Australia Day awards
Mr NORTHE (Morwell) (09:55): A number of local residents were recently recognised with Australia Day honours, with Beverley Holmes from Yallourn North being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for her contribution to the community of Walhalla, particularly for her involvement with the Walhalla Heritage and Development League since 1968. Raelene Billingsley, a unit controller with the SES Morwell crew, was the recipient of an Emergency Services Medal for her outstanding service to the SES and emergency services over many years. In Toongabbie Karen Blomquist was awarded the town Citizen of the Year. Patrick McGown and Nicole Allen were presented with Young Citizen of the Year and Citizen of the Year awards respectively in Yinnar. At Boolarra, Matt Ryan, Roger Pither, Ross Bramley and the late Sue Warren were presented with community recognition certificates for their sterling service. Margaret McQuillan was awarded Churchill Citizen of the Year, whilst junior winners were Chase Hickman, Hayden Dent, Eddie Fairbrother, Paul Bonicci, Mia Fede, Leandra McLauchlan and Jenna McLauchlan. Once again, congratulations and well done to all award winners. We are so blessed to have such incredible, giving people and selfless volunteers in our community.