The City of Logan started celebrating Australia Day with the City of Logan Australia Day Awards Ceremony followed by the Citizenship Ceremony.
As the crowd moved in they got to listen to blind artist Steve Sparrow who got everyone involved with some of the covers he played.
Welcome to Country was performed by Nunukul Yuggera Aboriginal Dance Company who played traditional instruments and did three welcoming dances.
This year there were two nominees for the Young Citizen of the Year Award, Georgia Faith Leo and Amelia Ayris.
Nominees for Citizen of the Year Award was contested by six locals, all having done many great things across the city.
Graeme Waters, Janee Hong, Lee McKenzie McKinnon, Nicholas Carroll, Rachel Simpkin-Bale and Tammy Robinson where all in the running.
Councillor Laurie Koranski presented today’s City of Logan Australia Day Awards Ceremony with Mayor Darren Power presenting each winner.
“Each year our city celebrates the achievement and contributions of extraordinary Logan citizens through these awards,” said Cr Koranski.
“These community members inspire us and challenge us to make our own contribution to creating a better city.”
The Young Citizen of the Year award went to 15-year-old Amelia Ayris from Greenbank for her work with child protection. Amelia was also the first Junior Ambassador of Bravehearts (Australia’s largest Child Protection Organisation).
City of Logan Citizen of the Year was awarded to Rachel Simpkin-Bale for her continued work helping women who have been the victims of sexual violence, being a support worker at Murrigunyah Centre and much more.
There was another special award that was given to one of the nominees for her outstanding work in the community and her continued passion to help. Tammy Robinson, founder of Formally Ever After, received the Spirit of Logan Award for helping over 2500 children and others make their formal occasions.
“A huge congratulations to today’s winners – Rachel Simpkin-Bale – Citizen of the Year, Amelia Ayris – Young Citizen of the Year and Tammy Robinson – Spirit of Logan Award,” said Cr Koranski.
“Our winners were chosen by a judging panel who assessed each nomination based on the selection criteria, looking for individuals and groups who make outstanding contributions to the Logan community.
“I’d also like to congratulate all the nominees as well – Georgia Faith Leo (Young Citizen Nominee), Graeme Waters, Janee Hong, Lee McKenzie McKinnon and Chappy Nick Carroll.
“It was fabulous to have so many Councillors, state and federal members join us for this exciting event in our city’s calendar.”
Following the awards, 110 people from over 40 countries said their affirmation to become Australian citizens.
There was much celebration from all who attended with each new Aussie receiving a citizenship certificate.
