Awards recognise volunteers who go above and beyond
Three individuals and a community organisation will be recognised in Australia Day awards presented by Baw Baw Shire today.
Louise Young has been named Baw Baw Shire’s citizen of the year, while young citizen of the year is Charlotte Smithett. An Australia Day medallion will be presented to Bernie Walsh and Baw Baw Food Relief has been named community organisation of the year.
Mayor Danny Goss said the annual awards honoured and recognised residents who gave back to the community every day without seeking recognition.
“Australia Day is our day to reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements and our people.
“Each year these awards recognise and celebrate the special people who go above and beyond the call of duty. We are fortunate to have so many extraordinary people here in Baw Baw, each devoted to making our shire a great place,” he said.
Cr Goss said several criteria were taken into consideration when selecting award recipients.
He said council received many strong nominations and each choice was a difficult one.
“Each category winner should take great pride in their award,” he said.
Citizen of the year Louise Young was described by many as an incredible force for community connection in the Ellinbank district.
Louise’s nomination said the success and strength of the Ellinbank Badminton Club reflected her dedication to the club as part of the committee and as a coach.
Through her work, Louise has helped many young people to have a chance to enjoy the sport and has gone above and beyond to make it accessible for all.
Louise’s community involvement also has included establishing the Ellinbank Playgroup, Warragul Regional College Parents and Friends committee president and producing the Ellinbank community newsletter for many years.
Young citizen of the year is Charlotte Smithett who is described as always caring, kind and consistently thinking of others, and always representing the community.
As a member of the 1st Drouin Scouts, Charlotte has participated in many community fundraisers, organised nights with her scout troop to clean up around the town and doesn’t hesitate to help others when they need it.
Charlotte has also received her Australia Scout Medallion, which is a significant undertaking and a credit to her attitude.
In a new award this year, Baw Baw Food Relief has been named community organisation of the year, after last year taking out the community event of the year award.
Baw Baw Food Relief is a nonprofit charity supported by more than 70 unpaid, dedicated volunteers with every effort and dollar raised contributed to the purchase food to feed community members experiencing hunger through financial hardship.
Last year the group directly supported 900 families in times of need.
Food Relief Centre delivers three to four tonne of healthy nutritious food each week to families and individuals who are suffering food insecurity.
The group also has supported neighbouring communities in times of heartbreak and crisis.
The Australia Day medallion winner is Drouin Secondary College teacher Bernie Walsh who is described as going above and beyond for his students.
He is described as a passionate, driven and resilient teacher who has made a significant contribution to the community.
Bernie’s unique teaching style and dedication to providing the best possible learning experience is evident in the way he interacts with his students, helping to set them up for a bright future.
The awards presentation and citizenship ceremony will be held in Warragul Civic Park today from 10.30am, followed by a free community barbecue.