National pride and outstanding residents were celebrated at Echuca’s Australia Day ceremony, with talent from local groups on display.
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Co-ordinated by the Rotary Club of Echuca Moama, the event at Hopwood Gardens saw four community members and one local group honoured with awards.
Echuca SES unit commander and Echuca Regional Health employee Judith Cantwell was named Echuca Citizen of the Year for both her professional and volunteer contributions.
Campaspe Shire Deputy Mayor Tony Marwood labelled her a “powerhouse”, and recognised her 43 years of service to local healthcare.
“Beyond her professional responsibility, she has devoted many volunteer hours, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to her community,” he said.
Ms Cantwell said receiving the award was both overwhelming and surprising, especially given the generosity of others in the community.
“If the pager goes off, I just go and do what I need to do, even without thinking about what's at the end of it,” she said.
“As long as you're helping somebody or making their day a little bit better.”
Her deployment to Western Australia following a cyclone in 2020, and volunteering locally during the 2022 floods were chosen as standout moments from her time at the SES.
Jason Clarke was named the Echuca Young Citizen of the Year for his resilience and determination while living independently.
Cr Marwood commended Jason for receiving his driver's licence with help from the L2P program, which allowed him to care for his younger brother.
“He's a remarkable young man, a role model for others in similar situations, and his story reflects the values of hard work and community spirit that we can all be proud of here in Echuca,” Cr Marwood said.
“This young man's journey proves that with commitment and courage, challenges can be overcome.”
Tahlia Blight was crowned Young Sportsperson of the Year for her noteworthy athletics achievements and mentorship of other up-and-coming athletes.
Of her award, Tahlia said she was excited to receive the honour, and was surprised at how much support the community had shown her.
Competing nationally and seeing Olympic athletes train are among her highlights in the field so far, with more achievements on the horizon.
“I've got nationals coming up again in April, and I've also got states in February. I’ll see what happens next year,” Tahlia said.
“Hopefully, I might have the Oceania (Athletics Championships) if I can make a team for that.”
The Horizon Committee took home the Community Group of the Year award for its remarkable contributions to regional healthcare.
Cr Marwood noted that, as of last year, the committee had donated more than $2.8 million to cancer support services, with funds raised through popular local events.
“They are a vital fundraising body, making substantial and tangible impacts on regional health in Echuca,” he said.
“The events this incredible group organise are run on a completely voluntary basis, and 100 per cent of the funds raised go to worthy recipients.”
The day’s final award went to Maurice Gardiener, who received a Certificate of Recognition for his commitment to volunteering and fostering social connection.
Mr Gardiner has dedicated untold hours to the L2P program over the past 11 years, helping young community members obtain their licenses and improving professional and educational opportunities.
Entertainment bookended the awards presentation, with a formation flyover by Echuca Aero Club and performances from the Echuca Federation Band, Echuca Bellas, and Drew Walker.
Rotary Club Australia Day chair Teresa Carlson gave a guest speech, while emcee Peter Heywood kept proceedings running smoothly.
Mayor Daniel Mackrell addressed the crowd of about 100, reminding those present about the holiday’s focus.
“Today is about the people,” he said.
“It's about the faces, the stories and the spirits of our communities, because it is those things that shape Australia's present and our future.”