Fergus Thomson OAM Heritage Award promotes shire’s rich history

Nominations are now open for the inaugural Fergus Thomson OAM Heritage Award, which recognises projects contributing to the community’s appreciation and awareness of Eurobodalla’s heritage.

The annual award honours former shire mayor the late Fergus Thomson OAM, who had a strong commitment to the preservation of the cultural heritage of the region.

Mr Thomson was Eurobodalla’s first popularly-elected mayor and remained a councillor until his passing in 2015. He was devoted to serving the Eurobodalla, had a deep connection to the Aboriginal community and was a passionate advocate for the protection of culture and country.

Eurobodalla Council’s heritage planner Steve Halicki said the new heritage award was the perfect way to honour Mr Thomson, who gave so much to the community.

“We want to continue Fergus’s legacy while at the same time giving some well-deserved recognition to others working to preserve and promote Eurobodalla’s cultural heritage,” he said.

“The award offers a $1,000 prize to local individuals, groups or organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to our appreciation and awareness of the rich heritage of the Eurobodalla Shire, just as Fergus did.”

Mr Halicki said projects must have been completed in the past two years to be eligible.

“Nominees may have restored a historic building, written a historical book, made a blog or even created a film,” he said.

“The important element is the contribution to our awareness and knowledge of the Eurobodalla's heritage.”

Nominations for the award close Friday 30 October 2020. For more information or to apply, visit the online nomination portal or contact Council’s heritage planner Steve Halicki on 4474 1324.