General News
21 January, 2026
C’mon on Aussies, c’mon
FREE pool parties will be hosted across the Cassowary Coast on Australia Day.
The parties are designed to provide a fun, relaxed and family-friendly way to enjoy the national day.
Pool parties are on Australia Day, Monday 26 January 2026 at:
Innisfail Swimming Pool: 10am-2pm
Mission Beach Aquatic Centre: 10am-2pm
Cardwell Swimming Pool: 10am-2pm
Tully Swimming Pool: 3pm-7pm.
“Entry to all events is completely free, with attendees able to enjoy music to set the celebratory mood and a barbecue sausage sizzle hosted by local community groups,” a council spokeswoman said.
“The pool parties are proudly supported by the National Australia Day Council, local swimming and fitness providers, including Marlin Coast Swimming and Fitness, Grimsey’s Aquatics and Cotter Aquatic Swim and Fitness, as well as community groups who will be hosting the barbecues,” she said.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said it was a fun day to celebrate.
“Council is proud to partner with the National Australia Day Council, local aquatic providers and community groups who give their time and support to deliver these events for our community,” she said.
Cr Trudy Tschui said Australia Day was about “coming together as a community and these pool parties offer a safe, welcoming and enjoyable way for families, friends and neighbours to celebrate locally”.
Australia Day is also being celebrated on Dunk Island.
A Dunk Island Adventures spokesman said it was “all about making the most of this beautiful island setting”.
“While there are no formal organised events, the day has its own special atmosphere as visitors and locals come together to celebrate,” he said.
“The new Dunk Island Beach Club is a great spot to visit, located next to the Dunk Island Jetty. Find cold drinks, great food and a relaxed place to enjoy Dunk Island.
“The highlight of Australia Day on Dunk Island is the gathering of local boats south of the sand spit on Pallon Beach.
“Locals from Mission Beach, Cardwell, Innisfail and beyond load up their tinnies, cruisers and sailing boats with eskies, barbecues, beach cricket sets and everything needed for a perfect day on the water.
“The sand spit transforms into a beachside party, with boats lined up along the shore and families setting up on the beach. It’s a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere where strangers become friends over a cold drink and a game of cricket on the sand.”
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