It was the stirring message from Tamworth councillor Mark Rodda as he delivered the Australia Day address to the tight-knit community of Bendemeer on Thursday morning.

“It is more than Vegemite being purchased back from the Americans by Bega Cheese and becoming Australian again, as it did earlier this week. 

“It is more than the pride and excitement of new citizens who call themselves Australian fro the first time on January 266 after being conferred citizenship.

“At its core, Australia Day is driven by communities.”

It was a sentiment that hit home in the small town with a mighty heart, as a strong show of locals converged on the grounds of the Bendemeer Bowling Club and Bendemeer Hotel despite the onslaught of showers.

A free community breakfast saw scores of locals – and visitors from as far as Queensland here for the Country Music Festival – feast on all things Aussie, before formalities were under way. 

Bendemeer kids, Brendan and Rebecca Donnelly, raised the flags as the national anthem was played. 

There was a swag of activities for everyone, from a coo-ee competition to a billy-boiling competition, to thong throwing and tug-of-war.

Bendemeer born and bred, Glen Smith was among the crowd and knows as well as anyone what it means to celebrate Australia Day in your community.

“We’re the lucky country and this is just a good place to live,” he said.