The ceremony honoured community heroes and also welcomed almost 150 new residents into the community as Australian citizens.
One of Cumberland’s most passionate volunteers, Haijing Gao was named Local Citizen of the Year, while others awarded included Rotary Club of Granville – Community Pride Award, Group or Organisation, Alisha Khan – Young Citizen of the Year, Sankalp Mehta – Community Pride Award, Individual.
Haijing has helped residents who are elderly, disabled and from non-English speaking backgrounds carry out their everyday tasks, and assisted them accessing services such as the council’s free Household Clean Up Collection.
Her kindness and positive attitude has encouraged others to volunteer.
Over the last year, the Rotary Club distributed over 1,150 grocery hampers to the disadvantaged and partnered with likeminded organisations to deliver hot meals to the homeless, while also facilitating community programs and forums including the Women’s Wellness Forum and a Seniors Digital Literacy Program.
A spokesperson for Rotary Granville says they are extremely honoured and grateful to have been recognised by the broader community.
“The Rotary Club of Granville is small in number, but large in impact; our members never fail to serve religious, ethnic and diverse age communities,” she said.
“Our members serve our community from the love we have for this country and its people, but we truly appreciate the recognition.”
Cumberland City Mayor Lisa Lake congratulated the award recipients and finalists on their efforts.
“These awards acknowledge the contributions, hard work and dedication of individuals and community groups in our community,” Mayor Lake said.
“It’s such a pleasure to recognise the people and organisations who tirelessly devote their time and energy to making Cumberland a great place to live, work and play.”
The Australia Day Ambassador, CEO/Founder of Rufus & Coco, Anneke van den Broek also attended the event and helped present the awards.
