2011 was a defining year for Western Australians and this Australia Day is a time for us all to look back over the last twelve months and celebrate our collective achievements.

I believe, as a City and as a State, we shone on the global stage as a community that has great respect for each other and our surroundings.

Last year’s Skyworks was the most successful event it its 27 year history, with hundreds of thousands of people gathering in harmony to watch the renowned pyrotechnics display.

Perth then went on to celebrate many milestones last year, with two highlights being the Royal Visit and our successful hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

We proved that when it comes to joining together en-masse, that famous Australian Spirit and the ability to have fun and look after each other stands out and shows the world who we really are, friendly and fun loving people.

It is with that very same spirit that we will gather again along the banks of our Swan River on 26 January.

This year’s event will again provide a variety of activities to entertain people of all ages and backgrounds.

From celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and culture at the Survival Concert in Supreme Court Gardens to welcoming our newest citizens at the Citizenship Ceremony, Skyworks is a day for inclusion and recognition of everything it means to be Australian.

I look forward to seeing you on Australia Day.

The Right Honourable The Lord Mayor
Ms Lisa M Scaffidi