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Call out issued for Greater Geraldton nominations for 2024 Auspire Community Citizen of the Year Awards

Staff reporterGeraldton Guardian
Australia Day ambassador Ken Gibbons with Community Citizen of the Year winner for 2023 Nick Austin.
Camera IconAustralia Day ambassador Ken Gibbons with Community Citizen of the Year winner for 2023 Nick Austin. Credit: City of Greater Geraldton

People are being urged to nominate someone who inspires them in the way they give back to the community for the Auspire Community Citizen of the Year Awards.

Nominations for the 2024 awards are now open, and City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn called on everyone to take a moment and put forward a person, group or event making a positive impact in the community.

“Greater Geraldton is chock full of local legends who work tirelessly to make our community a great place to live,” he said.

“The Auspire Community Citizen of the Year Awards is an excellent way to give those unsung heroes the applause they deserve.”

The awards have recognised local heroes for more than 20 years, with four categories — community citizen of the year (for those over 16), young community citizen of the year (for those aged 16-30), senior community citizen of the year (for those aged 65 and over) and active citizenship (for community groups or events).

Winners from last year include community citizen of the year Nicholas Austin who was honoured for his skating programs, collecting old skateboards for disadvantaged youth and offering a safe place at the skate park.

Hannah Miles was 2023 young community citizen of the year for her efforts helping wildlife, while Karen Giles was named senior community citizen of the year for her volunteering in donating hundreds of baby bundles to newborns and their parents in Geraldton.

The Marina Parkrun claimed the active citizenship category, while the Mullewa citizenship awards were won by Anthony Critch and John Peet.

In a survey of 2023 respondents, 86 per cent said the awards helped generate better community connections and 75 per cent said they helped increase public awareness of their cause or organisation and built social cohesion.

The 2024 winners will be announced at Australia Day events in Geraldton and Mullewa on January 26. Nominations close on October 31.

To nominate someone go to https://www.citizenshipawards.com.au/nominate/

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