Wodonga's traditional Australia Day celebration is virtual this year, but a community event will still go ahead in the Border city.
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Tennis Australia will host an Australia Day event, in the lead-up to next month's Australian Open, at Wodonga Tennis Centre.
The centre is one of three regional Victorian venues to host an event on Australia Day under the theme, "Reflect, Respect and Celebrate", with live music to be performed by vocal duo Vika and Linda Bull.
The Australian Open trophies will be on display, while a six-metre big screen will show highlights of classic matches from the grand slam and video messages from Australia's top players.
A host of children's activities will also be provided, as well as the opportunity to have a hit of tennis on the centre's hardcourts.
Wodonga Tennis Centre president Craig Farrar said the club was privileged to showcase the event.
"We've had tennis events like Country Week, but nothing community-wise like this," Mr Farrar said.
"The fact the council is doing a virtual event and we're doing a live one, and, the cost of the ticket for what you get, it's pretty good bang for your buck.
"I'm hoping this will become a yearly event.
"It's kind of happening because the Australian Open is a bit later this year (February 8-21), but it's also because I think Tennis Australia is recognising the work regional centres are doing trying to get tennis out to everyone."
Mr Farrar said the club was able to run a COVID-safe event as the facility ccould allow the crowd to spread out.
"There will be picnic blankets and chairs over our front tennis courts, which will just look amazing," he said.
"We've always been a community tennis centre, so anything that actually helps our Wodonga community, we've always been quite approachable and willing to participate in it."
Tennis Australia chief tennis officer Matt Dwyer said the events across the state would give friends and families the chance to reconnect after a difficult 2020.
"The theme of reflect, respect and celebrate is a great opportunity for communities to come together, reflect on our nation's true history, and respect we all have a contribution to make, and celebrate our country and its place in the world," he said.
The event runs from 12pm to 4pm. Entry is $10 for adults and children are free, with all tickets to be purchased online through Ticketmaster.
Everyone receives a complementary meal, as well as a free ice cream and coffee.
Readers of The Border Mail have the chance to win 10 double passes by entering the promotional code "thank you" at checkout of the Ticketmaster website.