The Premier, the Hon. John Brumby MP, has announced the Australia Day Ambassadors for 2010, acknowledging their contribution and commitment as important messengers of our national spirit.

135 Victorians will give their time on Australia Day to play various roles in bringing together the many community based celebrations which provide an opportunity for townships to come together and celebrate our national day.

Chosen from a diverse range of fields across the arts, sport, community, entertainment and business arenas, they continue to promote ideas surrounding nationhood, inclusion,diversity and excellence.

Chair of the Australia Day Committee (Victoria), Bruce Hartnett, said Australia Day Ambassadors represent the broad range of experience of our rich nation and work to bring an understanding of the importance of coming together as a community.

"This year we have received overwhelming interest from local communities who are seeking the support of an Ambassador as part of their celebrations.  Our Ambassadors are often touched by the depth of kinship which is present at local celebration.  We hope their presence at Australia Day celebrations can aim to inspire people to build their hopes and dreams as part of a diverse and continually evolving community where tolerance and inclusion form part of everyday life." said Mr Hartnett.

Australia Day Ambassadors act in an honorary capacity, giving freely of their time to help celebrate Australia Day.

The program has been running since 1996 in Victoria and supports over 100 communities across the State.  The Ambassador program became truly national, running in all States and Territories, in 2008.

A full list of Australia Day Ambassadors, their fields and their Australia Day destinations, click here.

The Australia Day Ambassador program is proudly supported by Woolworths.

www.australiaday.vic.gov.au