Local heroes whose selfless efforts have transformed lives were celebrated during The Hills Shire Council's Australia Day Awards at the Pioneer Theatre on Wednesday 22 January.
The event celebrated the extraordinary contributions of individuals and groups across five categories: Community Group of the Year, Environmental Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, and Citizen of the Year.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said the afternoon was a fantastic way to honour those who tirelessly devote themselves to serving the local community without seeking rewards or recognition for their work.
"I am incredibly thankful for the efforts of these exceptional individuals and groups whose selfless contributions to our community make the Shire a better place," Mayor Byrne said.
"Their remarkable efforts reflect the true essence of Australian values and the spirit of mateship. They remind us of the power of community and inspire each of us to make a meaningful difference."
The winners in each category were:
Community Group of the Year:
- Winner: Bears of Hope
The Castle Hill organisation provides comfort, counselling, and resources for families who have experienced the loss of a baby during pregnancy, birth, or infancy. The organisation offers fee-free face-to-face counselling, support groups, community events, and education sessions for local hospitals. They also supply bears, resources, and cuddle cots to hospitals to help grieving families.
- Highly Commended: Hills Musical Theatre Company (HMTC)
HMTC has been entertaining audiences throughout the Hills Shire for over 50 years. Their musicals have allowed people to participate and enjoy theatre within the community. Their musical, Seussical, was particularly noteworthy for its accessible and inclusive approach, featuring performers of all abilities. The production received praise from theatre enthusiasts and audience members alike for ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or ability, could participate in and enjoy live theatre.
Environmental Citizen of the Year:
- Winner: Patrick Shirvington
Patrick is a renowned landscape artist and multimedia creator from the Hills, known globally for his work as an illustrator, curator, and children's book illustrator, including Can You Find Me and Can You Find 12 Busy Bees. Passionate about the local environment, he works as a bush regenerator for the National Trust and shares his expertise through nature journalling workshops for The Hills Shire Council's Environment Workshop program. Patrick has been an artist-in-residence at Bundanoon, Gibberagong Environmental Education Centre, and various schools across Sydney, focusing on landscapes and environmental art.
Young Citizen of the Year:
- Winner: Megan Sutton
Megan is a dedicated advocate for disability awareness and a committed volunteer, known for her role as Run Director for the Rouse Hill Parkrun. Over eight years, she has volunteered more than 130 times, helping organise, manage, and ensure the safety of participants in the weekly 5km community event. Megan lives with a disability and is passionate about advocacy including the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme, which helps individuals with non-visible disabilities receive understanding and support in public spaces. Megan is also actively involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award program, earning high commendation for her service at an institution for young people with intellectual disabilities. She volunteers at Camp Kedron, providing one-on-one support for children with additional needs. She has also received the Youth Community Award from the Order of Australia for her extensive volunteering and advocacy work.
- Winner: Ashleen Khela
At 12-years-old, Ashleen is one of Australia's youngest-ever female published authors. She has released her fiction book 17 Stories at just 11-years-old, with proceeds being donated to Australian charities and to support aid programs in developing nations. She self-funded the production of the book through creative efforts like recycling bottles, selling backyard plants, and using her savings.
Senior Citizen of the Year:
- Winner: Alan Grady
- Alan has been a member of Rotary for 50 years and is an active participant in the Norwest Sunrise Rotary Club and the Wesley Castle Hill Uniting Church. He is also a charter member of the Hills Older Men's Network. Always eager to contribute, Alan is quick to volunteer for various projects. He plays a significant role in selling Rotary Christmas trees, with the proceeds supporting various initiatives, activities, and charitable causes. For the past 20 years, Alan has worked in the Rotary Warehouse, where he helps pack donated medical and school supplies to be sent overseas.
Citizen of the Year:
- Winner: Katherine Kirk
Katherine is a dedicated mother of five and serves as the President of the Castle High School Parents and Citizens (P&C) Association. In this role, she organises BBQ fundraisers, chairs meetings, and collaborates with others to ensure that teachers, staff, and students have the best possible learning environment. She holds the position of Vice President at Northmead CAPA High School. Katherine has also supported local sporting clubs, including the Baulkham Hills Hawks AFL Club and Hills Spirit FC. Notably, she ensured that the new women's team at Hills Spirit FC received uniforms upon their arrival at the club. Katherine also volunteers with the Castle Hill RSL Sub-Branch, where she helps organise events for veterans and their families. She plays a significant role in the Sport and Recreation program, which contributed to the Castle Hill Sub-Branch winning an award at the RSL NSW Congress in 2024.
- High Commended: Tara Gleig - Tara has been a member of the Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Committee since 2015 and has served as its secretary for the past two years. She also helps facilitate the annual Parent Forum. In addition, Tara runs the important Love Bites program, in collaboration with Hills Police Youth Officer Ethan West, at eight local high schools. This program reaches thousands of young people and educates them about respectful relationships. Tara is licensed with Mental Health First Aid Australia and trains adults in Youth Mental Health First Aid, working closely with teachers. She also volunteers with the Shining Light Foundation, which supports the homeless. Tara works with students to fundraise and donate essential items, such as sun safety packs, to help those in need.
The Australia Day Awards are one of many significant events happening as part of Council's Australia Day celebrations.
Other exciting events are also scheduled for Sunday, 26 January include the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at Council's Norwest Chambers, flag raising ceremonies, a pool party at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre, an evening event at Bella Vista Farm with pop princess Ricki-Lee, Bluey and Bingo and a fireworks finale.
To learn more about Council's Australia Day celebrations, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search 'Australia Day 2025'.
