Published on Wednesday, 2 February 2022 at 1:33:00 PM
Citizenship was in the spotlight across the Shire of East Pilbara on Australia Day, with 20 residents becoming Australian Citizens and 21 people and organisations being recognised for their dedication to the community.
Ceremonies were held in Newman and Marble Bar on 26th January, and included a Citizenship Ceremony and the Community Citizen of the Year Awards.
Across the 21 nominees for the four Community Citizen of the Year Award categories, there were four winners from Newman and Marble Bar.
"It was difficult selecting the winners from among such an amazing group of individuals across the Shire," Shire President Anthony Middleton said.
"All nominees, not just the winners, are deserving on recognition for the work they do in the community.
"Congratulations to all the winners and nominees across the Shire, we thank you for the vibrancy you bring to our region."
The Community Citizen of the Year was Lee-Anne Ugle, who was recognised for her support and dedication to children and young people’s services in Newman.
The Citizen of the Year – Youth was Emilja Kiernan, from Marble Bar, for her work with young people in the town.
The Citizen of the Year – Senior was Dennis Ward, from Marble Bar, who is well-known and respected in town, and is always willing to cook a community barbecue.
The Community Group or Event of the Year was East Pilbara BMX Club, in recognition of their tireless dedication in improving the local BMX facilities.
Australia Day also saw 20 people in Newman and Marble Bar become Australian Citizens.
"It was an incredible honour to help welcome our region’s newest Australian Citizens and be part of such an important journey for them," Cr Middleton said.
"Congratulations to all of our newest Australian Citizens."
This year’s special guest in Newman was 2020 WA Australian of the Year Local Hero Award winner and 2020 Community Citizen of the Year winner for the Town of Victoria Park, Julian Pace. Mr Pace spoke about his inspirations and his journey, which included the founding of the organisation Happiness Co.
Australia Day festivities also included a barbecue breakfast in Newman, Marble Bar and Nullagine, as well as pool parties in Newman and Marble Bar, and water activities in Nullagine.
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