On Wednesday 26 January the community gathered in front of Coventry Library, Stirling, to welcome new citizens to the country, and celebrate the contributions of some remarkable locals.
Over a dozen members of the Adelaide Hills community were recognised with an award this year, including husband and wife duo Graeme and Jessica Jones of Bradbury (pictured) who were awarded Citizen of the Year in a rare dual appointment.
"In a true team effort, Graeme and Jess have worked in their community to help with property clean up, mental health support, and acting as representatives with support agencies," said Mayor Jan-Claire Wisdom, who was on-hand to present the award.
"It was the inescapable fact that this couple worked in support of each other to make themselves available to the community that led Council to present a rare joint award."
In their acceptance speech, Graeme and Jessica acknowledged the work of their whole community in coming together in recovery of the Cherry Gardens Bushfire, and spoke passionately about the importance of a robust and well-practised Bushfire Survival Plan, which saved their home and their family during this disaster.
The 2022 Young Citizen of the Year was presented to 18 year old Chantelle Wuttke of Aldgate, whose initiatives to build a welcoming and inclusive school community made her a standout nominee.
"Chantelle's commitment to fostering a positive school culture across new campuses is a remarkable achievement for any individual, let alone someone so young," said Mayor Wisdom.
"The social awareness and natural empathy that Chantelle has demonstrated will undoubtedly serve her well throughout her life."
From north of the district, the Community Event of the Year was awarded to the inaugural Lobethal Gardening Festival, which was established to promote wellbeing through gardening and an appreciation of nature.
A further ten Civic Awards were presented this year, after a rigorous selection process held in December.
Civic Awards 2022:
- Bill and Peg Chartres of Lobethal
- Chris Badenoch of Uraidla
- Elizabeth "Libby" Barber of Gumeracha
- Felicity Young of Gumeracha
- Michalle Kenley of Cudlee Creek
- Mikayla Schwarz of Lobethal
- Neil Shillabeer of Woodside
- SA Country Women's Association - Woodside Branch
- TAnia McGregor of Crafers
- Thomas Shillabeer of Aldgate.
