Published on Wednesday, 27 January 2016 at 12:00:00 AM
The BBQ’s were full, a selection of great Aussie music was playing and there were plenty of flags and temporary tattoos on display as residents gathered across the Shire of Ashburton to celebrate Australia Day.
Thanks to the Shire’s partnerships with Rio Tinto and the Chevron-operated Wheatstone project, free community events were held in each town with Onslow residents celebrating at the Onslow Sports Club while Tom Price, Pannawonica and Paraburdoo gathered at the local swimming pool.
The lineup of traditional games and fun activities kept everyone entertained - with thong races, thong throwing, best dressed competitions and obstacle courses providing plenty of laughs for competitors of all ages.
As is tradition on Australia Day, the winners of the 2016 Premier’s Active Citizenship Awards were announced during a special ceremony.
Shire President Kerry White says that Australia Day is one of the most popular events of the year and it is always great to see people come together to have fun. “Australia Day is iconic for BBQ’s, adorning yourself with Aussie Flag paraphernalia and spending the day with your mates,” said Cr White. “It is also an important day where we give recognition to the Citizenship award winners for their valuable community contributions.”
Rio Tinto manager Communities & Agriculture Andrew Turner said Australia Day celebrations were a great way to connect new and long-term residents, as well as acknowledging the dedication of community members.
“Australia Day is such a fun day for the whole community,” Mr Turner said. “We are proud we can support events across the Shire that celebrate our Australian culture while recognising those who work hard to make the region a vibrant and fun place to live.”
Chevron Australia Community Liaison Officer Shawn Heiderich said community celebrations and holiday events play an important role in bringing the community together. “It was really great to see tourists, Wheatstone Project workers, families and local residents alike join together to participate in and enjoy Onslow’s Australia Day celebrations.”
The winners of the Premier’s 2016 Active Citizenship Awards are as follows:
Tom Price
Active Citizen: Stephanie Viljoen
Under 25: Callum O’Connell
Local Group: Tom Price Fire Rescue Services & Bush Fire Brigade
Paraburdoo
Active Citizen: Bethwyn Boatwright
Local Group: Paraburdoo Volunteer Fire & Rescue Service
Pannawonica
Active Citizen: Anna McCabe
Under 25: Amie Gallanagh
Local Group: Pannawonica Junior Sports Committee
Onslow
Active Citizen: Amanda Meyers
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