Citizen Award Winners Announced & New Aussies Welcomed
Published on 27 January 2023
The 2023 Mansfield Australia Day Citizen Award winners were officially announced at Mansfield Shire Council’s community event held on Thursday 26 January in Botanic Park.
The awards were presented across five categories and were awarded to:
- Cathie Smith, Citizen of the Year
- Marie Sellstrom, Senior Citizen of the Year
- Sam Bell, Young Citizen of the Year
- Mansfield Open Studio Trail (M.O.S.T), Community Event of the Year
- High Country Quilters, Community Group or Organisation
Mayor Cr James Tehan congratulated all award recipients and acknowledged their contributions, commitment, and valued work in our community.
“Mansfield Shire has a very strong community spirit and this year’s award winners, and nominees are very much at the heart of what makes our Shire such a wonderful place.
“It is a pleasure to see so many great things happening in our community, and Council is delighted to recognise some of the special people behind the scenes.” Cr Tehan said.
Award winners were selected by the Australia Day Awards judging panel comprising the Mayor, Cr. James Tehan, Cr Steve Rabie, Cr Mark Holcombe, last year’s Citizen of the Year, Margaretanne Hood and Senior Citizen of the Year, Zaldah Kirley.
As part of the Australia Day ceremony 14 new Australian citizens were welcomed, including people who have migrated here from 9 different countries including India, Pakistan, Sweden, Ireland, Canada, Taiwan, Italy, England and the United States.
Australian citizenship ceremonies are an important part of our nation’s celebrations, with more people becoming citizens on Australia Day than any other day of the year. Our newest citizens have joined a special group of Australians who celebrate the anniversary of their citizenship each Australia Day.
Further details about our award winners will be made available on Council’s website.