Nominate today in Citizen of the Year Awards

Two of the Barossa’s community leaders are giving good reason to nominate in the 2021 Australia Day Citizen of the Year Awards, which are now open.

Barossa Citizen of the Year Julie Combe says dedicating her time to Barossa Area Fundraisers for Cancer has been tremendously rewarding.

“People say to me, you’re never home Julie. Well it’s because I’m passionate about what I’m doing,” Julie laughs.

Barossa Young Citizen of the Year, Ollie Sharp also loves volunteering her time as a performer to support causes close to her heart.

“Being able to help out at places like the RSPCA Million Paws Week, Vinnies Christmas appeal and local community events…it’s a good time to get amongst the community and help,” Ollie says.

The pair embody the spirit of the Australia Day Citizen of the Year Awards, which recognise outstanding community service in the current year or over a number of years.

Nominations are open until Friday, 20 November in the categories of Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Event of the Year and Community Project of the Year.

Awards will be presented at The Barossa Council’s Australia Day event on Tuesday, 26 January 2021.

Mayor Bim Lange says while the Australia Day format may be a little different in a Covid environment, it’s all about celebrating what matters.

“The Awards are an expression of pride in our community and the people who make it special,” he said.

“After a year of challenges we look forward to celebrating with others in a socially-responsible way and recognising the things, and people, we sometimes take for granted.”

Nominations can be made online at citizenoftheyear.com.au/nominate or hard copy nomination forms are available at Council offices at Nuriootpa, Angaston, Tanunda, Lyndoch and Mount Pleasant.