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Bland Shire Council announced the winners of the Bland Shire Australia Day Awards for 2024 at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony held in Barnado Park on Friday January 26.

With 20 nominations received, many in the community came to watch on as the winners of the 2024 Australia Day Awards were announced across the six categories.

The community were joined by Australia Day Ambassador Robyn Moore.

Wyalong Motorsports Club achieved Community Event of the Year for their efforts in establishing regular racing events that reinvented motorsports in the Bland Shire.

Young Sportsperson of the Year was awarded to Kayne Crowe for his achievements in sports, particularly in his Rugby League career. Colin Clarke was awarded Sportsperson of the Year for his on-going dedication to the golfing community over the past 40 years.

Ann Manglesdorf achieved the Community Service Award for her consistent and wide-spread contributions to volunteer groups and community groups in the Bland Shire throughout her life.

Hugh Williams was presented the Young Citizen of the Year award for his on-going support and volunteering in the sporting community. Similarly, Amanda Stitt was awarded Citizen of the Year for her significant dedication to volunteering for the West Wyalong community.

Finally, the Bland Shire Ambassador was awarded to Shirley Clay for her positive contributions to the Bland Shire, and her high level of conduct in both her professional and personal life.

On the day, three individuals also completed their citizenship ceremonies, Nuken Mookmontree, Diksha Rani and Diane Marie Walker, marking their loyalty to Australia and their formal membership of the Australian community.

Councillor McGlynn closed the proceeding, congratulating all the new citizens, the nominees of the awards and the award winners for their outstanding contributions and achievements in the community.

A mayoral reception was also held on Thursday 25 January for all nominees, in recognition of their efforts in the past year and beyond.

Many other events were held over the course of the day, with events held in West Wyalong, Mirrool, Ungarie and Barmedman.