Australia Day celebrations recognise our local community heroes

The City of Canning in partnership with Auspire – Australia Day Council Western Australia, recognised some of our local community heroes with the winners of the Community Citizen of the Year Awards announced at the City’s annual Family Fun Day last Friday.

The Community Citizen of the Year Awards celebrate the positive impact of individuals and groups who are engaged and committed to the local area.

The winners of the awards for Canning were:

• Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals over 16 years) - Tani Saha
• Young Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals aged 16-30 years) - Surbhi Sharma
• Senior Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals aged 65 years and over) - Joyleen Shirley Koolmatrie
• Active Citizenship (for community groups or events) - Ubuntu Australia Inc.

This year the Community Citizen of the Year Award was awarded to Tani Saha, an artist, dedicated teacher and cultural ambassador, who has inspired countless individuals to appreciate and participate in Indian culture.

Her voluntary and professional contributions have left an impression on the cultural landscape as she continues to inspire the next generation of artists.

Surbhi Sharma, the winner of the Young Community Citizen of the Year, has spent time working in age care centres and institutions supporting children.

This has allowed her to meaningfully contribute to the wellbeing of others and aided her in learning new skills to bring together those people who are less connected to the community.

Canning’s Senior Community Citizen of the Year, Joyleen Shirley Koolmatrie works in advocating for the real needs of First Nations people, helping them to heal and find a voice in their own rehabilitation.

A strong role model for all people, Joyleen conducts workshops for indigenous people affected by removal and unresolved grief, trauma and loss.

Ubuntu Australia Inc., the winner of the Active Citizenship Award has made a significant and lasting impact on the City of Canning community through its various free programs and activities, which are all provided by a fantastic team of volunteers.

Mayor Patrick Hall said that it was great to see a range of nominations this year and he acknowledges the positive social, cultural and economic impact these people have on our society.

“The Community Citizen of the Year Awards allows us to reflect, respect and celebrate those people that have made a significant contribution to the wellbeing and advancement of our community.

“With 24 nominees this year, I would like to congratulate all the nominees and the winners for each of the categories. Your contribution to our community is outstanding and we greatly appreciate all of the work that you do,” said Mayor Hall.

The Auspire Community Citizen of the Year Awards are proudly supported by Principal Partner the Department of Communities, Media Partners 9News Perth, WA Today, and 6PR Perth and Print Partner Westcare.