Local heroes honoured on Australia Day

Michael Haji Ali, Jazmin Shipway-Carr and the Cable Beach Football Club have been recognised as Broome’s Community Citizens of the Year for 2019 during Australia Day celebrations.

Broome Shire Councillor, Catherine Marriott, presented the accolades at the town’s annual community breakfast, assisted by Australia Day Ambassador and former WA Australian of the Year, Dr Robert Isaacs OAM.

Nineteen new Australians were also welcomed by the Shire of Broome and Yawuru Traditional Owners at a Citizenship Ceremony during the event at Town Beach.

Cr Marriott said the Community Citizen of the Year Awards acknowledged and rewarded people and groups for their contributions to the Broome community.

“Our Community Citizen of the Year, Michael Haji Ali, has overcome significant challenges in his life to now dedicate his time to providing mentoring and leadership to help young people, and particularly young men, to successfully navigate their journey to achieving health and wellbeing,” Cr Marriott said.

“Our Under 25 winner, Jazmin Shipway-Carr, has achieved significant success as a competitive surf life saver, as well as coaching other surf life savers at the Broome Surf Life Saving Club and volunteering many hours to patrol Cable Beach, all while undertaking her ATAR school studies.

“The Cable Beach Football Club has found success both on and off the field with a focus on bringing in people of all ages and backgrounds, providing a support network, and helping them to lead healthier and more active lifestyles through sport.

“We congratulate Michael, Jazmin and the Cable Beach Football Club for exemplifying community spirit.”