Aus Day in Berrigan Shire

‘‘You are now citizens of Australia and I take this opportunity congratulate you, welcome you, and extend on behalf of all best wishes for a happy and successful future,’’ said Berrigan Shire Council mayor Matt Hannan.

Attendees then welcomed the guest of honour, Australia Day ambassador Kath Koschel.

Ms Koschel, whose father and grandfather live in Finley, is a motivational speaker, former professional cricketer, and ironperson competitor.

Her achievements are in spite of adversity.

Ms Koschel has overcome a broken back — twice — and taught herself to walk on no less than three separate occasions.

It was this experience that inspired Ms Koschel to launch a website called Kindness Factory, which shares random good deeds — from paying for a stranger’s petrol to feeding the homeless and buying coffees and cake for chemotherapy nurses.

The idea was fuelled by Ms Koschel’s gratitude for friends and family who helped her when she needed it.

For her persistence, and ongoing efforts, she was awarded the Young Australian Medal and the people’s choice of Australia award in 2017.

Following Ms Koschel’s speech, council’s director of strategic planning and development Jo Ruffin and Cr Hannan announced the winners of the 2022 Australia Day awards.

Sportsperson of the Year:

Awarded to Berrigan’s Matt Whelan, whose outstanding achievements in sport earned the commendation of his peers and community.

He has represented his community sporting clubs, Finley High School and the Riverina region with distinction in golf, cricket and Australian Rules football.

Matthew was a premiership player in the 2021 Berrigan B Grade cricket side and was awarded best player for his bowling performance. He was also the 2021 Cricketer of the Year for Finley Cricket Club – Under 16’s.

‘‘It is rare to see a person of such outstanding individual talents also enjoy, support and respect the team,’’ said Berrigan Shire Council in a statement.

‘‘Matthew is an engaging, humble and determined young man, with a maturity beyond his years – congratulations on your nomination.’’

Sports Team of the Year:

This was awarded to Tocumwal’s under 14 White Cricket Team.

The team consists of a mix of talented boys and girls, who were dedicated to training, and team players with impeccable sporting manners.

Players include: Hunter Hardwidge (C), Nate Grieves (C), Macey White, Josh Mosman, Logan White, Lora Owens, Alex Booth, Will O’Connell, Charlie Locke, Rory Shepherd, Tom White, Mia Owen, Lachie Booth and coach Rod Booth.

Community Organisation of the Year:

This was presented to the Tocumwal Optimists.

Made up of a small group of local women, the Optimists raise funds in the community for the community.

Members meet once a month, with the volunteer base slowly growing.

Most of the ladies in this group have volunteered for many organisations connected with the shire at different times.

Some are quite new to the shire and have been more than willing to contribute their time and skills to the Optimists.

The club is relatively new as a group but have achieved much in a short time.

Citizen of the Year:

Berrigan Shire’s 2022 Citizen of the Year was awarded to Wesley Sutton, who was an apology at the ceremony.

Mr Sutton is well known within the border communities of Cobram and Barooga — as well as the wider district.

He is the president of the Barooga Cricket Club, vice president of the Barooga Recreation Reserve Committee, and is involved with the Murray Valley Cricket Association.

‘‘No job is too big or too small for Wesley,’’ his nomination read.

‘‘He is often seen happily applying covers to the cricket pitch, organising fundraising events, and is especially focused on the development and mentoring of youth.

‘‘Through his business, Wesley also provides sponsorship to both the Barooga Cricket Club and Yarroweyah Football and Netball Club and is often seen helping out at the local footy when needed.’’