Leading citizens recognised at Australia Day awards in Geraldton

Six people and two groups in Geraldton and Mullewa have had their hard work in the community recognised at the City of Greater Geraldton’s 2019 Australia Day Awards.

Commanding officer of the TS Morrow Navy Cadet Unit Peter “Spike” Jones was named the Active Citizen of the Year.

Mr Jones was nominated for his dedication to the unit, which includes formal training nights, powerboat and sailing training, organising camps and ceremonial duties at civic functions.

He said he was “gobsmacked” when he found out he had won the award. “I am always proud of my kids and it made me feel I’d done it for them,” Mr Jones said. “I got out of the navy many years ago and spent about 18 months growing my hair and beard, and someone said come and see the cadets.

“Forty years later I’m still doing it.”

The Youth Citizen of the Year award was taken out by Kealan Nightingale for his “tireless work” assisting the Geraldton Suicide Prevention Action Group with their Community Tree Bench.

Kate McConkey was named the Senior Active Citizen of the Year for her work with the local Drug Action Group and Road Aware.

The Youth Community Citizen of the Year award went to Cynthia Comeagain, who is a youth worker and bus supervisor for Midwest Employment and Economic Development Aboriginal Corporation’s Reach Out Service.

The Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides took home the Active Citizen of the Year Group/Event award.

In Mullewa, Kevin Weir was named the Community Citizen of the Year for his many years volunteering with clubs and associations.

For 31 years Mr Weir helped behind the scenes at the Mullewa Wildflower Show.

Clem Keeffe, who has been involved with more than 20 community groups in Mullewa, was awarded the senior award.

Mullewa Police Station took home the group/event award for its staff’s dedication to the community.

Winners were announced on Saturday at the Geraldton Foreshore and the Mullewa Pool.