Nominate a local hero for an Australia Day award

With Australia Day approaching, now is the perfect time to recognise the outstanding contribution a community member has made within Campbelltown, Camden or Wollondilly, with nominations open for the 2023 Australia Day Awards.

Camden Citizen of the Year 2022 and mental health advocate Brooke Murray said that it was important to recognise the hard work and dedication of volunteers.

“Not only does this thank the special people around us for everything they do for our community, but it gives a greater platform to promote this work and spread the word for others to support and join in,” Ms Murray said.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said thousands of residents volunteer their time and efforts each year to make Camden a better place.

“I know these people generally do not look for the recognition which makes them very humble, however it is important to recognise those who contribute to the lives of others,” she said.

The annual awards recognise the outstanding efforts of residents who dedicate themselves to making a positive difference in our community.

Michelle Legg representing the Wollondilly Women in Business who won the Wollondilly Local Hero – Community Group Award, said that the award has filled the group with a massive sense of pride, inspiring them to go even further.

“So many members of our community fly under the radar, humbly giving a helping hand to those in need or simply just wanting to make a difference and it’s so important that we recognise these wonderful souls,” Ms Legg said.

Founder of The Bin Chicken Alexis Bowen, who was named Campbelltown Environmental Citizen of the Year said that this recognition has opened up many doors and opportunities for growth.

“It’s good to recognise the work volunteers do, not only is it encouraging for that person, it can inspire others to volunteer too,” Ms Bowen said.

Ms Murray highly encourages anyone thinking of nominating someone around them who is making an incredible effort in our community to immediately do so.

“Not only does it celebrate their amazing work and show appreciation for everything they do, it also shines a light on all the positive things happening in the region and where and how others can get involved,” she said.

Remember the person you nominate must live inside that council’s area.

Each council has different criteria to enter people in, so click on the links below and check out your local councils’ awards:

Camden: Nominations close on Wednesday 14 December
https://www.camden.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/australia-day-award-nomination-form/

Campbelltown: Nominations close on Wednesday 21 December 2022
https://www.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au/CouncilandCouncillors/CommunityRecognitionProgramsandAwards/AustraliaDayAwardNominations/AustraliaDayAwardNominationsForm?

Wollondilly: Nominations close on Wednesday 14 December 2022
https://www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au/events-and-community/annual-events/australia-day/australia-day-awards-nomination-form/

– Sharon Robertson