Quambatook duo claim Australia Day Awards

Published on 23 January 2020

Two Quambatook residents – a town stalwart for the past 40-plus years and a quiet achiever- have been recognised during the announcement of Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2020 Australia Day Awards.

Leo Parker was named Gannawarra Shire Council’s Citizen of the Year during a civic reception held at Kerang last night, with Mitchell Gross presented with Council’s Young Citizen of the Year Award at the same event.

“Congratulations to Leo and Mitchell for receiving their respective awards, and to all of the nominees for their continued generosity and contribution,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.

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Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2020 Citizen of the Year, Leo Parker has been a member of many of Quambatook’s community groups and organisations since the mid-1970s – including the town’s fire brigade, Scout Group, the Co-operating Church and the Quambatook and Towaninny Cemetery Trusts, committees which he currently oversees as President.

“The Quambatook community recognises Leo for his roles with the Quambatook Tractor Pullers Association and Quambatook Heritage Working Machinery Association,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“A founding member of the Quambatook Tractor Pullers Association, Leo is a past president, current treasurer and a Life Member, as well as being a founding member and current treasurer of the Quambatook Heritage Working Machinery Association.

“Leo's ongoing involvement in the community has been of great benefit as he continues to ensure that improvements are made in all activities he is involved in.”

Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2020 Young Citizen of the Year, Mitchell Gross is well regarded in Quambatook for helping out in the community when it is needed.

“Whether it is with the Quambatook Fire Brigade or assisting at the town’s lawn cemetery, Mitchell is a community-minded individual,” Mayor Learmonth said.

“Mitchell is also keen to help a number of Quambatook’s elderly residents. It is commonplace for Mitchell to collect and split firewood, undertake house repairs, change car tyres and put up Christmas lights – all at no cost.”

Mr Parker and Mr Gross will also be recognised for receiving their respective awards as part of Australia Day celebrations occurring throughout the Gannawarra on Sunday, 26 January.

“Council congratulates both winners and we look forward to seeing Leo and Mitchell continue to achieve great things for the community in the future,” Mayor Learmonth said.

ABOVE: Mayor Lorraine Learmonth (centre) with Gannawarra Shire Council Citizen of the Year, Leo Parker (left) and Young Citizen of the Year, Mitchell Gross