Damien Leith named Wollongong’s Australia Day Ambassador

Multi-talented artist and radio host, Damien Leith has been named Wollongong’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2021.

Damien Leith is known for his works as a singer, songwriter, producer, author, playwright and TV and radio host. First debuting in Australia with his win of the 2006 edition of Australian Idol, Damien has since gone on to become a popular Australian musician and TV personality.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM welcomed Damien Leith as Wollongong’s next Australia Day Ambassador.

“This Australia Day, I have the pleasure of welcoming Damien Leith as our Australia Day Ambassador. Like many Wollongong residents, Damien is an Australian citizen by choice having taken the pledge from the then Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard, back in 2007.”

“Damien is now a much-loved Australian musician and has over a short period of time been recognised with multiple award nominations. Now a true Wollongong local, Damien lives locally and can be heard on the radio as an announcer for WAVE FM.”

Damien Leith will attend the Australia Day Awards Dinner, a citizenship ceremony and the official welcome on Australia Day.

'It's such a special honour to be an Australia Day Ambassador for Wollongong - I arrived in Australia 17 years ago and overnight it felt like home. It's a privilege to celebrate this wonderful country and to welcome the next generation of Australian Citizens,' said Damien.

Cr Bradbery said while 2020 had been a challenging year for many, it was also a time of reflection and encouraged people to get their nominations in for Council’s Australia Day awards including Citizen of the Year.

“We’ve had a disruptive year but it’s also a year when people have really stepped up and looked out for their community,’’ he said.

“The Australia Day awards provide the opportunity to say thank you to those selfless individuals in our community who step up and assist others.

“You’ve still time to get your nominations in with Council extending the submissions date to 12 noon Friday 11 December.’’

Australia Day 2021 will look a little different to normal. Instead of a focus on the Harbour and foreshore, the event will feature a flyover by HARS and, in the evening, three light displays along the coast that the community can enjoy from a distance.’

Visit Council’s website for more information about Australia Day celebrations or follow our Facebook page for the latest updates.