By Diana Paton
The Hills Shire Council has locked in a bumper program for its 2026 Australia Day celebrations on January 26, confirming two major family-friendly events will mark the national holiday.
The celebrations are set to commence with the popular Waves Pool Party at the Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre in Baulkham Hills. Running from 10am to 3pm, the event will feature a live DJ, free sausage sizzle (while stocks last), and various roving entertainers. Normal pool entry fees will apply.
The day’s main event, Fun at the Farm, will then kick off from 4:30pm at the picturesque Bella Vista Farm. This blockbuster evening program promises a strong musical lineup, headlined by 2025 Australian Idol Winner Marshall Hamburger, alongside children’s favourites Sesame Street characters, and crowd-pleasers La Fiesta Sound System.
Attendees can also enjoy performances on the Community Stage by local groups, with free activities, face painting, and roving entertainment available. Amusement rides and a selection of on-site food trucks will be available for purchase. The festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks finale at 9pm.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, described the Council’s event as “the best in Sydney and a true celebration of what it means to be Australian.”
Dr Byrne noted the growing diversity of the area, stating that the Australia Day celebrations are “booming in popularity” and that “increasingly it’s our migrant communities who are turning up in big numbers to celebrate what it means to be Australian, a testament to the unifying nature of our events.”
The Mayor also confirmed that the Council would host a citizenship ceremony at the Administration Building on the day, officially welcoming new citizens to the area.
“It’s set to be a phenomenal day for our community as we celebrate our great country,” Dr Byrne concluded.
Event at a Glance
- Waves Pool Party:
- When: 10am – 3pm, Monday, 26 January 2026
- Where: Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre, 44 Mileham Avenue, Baulkham Hills
- Cost: Normal entry fees apply.
- Fun at the Farm:
- When: 4:30pm – 9pm, Monday, 26 January 2026
- Where: Bella Vista Farm, Elizabeth Macarthur Drive, Bella Vista
- Cost: Entry is FREE. Food and amusement rides for purchase.
- Transport: Limited on-site parking. A free shuttle bus will operate from Bella Vista Metro Station.
For more information, residents can visit The Hills Shire Council’s website and search for ‘Australia Day 2026’.
