The Western Downs Regional Council has recognised its outstanding citizens as part of the 2020 Australia Day Awards. There were 17 individuals and groups recognised this year, celebrating those who go above and beyond to make the Western Downs a great place to lice and work.
Jandowae resident and outstanding volunteer Michael Wood has been named the Western Downs Regional Council’s Regional Citizen of the year as part of the Australia Day Awards. Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the 2020 Awards featured brand new categories and further opportunities to identify and celebrate the people and groups doing extraordinary things across the region. “It’s an honour to recognise these amazing people in our community who really embody what it means to be a part of the Western Downs family,” Cr McVeigh said. “Mr Wood is an exemplary human who demonstrates a huge commitment to the Jandowae community through his involvement in every single community group in the local area”.
Dalby local Jenaya Low was also awarded Young Citizen of the Year for her tireless community work and her achievements at Dalby State High School as School Captain, Student Council Representative and Band Captain. “Jenaya’s passions for health and the environment led to the implementation of ‘Green Day’ at her school, which promoted the importance of environmental practices such as recycling and minimising the use of plastics,” Cr McVeigh said.
The Australia Day awards also recognised local achievers across several categories including volunteering, creative arts, community organisations and sporting. As part of the ceremony, 10 new residents were welcomed to the region, with origins from the Philippines and Moldova. Cr McVeigh said the Ceremony was the first for the year, and a significant part of the region’s annual celebrations. “It’s particularly special to welcome our newest citizens on Australia Day, adding to the strong sense of community pride felt across the region,” he said.
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