MEDIA RELEASE

Sutherland Shire Council is calling for nominations of worthy recipients for its annual Sutherland Shire Australia Day Awards program to celebrate incredible efforts of people who are united by a common cause to improve the lives of many among the community.

Each year, the awards program helps shine a light on remarkable contributions from individuals and groups who generously give back to the community through their work or volunteer efforts.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce welcomed the return of the awards program and praised the efforts of the many community-minded people who help make Sutherland Shire a more supportive place to live.

“We are thrilled to see another year of celebration for this awards program and give due recognition to the many selfless contributions from locals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve the quality of life for many here within Sutherland Shire,” Mayor Pesce said.

“Over the past few years, it’s been incredibly inspiring to see many volunteers and community organisations remain steadfast on delivering their services, even while facing operational hurdles through some very challenging times.

“With many operations back at their best, I’m sure we will see some incredible nominations come to the fore this year, but to bring these noble people out into the spotlight we need your help to identify worthy recipients of the awards.”

Council is encouraging nominations for the following award categories:

Citizen of the Year is awarded to a Sutherland Shire citizen who has made a significant imprint on our community and achieved the most distinguished performance and/or made the most outstanding contribution to the Sutherland Shire during 2022.

Young Citizen of the Year is awarded to a Sutherland Shire citizen aged 25 or younger (as at 26/1/2023) who has become a role model for their peers by achieving the most distinguished performance and/or made the most outstanding contribution to the community during 2022.

Community Group of the Year is awarded to an organised community group based in the Sutherland Shire, whose services played a vital role in enhancing the wellbeing of members of the local community during 2022.

Environmental Citizen of the Year is awarded to a Sutherland Shire citizen or community group who have remained steadfast on advocating for environmental change and accomplished significant environmental achievements in the local community during 2022.

“These awards remind us of the importance of giving back to our community and by submitting a nomination you can help provide due recognition of the extraordinary efforts displayed by many throughout our community,” Mayor Pesce said.

Nominations are open until Friday 4 November via Council’s Join the Conversation page: www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au/jtc

2022 Australia Day Award winners