Nyabing shows true Aussie spirit

Like many across the State, the small community of Nyabing this Australia Day will be cranking up the barbie and seeking shelter from expected sweltering temperatures.

The Kent Shire's Australia Day festivities kick off at 7.30am with a big brekkie, followed by thong and horseshoe throwing, a water balloon toss and Vegemite finger painting.

The Great Southern town, which locals describe as being safe and caring, has extra cause to kick up its heels - this year being its centenary.

The shire boasts a population of just under 700 people, bolstered by a mini baby boom of 15 births in three years.

But what it lacks in population, it makes up for in old-fashioned Australian spirit. A spirit found in many Aussie towns that have faced drought, floods, fire and, in Nyabing's case, snow in July 1956.

Nyabing Centenary Committee co-president and secretary Alyson Cooper said the committee was expecting the population of the town to double during its centenary celebrations on October 19 to 21.

The celebrations will include a historical photographic display, exhibitions, live bands and blade shearing.

"It's all about people being able to learn where they come from and how far they've come," Ms Cooper said.

Shire of Kent president Cathy Crosby - who has lived in the area since 1974 - said Nyabing was a caring community in which neighbours were willing to lend a hand through thick and thin.

"I've seen floods, I've seen hail, I've seen crops wiped out ... but I know that would apply to all farming communities - they have a great resilience," Ms Crosby said.

"The centenary will bring the community together and be an opportunity for people who left the district to come back and celebrate."