PRESENTATION of Loddon Shire’s Australia Day awards will recognise people who go above and beyond for local communities, said Mayor Dan Straub.
Cr Straub said Loddon was lucky to have so many people who contributed to their communities.
In announcing Pyramid Hill’s Ian Bartels and Tyson Blair (Wedderburn) as the shire’s top citizens this year, Cr Straub also congratulated recipients of the five ward awards.
Named top citizen in Boort Ward has been church and Boort District Health volunteer Carmel Alison who has been praised for her kindness and generosity integral to Boort’s health and happy community.
Bridgewater Fire Brigade captain Tim Ferguson will receive the Inglewood Ward award. He has been leading the brigade for 12 years and is also group officer of the Loddon South Group, instrumental in clean-up efforts following the 2011 and 2022 floods,
Eddington’s Veronica Palmer, who will be recognised with the Tarnagulla Ward award recognising tireless efforts to ensure that Eddington remains a vibrant and connected community.
Dingee Bush Nursing Centre board president Geoff Thomas will receive the Terrick Ward award. Also a CFA volunteer, Mr Thomas contributes to the local Uniting Church, lobbied for the Mitiamo pipeline and supports numerous community and sporting projects.
Local Lions club secretary Jon Chandler will be presented with the Wedderburn Ward award. The citation says Jon dedicates his time to helping the community and is always willing to assist those in need. Known for his reliability and inclusivity, Jon’s years of service have strengthened and enriched the Wedderburn community.
And members of Bridgewater on Loddon Development’s sub-committee that organised a back-to for the centenary of the town’s memorial hall in October 2023 will be recognised with the shire’s Community Event of the Year award.
Cr Straub said: “Once again we’ve seen an inspirational group people and a community event recognised for their outstanding contributions to Loddon Shire,” Cr Straub said.
“On behalf of council, I’d like to congratulate all Australia Day award recipients,” he said.
“I’d also like to thank everyone who took the time to submit nominations for these awards,”
Cr Straub added.
Australia Day celebrations start with breakfasts in Dingee, Eddington and Bridgewater on Sunday with the day’s final events that afternoon in Pyramid Hill.
Next week’s Loddon Herald will have special articles on ward award recipients
Loddon Herald
Australia Day spotlight on inspirational people
2 min read
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Inglewood Ward Award recipient Tim Ferguson
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