Australia Day
On Australia Day we come together as a nation to celebrate Australia and what it is to be Australian. It’s the abundance of the land; the harsh red desert and the cool blue ocean, the elements that conflict which make us so unique.
Australia day is about celebrating these aspects; what we can achieve in this great nation because of our diversity and the boundless opportunities that surround us.
Come join us on Friday 26 January 2024 in Apex Park for our Australia Day Breakfast, Citizenship and Awards Ceremony.
2024 Australia Day Breakfast
Who makes a real difference in your community?
We encourage everyone to share a bit about their story, listen to the stories of others and celebrate with the people around you!
Each year, South Australia celebrates the achievements and contributions of outstanding members of their communities through the Citizen of the Year Awards. These individuals demonstrate extraordinary service every day within their communities so often invisible to most of us. This contribution builds the social and cultural fabric of our society, making a significant difference to the people of our state.
Here in Gawler the Awards acknowledge the unsung heroes of our community who through their contributions make our town a better place. These individuals and organisations offer outstanding service each day and enable our communities to be stronger as a result of their tireless efforts.
The five categories of awards and winners that will be presented at this year’s Australia Day ceremony are:
- Citizen of the Year - Joint winners Ann McGonigal and Jayne Polito
- Young Citizen of the Year – Jade Hancock
- Corporate Citizen of the Year – Damian McGee
- Community Event of the Year – Villawood Christmas Parade
- Community Group of the Year – Willo’s Men’s Shed
Celebrations will be held at Apex Park on Julian Terrace Gawler, with breakfast being served from 7am. Guests are encouraged to arrive as punctually as possible, to ensure they don’t miss out on the awards ceremony which will commence shortly after.
The morning is estimated to conclude at approximately 9:30am.
This special breakfast event hosted by the Gawler Apex Club and other local service clubs and community groups, will be followed by the Town of Gawler Citizenship ceremony and presentation of the local Australia Day Awards.
"I am personally looking forward to the event in Apex Park, as a great opportunity to catch up with friends and neighbours, welcome our new citizens, and congratulate our Australia Day award winners." Said Mayor Karen Redman.
"The Council is dedicated to promoting active participation in community life, and among us, there are numerous individuals making positive contributions to Gawler and the broader region."
Council is delighted to announce that Gary Wills has kindly accepted the invitation to be Council’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2024. Gary will be speaking at the Awards about his work and contribution to the community. Through our Australia Day awards, the Council recognises the significance of honouring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to going above and beyond for the community. We also take great joy in welcoming and celebrating new Australian Citizens, who will be officially conferred on this special day.
Award Categories:
- Citizen of the Year
- Young Citizen of the Year
- Corporate Citizen of the Year
- Community Event of the Year
- Community Group of the Year
Nominations close Thursday 30 November 2023 at 5pm, so if you know someone making a change in our community, nominate them today!