They come from different walks of life, but what they share in common is their outstanding contributions to their communities, making a difference and inspiring others.
The awards were presented by Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson at Noarlunga’s Hopgood Theatre on Tuesday morning, where 47 new Australian citizens were later welcomed to the city during an Australia Day citizenship ceremony.
In other news, it was recently announced a new Australia Day Award category will be presented in 2022—the Active Citizenship category, which recognises the contribution to the community by individuals or groups who are not Australian citizens.
Without further ado, let’s get to know the 2021 Australia Day Award recipients—the words below taken from the award presentation.
Citizen of the Year – Paul Crate
Paul established a Rugby League Tag competition at Willunga High School as an extension of his role as a PE teacher at Willunga Primary School about 17 years ago.
Each year the competition grew and expanded. Through a modest season fee and numerous fundraisers, the sports ground now boasts clubrooms, which are aptly named “Cratey’s Colosseum” and shared with a local soccer club.
A social hub in the south with families gathering during the season on Friday nights, the South Australian Rugby League has been a great supporter, and members regularly attend games. The program’s sustainability over the years is a credit to Paul’s work ethic and passion.
A catalyst for cultural change through his sporting interests and community engagement, Paul is a teacher and a mentor.
His voluntary work, spanning over 40 years, has seen him achieve many awards and accolades.
He’s well-recognised and respected in the community for his enthusiasm and encouragement of young people to reach for greater heights.
He’s admirable and a well-deserving recipient of this year’s Citizen of the Year.
Young Citizen of the Year – Angus Miller
Moving from Christies Beach Surf Lifesaving Club’s juniors to the senior ranks has been a natural progression for Angus, 15.
In every area of the club, the third-generation lifesaver has stepped up and supported both his own development and that of others.
Training and competing at Senior Carnivals, Angus supports the Nippers as well as undertaking patrols, with 80 hours of patrols under his belt in just the past two seasons.
It’s rare that a lifesaver is recognised at such a young age, however in 2017, as a Nipper, Angus took part in a rescue at Christies Beach and was recognised at the Awards of Excellence in Surf Life Saving for Rescue of the Year.
Awarded the 2019-2020 Surf Life Saving SA Young Member of the Year, Angus demonstrates passion and purpose in his involvement with the club and is a worthy recipient of the Young Citizen of the Year Award.
Community Event of the Year – Jessica Jones Wildlife Event
Jessica, like many Australians, was deeply concerned by the huge devastation to our wildlife and communities after the 2019-20 bushfires.
Using ‘Creating for Conservation’ as a communication tool, Jessica put a call out to the public requesting medical supplies and food to assist in the treatment and care of displaced or injured wildlife.
Over 24 pallets were distributed containing syringes, fluids, water, medicines, bandages, gloves, tables, chairs and feed.
An army of volunteers worked tirelessly to put care packages together, with over a million dollars of equipment and feed donated.
With the magnitude of community involvement in this exercise, Channel 7 made a documentary on the efforts of Jessica and her volunteers.
The community spirit, camaraderie and sense of hope and purpose this event provided to the community during the devastating fires, is inspirational.
She is a truly commendable award recipient.
Unfortunately, Jessica was unable to attend the awards ceremony.