Hindmarsh Shire Council has announced Maree Caldow as their Australia Day Ambassador for 2018.

Nhill, Dimboola, Jeparit and Rainbow will each host events on Australia Day, including a flag raising ceremony along with addresses from the Mayor and Australia Day Ambassador. Awards for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Community Event of the year will also be presented on the day.

Maree's beaming face is universally recognised in Victorian harness racing circles.

She has made a sizable impact on the industry since assuming control of the family's Melton training establishment in the 1999/2000 season.

Maree has prepared more than 400 winners who have accumulated over $2.5 million in prize money.

Her principal successes have included the Group Three Ladyship Cup, Silver Chalice, Graham Goffin Memorial and Victoria Cup Consolation with reigning Australian Mare of the Year, Nolarama, as well as the Group One VicBred Super Series Final with Harry Moreau.

Maree's enthusiasm and exuberance serve as a tremendous example for others and promote harness racing in a very positive light.

The Ambassador's contribution is always a highlight of the Australia Day ceremonies, and a wonderful chance for all four communities to engage with a high-profile Australian.

The formal Australia Day program begins with a breakfast BBQ in Rainbow from 7.30am, followed by another breakfast BBQ in Jeparit from 8.45am, a morning tea from 10.00am in Dimboola, and finally a lunchtime BBQ from 11.30am in Nhill.

Hindmarsh Shire Council would like to extend its thanks to the Lions Club of Rainbow, Jeparit Town Committee, Dimboola CWA, Dimboola Town Committee and the Nhill Lions Club for hosting the Australia Day Event in their respective towns on 26 January 2018.

Council appreciates the ongoing efforts of these community groups to celebrate our history, identity and future opportunities as Australians - and looks forward to celebrating with you all over the Australia Day weekend.

Photo of Maree Caldow sourced from Arcadia & District Progress Association website.