The Hunter Valley News takes a look at how Australia Day was celebrated across the Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook and Singleton shires.
Muswellbrook celebrated the nation’s day and all the dedicated citizens that make up the shire at a ceremony in Denman.
Singleton residents enjoyed a service at the Civic Centre and hosted ambassador General Peter Cosgrove AM MC (retired).
The outstanding Australia Day award winners from Singleton and Muswellbrook are:
SINGLETON SHIRE
Citizen of the Year – Nigel Cox
The agriculture teacher at Singleton High School has conducted Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services at the school starting in 1987. He has also organised veteran reunions and compiled historical records on veterans.
Young Achiever of the Year – Sophie MacPherson
Sophie’s work to help people better understand the needs of people with a disability has earned her the Singleton Young Achiever of the Year award. Sophie has cerebral palsy and the speech she wrote was read by her friend Jack Papworth on her behalf.
Service and ex-service personnel recognised
Ex-service personnel who assisted with the 1955 floods in Singleton were recognised with special certificates from Singleton Shire Council and received a standing ovation from the crowd at the Australia Day ceremony.
Also acknowledged at the award ceremony was Warrant Officer First Class Darren Murch who received an order of Australia medal this year for his service in Afghanistan. He is currently serving in Singleton.
MUSWELLBROOK SHIRE
Citizen of the Year – Chris Rogers
A Muswellbrook resident for more than 30 years, Chris Rogers has been dedicated to Girl Guides, the Upper Hunter Eisteddfod and the Muswellbrook Baptist Church.
Young Citizen School Achiever Award – Gordon Akauma
The year 12 student from St Joseph’s High School, Aberdeen, has excelled in his high school years volunteering on school and community projects and in basketball and rugby league.
Outstanding Contributor to Culture Award – Shane Delforce and Janelle French
Shane Delforce was recognised for his efforts with the Muswellbrook Amateur Theatrical Society since 2006. Janelle French was honoured for her contributions to the Muswellbrook Shire Band and Muswellbrook Conservatorium of Music as a teacher and performer.
Environment Award – Matilda Main
The Denman Public School student was the driving force behind a campaign to adopt an orangutan.
Services to Sport Award – Kevin Kane
Kevin Kane has helped out behind the scenes for the Muswellbrook Football Club for seven years.
Team Sports Award – Denman Women’s Bowling Club Grade 3 Pennant Team
The women won the Grade 3 district pennant, the zone pennant and placed fifth in NSW at the Dubbo state playoffs.
Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Victoria Wicks
The rising sports star has played football for four years and was a member of the St Joseph’s High School, Aberdeen, all schools touch team.
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