Local identities and unsung heroes were honoured at Young’s Australia Day awards ceremony at Carrington Park on Monday.
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Former mayor Gerry Bailey claimed the town’s top honour for his decades of service to Young.
Australia Day ambassador Valerie Parv presented Mr Bailey with his award for Citizen of the Year.
Hundreds gathered in the sunshine to watch the proceedings and celebrate Australia’s national day.
They heard of Mr Bailey’s extensive involvement in the community since his arrival in Young 43 years ago.
Mr Bailey served on countless committees and delegations during his time on council and touched the lives of many young people as a teacher at Young High School.
Since his retirement his community involvement has included being president of Meals on Wheels and treasurer at Young Bowling Club.
He has recently joined the Young Lions Club, is an active member of St Vincent De Paul and a long time volunteer with Young Community Transport.
Mr Bailey said he was humbled and very
grateful to have received the award, paying tribute to his wife and eight children.
“You can’t do these sorts of things without the support of family,” he said.
“We owe Young a great debt really, the sort of lifestyle you’re able to live here.
“I just tried to give something back.”
This year’s Junior Citizen of the Year was jointly awarded to Young Youth Council mayor and deputy mayor Isaac Northcott and James Cahill.
Councillor Ben Cooper praised the duo’s energy and enthusiasm.
“They’ve organised a number of events in town and they’re really positive role models for the youth in Young,” he said.
“They were instrumental in the success of the Cherry Chase and happily volunteered their time to ensure that events in Young were able to be held.
“They’re really community minded, positive and energetic young Australians.”
The coveted Mayoral award went to Soprano Julie O’Connor - who also sang the national anthem at the event.
Young’s Relay for Life team took out the community event category after its significant fundraising efforts in 2014, raising $54,000 for the Cancer Council.
The Young Shire Band’s musical talents were recognised, taking out the cultural award, while Young Community Transport was selected in the Community Services category.
Local media and harness racing identity Stuart Maxwell received the individual award for Community Service for his contribution to the community.
And an award-winning 2014, Gusolio’s Hair and Spa, was awarded Business of the Year, with owner Melissas Mccoll accepting the award from councillor John McGregor.
Jessica McInerney was named Senior Sports Person of the year while Matt Murray took out the junior gong.
Five of the town’s newest Australians - Silpa and Tatvika Chaparala, Youxin Zhao and Priyanka and Hitesh Rathi - had even more reason to celebrate, becoming Australian citizens on the day.
