Christine Anu, Mark Vincent and Rai Thistlethwayte from Thirsty Merc will headline Sutherland Shire Council’s 2019 Australia Day concert at Cronulla.
A host of other great talent will also be on show at the two-day celebration at Cronulla beach and one day at Blaxland Oval, Illawong.
The movie, The Greatest Showman, will also be shown in Cronulla Park and the concerts at both events will climax with fireworks.
The council will donate all profits from the 2019 celebration to Rural Aid to assist drought-afflicted communities.
Last year, more than 30,000 people attended the two-day festival on the Australia Day weekend.
Mayor Carmelo Pesce said the 2019 events were expected to be even bigger than this year.
“Our Australia Day festival is one of the largest and longest running in Australia and truly showcases how culturally rich and vibrant our community is,” he said.
“We have a massive program planned for both days across Cronulla beach and Blaxland Oval, with something for all ages to enjoy.
“Council has chosen Rural Aid as the 2019 Charity Partner.
“We know our residents have big hearts and hope everyone will dig deep and support families in the country who are doing it tough in this horrible drought.”
The festival will comprise events at Cronulla and Illawong on Saturday, January 26, and the Shire Vibes concert in Cronulla on Sunday, January 27.
Australia Day morning will begin with the shire’s s newest citizens being sworn in at a ceremony at Sutherland Entertainment Centre.
The council’s flagship free concert at Cronulla starts at midday, where families can watch a screening of the film The Greatest Showman on the big screen.
The entertainment will continue throughout the afternoon, including performances from Engadine and Miranda Musical Societies, Australian Trilogy, Endless Summer Beach Party, The Coldplay Show and DJ Jazzy.
At Blaxland Oval, Illawong, the Australia Day entertainment will include ANSTO’s Science Shows, Endless Summer Beach Party, The Coldplay Show, DJ Jazzy and Australian Trilogy.
Event celebrations will conclude at both locations with the traditional fireworks spectacular at 9pm.
Day two of the festival brings Shire Vibes to Cronulla Park, showcasing local talent including Alex Hurt, Evie J Willie, Tim Moxey, The Coldplay Show and Endless Summer Beach Party.
