehicles in working order. 

Live music from the Blarney Stone Folk Band on the Village Pub verandah, bush poets, kids’ face painting and plenty of food and drink round out the day, while Skywind Falconry adds a touch of wonder with owls in free flight and photo opportunities. Entry is $15 for adults, $5 for children aged six to 16, with free entry for those under five and gold coin parking supporting Caboolture & District Woodcrafters Inc. Tickets are available now www.trybooking.com/DIFFE 

However you choose to celebrate, whether it’s sliding, singing or strolling through history, Australia Day across this corner of the community offers something for everyone. So the only real question is: wattle you be doing this Australia Day?