A twilight trial event was held in Wellington on Wednesday 25 January to recognise Australia Day and encourage inclusivity among the community.
During the event a special ceremony was held with an address by Deputy Mayor Richard Ivey, a presentation by local Aboriginal Elder Uncle Joe Daley and a speech by Wellington’s Ambassador screenwriter and producer Peter Herbert.
A few of Wellington’s hard working residents for the year were also honoured with Australia Day awards.
Jennifer Wykes was named Wellington’s 2023 Citizen of the Year for her volunteer work across numerous groups in Wellington including the Wellington Garden Club, the Wellington Rotary Club, the Wellington Croquet Club, the junior and senior Rugby League Club, the Geurie Tennis Club and the Wellington High School P and C.
Within these clubs Jennifer holds many roles including secretary and president.
Shirley Drysdale was named Wellington’s 2023 Senior Citizen of the Year and Chloe Shanahan was named as Wellington’s 2023 Young Citizen of the Year.
The 2023 Young Sportsperson of the Year was Ronnie Tandy-Bell for his achievements in swimming while the Wellington Eisteddfod Canteen, headed by Yvonne Redfern, was named as the 2023 Community Event of the Year.
Deputy Mayor of Dubbo Regional Council Richard Ivey was part of the Wellington Australia Day committee.
“The committee this year had a hard job this year in deciding who should receive the recognition and we appreciate the work that both the nominees and those who nominated them put in,” Clr Ivey said.
He acknowledged the trial twilight event and urged people to have their say after the event.
“The event gave Wellington residents the option of attending a ceremony outside of work and allowed them to acknowledge 26 January however they saw fit.
“We are looking forward to hearing feedback from the community regarding how they wish to celebrate Australia Day in Wellington and Dubbo in the future,” Clr Ivey said.
