2024 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards

Ballina Shire Council is on a mission to dive deep into our community and celebrate individuals and groups who quietly make an extraordinary impact on our shire. Nominations are invited for those outstanding community members who may otherwise go unnoticed, individuals and groups who dedicate themselves to community-based activities, sports, the environment, or the arts.

The 2024 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards are an opportunity to honour and recognise our unsung heroes. These are the exceptional individuals and groups who may not seek the limelight, yet their contributions are nothing short of remarkable. Community members are encouraged to nominate deserving candidates who have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to making Ballina Shire a better place.

There are seven categories for nomination:

YOUNG CITIZEN (UNDER 30 YEARS)

Recognise young achievers making a difference.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Applaud those who selflessly support our community.

SENIOR CITIZEN (OVER 60 YEARS)

Celebrate the wisdom and dedication of our seniors.

SPORTS ACHIEVEMENT

Honour sports excellence and contributions.

ARTS AND CULTURE

Celebrate creative visionaries enriching our culture.

COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR

Spotlight outstanding events held in 2023 that unite us.

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

Acknowledge eco-warriors protecting our environment.

The Citizen of the Year is chosen from all of the nominees across the seven categories.

Nominate online at ballina.nsw.gov. au/2024Awards or contact Council’s Communications Team on 1300 864 444.

Nominations close: Monday 27 November 2023

Turning a flood into a wave of generosity

Mark Ross received this year’s Volunteer of the Year Award for his outstanding and tireless efforts supporting the Ballina Shire and nearby communities in the aftermath of the 2022 floods.

During that challenging period, Mark jumped into action, checking on the welfare of families, securing essentials, rallying locals to donate their Stay NSW vouchers, and arranging temporary accommodation for the displaced. He also gathered money and furniture donations and distributed them to families in need.

Mark's efforts extend well beyond the floods, as he selflessly dedicates his time and labour and consistently inspires others to lend a hand. Alongside his regular work, he continues to support disadvantaged locals by collecting donations of food, cash, and vouchers to give to the homeless. For women escaping domestic violence, Mark delivers donated furniture, helping them to rebuild a life for themselves and their children.

Despite his remarkable actions, Mark humbly deflects praise, emphasising that the generous people of Ballina are the true heroes, and it is their combined effort that makes the most impact. When asked what receiving the award has meant to him, he says he was pleased that it raised awareness of the kindness and generosity in the local community as well as the help that is needed.

If you want to support Mark's initiative, keep an eye on his calls for help on Facebook's Ballina Crime page. Mark is a community force for good, proving that even small actions can create significant positive change.

Committed to athletic excellence

When Alexander was named the recipient of the Australia Day Sporting Achievement Award, it caught him off guard. Describing the win as 'unexpected', he hadn't even prepared a speech. Yet, Alexander's athletic accomplishments speak for themselves.

In 2022, Alexander secured an impressive 7th place in the triple jump event at the Australian National Championships, 2nd place at the NSW State All Schools event, and a commendable 5th place at the Australian All Schools event in Adelaide – not too shabby for a 16-year-old from Lennox Head.

March of this year saw Alexander competing in the Qld State Championships, where he triumphantly placed 1st in the under-18s triple jump, achieving a personal best of 13.7m. In April, he proudly claimed 5th place in the under-18s division at the Athletics Australia Championships.

As the 2023 school athletics season gains momentum, Alexander is dedicating himself to rigorous training sessions at local ovals and the gym. Living in a regional area poses some challenges, with limited access to specialised coaching and training facilities. Twice a week, with the support of his parents, he makes the journey to Kingscliff for private coaching. The rest of the time he trains solo, relying on his selfdetermination, self-discipline, and unwavering commitment to the sport to propel him forward.

This year's Sporting Achievement Award win has boosted Alexander's confidence as he sets his sights on a new goal of competing internationally. His aim for this year is to qualify and compete in the Oceania Junior World Series, fuelled by the support of the Ballina Shire and his relentless drive to excel.

Welcome TO OUR NEW AUSSIE CITIZENS

Say hello to our newest Aussie citizens!

Citizenship ceremonies are always such a joyous occasion! It’s such a pleasure and honour be part of a very special day in people’s lives.

Last month we welcomed 14 new Aussies to our nation and shire.

Our newest Aussie citizens come from many nations including the UK, Italy, USA, Canada, Spain, Chile, Brazil, South Africa, and New Zealand

Congratulations and welcome! Thank you for choosing Ballina Shire as your new home. Follow us on facebook for more images facebook.com/ballinashirecouncil