Gallery | Impactful community members recognised

By Jemma Jones

Jan 23, 2025

The awardees of the Campaspe Shire Council Citizen Awards, Young Citizen of the Year, Chloe Portwine, Community Group of the Year, Rushworth Field & Game Club, and Citizen of the Year Athol ‘Doc’ McDonald (right) with Uncle Rick Ronnan and Cr Adrian Weston. Photo by Jemma Jones

It’s not every day you see more than 100 of the region’s most impactful and inspiring people in one room; however, this was one special occasion.

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The Campaspe Shire Citizen Awards were held on Wednesday, January 22, which saw community members recognised for their work across the shire.

By 5.30pm, seats in the function room of Radcliffe’s in Echuca were almost filled, with community members mingling among themselves and councillors making their way around the room to welcome them.

The evening’s highlight came as three outstanding community figures were honoured with prestigious awards, recognising their remarkable contributions to the shire.

Athol ‘Doc’ McDonald was named Citizen of the Year for his work at the Gargarro Botanic Gardens and his ongoing support of the wider community of Girgarre.

Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Chloe Portwine, a testament to her ongoing advocacy for stroke awareness and research throughout the past year.

Rushworth Field and Game Club was recognised as the top Community Group of the Year for its contributions to conservation and community support in Rushworth and surrounds.

Judging the awards was not an easy task, according to panellist and former Community Group of the Year winner Deb Kitt.

She said it was tough choosing from the list filled with deserving and inspiring nominees; however, Citizen of the Year Mr McDonald was a standout.

Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell congratulated and thanked all the nominees and winners for their contributions to their communities.

“We are incredibly lucky to have outstanding citizens who selflessly contribute their time, expertise and skills to enhance social connections, create opportunities and improve the health and wellbeing of our residents."