Redlanders who have gone “above and beyond” in helping their community have been recognised at the annual Redland City Australia Day awards last night (Tuesday 24 January 2017), at the Alexandra Hills Hotel Function Centre.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the awards were a way for the community to thank the real heroes who every day helped to make the city a better place.
“The selflessness, dedication and achievements shown by these Redlanders epitomise the community spirit of the Redlands,’’ Cr Williams said
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“Our annual Australia Day awards give us the opportunity to recognise those who help make our city great through their generosity and commitment to helping others or through shining a light on all that is good about our wonderful community.
“Our Citizen of the Year, Denis Ryan, is a truly amazing man who has been a tireless contributor to the City for more than 50 years.
“He never asks for recognition but, as a member of St Vincent De Paul for more than 40 years, he has done so much to help those less privileged in our community.
“Denis is selfless and is always available to assist those less fortunate. He’s an inspiration to our community.
“Talented young singer Leah Lever is our Young Citizen of the Year. An inspiring role model to the youth of our City, Leah devotes much of her time volunteering in the community.
“Col Cunnington, awarded Senior Citizen of the Year, has been a committed community volunteer for many years, supporting cultural and environmental activities, as well as being active in business.
“Ian and Judy Wintle are deserving winners of the Local Hero Award. The Wintles have raised about $60,000 for charities through their ‘Giving Garden’.
“This year, two outstanding groups were honoured with the Community Organisation Award. Redlands Centre for Women and the Bayside Vehicle Restorers Club both go above and beyond each day to improve the wellbeing of Redlanders.
“Redland City’s honorary Town Crier, Maxwell Bissett, an integral part of our community’s cultural fabric, is the fitting winner of the Cultural Award.
“Michael Wilson, a dedicated carer of sick and injured wildlife who has transformed his home into a safe haven for animals, is the winner of the Environment and Sustainability Award.
“Swimming powerhouse Daniel Fox, who is also an ambassador for the sport, is a very worthy recipient of this year’s Sports Awards.
Cr Williams said Council received 31 nominations across eight categories for the annual awards.
“The calibre of nominations really shows the incredible community spirit that exists in the Redlands,’’ Cr Williams said. “I congratulate everyone who was nominated as well as those who took the time to nominate their fellow Redlanders.’’
The list of winners is as follows:
- Citizen of the Year – Denis Ryan
- Young Citizen of the Year – Leah Lever
- Senior Citizen of the Year – Col Cunnington
- Local Hero Award – Ian and Judy Wintle
- Community Organisation Award – Redlands Centre for Women AND Bayside Vehicle Restorers Club
- Cultural Award – Maxwell Bissett
- Environment and Sustainability Award –Michael Wilson
- Sports Award – Daniel Fox.
Images are available. Phone 3829 8874 for further information.
