Seven categories for award nominations

Nominations are now open for the Baw Baw Shire 2018 Australia Day Awards.

Locals can be nominated in seven categories including citizen of the year, young citizen of the year, Australia Day medallion and community event of the year. There are also three community contribution awards for environmental achievement, sporting achievement and cultural achievement.

Baw Baw Shire mayor Joe Gauci encouraged the community to nominate individuals and community groups who have made a significant contribution to the community.

“The awards are a wonderful way to show recognition for the inspiring people who give so much to our communities throughout the year,” said Cr Gauci. “I encourage all residents to nominate a friend, family member, fellow volunteer, or even a community group or event that you believe has made a positive difference to our way of life in Baw Baw Shire.”

Nominations close on Wednesday, November 15 at 5pm. A selection panel will consider all eligible entries against the assessment criteria and select a winner in each of the categories.

The selection panel consists of Cr Gauci and fellow Baw Baw Shire councillors.

Nominations can be made online through SmartyGrants at Australia Day Awards Nominations 2018.

Award winners will be officially announced at the Australia Day Awards ceremony on January 25, 2018.

At the Baw Baw Food Movement conversation day are (from left) Cr Mikaela Power, guest speakers Marieke Rodenstein with son Siggi and Maarten Strapper, Cr Jessica O’Donnell and ABC Gippsland presenter Bec Symons.

Taking away some positive messages about healthy soils and healthy people are (from left) Ash Wallace of Elderslie Organics at Ellinbank, panel member Liz Clay of Noojee, Peter Wallace of Elderslie Organics, Marieke Rodenstein with her son Siggi,...