24-01-2022
Here is a summary of the nominees for Upper Lachlan Citizen of the Year for the Australia Day Awards.
FROM TARALGA
Prue Burfitt of Taralga has been re-nominated this year following her 2021 inclusion. Prue has been an active member of the Taralga Progress Association and for many years managed the Taralga Memorial Hall. Her commitment to the area and enthusiasm being involved in various committees within the Taralga community and surrounds is to be commended.
FROM BIGGA
Helen Faros of Bigga has run the Bigga General Store for most of her life. She has been the heart and operation of the area providing groceries, fuel and post office services to the community. Her ability to lend a hand whether part of the Bigga Progress Association or Bigga War memorial and her continued enthusiasm to help all generations to assist in whatever capacity she can is to be recognised.
FROM CROOKWELL
Helen Campbell of Crookwell has spent a large part of her life educating and creating wonderful experiences for students and friends through music within the Shire. Her involvement to a number of Shire groups including Crookwell Community Singers, The Uniting Church, CADS and KAOS along with your time at Crookwell High School are just a few to be credited.
Aaron Marcelino of Crookwell recently left the Australian Defence force after spending a large part of his life serving our Country. Opening a local gym his passion in helping many locals within the Shire focus on their fitness and wellbeing has been well received. His energy and continued passion to help younger generations see the importance of exercise and looking after yourself whilst encouraging everyone to participate in whatever capacity they can is truly inspiring.
Megan Williams of Crookwell has worked tirelessly as practice manager of the Health Care Centre in Crookwell. Megan has been a friendly face during times of the pandemic and worked in the frontline. Her kind nature in helping many locals within the Shire not only during the COVID-19 pandemic but in the health space has been greatly appreciated by those who have met her.
Ann Toole of Crookwell has spent over 30 years contributing to nursing in the Crookwell community. Her involvement in Viewhaven in not only caring for its residents but assisting in mentoring, training and supporting new staff has been a wonderful achievement. Ann retired in 2021 but committed to healthcare continued working as a COVID-19 vaccination nurse during the pandemic.
Judith Fountain of Crookwell has been a dedicated member of Lions Club Crookwell and the Rural Fire Service. Her service to both of these groups has provided support and assistance to many across the Shire during her tenure. Judith has assisted with fundraising, catering services, and has mentored many members over who were just starting out.
FROM GUNNING
Leslie Bush is the President of the Gunning Historical Society, bringing a love of history to the community. Leslie’s passion for this can be shown in the way she goes above and beyond when putting together a historical display or helping a family put together their history. Her love of community and interest in the Shires past is to be applauded.
Kathy Johnson from Gunning has been heavily involved in many committees throughout her years in the Shire. Her strong involvement with Gunning Roos Football club as president and now secretary has shown dedication and love for the sport. She has assisted generations become involved in the club and worked tirelessly to raise much needed funds for charities and causes that are important to the area.
To all of the nominees a huge congratulations on your nomination, this is a wonderful achievement for you. Through times of uncertainty and joy you have all been pillars to our community, well done
The citizen of the year awards will be announced on 26 January 2022 at Australia Day events across the Shire.