Five award winners have been recognised for their dedication to the Cumberland community at Council’s Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony.
The ceremony also welcomed nearly sixty new residents into the community as Australian citizens.
Cumberland Mayor Lisa Lake congratulated the award recipients and finalists on their efforts.
“The contributions, hard work and dedication of these individuals in our community are commendable,” said Mayor Lake.
“It’s really important that the people who tirelessly devote their time and energy to making Cumberland a great place to live, work and play are recognised.”
Talented Opera Singer and Cumberland Council’s 2024 Australia Day Ambassador, Amelia Farrugia also attended the event and helped present the awards.
Those who officially became citizens on the day originated from 15 countries including parts of South Asia, Asia and the Middle East.
Mayor Lake said it was a pleasure to formally welcome new citizens into the community.
“Cumberland is a place where everyone is welcome, where anyone can belong; and where everyone is encouraged to succeed,” Mayor Lake said.
“Today is an opportunity for us to appreciate our culturally diverse community and reflect on this place we call home.”
An Australia Day community event was held later in the evening at Holroyd Gardens which featured live performances, a range of food and a spectacular fireworks display.
Cumberland Council’s Local Citizen of the Year Award Recipients
Environmental Person of the Year - Auburn Hospital Recyclers
Auburn Hospital Recyclers began over 17 years ago when a young local boy wanted to raise money for an orphanage in Vietnam. Their continual efforts to recycle has made a positive and inspiring effect on people throughout the hospital. Accepting the award on behalf of the organisation were Ms Helen Sala and Ms Roseanne Smith.
Sportsperson of the Year – Renee Alame
Renee is a local young tennis player, who at 14 years of age has received several accolades and titles at National and International levels. A passionate tennis player, Renee engages with other young children at her local tennis courts and encourages them to pursue their aspirations.
Local Young Citizen of the Year – Zainab Jalloh
A young and active voice within the community services sector, Zainab has been an advocate for refugees and migrants within the Cumberland Local Government Area. Having has a strong and positive impact, Zainab has been invited to speak at various events and conferences to share her experiences and inspire others.
Local Senior Citizen of the Year – Alan Patterson
For over 20 years, Alan has shared his enthusiasm, independence and work pride with the Wests Track & Field Club at Wyatt Park. Alan inspires young athletes and is always exploring opportunities for athletes with disability by providing accessibility and ensuring all aspects of the grounds are safe and operational.
Local Citizen of the Year – Bulent Ada
Bulent is dedicated to providing mental health support to individuals, particularly those from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds within the Cumberland Local Government Area. Over several years, Bulent’s commitment and advocacy for mental health is unwavering, volunteering his time to provide free psychological support services or getting involved in various community events to assist those disadvantaged within the community.