Community spirit spans generations
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Published: 26th January 2024
The 2024 Australia Day Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year prove age is no barrier to giving back to your community.
Eighty-three year-old Margaret Harvey and 18-year-old Elahi Elahi were respectively awarded the 2024 Australia Day Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year awards at today’s City of Logan Australia Day celebrations.
Ms Harvey has spent more than 14 years providing support and friendship to residents experiencing homelessness, social isolation and loneliness through the Logan branch of charity organisation Rosies and their ‘Friends on the Street’ program.
Ms Harvey has played a part in several outreach initiatives in Logan, including starting community feeds programs in Logan Central and Beenleigh and setting up an outreach van to provide hot and cold food items, blankets and hygiene packs.
In addition, she also liaises with local businesses for donations of goods, services and funds to support the charity, and trains and rosters more than 60 volunteers.
Mayor Darren Power recognised Ms Harvey’s outstanding contributions at today’s Australia Day celebrations.
“Margaret’s unconditional support and service to those who are experiencing incredibly difficult circumstances makes her a worthy recipient of our 2024 Australia Day Citizen of the Year award,” Cr Power said.
“A longstanding community volunteer, Margaret has given back to countless residents across the city and shaped the Rosies Logan Branch into the community force it is today.
“Margaret and Elahi have shown incredible service and commitment to their community and it is an honour to recognise their outstanding efforts at today’s ceremony.”
A dedicated volunteer since the age of 11, Elahi Elahi was recognised for her extensive volunteer and advocacy work in the community.
The Marsden resident juggled high school and two jobs while volunteering for Hummingbird House, Redkite, and Youth off the Streets.
She was recently appointed as one of four youth leaders to represent Australia internationally at The Y’s Global Youth Advisory Council.
She also represents Woodridge in the Queensland Youth Parliament and serves on the committees of both Youth UN and Make It 16.
The City of Logan’s Australia Day event also welcomed and celebrated around 180 residents who became Australian citizens.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of Australian citizenship ceremonies in Australia.