Australia Day

CASEY’S local heroes were honoured for their service to the community at the Casey Australia Day Awards ceremony on Saturday night. Four individuals and two community events were recognised at the awards, selected from a high calibre of nominees, for their achievements and contributions to the Casey community. Painting with Parkinson’s founder Anne Atken was awarded the top gong being named the Casey Citizen of the Year. City of Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon said at the event that the awards were Casey’s highest honour. “Through these awards, we are able to officially recognise, thank and celebrate those people who have become pillars of our community, enriching the lives of those around them,” she said. “It is also important to acknowledge the great community events or services which continue to increase the live-ability of our great city.” The council also handed out highly commended certificates at the awards ceremony to Jake Always, Maureen Smollen and Blairlogie Living and Learning for the Blairlogie Lateline Theatre Performance. The News has profiled each of the Casey Australia Day Awards recipients.