Perth's community spirit was on show today as the City of Perth welcomed 48 new Australian citizens from 25 different countries.
Perth's community spirit was on show today as the City of Perth welcomed 48 new Australian citizens from 25 different countries.
City of Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said it was an honour to greet Perth's newest citizens at this morning's Australia Day Citizenship and Awards Ceremony, which returned to the newly refurbished Perth Town Hall.
"We're delighted to officially welcome you all with open arms into the City of Perth community. It is brilliant to see such a diverse range of people from across the world becoming new Australian citizens today," Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas said.
"We're grateful and proud that each of you has chosen to make Perth your home."
The winners of this year's Community Citizen of the Year Awards were announced during this morning's ceremony.
Presented annually, the Awards give local governments around the state the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution, and celebrate community engagement, of people within the community.
This year's four deserving winners were chosen by a City chaired selection panel:
- Citizen of the Year – Megan Krakouer
- Citizen of the Year (Youth) – Sian Williams
- Citizen of the Year (Senior) – Jim Morrison
- Citizen of the Year (Event/Group) – Short Back and Sidewalks
Each nomination was reviewed for their significant contribution to the local community, leadership on a community issue that has resulted in the enhancement of community life, positive change and of course, inspirational qualities as a role model for the community.
Mr Zempilas acknowledged the important role community members play in the City.
"It is important to shine a spotlight on people in our community who have made a difference through acts of kindness, bravery and selflessness. We wouldn't have the wonderful community we do if it wasn't for the contribution of passionate citizens and neighbourhood community groups."
In conjunction with Local Government organisations across WA, Auspire – the Australia Day Council of WA has run the local Citizen of the Year Awards Program since 2003.
