New citizens, volunteer firefighters, community leaders and unsung heroes were recognised at the City of Swan's Australia Day celebrations at Stirling Square in Guildford on January 26, 2021.
A total of 120 people from 30 countries became Australian citizens, while five individuals and one community group received a Community Citizen of the Year Award for their exceptional contribution to the community.
Congratulations to the 2021 Community Citizen of the Year Award recipients:
- Adam Desmond, Community Citizen of the Year
- Michael Teraci, Community Citizen of the Year
- Ronald 'Tex' Mcpherson, Senior Community Citizen of the Year
- John Buckmaster, Young Community Citizen of the Year
- Elyssa Mullaley, Young Community Citizen of the Year
- Sikh Gurdwara, Active Citizenship Award
City of Swan Mayor Kevin Bailey said the event was an opportunity to celebrate our growing local community, reflect on recent challenges and recognise our resilience and unity over the past year.
"Each year the City welcomes our newest citizens and presents awards to outstanding individuals and groups in our community," Mayor Bailey said.
"The common theme among all the nominations this year was the willingness to go above and beyond to help others in their time of need, particularly during the COVID pandemic.
"I'm immensely proud of our Swan community and today we celebrate the spirit of helping, giving and supporting that defines us as Australians."
In true Aussie style, the event included a breakfast barbecue after the official ceremonies. Local residents were able to enjoy the market stalls and live entertainment in the picturesque grounds of Stirling Square.
The event was hosted by the City of Swan and assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
Information about the Community Citizen of the Year Awards is available on the Citizenship Awards website.
