But in the end the rain held off long enough in order for the celebrations to go ahead.

Hundreds of people packed into Queanbeyan Park for Australia Day festivities, with citizenship ceremonies, live music, plenty of rides, and of course, fireworks.

A total of 21 people became Australian citizens, coming from a diverse range of countries such as India, Malaysia, South Africa and the UK.

Guitarist with legendary Australian band The Seekers and Braidwood resident Keith Potger was the council’s ambassador for Australia Day, even treating the crowd to a rendition of the band’s anthem I Am Australian, alongside the Sing Australia choir, who supplied musical performances through the ceremony.

Robert “Bobby” Griffin was named Queanbeyan’s Citizen of the Year for 2018.

The 82-year-old was recognised with the honour for his sporting contributions to the community over many years.

As well as rides for the children, the evening saw musical performances from the band Code Red.

There was also a large fireworks display in the centre of Brad Haddin Oval to close the night.

Jerrabomberra resident Peter Swift was among the many people sharing the fesitivites of the day.

“For me the day’s been really busy,” he said.

“We went with family to the community barbecue in Jerrabomberra and then to a party at a friend’s place, before we came here to see some of our friends become citizens.”