January 29th, 2025Hepburn Shire community awards

Hepburn Shire Council announced the recipients of the 2025 Community  Awards last Friday, January 24 at a civic event at The Mechanics Trentham.  

The awards recognised individuals and community organisations that have made  outstanding contributions to the local community.  

The event was attended by a number of councillors along with Ballarat MP  Catherine King and Ripon MP Martha Haylett.

Dja Dja Wurrung Elder Aunty  Marilyne Nicholls performed a moving Welcome to Country.  Citizen of the Year was awarded to Steve Ellis, a member of the Creswick CFA for  40 years, for his exceptional community service and volunteer efforts in various local  initiatives.  

“Steve has over 40 years’ service to the Creswick Fire Brigade with his many  leadership roles, CFA and the Running Championships, as well as his service to the  football community.”  

The Event of the Year was awarded to the 160th Anniversary Clunes Show, for its  significant impact in celebrating and promoting the region’s heritage and community  spirit.  

“The Clunes Show has always shown a wonderful exhibition from local and  surrounding districts, of stock, machinery and homecraft exhibits, illustrating the  abilities and dedication of both the farmers and townspeople to produce only the best  products.”  

Hepburn Together was awarded to the Daylesford and Hepburn United Soccer  Club, for fostering inclusivity, team spirit, and youth development in the region  through soccer.  

“Daylesford and Hepburn United Soccer Club is a 100 per cent not-for-profit  community-run sports club with its number one commitment to provide a safe,  welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the Hepburn Shire  community.”  

The civic event also included an Australian citizenship ceremony, with six people  becoming citizens. The new citizens hailed from Germany, Philippines, Vietnam,  New Zealand and Ireland.  

Words & image: Contributed