Augusta-Margaret River shire celebrates Australia Day for everyone

Australia Day in its various forms was celebrated across the region on Friday with a citizenship ceremony in Margaret River, the annual Lions breakfast and awards in Cowaramup, and an Indigenous gathering at Mokidup/Ellensbrook.

The shire welcomed 23 new Australian citizens in ceremonies in Margaret River and Cowaramup.

Shire president Julia Meldrum welcomed those sworn in as new citizens, reminding residents of the country’s shared values to democracy and inclusivity for people from all walks of life.

Meanwhile, the Cowaramup Lions honoured two community members through their annual citizenship awards.

Shire of Augusta-Margaret River fire control officer Tim Garstone and Margaret River Senior High School graduate Elli Taylor were singled out this year for the Col Duggan and Kevan Gray awards respectively.

The Col Duggan Citizen of the Year award honoured Mr Garstone for years of service to the community, including 35 years in bushfire brigades as well as long involvement in basketball, hockey and BMX.

Ms Taylor was honoured for the Kevan Gray Youth Achiever award in recognition of her school results and volunteering, including the Rotary alternative leavers exchange to Timor l’Este.