Nominees and winners of the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards.

Several community members have come away with a win following the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards on Friday.

Presented in both Geraldton and Mullewa, the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards acknowledge those who demonstrate leadership and enhance community life.

Geraldton’s Community Citizen of the Year was presented to Emma Jackson, and local icon Bobby Pepper claimed Community Citizen of the Year (55 and over). Youngster Jessica Muller took out the 26 and under category and Geraldton Seniors Week Committee secured Community Group of the Year Award.

Mullewa’s Julie Freeman was awarded the Community Citizen of the Year and Casey Tunbridge obtained the 26 and under prize. Tenindewa Progress Association secured Community Group of the Year Award and Community Citizen of the Year (55 and over) was presented to Kim Keeffe.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn congratulated the winners and nominees.

“Each person who won or was nominated gives back to our community in a number of ways and I thank them for their ongoing contribution,” he said.

“They encourage positive change, enhance our community life and make Greater Geraldton what it is – a flourishing regional City.

“The Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards are a great way to acknowledge those who put their blood, sweat and tears into our community and I thank everyone who took time to nominate.”

Winners of the 2018 Awards will join previous recipients Di Gilleland, Grant Woodhams and Julian Canny.

Mayor Van Styn, Australia Day Ambassador Tim Britten, Ian Blayney MLA and Laurie Graham MLC presented the recipients with a medal and framed certificate on the day.

For more information about the Australia Day Active Citizen of the Year Awards, please visit www.citizenshipawards.com.au