Australia Day 2024 Award Winners Announced

Blayney Shire Council hosted the 2024 Australia Day Awards at Heritage Park, Blayney. The day commenced with a free BBQ community breakfast, followed by the Citizenship and Awards Ceremony in the amphitheatre.

Firstly, Mayor Ferguson welcomed Emma Grey as a new Australian Citizen with Emma completing the citizenship pledge. This was followed by the Australia Day Ambassador Ron Delezio, Co-Founder and Co-director of the Day of Difference Foundation giving an ambassador’s address and talking about his story following the two catastrophic accidents in 2003 and 2005 that his daughter Sophie was involved in.

Mayor Ferguson and Mr Delezio then presented the Blayney Shire Australia Day Awards with the winners as follows:

Blayney Shire Citizen of the Year: Rosemarie Amos

Rosemarie's community involvement spans numerous organisations including the Millthorpe and District Historical Society, Millthorpe School of Arts, Blayney Anglican Parish, and the Blayney Show Society. Her efforts have earned her recognition and life memberships, highlighting her significant contribution.

In each of the different groups Rosemarie volunteers for she has held various executive roles dedicating over two decades to the Millthorpe and District Historical Society as Treasurer. Her commitment extends beyond finance to active participation in various subgroups, including catering, collections, and education, proving her versatility and dedication to the museum's multifaceted operations. With the School of Arts, Rosemarie has held the position of Secretary and Treasurer since 1981 taking on a series of administration tasks, grant applications and venue coordination.

While wearing many hats in various organisations she remains dedicated to all the groups she participates in. She is a very caring, clever and dedicated volunteer giving 110% and countless hours of her own time.

Blayney Shire Young Citizen of the Year: Lucy Rouxel

At just 20 years old, Lucy has contributed exceptionally to the Blayney community with regular involvement in the Blayney Abundant Life Church. Lucy volunteers a number of hours each week to the Blayney Youth Group running a series of activities for what can be up to 40 teenagers.

Using her own initiative Lucy instigated a new small mentoring program called ‘the Core’ where participants discuss mental health tools, ethics and morals. She also contributes to the Church by playing keyboard and coordinating the music for Church on Sundays.

Blayney Shire Sporting Achievement Awards:

Ky Hurst

Beginning his journey at age 7 with the Orange Bletchington Softball Club, Ky's passion and skill have led him to remarkable achievements. He has made representation at state and national levels, including selections in NSW U/16 and U/18 teams, the Country Sliders, and the Australian Squad. A highlight achievement was in 2022, placing 2nd in the NSW U18’s State Championship and being named in the All-Australian Open Boys Softball Merit Team.

In 2023, Ky was honoured to represent Australia in the U18’s Men’s Softball World Cup in Mexico, securing 5th place, and being selected as Vice Captain.

His commitment extends beyond his own achievements as he gives back to the club and community, passionately mentoring younger players and leads a local B Grade team as coach-captain.

Liam Henry

Liam Henry or ‘smiley’ has shown dedication and commitment to Rugby League by making the NRL squad for the Penrith Panthers, playing in reserve grade since 2021 and making his NRL debut in September 2022. He had an exceptional season in the NSW Cup being named in the 2023 team of the year.

An off field highlight for Liam and the Blayney community last year was Liam recruiting fellow Panthers players to send a video wishing the Under 11s Bears good luck in their grand final. After the Under 11s won, the video was reciprocated back to the Panthers team in the lead up to their NRL Grand Final.

This is just a small example of the impact Liam has on the Blayney Community. He always true to his nickname and always has a smile on his face and has time for everyone.

Blayney Shire Volunteer of the Year: Peter Amos

Peter is a lifelong volunteer within the Shire, Peter's dedication and service have significantly impacted our community. At the Millthorpe and District Historical Society, Peter has been a cornerstone for 30 years, serving as

President, Vice President, and an active member of various committees.

Peter's leadership extended to the Millthorpe Agricultural Horticultural & Pastoral Association, where he served as President and Trustee, managing funds to support local community groups well after the annual Millthorpe Show finished. As a key figure in the Orange District Antiques Motor Club, Peter has been instrumental in organising the popular Orange Autumn Tour car event and recently assumed the role of President.

Beyond these roles, Peter is a steadfast supporter of numerous other community initiatives and organizations often being the helping hand for odd jobs, maintenance, loading equipment and as a general run around

Blayney Shire Community Event of the Year: The Neville Show

Last year was the first Show back after a few years of cancellations and the event was a huge success with over 1,000 attendees.

The Show Day highlights included Aussie FMX motorbike Show, Car and Ute Display, Dog High Jump, Reptile Show, Jumping Castle, local Dance performers, horse and cattle events and the traditional cooking, produce and flower competitions.

There was strong community spirit shown in Neville, with the town a hive of activity.

Blayney Shire Australia Day Appreciation Award: Jenny Summerson

Jenny is recognised for her remarkable contribution through the Abundant Life Community Care Food Bank. This initiative has become a cornerstone for the Blayney community, especially in challenging times. Jenny and her team's dedication to providing practical help to those in need has had a profound impact. Their work not only meets immediate needs but also conveys a powerful message of understanding and support to those in desperate situations.

While Jenny’s efforts are not driven by a desire for recognition, this award symbolizes the community and council's immense gratitude and respect for her selfless service. Her contributions have uplifted many and have now earned well-deserved external appreciation.

Mayor Ferguson acknowledged the important role all volunteers play.

‘We are lucky to have such a wonderful community to be a part of and appreciate the number of hours that all volunteers put in.’

‘All of our award winners today are well deserving of the recognition.’