Nominations are now open for the 2021 Australia Day Awards and Greater Shepparton City Council is encouraging residents to nominate deserving community members.
Nominations are open for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year (aged under 30) and Senior Citizen of the Year (aged 65 and over) for Arcadia, Dookie, Mooroopna, Murchison, Shepparton, Tatura and Toolamba. Council is also calling for nominations under other categories including Sports Award and the Community Event of the Year, which includes any virtual events that may have been held.
The Australia Day Committee is monitoring the COVID-19 situation, and due to restrictions and the uncertain nature of the pandemic, celebrations in 2021 may look different to past years. How the region will acknowledge our Award winners is yet to be decided, however the Australia Day committees are committed to recognising and celebrating our 'local legends' in some way.
Nominations for the Australia Day Awards will close on 21 November 2020 for Murchison due to an external judging process, and on 1 December 2020 for all other towns.
This year Victoria has dealt with its fair share of hardship. The devastating bushfires followed by a global pandemic have left many residents needing a helping hand.
The heroes that helped out in these times are an example of the type of people who deserve to be recognised in the 2021 Australia Day Awards.
Council Mayor Cr Seema Abdullah said from big gestures to small acts of kindness, local heroes are everywhere in the community.
"This year has been tough, there is no escaping or denying that. But when you go through adversity, there are always people who stand up, make things happen and lend a helping hand," she said.
"These people deserve to be acknowledged, and while COVID-19 may stop us from gathering in person and celebrating, it is important we still do so, even if it is virtually.
"Australia Day Awards are a tribute to the quiet achievers, the people who are willing to drop what they are doing to help someone else. I urge anyone who has ever thought someone's contribution deserves some recognition, to nominate them for an award."
Nomination forms, the full list of categories and other relevant information can be obtained by contacting Council on 5832 9700, or on Council's website here.
