A CFS volunteer with half a century of service under his belt and a local group determined to spread Christmas kindness are among the heroes acknowledged in the City of Playford's Local Citizen of the Year Awards.
The annual awards acknowledge the work and commitment of those special community members who give up their time generously to others and contribute back into our city.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said the Local Citizen of the Year Awards celebrated those who go above and beyond to improve their community.
"I warmly congratulate all winners of these awards, their dedication, passion and commitment to our community is second to none," said Mayor Docherty.
"In a time when society is busier than ever and many of us are juggling responsibilities and feeling time-poor, volunteering your time and giving back is priceless.
"I'm impressed by the dedication our recipients have shown to their community. Sustaining this level of commitment year after year is not easy, but yet, they keep on making a difference every day."
John Eoncheff, a long-time volunteer at Virginia CFS has shown outstanding commitment to the brigade and his local community.
Over 50 years of service, John has responded to more than 3,000 emergency calls, including house fires, grass fires and vehicle accidents. However, it is his efforts behind the scenes, when the sirens fall silent, that truly highlights his dedication to his teammates and his beloved community.
For 10 years, John served as captain, overseeing the brigade's emergency responses and managing the training of volunteers.
Estimating the number of hours John dedicates each week is nearly impossible, but his focus on ensuring the station operates smoothly and efficiently ensures that his team has everything they need to get the job done. In addition to this near full-time commitment, John has also worked tirelessly to improve the station's facilities.
His efforts include overseeing station extensions and raising funds to purchase brigade-owned firefighting vehicles to better serve the surrounding areas.
John's contributions have positively impacted many lives. His guidance, kind words and mentorship are given selflessly, without any expectation of thanks or reward.
At just 17 years old, Kaitlin Ownsworth has demonstrated exceptional dedication and maturity in representing the Scouts at a variety of significant events across the City of Playford.
Her contributions include leading flag parades at Citizenship Ceremonies, raising the flag on our Australia Day event, and playing a key role in coordinating the ANZAC Day Vigil ceremonies held at Smithfield Memorial Gardens. Each of these responsibilities highlights her commitment to honouring important community traditions and fostering a sense of respect.
Beyond these public contributions, Kaitlin is interested in giving back and shaping the next generation. In her role as a youth helper for the Edinburgh Scouts Joeys, she mentors and supports younger members, helping them develop confidence, skills, and a strong sense of community responsibility.
Her efforts encourage active volunteering amongst younger people in the broader community. Kaitlin's leadership and dedication serve as an inspiration to others and an excellent example of the values of the Scouts.
While they are fondly recognised for their delicious Christmas cakes and puddings that spread far and wide across the community, their contributions extend far beyond.
The Lions Club of Elizabeth Playford has been a steadfast pillar of community support for more than six decades. Generations of dedicated members have left a profound legacy, shaping the group's mission and impact on the local area.
A key focus of the Lions Club is supporting young people and addressing gaps of disadvantage. They provide free vision screening for school children, assist schools with essential equipment and undertake classroom painting projects.
The group also contributes to end-of-year graduations and ensures more children have the opportunity to participate in school trips and excursions. This commitment helps students feel included, supported and connected to their community, which we know to be a strong deterrent to repeated school absences and anti-social behaviour.
The Lions Club also prioritises free access to essential health and wellbeing services. They run free skin cancer screening clinics, distribute care packs to those experiencing domestic violence, while providing support to individuals living rough or unexpectedly admitted to hospital.
Through initiatives such as the Miss Elizabeth Quest many years ago, the Lions Club has solidified its role as an iconic part of the local community. Their dedication continues to inspire meaningful change, forever working towards a brighter future for all.
"No child deserves to go without" is the guiding motto of the Salvation Army Playford Corps' Christmas Appeal.
For many, Christmas is a time of joy, but for others, it can be a period of immense challenge and stress. The Salvation Army's Playford Corps has consistently made a difference for hundreds of families through its Christmas Appeal.
Approximately 300 families benefited from its appeal, showcasing its far-reaching impact across the city. Staff and volunteers from the Playford Corps worked directly with families to help them choose the perfect gifts for their children.
Throughout the year, the Playford Corps collaborates with the community to identify local families in need of support during the festive season.
The initiative provides brand-new gifts for children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. With families invited to select one major gift and two smaller ones to place under the Christmas tree.
The gifts are generously donated by the Kmart Wishing Tree and other local organisations, ensuring to cater for inclusivity and a wide range of ages and interests.
Parents expressed their deep gratitude, sharing how they had feared there would be nothing to give their kids on Christmas Day. Thanks to the appeal, they were able to provide a joyful Christmas experience for their children.
The Playford Bowling Club (PBC) is more than just a place to compete-it's a vital social hub in the northern suburbs, offering much more than just bowls.
By welcoming people of all ages and abilities, the club plays a role in promoting an active lifestyle, particularly for retirees and older members of the community.
PBC offers a variety of ways for people to join in. Whether it's enjoying the camaraderie of a group game or the quieter pace of solo play, the club caters to all preferences. This inclusive atmosphere allows members to choose how much interaction they want, providing flexibility and comfort for those who prefer a more low-key social experience.
For older individuals, maintaining regular social connections can be a challenge, especially when family and friends live far away. In these cases, PBC serves as a second family, providing a sense of belonging and community. It helps reduce the effects associated with isolation and creates meaningful relationships.
As home to the largest undercover bowling facility in the southern hemisphere, PBC is not only a local treasure but also a key venue for bowling clubs and communities across the local region. The club's proud community spirit extends beyond its own members, with other clubs and groups regularly invited for games or competitions.
From the well-kept greens to the welcoming atmosphere at the clubhouse, every aspect of the club's appearance is designed to provide a place where community, connection and active living thrive.
