Ararat award nominations open

Nominations for Ararat Rural City Council’s 2018 Australia Day Awards are now open.

The awards have been revamped to feature four new categories honouring individuals or groups who continue to make a difference across the municipality.

The four awards presented will be Ararat Ambassador, Multicultural Harmony, Community Spirit and Inspiring Healthy Living.

Ararat mayor Glenda McLean said a crowd of 250 people attended last year’s Australia Day celebrations.

“Our Australia Day Awards are always a terrific opportunity to say thank you to the wonderful people who work tirelessly to make the Ararat Rural City a great place to live,” she said.

“There are many quiet achievers who run events, maintain facilities, promote worthy causes or just lend a hand to those in need and we would love the chance to recognise these people who make our community what it is.

“The eligibility criteria for the four awards are listed on our website or available to view at the municipal office. If you know someone who should be recognised this January, please put their name forward.”

People can nominate online at www.ararat.vic.gov.au/australia-day- awards-2018.

People can call tourism and community information manager Julie Kirkpatrick on 5355 0270 or email jkilpatrick@ ararat.vic.gov.au for more information.

Further details about Ararat’s Australia Day celebrations will be announced closer to January 26.