Local legends honoured on Australia Day
Published on 26 January 2024
Hunter's Hill Council recognised outstanding achievements and welcomed it's newest citizens during an Awards and Citizenship ceremony this morning (26 January 2024), commemorating not only Australia Day but also the significant 75th anniversary of Australian Citizenship.
Mayor Zac Miles officially opened the ceremony beside Deputy Mayor, Elizabeth Krassoi and the Hunters Hill Australia Day Ambassador, Ange Clarke.
“The Citizen of the Year awards are a testament to the incredible individuals who have dedicated their time, efforts and passion towards improving our community,” Mayor Zac Miles said. “We are proud to honour their unwavering commitment and applaud their exceptional achievements.”
Four individuals and groups who were nominated by the community were recognised in the Citizen of the Year Awards.
Rob Fraser was named Hunters Hill Citizen of the Year.
Rob’s noteworthy work contributed to the Greenhouse Project at Giant Steps special education school in Gladesville. He has aided its transformation into a successful community garden, market and learning resource for students and teachers.
Rob is one of Giant Steps’ passionate volunteers who has done a great job at integrating garden activities into the school curriculum.
“We would love any volunteers to join us as it’s a wonderful way of bonding with nature,” Rob said.
Heather Armstrong was named Environmental Citizen of the Year.
Heather has been a trailblazer for sustainable living, working tirelessly to protect, maintain and enhance the beautiful natural environment of Hunters Hill.
“I am grateful for the huge efforts put in by bushcarers in Hunters Hill who maintain the beautiful bushland in the Municipality,” Heather said.
Hunters Hill Unit of State Emergency Services was named Community Group of the Year.
Hunters Hill Unit of SES is a volunteer group that provide 24-hour support and response to the impact of storms and flooding.
In 2023, the unit worked over 150 days on deployment supporting flood affected communities and attending over 230 incidents across Sydney.
Group Officer, Louise Demarco received the award on behalf of the Hunters Hill Unit of SES.
“We are very proud to support our community across the street and interstate,” Louise said.
“Our members invest their time in training and preparation to responding to our communities needs. We couldn’t be more proud to volunteer.”
Hunters Hill Spring Garden Competition and Open Garden Day was named Community Event of the Year.
The Hunters Hill Spring Garden Competition provided a platform for Hunters Hill to celebrate its standing as Australia’s oldest garden suburb and raise funds for the maintenance of the Historic Hillman Orchard and adjoining Vienna Cottage.
President of Rotary Club of Hunters Hill, Charles Amos said it was a privilege to be recognised as Community Event of the Year.
In addition to the Citizen of the Year Awards, a Citizenship Ceremony was conducted.
Fourteen people, with origins from Iran, India, Malaysia, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, Barbados, Chile, Ghana, and Russian Federation, took a pledge of commitment to become Australian citizens.
Hector Moreno was proud to become a citizen on Australia Day. Born in Chile, South America, he left his fate to the flip of a coin almost eight years ago to decide whether he would travel to Canada or Australia. He came to Australia, where he met his partner Marie. They now have two beautiful girls Millie and Nina and they are set to get married next week.
“I’m proud to become an Australian and I will be loyal to the country that has given me a lot. Every day you learn something new and that’s something I love about Australia,” Hector said.
Singer Jordyn Richards led the Australian National Anthem and performed throughout the ceremony.
“Today, we not only celebrate Australia Day but also commemorate the 75th Australian Citizenship,” said Clr Miles. “We are proud to welcome our new citizens and celebrate their diversity which enriches our community.”
Hunter’s Hill Council congratulates all of the award recipients, new citizens and thanks everyone who attended the ceremony.