November 23, 2020

Do you know someone who makes the Gunnedah Shire a better place? It’s time to nominate outstanding local citizens for Gunnedah Shire Council’s 2021 Australia Day Awards.

The Australia Day Awards recognise and honour the positive contributions of local individuals and groups who work tirelessly to enrich the Gunnedah Shire.

Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said Council is proud to celebrate the achievements and contributions of local citizens through the Australia Day Awards.

“Nominating someone for an Australia Day Award helps us celebrate everyday heroes who make a real and positive difference in the community and inspire others,” Cr Chaffey said.

“The 2021 awards will be especially significant as they will highlight the strength, resilience and capacity of the Gunnedah community when faced with adversity.

“This year there is an additional category for Environmental Citizen of the Year, recognising a local eco-warrior who has made efforts to preserve the environment.

 “As part of the 2021 Australia Day celebrations, grants have also been made available for villages to host diverse and exciting events. I look forward to seeing festivities planned across the Gunnedah Shire.”

There are 12 categories in Gunnedah Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards for 2020. They include:

Citizen of the Year Award (21 and over), Young Citizen of the Year Award (20 and under), Ossie and Beryl Campbell Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award, Eve Turner Perpetual Trophy, Community Organisation and/or Event Achievement Award, Max & Mikie Maas Good Neighbour Award, Sports Person of the Year Award (21 and over), Junior Sports Person of the Year Award (20 and under), Junior Sports Team of the Year Award (20 and under), Sports Team of the Year Award, Ivan Towns Memorial Award, and Environmental Citizen of the Year Award (open age category).

Nomination forms are available online or physical copies can be collected from the Gunnedah Shire Library, at the Cultural Precinct or the Gunnedah Shire Council Administration Building.

Nominations close 5pm Monday, January 11, 2021, with winners announced at the 2021 Australia Day Dinner on Monday, January 25, 2021. Tickets for the Australia Day Awards dinner are available at www.thecivic.com.au.

Village Progress Associations, Hall Committees and community groups are invited to apply for up to $500 in funding to facilitate community celebrations and can visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/N8MPSCB to submit an application. Submissions close December 10, 2020.

ENDS

Media contact: Communications team (02) 6740 2100.