The District Council of Yankalilla has named its 2024 Citizen of the Year Awards, to be presented at its Australia Day celebrations on Friday 26 January.

The council says the awards recognise the efforts of those in the community who demonstrate leadership, initiative and active citizenship.

Citizen of the Year is Jon Jaensch, who has been a volunteer in the ambulance services since 1976 serving as team leader and contributing to training new volunteers.

He has been an Elder in the Yankalilla Lutheran Church for 48 years and is a key figure in the Yankalilla Inter Church Council Committee, uniting five local Christian denominations. 

Through his efforts in collecting bottles and cans, Jon has been instrumental in funding vital community services, including community transport cars, a food pantry, and events like community Christmas carols and the 'Escape the Vape' forum with the Yankalilla Area School.

Young Citizen of the Year is Rachel Graves, who balances teacher training studies with her work as a School Services Officer at Rapid Bay Primary School and her wide community involvement.

She is involved in Auskick, teaches swimming and has achieved a Bronze Medallion in surf lifesaving, showing dedication to her students and their families, as well as and the broader local community. 

Community Event of the Year Award goes to Fleurieu AG FEST, held at the Yankalilla showgrounds In March. 

The event attracted visitors from the region and beyond, bringing together developers, producers, sellers and users of agricultural technology and engaging secondary students from schools across the Fleurieu. 

Active Citizenship Award goes to The Myponga Reservoir parkrun volunteers, who have a positive impact on health, community and inclusivity.

Launched in April 2022, it’s on every Saturday morning at 8am, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for people to walk or run a timed five kilometre course.

It promotes physical fitness and showcases the region, fostering a sense of community among diverse individuals who may not ordinarily come together.

The Mayor’s Award recipient is Peter Filsell, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and selfless service to the community over two decades.

The Deputy Mayor’s Award goes to Ash and Cassie Edwards, who brought back Normanville New Year’s Eve Pageant and Fireworks and contribute to the community via Rotary, Lions and the Community Garden.

The Australia Day celebration and awards presentation will be held at The Village Green, Normanville at 9am.

Full details of all the 2024 award recipients can be found on the council website.

Nominations for the citizenship awards can be made year round online.