West Coast Australia Day Award Recipients

West Coast Mayor Phil Vickers has announced the recipients of the West Coast Australia Day 2017 Awards.

With outstanding volunteer contribution to the West Coast community, Queenstown resident Geoffrey Steele has been announced the West Coast Citizen of the Year.

This award is presented to the person who has made an outstanding contribution during 2016 and/or given outstanding contribution to the local community over a number of years.

“Over forty years Mr Steele has volunteered countless hours and much energy to help our community,” Mayor Vickers said upon making the announcement.  “Such dedication is inspirational and people such as Geoff are quite often the backbone of our community.”

Mr Steele’s contribution to the West Coast includes involvement with the Queenstown Amateur Swimming Club, the Mt Lyell Strahan Picnic Committee, Queenstown Lions Club & the 1st Queenstown Scout Group.

Up and coming wood-chopper Riley Sheehan has been announced as the West Coast Young Citizen of the Year.

“Riley’s success is exceptional given he is self-taught,” Mayor Vickers said of the twenty-one year old.  “He has gone from strength to strength, winning many major tournaments around Australia.  A true role model for West Coast youth aspiring to succeed in their chosen field.” 

Riley’s achievements include:

The Community Event of the Year, presented to the group or person who has staged the most outstanding community event of 2016, has been awarded to the Lake Burbury Fishing Competition.

An annual event organised by the Queenstown Anglers Association Inc., the competition is open to all ages and attracts entries from across Tasmania and interstate.

“This event has been held for twenty-five years and not only promotes an enjoyable way for people to experience the West Coast environment and recreational opportunities, the influx of competitors promotes our region and stimulates the local economy,” Mayor Vickers said.

The official announcement of award recipients will be made by Mayor Phil Vickers at the Mt Lyell Strahan Picnic on Thursday 26 January.