Every year we look to the community for nominations for Council’s Australia Day Awards. These awards are recognised as our most prestigious and pay tribute to the incredible individuals who are making a significant difference to their community.
Contribution includes areas such as; education, health, fundraising, charitable and voluntary services, business, sport, arts, the environment, or any other area that contributes to the advancement and wellbeing of the Blacktown community.
We are encouraging you to nominate a family member, friend, community leader or colleague who went above and beyond to serve the Blacktown community in 2025. Self-nominations are also welcome.
Citizen of the Year –Paul Wynne
During his career Paul was awarded The National Police Medal, the National Medal and the NSW Police Medal.
His time as a volunteer with the Blacktown South Public School Parents and citizens Association saw him take on the role of president and portrayed Santa at the school for 25 years well after his children left. He is currently a member of Shelly Public School Parents and Citizens Association where his grandchildren attend.
Paul is a Live Member of Prospect United Soccer Club recognising his service including committee positions such as Vice President and President for more than 20 years
Paul was also on the Committee which funded and established Grace’s Place in Doonside, an initiative of the Homicide Victims Support Group. It provides support, respite and counselling for children victims of homicide between 3 and 18.
He is currently the President of the New Leaf Op Shop another initiative of the Homicide Victims Support Group with all funds raised going to Grace’s Place.
Young Citizen of the Year – Marion Coles
As the founder of Pay it forward Angels, Marion has been able to set up distribution spots in several locations including Minchinbury, Mt Druitt, Werrington, Ashcroft and Penrith with the help of volunteers. She set up a Facebook group to source people who need help and those who can offer support with membership growing from 250 in February 2024 to 1400 members to date.
This Christmas she was able to distribute over 400 Christmas gifts for 0 - 20y/o and gifts for adults as well, all due to donations and help from other charities.
Community Event of the Year –The Mount Druitt Family Science Day
Mount Druitt is a dynamic and diverse community with some significant socioeconomic and cultural challenges, including limited access to opportunities in STEM fields. The Mount Druitt Family Science Day addressed this challenge by providing a space for families and young people to explore STEAM in a hands-on, engaging, and inclusive environment. Events like this are critical in sparking curiosity and showcasing pathways to success that many in the community may not have previously considered. This event aimed to empower participants by demonstrating that education and innovation are accessible to everyone, regardless of socio-economic or cultural background.
Held at Dawson Mall, the event featured interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, cultural performances, and hands-on workshops. Activities included robotics demonstrations, beatboxing performances, and engaging science displays that showcased the exciting possibilities within STEAM. The inclusion of arts within the STEM framework added a creative dimension, making complex concepts accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
Over 15 organizations partnered to deliver a diverse and enriching experience, including Sydney Water, CSIRO, Western Sydney University, and Engineers Without Borders. Each partner brought unique expertise and resources, ensuring that the event catered to a wide range of interests and age groups. The strong sense of teamwork and shared purpose made the day not only a celebration of STEAM but also a demonstration of community resilience and collaboration.
The Australia Day Awards have become the most sought-after, prestigious and publicly recognised awards program in Blacktown City.
The awards recognise and pay tribute to local individuals who have made outstanding contribution to community service, have attained remarkable achievement in education, sport, the arts or a community group that have organised a successful event in the community.
Contribution includes areas such as: education, health, fundraising, charitable and voluntary services, business, sport, arts, the environment, or any other area that contributes to the advancement and wellbeing of the Blacktown community.
Let’s give them the recognition they deserve!
To be eligible, the person must be an Australian Citizen who has on a voluntary basis, contributed to the welfare and betterment of the people within the Blacktown community throughout the year and/or over a number of years.
To be eligible, the person must be an Australian Citizen and 25 years of age or less on 26 January 2025, who has provided outstanding community service and/or attained outstanding achievement in academics, sport or the arts during the year and/or over a number of years.
This is presented to the group that have staged the most outstanding community event during 2025.
1. Nominees must live in the Blacktown City local government area.
2. Nominees must be aged 25 years and under as of 26 January 2025 to be eligible for the Young Citizen of the Year category.
3. An independent panel will select award winners. The panel’s decision will be final.
4. Nominations must be received by COB, Friday, 3 January 2025.
5. For more information please contact Brendan.Wright@blacktown.nsw.gov.au