Brimbank council celebrated the achievements of its residents at the annual We Are Brimbank Awards ceremony, hosted by mayor Ranka Rasic on May 23.
Council said these awards honour individuals, organisations, and community groups whose hard work and dedication have made a significant impact on the community.
This year’s recipients have been recognised for their work in displaying outstanding leadership, passionate dedication, inclusion and support, and environmental sustainability initiatives.
Aunty Jeanie Mason was honoured as citizen of the year for her dedication to enriching the arts scene and preserving Aboriginal cultural heritage.
The young citizen of the year award was taken out by Alicia Gec, a vibrant young leader recognised for her contributions through the Brimbank youth council, the Western Bulldogs bark program, and her role as junior lord mayor of Melbourne 2020-21.
The arts, culture or tourism award went to St Albans Business Association secretary Ross Morfea for his 25-year voluntary management of the St Albans Lunar Festival.
The Duke Street Community House took home the community engagement award for more than 50 years of providing learning, support, and friendship to Brimbank’s most vulnerable members.
The environment or sustainability award landed in the hands of Ardeer South Primary School for their work in embedding sustainability education into their curriculum and empowering students to be environmental stewards, making significant contributions to preserving the environment.
The Keilor Sports Club was recognised with the sport and wellbeing award for organising inclusive and supportive events like the Keilor Gift, which promote physical activity and community wellbeing while providing opportunities for volunteerism and social interaction.
The community group of the year award went to the Vietnamese Families with Special Needs Inc. for their exceptional service in helping families overcome barriers to accessing services and support, fostering meaningful social interactions and community solidarity.
Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic: said the 2024 We Are Brimbank Awards pays tribute to the outstanding contribution of local community leaders, residents, businesses and community groups across Brimbank.
“Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. Just being nominated shows the
amount of impact you or your group are having in the community. Keep up the
fantastic work,” she said.
