Citizen of the Year

Charles Sheldrake

Charles has been recognised as our 2024 Citizen of the Year for his outstanding and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Mount Barker community through his many voluntary activities.

As the President of the Kiwanis Club in the Adelaide Hills, Charles has exhibited exceptional leadership in overseeing the club's initiatives. One of the standout programs under his guidance is the "Terrific Kids" program in local Primary Schools. This program recognises and celebrates children who have demonstrated exceptional citizenship within their school communities.

Charles has also been the driving force behind the success of the Kiwanis Book Shop for the past five and a half years. Under his administration, the Book Shop has become a vital resource, generating over $60,000 in sales over the past 12 months alone. These funds directly benefit disadvantaged children and families in the local community.

Charles plays a crucial role as a volunteer driver for the Mount Barker District Council's community programs. His dedication is evident in his selfless efforts to transport sick or elderly people to medical appointments, both locally and in Adelaide.

Furthermore, Charles serves as a Justice of the Peace volunteer, offering his time and expertise to assist members of the community. His regular shifts reflect his commitment to accessibility and service, as he provides essential support to those in need. Charles is widely recognised as a 'hands-on' community member, an active citizen, and a dependable Justice of the Peace who is always ready to assist those requiring his services.

Charles's impact is felt far-and-wide making him a true beacon of service and compassion in our community.

Young Citizen of the Year

Tom Megson

Tom's unwavering commitment to showcasing agriculture in innovative and engaging ways, coupled with his dedication to community building, makes him a standout winner of the 2024 Young Citizen of the Year award.

As an active member of the Callington Show Committee, Tom’s efforts go beyond the traditional, as he consistently seeks creative ways to engage and educate the community about the vital role of agriculture. Tom's devotion to showcasing the industry has positioned him as an exemplary role model for the next generation.

Tom is a quiet achiever but his actions speak volumes. He makes himself available to help out wherever possible and his actions bring people and community together.

In addition to his work with the Callington Show Committee, Tom is actively involved in softball as a player, qualified referee, and mentor for younger players. His involvement in refereeing at the Masters games and contributing to his mother's team shows his passion for the sport and dedication to building a positive sporting culture.

Tom's community connection extends beyond his agricultural and sporting pursuits. His involvement in committees, work on rural properties, and active participation in various community initiatives highlight his commitment to community service. Tom is not just a participant; he is someone who actively contributes to the well-being and vibrancy of our community.

Award for Active Citizenship

Jade Brook

Jade's embodiment of active citizenship and her unwavering dedication to community wellbeing make her a worthy recipient of the 2024 award for Active Citizenship.

Jade's impact has been felt profoundly through Love Out Loud, a project she founded to support vulnerable community groups, particularly focusing on feeding families in Mount Barker and advocating for those experiencing homelessness. Her commitment to these causes is not merely transactional; it is deeply rooted in creating a positive and non-judgmental environment for families in need. Jade's involvement in initiatives like Flint Community Care, along with Love Out Loud, underscores her commitment to fostering a sense of community and support without prejudice.

Jade's advocacy work extends beyond immediate community needs. She actively engages in advocating for the homeless, facilitates Aboriginal networking groups, and dedicates herself to reconciliation efforts. Her commitment to building bridges between different groups within the community showcases her belief in the importance of inclusivity and support for all. Jade's efforts are not only about providing assistance but also about creating a cohesive and supportive environment that nurtures the wellbeing of every individual.

One of the remarkable aspects of Jade's contributions is her role as a mentor to younger individuals. By supporting vulnerable populations and actively participating in community care initiatives, she plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of belonging and resilience among the younger generation. Jade's dedication exemplifies the essence of active citizenship, where respect and contribution are not only values but lived principles that positively impact the community.

Jade's commitment goes beyond organised initiatives. She consistently makes herself available to those in need. Her friendly and positive personality creates a welcoming environment, fostering a sense of connection and care. Even in the face of personal challenges, Jade's active involvement in the community remains steadfast.

Moreover, Jade's passion for reconciliation and sharing her Aboriginal culture adds a profound layer to her contributions. By enriching the community with diversity, understanding, and a strong sense of unity, she brings people together in meaningful ways.

Community Event of the Year

2023 All British Day

All British Day has not only become a highlight for British vehicle enthusiasts but has become a part of the Echunga community and culture, and a notable model of collaboration and partnership.

All British Day, an annual display day and picnic for enthusiasts to show off their British vehicles, has become a beloved event, attracting nearly 5000 spectators in 2023. What sets this event apart is not just its success in terms of attendance but the meticulous planning and execution. With detailed plans, risk assessments, and emergency response plans in place, the All British Day team operates with clockwork precision, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants and attendees.

One of the most commendable aspects of this event is the strong partnership between the All British Day organisation and the Echunga Recreation Grounds committee, and local collaborations with the Echunga community. This collaborative approach not only improves the success of the event but also strengthens the ties between the All British Day organisation and the local community. The inclusive nature of the partnership allows the entire community to embrace and be an integral part of this fantastic event.

Serving as a major fundraiser for most of the community organisations in Echunga, the All British Day team actively create fundraising opportunities that resonate with the community's needs.

The efforts of the All British Day team go beyond the event itself, contributing to the overall development and wellbeing of the Echunga community.

This annual event stands as a shining example of how collaboration between organisations and local communities can result in a win-win situation, benefiting all parties and building a sense of unity and pride in the community.