Devonport City Council honoured its Australia Day Award winners and welcomed a record 35 new citizens at a ceremony held today at the paranaple convention centre. Over 250 people were in attendance to witness the ceremony.
Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman presented 4 prestigious awards to demonstrated leaders in the community: Citizen of the Year Award: Felicity Sly, Joint winners of the Young Citizen of the Year: Dillon Goss and Nikki Howard, and Community Event of the Year: Devonport Junior Soccer Association's 'The McDonalds Devonport Cup'.
Long time volunteer, Peter Davern was also recognised for his tireless work within the Devonport community with the Spirit of the City Award. This is only the 5th time this Award has been granted by Council.
Cr Jarman said the Australia Day Awards provide a wonderful opportunity to honour and recognise the impact of the nominees within our community, and their selfless contribution to the City of Devonport.
"Congratulations to this year's award winners and a warm welcome to our new citizens. Devonport is fortunate to have individuals like you supporting our city, and we are privileged that our new citizens have chosen Devonport as the place to now call home," Mayor Jarman said.
"With Devonport thriving, we are seeing more people choose our city as their home. It certainly is a great place to live, work, invest and learn, and those choosing to make Devonport their new home is testament to this".
"We can understand why these residents are wanting to make our country their official home; we are lucky to live in one of the best spots in the world," Cr Jarman said.
"Whilst we understand that Australia Day holds different meaning and significance for many amongst our community, it affords us an opportunity to reflect on our good fortune to reside in such a wonderful country, and to demonstrate respect, kindness and gratitude".
Bios for award winners:
Citizen of the Year Award: Felicity Sly
Felicity Sly has excelled in the following areas:
Community Service and Governance: Through her leadership roles in multiple organizations such as Gran's Van, Devonport Choral Society, and Right on Cue Choir.
Advocacy and Education: Her extensive work with the Australian Breastfeeding Association as a Breastfeeding Educator and Counsellor has provided vital support to families.
Literature and Youth Engagement: She has significantly promoted children's literature through her work with the Tasmanian Branch of The Children's Book Council of Australia.
Arts and Culture: Her roles with the Devonport Eisteddfod Society and other arts-based groups have strengthened Devonport's cultural scene.
Problem Solving and Leadership: Stepping into critical roles under challenging circumstances, such as filling the Treasurer role for the Devonport Eisteddfod Society.
Felicity has dedicated her time to enhancing community welfare, evident through her long-standing work with Gran's Van, providing food and governance.
She has supported local families by advocating for breastfeeding and helping new mothers through the Australian Breastfeeding Association.
Her work with the Children's Book Council has enriched the literary opportunities available to children, teachers, and librarians in the region.
As part of the Devonport Eisteddfod Society and Choral Society, she has bolstered the performing arts community, ensuring events and competitions are well-managed and successful.
Felicity's contributions to local schools and the Library Association have provided development opportunities for students, parents, and professionals.
Felicity demonstrates unwavering commitment to serving her community, taking on multiple leadership and volunteer roles despite personal challenges or time constraints. She exemplifies selflessness and resilience, stepping into crucial roles like Treasurer for the Devonport Eisteddfod Society during a difficult time with minimal support.
JOINT Young Citizens of the Year:
Dillon Goss Twenty year old Dillon completed an extraordinary journey, running over 1,300 km around Tasmania in just 21 days (2/11/24 to 23/11/24) to raise awareness and funds for mental health. Partnering with SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY, this cause is deeply personal for Dillon, as he actively navigates his own mental health challenges. Through his efforts, he aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health, encourage open conversations about personal struggles, and support SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY's impactful programs and community initiatives across Australia. As of this submission, Dillon has raised over $30,000.
Dillon is an inspirational role model because he demonstrates extraordinary resilience, determination, and compassion through his actions. By running over 1,300 km around Tasmania in just 21 days, he not only showcased remarkable physical endurance but also highlighted the importance of mental health awareness-a deeply personal cause for him.
Nikki Howard: She has shown leadership and creativity by hosting her own podcast "Girls at Work," where she empowers women by sharing their career journeys. The women Nikki now interviews come from all over Australia, but the first interview was with a teacher turned-author living in Devonport. Her academic commitment is evident as she balanced these pursuits while completing year 12 at Don College where she is also a part of the student leadership team. While studying at Don College, she has received academic awards for her performance during the 2023 study year. Nikki was selected in 2023 to travel to Canberra for the "Country to Canberra" Power Trip, in the lead up to this Nikki was interviewed on ABC Radio in Canberra to share what empowers her to participate in a program like this traveling from Devonport. During the trip, Nikki was able to engage in proactive discussions with business leaders within Canberra as well as federal politicians, some who later appeared on her podcast.
Additionally, her participation in the prestigious National Youth Science Forum in Canberra highlights her passion for science and ambition to grow intellectually. Nikki's community spirit shines through volunteering at a local aged care home, reflecting compassion and a drive to give back and make a positive impact.
Community Event of the Year:
Devonport Junior Soccer Association's The McDonald's Devonport Cup
The Devonport Cup brings approx 2500 players and an extra approx 5000 to the City for the long weekend in June. Contributing to the income of all the Devonport and surrounding area businesses.
The opportunity for our local soccer players (as well as players all across the state), to showcase and participate in a statewide tournament. Giving the wider community an opportunity to enjoy our sport and assist by volunteering.
Spirit of the City Award:
Peter Davern has been a volunteer at Devonport Football Club for 45 years. Peter operates the canteen at Oval for all Senior & Junior games. Cleans and maintains the canteen and Clubrooms. Assists in running Bar. Peter is the current Licensee and a previous Board Member.
Current Life Member who has a very cheerful manner in the way he communicates to all. Never complains. The DFC Canteen has been named after him, 'Dav's Diner'.
