A NEW year and more accolades as those who go above and beyond in service to their community are celebrated.
The Rosewood Citizen of the Year Award is held annually by the Lions Club of Rosewood.
The winner will be announced at a Lions hosted event on the Australia Day public holiday.
Last year’s winner was Rosewood and District Support Centre volunteer Ronald White.
His win was announced by event organiser and MC, Clyde Nicoll.
Ronald’s win was reward for his dedication and service to the community through its support centre, which is now known as the Rosewood Men’s Workshop.
Twelve years on, the men’s workshop still operates, providing a vital service to the community.
This year’s nominees for the Rosewood Citizen of the Year are Tammy Crawford, Philio Bird and Bernie Kington.
Tammy Crawford is president of the Rosewood Crusaders Soccer Club and was nominated by Dirk Kieseker.
“Tammy has shown qualities of a dedicated community leader,” Clyde said of the credentials behind her nomination.
“She has transformed the Crusaders into a welcoming club for players of all ages.
“Under her leadership Tammy has secured multiple grants, allowing the club to flourish and upgrade facilities.”
Her ability to unite and coax others into volunteering roles is something the nominator felt made her a strong contender for Citizen of the Year.
Philio Bird has lived in Ebenezer for 17 years.
She is a member of the Rosewood Uniting Church and active in its adult fellowship.
“She helps with their catering and also volunteers two days a month in the Goodwill Op Shop,” Clyde said of the reason behind her entry.
“Philio in her working life was a community nurse and social worker.
“She has continued to support people in need to build up their self-esteem.”
She also teaches knitting, crocheting, felting and embroidery.
Philio has also been a qualified Justice of the Peace for more than 30 years and has delivered Meals on Wheels.
Bernie Kington was nominated by the Rosewood RSL Sub Branch.
“Bernie has been a member for 38 years and has taken on many roles in the organisation, including secretary for several years,” Clyde said.
“His greatest contribution to the RSL has been his keen interest in military history and collecting military artefacts especially medals, badges and uniforms.
“Each year Bernie mans the merchandise table in the lead up to Memorial Days.
“He’s been a member of Rosewood History Group since it started in July 2020.”
He also volunteers at the Lions Op Shop.
The Lions 2024 Citizen of the Year will be announced during the Australia Day ceremony at the Rosewood State School Hall on Monday, January 27.
The event starts at 9.15am.
