Community spirit shines at 2019 Australia Day Awards

Published on 18 January 2019

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The 2019 Moira Shire Australia Day Awards were held last Thursday 17 January with 35 nominees for individuals, community events and community groups recognised for their contribution to local communities.

Mayor Libro Mustica congratulated the people and projects nominated for these awards – "they showcase the many strengths of local communities across the shire".

"Moira Shire is truly fortunate and grateful to have many dedicated and passionate volunteers who donate their time and skills for the betterment of others," Cr Mustica said."Without these nominations many of these groups, organisations and individuals would go unrecognised by the wider community.

"Each nominee for the 2019 Australia Day Awards was assessed by an independent adjudicator who praised the calibre of nominations.

"I would like to thank the Hon Wendy Lovell, State Member for Northern Victoria, Tim Quilty, State Member for Northern Victoria and Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy for attending this award ceremony."

2019 Moira Shire Australia Day Award Winners –

Citizen of the Year Debbie Van Corler, Yarrawonga

Debbie is an inspiration to all the community, particularly through her role in establishing the Made With Love Chemotherapy Turban Angels Project, which has not only benefited locals but people throughout Australia and now eight countries around the world.

Special Mention Christine Grinter, Yarrawonga (posthumous)

From her involvement in St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church, to playing and umpiring netball for Katamatite and Tungamah, to CFA secretary, to leading the Cubs, Joey’s, Brownies and Guides in the district, Christine was a passionate community member. Her ability to remain calm and caring was for all to see during her time looking after troubled children as a Foster Carer. Christine will be fondly remember for all her wonderful achievements and attributes.

Young Citizen of the Year Baneen Alrubayi, Cobram

Baneen was captain of Cobram Secondary College and represented the student voice at numerous forums. She has been involved with International Women’s Day and Women’s Leadership as a panellist. She shared her story during last year’s Refugee Week and spoke with all types of the media to enable her message to reach a broad audience.

Young Citizen of the Year Adam Morley, Yarrawonga

Adam was captain of Sacred Heart College, Yarrawonga and has represented the school on many occasions including Anzac Day where he proudly gave the address at the Dawn Service. He has also represented his school at regional and state levels of interschool chess and lawn bowls. Adam was awarded the Queen’s Scout Award in August last year and achieved the rank of Shodan-Ho (1st Black Belt) in Goju-Ryu Karate.

Special Mention Isabella Boys, Cobram

Izzy, as she likes to be called, provides morning tea at the Anglican Church in Yarrawonga. She helps with catering functions such as GAG/s P&F meetings and also volunteers her time at Cobram and Echuca Agricultural Shows.

Organisation of the Year Leo Club of Tungamah & District

Leo’s is open to all youth aged between 12 and 18 years. The club has purchased a defibrillator for the town and organised world famous bionics pioneer Professor Peter Blaney to speak. The club’s members have received multiple awards including State Leo of the Year, two District Leo of the Year and one District Leo of the Year Public Speaking awards; there has also been a Moira Shire and Federation Shire Young Citizen of the Year as well as two Tungamah Young Citizen of the Year awards.

Special Mention Nathalia District Welfare

Nathalia District Welfare has been serving the community since 1975 with all proceeds from their Opportunity Shop going back into the community. Last year saw the completion of the Nathalia Clock Project which commemorates the service provided by so many volunteers over the years.

Event of the Year Numurkah Foodbowl Festival

This event is a three day celebration of food, art, music and country lifestyle held on the third weekend in October. Last year was the 10th anniversary of the festival with a diverse program of events that engage thousands of locals and visitors over the entire weekend.

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