LOCAL Australia Day celebrations provided an opportunity to shine a light on several outstanding community members recognised through Council’s Citizen of the Year Awards.
Part of the Australia Day Awards program, it recognises individuals and groups who make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the community.
Reflecting on Australia Day, Mayor Adam Roberts said the occasion remained an important moment for unity and celebration.
“It’s an opportunity to celebrate all the great things about our nation, and it’s about bringing people together,” he said.
“So whatever our background is, whatever our journey’s been, it’s where we catch up together and just celebrate how good it is being in such a fantastic nation that we have right here.”
He said resilience and community spirit were defining characteristics of the region.
“My reflections are that we’re a community that’s very resilient.
“When the chips are down, we’re always there to offer support and I think that’s what I like to see fostered in this area: us staying together,” he said.
Among the locals who received nominations this year for Citizen of the Year Award was Karen Sparkes, founder and president of Aussie Battlers Pay It Forward Inc.
Ms Sparkes leads a registered charity supporting vulnerable and at-risk people across the Mid North Coast, including those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship.
Over the past year, she has expanded services in response to rising demand, introducing a mums and bubs initiative and delivering the organisation’s largest Christmas appeal to date.
She has also coordinated support during natural disasters, assisted families with essential items, and strengthened partnerships with organisations including Uniting, YP Space and the Department of Communities and Justice.
Her work has been recognised in Parliament and featured in local media, reflecting the scale and impact of her tireless commitment to ensuring no one goes without.
Also nominated was Robert Scott for his long-standing contribution to community wellbeing and social connection.
Mr Scott has led the Camden Haven Walking Group since 2013, formalising the program with a comprehensive bank of 82 walks spanning locations from Forster to South West Rocks.
Each year, he coordinates around 40 graded walks to suit varying fitness levels, promotes participation through community networks, and liaises with NSW Forests to ensure track safety.
Beyond walking, Mr Scott is an active member of the Laurieton Men’s Shed, where he has helped build a pizza oven and supports events for nursing homes and retirement villages.
Together, these nominees exemplify the spirit of service and community pride celebrated through the Australia Day Awards.
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
