By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE Australian flag flew buoyantly against the grey-blue sky in Berwick as the local community walked underneath it, celebrating their national day.
Roughly 6000 people visited Pioneers Park throughout Monday as the Rotary Club of Berwick held their annual Australia Day event.
Vintage tractor engines could be heard purring underneath the clip-clop of a horse-drawn carriage that carried guests through the park.
The ceremony was officially opened by Casey Mayor Mick Morland, after which the national flag was raised.
“Berwick was so busy, there about 5000-6000 people over the day,” Cr Morland said.
“It’s fantastic because they’re all free events for people to enjoy.”
David Jacka, who became a quadriplegic after a motorcycle accident in 1988, was the Berwick Australia Day event ambassador.
After the accident Mr Jacka was left with just six per cent normal physical function and had to re-learn how to feed himself.
He later returned to full-time work, got married, and also became a well-respected aviator.
Mr Jacka spoke to the crowd gathered at Australia Day about his battle with adversity and the perseverance and determination which saw him overcome it.
Mr Jacka also created his own charity, On a Wing and a Chair, to raise public expectations of what disabled people could achieve.
The free event ran from 10am to 3pm and included performances from a range of bands up on stage, food stalls and emergency services challenges.
News photographer DONNA OATES visited Pioneers Park to take photos of the event.
