In the lead up to the Australia Day long weekend District Council of Yankalilla has announced its 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 w𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀.

The awards recognise the incredible efforts of those in our community who rise to the challenge and demonstrate leadership, initiative and active citizenship

Citizen of the Year Award goes to Myponga resident Ros Hutchinson, in recognition of her lifelong dedication to community service and leadership.

A tireless contributor to local sports, health and community organisations, Ros is a life member of the Myponga Sellicks Tennis Club and the Myponga Netball Club, volunteering many hours to coaching and mentoring.

In her role as the Heart Foundation Walking Organiser for the region, Ros coordinates two weekly walks and multiple social events that foster fitness and inclusivity.

She is a Cancer Council Ambassador and organises Myponga’s annual Biggest Morning Tea.

Eve Jansen has been named Young Citizen of the Year, celebrating her community service and leadership as a role model for young people in the district.

She is a member of the council’s Youth Advisory Committee, helping to plan and deliver events that benefit local young people and is a volunteer with Surf Life Saving, teaching nippers groups and assisting with the VACSWIM program. 

Community Event of the Year is Shannons QMT Yankalilla Classic Motor Show.

Organised by the Yankalilla and District Lions Club and a team of local volunteers, the event brings together car enthusiasts and the community to celebrate the beauty and nostalgia of classic cars.

Creating a festive and inclusive environment, It helps to boost local tourism and proceeds are put towards funding community projects. 

The Active Citizen Award goes to Carrickalinga Ratepayers Association securing Carrickalinga’s designation as Australia’s first International Dark Sky Community in May 2024 after three years of effort.

This work included community events and education to raise awareness of light pollution, champion responsible lighting practices and help preserve the district’s natural night skies for future generations.

The Mayor’s Award for 2025 is presented to Louise Allstrom, in recognition of her outstanding and long-standing contributions to the district.

A former Yankalilla Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Louise was also founding president of Normanville Traders, supporting local businesses, and a member of the Yankalilla Area School Governing Council and Yankalilla Community Children’s Centre.

As a bookshop owner she ran a free book club for preschool children; she is a Meals on Wheels volunteer; and is president of Club Fleurieu, a cornerstone of social life in the district, bringing people together and help combat social isolation.

The awards will be presented at the Australia Day Celebration at The Village Green, Normanville on 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟲 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝘁 𝟵a𝗺. 

After the official ceremony the community is invited to stay and enjoy the traditional Lions barbecue, face painting, yard games and live music from Corey Stewart and Wendy McPhee.

Read more about the award winners on the council website.