Fred Poole was named Bayside Citizen of the Year 2025 in recognition of his community work with the Bayside Men's Shed.
The announcement was made at an Australia Day citizenship ceremony in Rockdale Town Hall on Australia Day Sunday 26 January 2025.
A retired electroplater, Fred is the President of the Bayside Men's Shed at Kyeemagh where he dedicates many hours each week to lead a team of volunteers working on projects that benefit the local community.
Some of the projects facilitated by Fred include building a music wall for St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School, restoring and customising old and damaged benches for Sans Souci Girl Guides, building street libraries for Kyeemagh Public School, building a bee hotel for Bayside Community Garden and building garden beds for Rockdale Community Garden.
Jessica Henville was named Sportsperson of the Year for her achievements and volunteer work in Surf Life Saving, touch football and netball.
Jessica represented Surf Life Saving at all levels throughout 2024, winning gold at the Australian Surf Lifesaving Titles and at the World Titles. She has been selected to represent NSW in touch football at the highest level, and referees and coaches touch football.
Princess Delany was awarded the Young Citizen of the Year for her community work with the Salvation Army and her involvement in NSW Youth Parliament Program. In her role as Youth Premier during the Youth Parliament, she championed the voices of young people, particularly First Nations students.
Bayside Council would also like to thank Pam Richardson OAM our outgoing Citizen of the Year 2024 for her outstanding contribution and ongoing work in our community.
Mayor Edward McDougall said:
'It was an honour to present the award to Fred with his award. He has a long and dedicated history with the Men's Shed in Kyeemagh.
"The Men's Shed provides a vital community service where members, especially retirees, can connect with like-mined people and pick up new skills in a safe environment," Mayor McDougall said.
