Meet Melbourne's new junior mayor — Daniel Lan
with thanks to 
The Northside Christian College, Bundoora, student won the Junior Lord Mayor of Melbourne competition, edging out four other finalists.
"I love the street vibe of Melbourne. There are so many beautiful street artworks around every corner and every alleyway," Daniel said.
"I also love the community of Melbourne. Everyone in the CBD although doesn't know each other personally, supports each other in times of need. This is the community spirit I value in Melburnians."
Daniel, 12, who's also a pianist, impressed at a judging ceremony held via video link and live streamed on the internet.
His big-ticket issues?
Cracking down on litterbugs and helping those doing it tough in lockdowns.
"There should be more emphasis on mental-health programs and helping those in need with help lines and counsellors, and foodbanks for those who need it."
Lord Mayor Sally Capp said judges were impressed by Daniel's community spirit, research, smart ideas, enthusiasm and creativity.
'His Worship' holds the ceremonial title for a year – getting to rock mayoral robes and gold chains, march with competition finalists in the Moomba Parade, perform official and fun duties with Cr Capp and more!
Cr Capp announced finalist Joel Crothers as a Special Emissary on zero-net carbon emissions.
Joel, 12, who attends St Marks Primary School, Dingley Village, pitched the idea of cutting carbon emissions in efforts to reopen Melbourne from lockdowns.
Now in its ninth year, the Melbourne Day Committee-run competition aims to raise awareness about Melbourne and our city's incredible Aboriginal history and culture – and instil civic pride by highlighting our journey since being founded on 30 August 1835.
Missed out? Subscribe and be reminded next year.Celebrate 186 years
30 August 2021
We love Melbourne
Celebrate, at home – again.
For the second consecutive year, the annual public flag-raising ceremony has been shelved because of Covid public-gathering restrictions.
It was hoped the all-clear would be given, allowing the Melbourne and Aboriginal flags to be hoisted atop the 20m flagpole at Enterprize Park on Melbourne Day, 30 August.
Instead, Melburnians are urged to celebrate at home our city's birthday, marking the occasion 186 years ago when settlers aboard the schooner Enterprize landed on the Yarra's north bank and started building the first permanent structures.
Melbourne Day festivities – and the popular oh-so-yummy Ferguson Plarre birthday cupcakes – will return next year, and at an upgraded Enterprize Park!
On 30 August raise a glass to Melbourne at home, hold a couch party with the family, or celebrate any way you can.We'll get through the Covid hiccup and Melbourne will bounce back to being marvellous like never before.
Take a selfie and post it on social media using #MelbourneDay
Updated: 26 August 2021
How we celebrated last year – on the couch at your place
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