Making the announcement at Australia Day celebrations in Raymond Terrace this morning, Mayor Ryan Palmer said the awards recognise outstanding members of the local community.

“Our recipients are upstanding members of our community who have given generously of their time to help others — whether that be through dedicating themselves to help our sporting and community groups, protecting our communities for the future, or creating beautiful places for us all to enjoy.

“It’s fantastic to be able to recognise these leaders and role models in our community for the contributions they make to Port Stephens,” Mayor Palmer said.

“They don’t do it for the credit — they do it because they love our community and they love what they do. But it’s nice to be able to show our appreciation for the time and effort they put into making Port Stephens a great place to live, work and play.

“I also want to acknowledge each of our nominees, who have all gone above and beyond for our community. Thank you for all that you do.”

The 2019 Port Stephens Annual Award winners are:

Citizen of the Year —  Alicia Cameron

Alicia is the founder of Plastic Free Port Stephens. Alicia established Plastic Free with the aim of supporting Port Stephens residents and businesses find innovative ways to reduce single-use plastics and educate the community on waste reduction and eco-friendly plastic alternatives.

Young Citizen of the Year — Tasmyn Fellows

Tasmyn, of the Raymond Terrace Junior Rugby League Club, is an outstanding role model for women in sport. At 17 years old, Tasmyn coached a team of 11 year old girls, most of whom had never played rugby league before. The team played against all-boys teams and Tasmyn successfully coached the girls to make it to the second round of semi-finals. Well done Tasmyn on inspiring this young group of rugby league players!

Freeman of the Year — Lorraine Nicol

Lorraine has been described as ‘a ‘pocket rocket of our community — small in stature and large in energy!’ Over many years, Lorraine has given her time to organise countless functions and events, fundraising thousands of dollars for numerous Port Stephens charities. Lorraine is a past president of the Nelson Bay VIEW club, was on the founding committee for the Breast Cancer Support Group, is an active member of the Christmas Bush Garden Club and the current Chairperson of Corlette Hall and Headland Committee — to name just a few.

Port Stephens Medals — awarded to individuals, organisations or groups for distinguished service to the community.

• Kenyon Windeyer

Kenyon is said to be the backbone of the Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network.

Ken has been instrumental in championing several Network initiatives including Suicide Prevention training and the annual Boat Harbour Walk With Us event, raising suicide awareness and promoting community connections.

• Donald ‘Steve’ Jones

Steve has worked tirelessly for the Seaham community as Fire Chief for over 30 years. Steve has been responsible for fighting and coordinating fires, organising the all-important local Christmas Santa run and — despite now being in his mid-60’s — is still being deployed to fight fires. A great effort! Well done Steve.

• Mambo Wanda Wetlands, Reserves and Landcare Committee

Since 1999 this dedicated Committee has been quietly working to conserve and protect the Mambo Wanda wetlands. The Committee has been responsible for tree planting, weed reduction, revegetation, rejuvenation of native gardens, water quality testing and koala tree planting. The Group has been the recipient of several significant grants to support their ongoing work, as well as several awards including a highly commended in the Keep Australia Beautiful awards.

Sportsperson of the Year — Dion Cooper

Since joining the Nelson Bay Rugby Union Club in 2009, Dion has supported the running of the club in every way you can imagine — from coach, assistant coach, manager, trainer, referee, junior and vice president, secretary to grant writer, grounds manager, merchandise coordinator and line marker! Always willing to put his hand up, Dion is an outstanding example of local volunteering.

Cultural Endeavour — Rhys Fabris

Rhys is a talented local artist who uses his creative expertise to add colour and life to our town centres. Rhys is responsible for several murals across Port Stephens, including works at the recent Anna Bay 7 Day Makeover.

Environmental Award — Nigel Waters

Nigel is a community champion of Port Stephens who has given his time to numerous volunteer groups including EcoNetwork Port Stephens, Port Stephens Greens, Climate Action Port Stephens, the Tomaree ratepayers and Residents Association, and the recent Anna Bay 7 Day Makeover. Nigel is passionate about making Port Stephens a great place!