Local mental health advocate, Brooke Murray, has officially been honoured with the Camden Citizen of the Year 2022 title.
Ms Murray, 24, runs the "What Keeps Me Well Campaign" Instagram page and regularly speaks out to advocate for those suffering from mental health issues. Since 2015, she has raised more than $3,000 for various charities including Beyond Blue, Black Dog Institute and Liptember beneficiaries.
"I started this from my own mental health journey and wanted to look for a way to help others going through any issues of their own," Ms Murray said.
"The Instagram 'What Keeps Me Well Campaign' page is about allowing people to share different ways in which could help someone feel well, particularly things that don't cost an arm and a leg.
"Everyone has their own way that helps and works for them, but it is good to give out lots of options for people to make their choice and feel well as soon as possible.
"I was really excited to even just be nominated for the award. I do this work to help people and that is my main aim, but it is very special to be recognised."
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, said winning one of these prestigious awards is something each recipient should be very proud of.
"This award represents dedication, commitment, passion and hard work, so recipients should be very proud of themselves for being such incredible role models within our community," Cr Fedeli said.
"In 2022, I look forward to our Citizen of the Year being able to attend many of our events and initiatives, as well as engage with many members of our community.
"I would like to extend a huge congratulations to everyone who was nominated or won an award as that in itself is a wonderful testament to the passion and commitment you portray."
Other Camden Australia Day Award winners included:
- Young Citizen of the Year - Alana Bailey
Alana has been a member of the Camden Youth Council for the past four years, working on several projects to support other young people in Camden. Some projects include the Camden Multicultural Festival and Camden Youth Week program.
- Community Group Award - Big Yellow Umbrella & The Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living
The team at Big Yellow Umbrella (BYU) run amazing services such as free food hampers for locals, mums and bubs groups, playgroups, parenting services and bill assistance. They also run seasonal programs such as Christmas gifts to those in need.
The Macarthur Centre for Sustainable Living (MCSL) is a registered charity and community focussed organisation that is an education facility and model for the promotion of sustainable technology and living practices in homes and businesses in the Macarthur Region, including all residents in the Camden Local Government Area.
- Sports Achievement Award - Monique Pirrone
Monique was a massive support in getting Parkrun off the ground in Camden, without her support it would not have been possible. Over the course of 101 events, Monique has been there every week.
Monique has also become an Ambassador for RMA (Running Mums Australia) locally, and during the COVID pandemic, has been able to continue to inspire community members to stay active and connected, whether it be virtually or physically, within the Government guidelines.
- Arts & Cultural Award - Bob Gurney
Bob has served Camden's art community for over 20 years, playing an integral role in the development of Camden's art scene, encouraging both established and emerging artists to engage in art making and skill share to build a vibrant and engaged community of artists. Over the years, Bob has volunteered in many ways, including being an active committee member of the Camden Society of Artists and having the title of Activities Coordinator.
