National pride was on display from early morning, with Heritage Park decked out in blue, white, green and gold for the Australia Day awards ceremony, the traditional start to the Shire's festivities. 

Crowds tucked into a breakfast cooked by the Rotary Club of Blayney, before watching on as Shire residents were recognised for their valuable contribution to our community. 

Helen Burton was bestowed with the honour of Citizen of the Year for her work with countless community groups over several years.

Over at Carcoar, they lined Belubula and Icely streets in the thousands to catch a glimpse of the future, the theme of this year's Australia Day Fair parade.