Published on Tuesday, 28 January 2025 at 6:05:45 PM

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale celebrated a group of outstanding local community champions at the annual Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony on Sunday, 26 January.

 Recognised for their incredible commitment and dedication to making SJ a fantastic place to live were:

Shire President Rob Coales said that it was fitting that Australia Day was marked with two significant events.

“Among what makes SJ the best place to live is the fact that we are diverse and welcoming of all cultures and people from all backgrounds.

“We are a Shire that genuinely cares – as the recipients of this year’s Australia Day Awards demonstrate. Congratulations to everyone who was recognised today, our new citizens and awards recipients. You are a credit to the Shire,” President Coales said.

Bruce Hilliard received the Community Citizen of the Year award for his outstanding leadership, volunteer work, and dedication to improving the Darling Downs area, including advocating for facilities, coordinating community projects, and supporting residents in need.

Margaret Ward was named the Senior Community Citizen of the Year for over 30 years of leadership, dedication, and advocacy in volunteer roles, including revitalising senior groups, fostering social connections, supporting local initiatives, and leading organisations through challenges with compassion and inclusivity.

Casey Nikola received the Young Citizen of the Year award for her dedication to supporting people with disabilities, going beyond her role to provide holistic assistance, connect clients with vital community services, and advocate for their independence and well-being.

The SJ Farmers Market received the Active Citizenship Award for its exceptional role as a community hub, fostering economic growth, sustainability, and social connection, while mentoring youth volunteers, supporting local producers, and inspiring the next generation of community leaders.

For the first time, the Shire had two recipients of the prestigious Clem Kentish Community Service Award. Kenneth Elliott has dedicated an outstanding 50 years of service to the Keysbrook Volunteer Bushfire Brigade. His leadership roles in fire safety and community initiatives, and his unwavering commitment to mentoring, preserving local heritage, and supporting community projects, make him a highly worthy recipient.

Helen Rowe also received the Clem Kentish Community Service Award for her decades of dedicated service to the community, including supporting vulnerable individuals, leading crisis care initiatives, coordinating volunteers to assist those in need, and fostering collaboration across groups to provide vital goods and services to those in need.

The ceremony also recognised organisation Homelessness We Care - Serpentine Jarrahdale and Surrounds and Ruth Igglesden, who received certificates of appreciation for the Active Citizenship Award and Senior Citizen of the Year Award, respectively.

Tod Bergersen was honoured with a National Medal First Clasp for 25 years of dedicated service to the Volunteer Bushfire Brigades. In addition, the Byford and Districts Rotary Club presented the Rotary Australia Service Above Self Award to Belinda Brisco.

The Shire also welcomed 24 new citizens at the special citizenship ceremony. The newest conferees came from seven different nations, including Zambia, India, Fiji and the United Arab Emirates.

The Shire extends its heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients and new citizens, and we thank each and every person for their contributions to making this community a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive place to live.

For more information on the Shire’s Australia Day awards, visit: www.sjshire.wa.gov.au/australiadayawards

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