Australia Day Awards nominations open

The 2022 Citizen of the Year, Robyn Downham

Central Coast Council is calling for nominations for its Australia Day Awards 2023, providing an opportunity for residents to recognise individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to the region.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the 2023 awards will help honour the local leaders who have helped make the Coast a better place to live, work and play.

“Each year, we’re thrilled to see the community come together to honour the outstanding achievements and contributions of local individuals and groups who go the extra mile for our community.” Smith said.

“Nominating someone for an Australian Day Award is a wonderful opportunity for our region to appreciate those who have helped others this year.

“Submitting a nomination is an easy process, and we encourage you to take the time to share the story of someone you believe deserves recognition and honour.

“Whether it be a friend, colleague, neighbour, or someone at your sports club – now is your time to shine a light on these unsung heroes who have made positive contributions to our Central Coast community.”

Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said the 2023 awards will celebrate the region’s diversity, values, national achievements and hopes for the future.

“There is no denying the Central Coast community has demonstrated tremendous resilience in 2022, and there are many individuals and groups who deserve to be recognised for their contributions.” Hart said.

“The scope of categories as part of the 2023 Australia Day Awards means a wide range of contributions will be honoured, and I encourage the community to nominate the unsung heroes in our region who have dedicated their service and commitment to our community.

“Council is looking forward to hearing the stories behind our locals who have made positive contributions to our region through genuine kindness and generosity and offering these individuals and groups the recognition their impactful work deserves.”

Nominations for the 2023 Australia Day Awards opened on Monday September 12 and close at 5pm on Sunday, October 23.

There are five categories for nominations.

The Community Group Award recognises the important and inspirational work of a community organisation, in community services, wellbeing and community safety.

The Community Life Award recognises an individual who has made a valuable contribution to the community through the fields of sports, arts, culture, or environment.

The Volunteer Award acknowledges an individual volunteer who has made a significant long-term commitment to volunteer work within the community; someone who has demonstrated outstanding service, commitment, and dedication to our local community through their volunteer work in a non-paid capacity.

The Young Person Award recognises the outstanding contributions of an individual person aged 25 or under who has made a significant contribution to the community; someone who has achieved high levels in their field and acts as an inspiration and role model to their peers.

The Senior Citizen Award acknowledges the outstanding contributions of an individual person aged 60 or over who has made a significant contribution to the community.

The Central Coast Citizen of the Year winner will be selected by the selection panel, based on merit, from the winners of each award category.

Source:
Media release, Sep 12
Central Coast Council