Bushfire recovery, fundraising and environmental protection topped East Gippsland Shire’s annual Australia Day awards last Saturday at Newlands Arm Community Centre.
Sarsfield Community Association’s Simon Hof was recognised as the shire’s Citizen of the Year for his tireless work in Sarsfield’s ongoing bushfire rebuild; Tilly-rose Hambling, of Orbost, earned the Young Citizen of the Year for her numerous charity fundraising efforts and achievements; while Bairnsdale Urban Landcare’s National Tree Day was announced the Community Event of the Year.
More than 150 people celebrated the outstanding contributions of 19 individuals, who earned 22 nominations, and community events at the awards.The shire-wide awards tapped into the Australia Day theme of “We’re all part of the story – reflect, respect, celebrate”.
Held in Newlands Arm for the first time, the awards included a Welcome to Country by well-respected Gunaikurnai community member, Kaylene Williamson, a flag unfurling by the Bairnsdale Scouts and Paynesville Sea Scouts, entertainment by East Gippsland Brass, and an Australia Day address from local ambassador, Helen Martin.
Mayor, Cr Mark Reeves was impressed by the calibre and contributions of the nominees and recipients.
IMAGE: East Gippsland Shire held its Australia Day Awards ceremony last Saturday at the Newlands Arm Community Centre. PICTURED: Citizen of the Year Simon Hof (right) with East Gippsland Shire Council mayor, Cr Mark Reeves. Bairnsdale’s Australia Day free breakfast and awards will be hosted by the Bairnsdale Classic Car Club tomorrow at the rotunda in Main Street from 7am. (Photo: Focus Photography and Framing)
