Celebrating our community heroes this Australia Day

The City of Canning in partnership with Auspire – Australia Day Council Western Australia, recognised some of our local community heroes, with the winners of the Community Citizen of the Year Awards announced at the City’s Australia Day Family Fun Day.

The Community Citizen of the Year Awards celebrate the positive impact of individuals and groups who are engaged and committed to the local area.

The winners of the awards for Canning were:

• Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals over 16 years) - Linda Ross
• Young Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals aged 16-30 years) - Bryzlyn Sin
• Senior Community Citizen of the Year (for individuals aged 65 years and over) - Monika Wong
• Active Citizenship (for community groups or events) - Rossmoyne Riverton Shelley Community Sewing

This year the Community Citizen of the Year Award was awarded to Linda Ross. For over 10 years, Linda has volunteered her time to both the local school and the wider community, becoming a cornerstone of the Parents and Citizens (P&C) Association, and playing a pivotal role in fundraising thousands of dollars.

Her efforts extend beyond the school, having played a pivotal role in helping a Visitor Centre recover financially after a cyclone, creating programs to assist seniors and families during the cost-of-living crisis, providing financial support and subsidised products, whilst also guiding other P&C groups with their finances.

Linda’s leadership, volunteerism, and ongoing commitment to the welfare of others, has made a significant impact on the community, ensuring people stay connected, supported and empowered.
Bryzlyn Sin, the winner of the Young Community Citizen of the Year, has helped empower students, making a lasting impact on youth in low socio-economic areas.

As part of Asian Students in Australia, Bryzlyn has organised fundraising events and helped raise awareness of important programs that have had a positive impact on our local communities. She also volunteers with a mentoring group and teaches at Teach Learn Grow, who will soon be leading initiatives to expand the program to rural schools.

Canning’s Senior Community Citizen of the Year, Monika Wong, is a valued member of the Herald Avenue Senior Citizens Centre. Monika has been instrumental in its growth, leading numerous fundraisers, activities and events, and raising thousands of dollars for various charities.

Continually giving back to the community by inspiring others, Monika recently shaved her head during the greatest shave for the Leukemia Foundation.

Rossmoyne Riverton Shelley Community Sewing was the winner of the Active Citizenship Award. Committed to improving the lives of others, this group has created items such as fiddle mats and bereavement hearts for hospitals, and dignity bags and scarves for the Dignity Drive.

Through selfless leadership and donation collection, Rossmoyne Riverton Shelley Community Sewing has been instrumental in teaching local community members new skills and giving back to those in need.

Mayor Patrick Hall said it’s great acknowledge and celebrate these amazing people who have had such a positive social, cultural and economic impact on our society.

“The Community Citizen of the Year Awards allows us to reflect, respect and celebrate our local community heroes.

“I would like to congratulate all the nominees and the winners of each of the categories. Your contributions have had a significant impact on the wellbeing and advancement of our community.

“We are extremely grateful for the work that you do and are so pleased to be able to recognise you with these awards,” said Mayor Hall.

The Auspire Community Citizen of the Year Awards are proudly supported by Principal Partner the Department of Communities, Media Partners 9News Perth, 6PR Perth and WA Today, and Print Partner Westcare.