Do you know an amazing Aussie who deserves recognition, someone who gives so much for our community?

Well, now’s your chance to put their name up in lights with a nomination for the 2021 East Gippsland Shire Council Australia Day Awards.

• Citizen of the Year

• Young Citizen of the Year (under 27 years)

• Community Event of the Year

Chief Executive Officer Anthony Basford said the past year has certainly been a challenging one for everyone - individuals, clubs and groups and communities – but it has also demonstrated the great community spirit, volunteerism and how so many people go above and beyond.

“Everyone will know someone, young and old, who is an inspiration in their community,” Mr Basford said.

“There were so many community leaders during our bushfire disaster period. Although limited by COVID-19, there were some great events held.

“These fantastic community members and event organisers give without ever expecting anything in return, or solely for the betterment of our region. Now is the time to acknowledge those people through the shirewide Australia Days Awards.”

‍

Strong nominations will highlight how nominees have:

• Made a significant contribution in the current year or over a number of years.

• Demonstrated outstanding leadership or are role models in the community.

• Excelled in their field, for instance arts and culture, community service, sport and recreation, etc.

• Benefitted the community (for the event category).

‍

“Australia Day may seem a while off, but nominations for the East Gippsland Australia Day Awards close on November 27, so now is the time to think about the people who make a difference in your community and start collecting information for the nomination,” Mr Basford said.

The 2020 winners were Citizen of the Year - Blake Hollonds of Swifts Creek, Young Citizen of the Year - Annie Rogers of Bairnsdale and Community Event of the Year - joint winners were the Paynesville Music Festival and 100th Orbost Uniting Church Annual Flower Show.

Nominate using this form 2021_Australia_Day_Awards_Nomination or visit a Customer Service Centre for a printed form.

‍