Albert Park in Cootamundra will come alive on Monday 26 January 2026, with entertainment and an opportunity to Reflect, Respect and Celebrate to those who give to their communities.
The festivities start at 8am in Cootamundra, where local classic and vintage car owners will have their vehicles on display. Cootamundra Lions Club will be catering with delicious food. Coota Connections will keep the Cootamundra crowd entertained with their popular music and a performance by local didgeridoo player Murray Izzard. Four new citizens will be receiving their Australian Citizenship, along with the presentation of the 2026 Student Grants from the Cootamundra Community Education Fund. An indigenous craft corner and face painting will keep the youngsters busy. Australia Day Ambassador Mr Peter McLean will give an address and assist Deputy Mayor Ros Wight with the presentation of the Australia Day Awards.
Raised on a rural property along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River, Peter developed a deep appreciation for the environment early in life. His professional journey began in local and state government roles, including with Warringah Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, before moving into community-focused leadership.
In 2004, Peter joined Keep Australia Beautiful NSW, where he managed litter reduction campaigns and programs such as Tidy Towns, later becoming CEO. During his tenure, he strengthened the organisation’s public profile, expanded community engagement and ensured financial sustainability.
Peter’s expertise extends to strategic governance and environmental policy. He holds a degree in Environmental Management, a Master of Business Administration with a sub-major in Business Law and Public Relations, and certifications in bush regeneration and business governance. His leadership has consistently focused on practical solutions that deliver social, environmental and economic benefits.
Beyond his professional roles, Peter is passionate about grassroots community involvement. He has served as President of the Macarthur Cycling Club and continues to advocate for sustainable transport and healthy lifestyles. His commitment to environmental stewardship is underpinned by a simple philosophy: healthy soils mean healthy people, environments and economies.
For Peter, being an Australia Day Ambassador is an opportunity to celebrate the values of community, sustainability and innovation. He looks forward to inspiring Australians to reflect on our shared responsibility for a cleaner, greener future and to embrace the spirit of collaboration that defines our nation. From 12 noon the Cootamundra Swimming Pool will be hosting a pool party, with free entry and inflatable fun.
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Peter McLean is a respected leader in sustainability and community advocacy, with a career spanning local government, environmental management and the not-for-profit sector. Currently serving as CEO of Bicycle NSW, Peter champions active transport and safer cycling infrastructure to create healthier, more connected communities across the state.
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