A delighted St James Citizen of the Year winner Damien Kelly.
Australia Day dawned to the chorus of corellas and native birds along the creek of Tungamah down at the Lions Park.
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From 7am the Lions were already hard at work with the members setting up to cook a free breakfast. Bacon and sausages certainly are a great aroma to attract crowds. Add in eggs and you have a great meal.
The Brew It Coffee Van soon added to the atmosphere with the beverages also coming free of charge.
This year, resident singer/songwriter, Ray Cox was unwell and in hospital. Rest assured, he will soon be on the mend, and the occasion was kept going with some of Ray’s CDs.
Tungamah Lions President, Victor Smith was another on the sick list, but the event still pushed on with Les Harrison as the MC.
Moira Shire Deputy Mayor Peter Lawless was in attendance representing the Moira Shire. Peter is always a popular sight for residents.
The ceremony got under way with former Naval Officer, Roger Tozer raising the Australian flag. This was followed by the National Anthem.
Les Harrison read out the Welcome to Country and then the stage was set for the winners. For the first time ever, there were four different categories.
The Tungamah Social Club was nominated for the Organization of the Year. Carolyn Tozer reflected on the many things the Social Club have done for many people in need, plus their sterling work for the Royal Children’s Hospital. Greg Ford was humbled to accept the award from Councillor Lawless.
Roger Tozer then spoke on the nomination of the Social Club for their Good Friday Appeal, which raises much money for a great cause and attracts a large crowd of people for the local community.
A humble man of great achievements, Tungamah’s Citizen of the Year John Tyrell.
Once again, Greg accepted the award on behalf of the Social Club.
Individually, Damien Kelly was the nomination for the Citizen of the Year for St James. Damien does an amazing amount of volunteer work for the locals and has been right behind the Silo Art project. He has also been involved in helping to save the old Coles building, so much a part of the township.
He has also been a member of the St James Fire Brigade for 45 years, a wonderful effort.
Stephen Murphy, Captain of the local Fire Brigade spoke glowingly of his trust in Damien as a member and driver. Kathy Beattie also spoke in support of Damien, who has raised his family to be great people in the little township.
Well done to Damien, a very worthy winner.
John Tyrrell was the winner for Tungamah, and his nomination was supported by Carolyn Tozer. John is leader of the Kickstart Committee which drives much of what is happening in Tungamah.
The camping area down at the creek has become a beautiful spot, thanks to the work of John and his wife, Heather. They keep a close eye on the gardens, and keep the toilets clean every day.
They have been responsible for the new showers in the tennis clubrooms. John has been instrumental in the silo art at Tungamah and has also set up the Tourist Information Point, along with its souvenirs.
Greg Ford accepted congratulations on the Tungamah Social Club’s great work.
He also helped set up a dump point in the town and the whole area is attributable to his great work. Currently, he is working on getting a splash park for the town.
Also, speaking in support was Paul Sidebottom. Paul spoke on the dedication of John and Heathers and the time put into applying for grants to improve our town.
John was very humble in his acceptance, obviously enjoying everything he does.
The day ended with a summing up by the MC Les Harrison, with thanks and tributes to the many people who help make it such a great occasion.
The committee now have twelve months to plan for next year.
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