Mitchell Shire awards outstanding community members

The 2024 Mitchell Shire Community Award recipients are:

Dr Sergio Prado-Arnuero, a Nicaragua-born doctor who came to the country as a political refugee in 1990, was named Citizen of the Year.

Since 2002, he worked in various health services, with a focus on counselling for drug and alcohol.

He also started a boxing gym because he believed that substance abuse occurs in financially disadvantaged homes.

He believed that people who survived those environments are survivors and survivors are fighters.

He sees boxing as a great way to engage youths and adults who might need assistance finding their way in life.

The 2024 Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Kirsten Boehm, who made significant contributions to the field of biology and entomology at only 22.

She has contributed significantly to the local and national scientific community through a wide range of activities, including data entry into the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas regarding the nationally vulnerable Golden Sun Moth, which is found near Mt Piper, Broadford.

She also detailed the effects of bushfires on several threatened species near Mallacoota, Victoria.

She is currently studying entomology in Hong Kong thanks to a New Colombo Plan scholarship from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Seymour Show n’ Shine was awarded the Community Event of the Year, a conjunction between the Lions Club of Seymour Goulburn and Seymour and District Car Club.

The event saw more than 4000 visitors, 460 show cars displayed, 65 swap meet sites, and 40 market stalls.

Tyaak Cemetery Trust was named Community Group of the Year for its indispensable role in the community, not only maintaining the Tyaak Cemetery but also creating a sanctuary for mourners, visitors, and its dedicated volunteers.

Peter Baxton, the stalwart member of the Puckapunyal Cricket Club since 1994, won the Sports Person of the Year Award.

Despite his commitments to the Defence Force, which occasionally led to postings in different locations, Peter’s loyalty to the PCC has remained unwavering.

Each time he returns to Puckapunyal, he continues to support the club in various capacities.

Rhonda Coates received the Arts and/or Culture Award for bringing together individuals with a shared passion.

She established Kilmore Quilters, who meet twice monthly to share their love for quilting and crafting and forge lasting friendships.

Her dedication to preventing isolation and fostering inclusion has led to smaller breakaway groups that meet more frequently, encouraging artistic growth and camaraderie among members.

Besides forged friendships, members also achieved incredible feats, including being invited to display their work at international exhibitions, including a quilt challenge in Japan.

Mitchell Rangers Soccer received the Access and Inclusion Award for organising an All-Abilities Gala Day that brought together local clubs and teams from various parts of Victoria.

This inclusive gathering created a safe and welcoming environment where players and their families could come together to enjoy the game regardless of their abilities.

Last but not least, Carolyn Atkinson and Margrette Inness received a Commendation Award for outstanding leadership and dedication to various organisations and causes in their respective communities.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Louise Bannister said this year’s awards celebrated the diversity of individuals who selflessly contribute to their communities.

“These remarkable people come from diverse backgrounds, often working tirelessly behind the scenes to uplift and enhance the lives of their fellow community members,” Cr Bannister said.

“It is a day to recognise the profound impact they have and to appreciate how our community would be fundamentally different without their dedication.

“It is also a chance to celebrate the achievement of our newest citizens, who have been on a long journey to achieve this goal, and it is a privilege to share this success with them.”