The worst of the tropical depression TD05F has passed by and after a big clean-up of clearing sand and debris yesterday morning, Vaiana’s Bar and Bistro is gearing up to celebrate Australia Day tomorrow afternoon.

Ina Dance and Mii Upu have both resided in Australia for many years and are excited to commemorate the occasion.

Upu’s first visit to Australia was in 1972 with her cultural dance group, today like many other Cook Islanders, her children and grandchildren continue live in Australia.

“Like myself, many of us Cook Islanders have lived there, we all had a good life there and some of us have returned home. 

“Every Cook Islands family has a family member living in Australia, and Australia has been good to us,” said Upu who encourages former Cook Islands Australian residents and Australian citizens on the island to join in.

Last year over 200 people came together to mark the first Australia Day official function that was also held Vaiana’s Bar and Bistro on the beach in Nikao in the presence of the Australian High Commissioner to Cook Islands, Dr Christopher Watkins, Prime Minister Mark Brown and his wife Daphne and the Queen’s Representative Sir Tom Marsters and Lady Tuaine Marsters.

Celebrations will start from 4pm with sausage sizzles and Australian “cold drinks” will be available.