Murray Shire's Ambassador for its 2013 Australia Day celebrations is Australian television presenter, Catriona Rowntree, best known for her role in the Nine Network's Getaway program, which until recently ran for 17 years.

Rowntree studied journalism at Macleay College in Sydney, after working as a researcher with Business Review Weekly, 2GB and Prime Television. In 1991 she moved to FM radio as a newsreader and music and lifestyle program host, first in community radio and then with the ABC youth station Triple J, for which she presented until 1996.

In 1992, Rowntree was hired as a researcher for the Nine Network children series Wonder World!, graduating to the position of reporter the following year, and host in 1994. In that same year, whilst still working at Triple J, she also became host of a Nine Network children's show, What's Up Doc?. Rowntree went on to become the show's writer/producer.

In 1996 Rowntree became a reporter on Getaway, a popular Nine Network travel series. While retaining this position, she has also made appearances on other Nine programs. She also appeared on Nine's Sydney New Year's Eve telecast alongside Richard Wilkins. In 2006 she wrote a travel book, Catriona's Australia: My Favourite Aussie Locations, published by Harper Collins. In 2009 and 2010 Rowntree was appointed as MC at the Pas de Deux in Paradise production by The Australian Ballet at qualia on Hamilton Island.

Murray Shire Mayor, Councillor Tom Weyrich, extended his thanks to Woolworths Limited, who are proud sponsors of the Ambassador Program.

"The Australia Day Ambassador Program has gone from strength to strength due to the unwavering enthusiasm and support of our Ambassadors, all of whom give their time for free, with many finding the experience so rewarding, coming back year after year," said Cr Weyrich.

Murray Shire's 2013 Australia Day celebrations will take place on Saturday 26 January at the Kerrabee Soundshell, Moama, commencing at 7:45am with a free big BBQ breakfast, musical entertainment, Australia Day giveaways, a jumping castle and face painting for the kids. The official ceremony will begin at approximately 8:45am, which will include the Australia Day Welcome by the Mayor, Cr Tom Weyrich; the Australia Day Address by the Australia Day Ambassador; the presentation of Australia Day Awards and the cutting of the Australia Day Cake.

For further information on Murray Shire's Australia Day celebrations, please contact Kerri Maher on 03 5884 3302.

"Thank you Australia - let's say thanks for our way of life"