Nominate our top Australians

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

Bryan Littlely

Journalist

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Christine Lynch, from Mossman Elders Justice Group, was named 2024 Australia Day Citizen of the Year for Douglas Shire. Picture: Douglas Shire Council

Nominations have opened for the Douglas Shire Council’s 2025 Australia Day Awards, just as the region welcomes 11 new citizens.

The annual Australia Day event celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals in the community across various categories including environmental achievement, the arts and cultural sector, in sports and all important volunteering.

The region’s top senior citizen and young person of the year will be celebrated and the Citizen of the Year will be honored.

The awards aim to recognise and honour those who have made significant impacts through their dedication and service to the Douglas Shire community.

Nominations are encouraged from all residents who wish to highlight the efforts of individuals who exemplify the spirit of community service and achievement.

Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said nominations close on November 15, ensuring ample time for community members to put forward their candidates.

“The awards ceremony will take place at the Port Douglas Community Hall, where the successful nominations will be celebrated for their contributions to the community,” Mayor Scomazzon said.

“This event not only acknowledges individual achievements but also fosters a sense of pride and community within the Douglas Shire.”

To submit a nomination, residents can access the nomination form available on the Douglas Shire Council’s website.

As nominations opened, 11 new citizens were welcomed at a ceremony in Port Douglas on September 17 as part of Australian Citizenship Day celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary of Australian citizenship.

The new citizens are from Lebanon, the Philippines, Singapore, Ireland, France, USA, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

“This ceremony was one of hundreds of ceremonies that took place across the nation which saw thousands of people become new citizens on or around Australian Citizenship Day,’’ Mayor Scomazzon said.

“Today we celebrate the value and significance of Australian citizenship and the privileges and responsibilities it embodies. Australia welcomes every new citizen who pledges their allegiance to Australia and commits to our shared values.

“Council is certainly pleased these new Aussies have chosen to join our Douglas Shire community.”

For more information about Australian Citizenship Day, Australian citizenship (including eligibility criteria and application process) and our shared values, visit www.citizenship.gov.au.

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