Despite being a scaled-back event, Benalla Rural City’s Australia Day ceremony was enjoyed by all who attended — and those watching online.
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For those lucky enough to be at BPACC it was about as normal an event as any impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic during the past two years.
There were dancers, presentations, laughter, applause and the welcoming of Benalla’s newest Aussie citizen.
Not to mention a little Aussie goody bag supplied by event sponsor Mallum Creek Farm, which contained Vegemite, Tim Tams and even a billy tea kit, distributed to attendees.
The event had all the elements of a traditional Aussie Day event, with an international twist provided by talented Indian dancers Sharli and Shani.
FCJ College student Emily Snell was on hand to sing the national anthem, as well as a rendition of We Are Australian.
As always it was a wonderful opportunity for citizens of all backgrounds to come together and celebrate what they love about the country, the region and what it means to be Australian.
And of course, the Benalla Rural City Australia Day Awards is run to acknowledge the commitment, dedication and invaluable achievements of many community members, who selflessly contribute, and make the rural city such a special, positive and vibrant place to call home.
Before award-winners were announced, special guest, and retired Victoria Police officer, Darryl Jones spoke about his years serving the community and the array of medals and awards he had received throughout the course of his career.
Benalla Rural City Australia Day Advisory Committee chair and mayor Bernie Hearn announced award-winners at the event.
Benalla Rural City Citizen of the Year Dr Lee Manning.
Benalla Rural City Citizen of the Year Merit Award Janine Rofe.
Benalla Rural City Young Citizen of the Year Sophie Humphries.
Community Event or Project of the Year Molyullah Fish and Chip Night.
Benalla Rural City Community Group of the Year Devenish Makers’ Market.
District Achievement awards were also presented:
Baddaginnie Achiever of the Year Debbie Rees.
Benalla Achiever of the Year Liz Chapman OAM.
Benalla Young Achiever of the Year Will Smith.
Devenish Achiever of the Year Kevin Phipps.
Goomalibee Achiever of the Year Ewen McLean.
Goorambat Achiever of the Year Greg Gall.
Molyullah Achiever of the Year joint winners Russell Byrne and Diane Brosig.
Thoona Achiever of the Year Wallace Binnie.
Winton Achiever of the Year joint winners David and Wendy Webster.
Cr Hearn said the high calibre of nominations received demonstrated the commitment and dedication that exists within the community.
"The Australia Day awards are just one way of recognising the invaluable contribution of members of our community, and thanking them for their commitment and dedication to helping others,” Cr Hearn said.