Volunteers shine during 2019 Burdekin Australia Day Awards

A Commonwealth Games bronze medalist, a sugar cane grower leading the way in sustainable farming practices and an event celebrating 25 years of musical theatre productions have been recognised in the Burdekin Shire Australia Day Awards for 2019.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin announced performing powerhouse couple Betty and Bill Lucas as Citizens of the Year during Friday night’s ceremony for their decades of tireless volunteering.

“Betty and Bill have been members of the Home Hill Choral Society and Merle’s Pearls for many years. As members of these groups, they often donate their time by performing for local aged homes and pensioners groups or at local community events,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“In addition to their contributions to the Arts, Betty and Bill are tireless in their generosity, fundraising money for the Flying Padre Mackay Patrol and fostering numerous children over the years.

“Elders of the Uniting Church, Betty continues to prepare and preach services whilst Bill serves as a member of the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association, Burdekin Bowen Integrated Floodplain Management Advisory Committee, and Wunjunga Progress Association. He is also the local Fire Warden for Wunjunga.”

Ayr State High School Interact President Caitlin Holmes was named Young Citizen of the Year.

“Caitlin has worked tirelessly within the community to reconnect Ayr State High School Interact Committee with the Ayr Rotary Club. As President of the Interact committee, she has attended Rotary meetings, volunteered at numerous Rotary and school-based events, and has independently coordinated and organised a group of students for countless community events,” Cr McLaughlin said.

“In addition to this, she is a volunteer coach and referee, has marched in ANZAC day parades, and has volunteered at many sporting events.

“Both Caitlin and Betty and Bill are exemplars of the strong volunteer mindset we have here in the Burdekin.

“Congratulations to all nominees and award recipients for their valuable contribution to the Burdekin community.”

One new citizen was also welcomed to the Burdekin community during the Naturalisation Ceremony – Geraldine Booth.

2019 Burdekin Shire Australia Day Award Winners

Citizen of the Year – Betty and Bill Lucas

Junior Citizen of the Year – Caitlin Holmes

Life Time Contribution Award – Gloria Vass

Community Event of the Year – Burdekin Singers & Theatre Company – 25 Years – A Musical Memory

Community Event of the Year (Achievement) – Burdekin Shire Council – Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival

Senior Cultural Award – Erin Brennan

Senior Cultural Award (Achievement) – Carolyn Starkey

Junior Cultural Award – Brendan Kolb

Junior Cultural Award (Achievement) – Olivia Licciardello and Lauren Raitelli

Senior Sportsperson of the Year – Ross Rickards

Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Maeghan Saldumbide

Junior Sportsperson (Achievement) – Luke Jack and Hayden Lammon

Sportsperson with a Disability – Andrea McDonnell

Sports Administrator – Sara Smith

Senior Environment Award – Francisco Mugica