Local 2023 Community Citizen of the Year Award Winners Announced

Two individuals and a community group received awards at the City of Armadale's recent Australia Day citizenship celebrations.

While announcing the winners, City of Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield, said “The City is home to so many amazing individuals and groups, who contribute an enormous amount to community life.

“It’s a real honour to be recognised with an Australia Day Community Citizen of the Year Award. On behalf of the City and Councillors, I congratulate all nominees and award recipients for their outstanding efforts.” Mayor Butterfield said.

Mark Thompson was recognised as Community Citizen of the Year, acknowledging his involvement as a Cub and Group leader with the Roleystone Karragullen Scout group for over 11 years. More recently, Mark has been involved in supporting the Roleystone Club and been pivotal in forming partnerships between community groups and the local community.

Graeme Hart received the Community Citizen of the Year Award in the Senior Category, recognising his 40 years volunteering in the community. In addition to 26 years as a member of the local Lions Club, Graeme was an active member of the Roleystone Volunteer Fire Brigade for 23 years. He has worked tirelessly as a volunteer with the Armadale Gosnells Landcare Group, and for a number of years, volunteered with the Neighbourhood Watch and Armadale Graffiti Removal Group. As a qualified accountant, Graeme also found time, (for more than 50 years) to assist community organisations during their audit processes.

The 2nd Chance Op Shop was recognised within the Active Citizenship Group category. Since opening its doors in 2013, the 2nd Chance Op shop has raised and donated more than $525,000 to community groups, from animal welfare to bushfire relief. In addition, it supports Op Shops in country areas and provides goods to assist schools and other community-based programs.

Nominations for the Australia Day Community Citizen of the Year Awards open in October with winners announced at local Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony each year.