Nomination and recipient of the Senior Community Citizen of the Year

Margaret (Nan) Rossiter

Margaret or Nan as she known by has volunteered at the Dongara District High School in the Library for over 30 years. Nan spent her time in the school library covering books preparing them to be loaned to the students

Nan has been a volunteer at the Dongara Denison Local Rag for over 15 years and has been an active member of the Irwin Autumn Social Club for over ten years.

Having first-hand experience with breast cancer, Nan helped initiate the Cancer Council Big Morning Tea at the Denison Bowling Club and ran that for seven years.  She also continued to raise money for the Cancer Council over those seven years.

We thank you Margaret for your hard work and dedication to our community and congratulate you for being our Senior Community Citizen of the Year.

Nominations and recipient of the Young Community Citizen of the Year

Emma Jackson

Emma Jackson is a dedicated and inspiring young volunteer who has made significant contributions as a librarian at the Dongara Public Library. In an era dominated by digital media, Emma’s commitment to keeping the tradition of books alive is commendable.

Emma’s efforts are particularly admirable given her age, making her a role model for her peers and a source of inspiration across generations.

Emma’s passion for serving the Irwin Shire community is evident in her dedication to providing a welcoming and enriching library experience for all. Her work helps foster a love of reading and learning, ensuring that the library remains a vibrant hub for the community.

Her selfless contributions deserve recognition and gratitude. Emma exemplifies the value of community service, and her efforts are a testament to the impact one individual can have. Congratulations, Emma, on your outstanding service!

Cassandra Baxter

Cassandra Baxter demonstrates dedication and achievement through her extensive community involvement. As a Junior Netball Coach for Breezes Netball Club, a netball umpire, and a water safety volunteer, she has displayed exceptional leadership and commitment. Cassandra’s accolades include certificates of merit at the 2023 YOH Fest and prestigious awards such as the 2024 Dongara Denison Surf Life Saving Club (DDSLS) Youth Club Achiever.

Her achievements in lifesaving are remarkable, including earning her Bronze Medallion, Surf Rescue Bronze, Senior First Aid, and IRB Crew Certificates. She has recorded over 90 hours of volunteering, 44 of which were dedicated to beach safety patrols, showcasing her dedication to community welfare.

Beyond lifesaving, Cassandra’s leadership as a Year 10 student leader at Nagle Catholic College and her involvement in the ‘For Others Club’ demonstrate her commitment to making a difference. Her contributions to dance, sports, and lifesaving set an inspiring example for others.

Cassandra’s selflessness, leadership, and dedication to her community are truly impressive. She is a shining example of what young people can achieve when they combine passion with commitment. Congratulations, Cassandra, on your outstanding contributions!

And the winner of the Young Community Citizen of the Year is…. Cassandra Baxter

Nominations and recipient of the Active Citizenship Award for Community Group or Event

Dongara Denison Surf Lifesaving Club – Surf Patrols

In addition to the efforts and in collaboration with our Dongara Denison Surf Lifesaving Club, primarily through the efforts of Mike Francis, came the introduction of the active Surf Rescue Patrols. Mike worked tirelessly to train and certify teenagers and adults in lifesaving skills, including Surf Bronze, advanced resuscitation, and IRB operations.

By equipping club members with essential skills, Mike has strengthened the club’s capacity to keep local beaches and residents safe. His dedication to fostering a culture of safety and preparedness has revitalized the club and enhanced its contribution to the community.

The Shire of Irwin deeply appreciates The Active Surf Patrols and in particular Mike and his efforts to ensure the safety of our beaches and the ongoing development of lifesaving capabilities in the region. We thank you for your invaluable service!

Dongara Denison Cars and Coffee Event

Mick Perusich demonstrated outstanding community leadership by organising the Dongara Denison Cars and Coffee Event. Following the the unfortunate cancellation of the Denison Foreshore Sprint and Midwest Show & Shine Event. Mick stepped up to bring the community together, creating a new event that revitalized local spirits.

Working alongside other local business owners, Mick dedicated time and effort to ensure the event’s success. His thoughtful planning and determination resulted in an event that received overwhelming support and participation from the community.

Mick’s leadership and passion for community engagement have left a lasting impact, providing a space for connection and celebration. Thank you, Mick.

And the winner of the Active Citizenship Award for Community Group or Event is…. the Dongara Denison– Surf Patrols

Nominations and recipient of the Community Citizen of the Year

Caryn Stokes

For over 30 years, Caryn Stokes has been a dedicated advocate for the youth of Dongara. Her commitment to supporting and enabling young people is unparalleled. Caryn goes above and beyond, often using her personal time to transport youth to work placements and ensuring they have access to valuable career experiences, even in a region with limited services.

Her unwavering dedication to fostering growth and providing guidance has helped countless individuals achieve their full potential. As a quiet leader who seeks no recognition, Caryn’s contributions often go unnoticed but are deeply felt by those whose lives she’s positively impacted. Her selfless actions have made a lasting impact on the lives of many and continue to enhance the Dongara community.

Caryn’s efforts have made a lasting difference in the lives of many, and her contributions deserve recognition and gratitude. Thank you, Caryn, for your incredible service to our community!

Sandra Smith

Sandra Smith has been a devoted volunteer with St. John Ambulance since 2010, contributing tirelessly to the well-being of the Irwin community. As one of the initiators of Helping Hands Dongara on Facebook, Sandra has been instrumental in organizing and delivering essential support to those in need. From distributing unsold bread products to providing her carport as a drop-off point for household items and food hampers, Sandra’s efforts ensure assistance reaches the most vulnerable residents in the Shire.

Her selflessness extends beyond her formal roles, as she consistently finds ways to support others while raising her family and maintaining full-time employment. Sandra’s generosity and dedication to helping those in need make her a true community hero.

Thank you and congratulations Sandra!

Trish Parker

Trish Parker is a cornerstone of the Irwin community, dedicating herself to preserving local heritage and inspiring active citizenship. Her tireless efforts span multiple projects, including the ongoing care and maintenance of the Old Police Station, Russ Cottage, Packout Room, Old Yardarino School, and the Priory Cemetery. Trish excels at attracting volunteers, resources, and funding to ensure vital conservation work is completed. She was instrumental in installing the Sir David Brand commemorative plaque in October 2024, organizing a well-attended unveiling event that celebrated his legacy of active citizenship.

As the newly elected Convenor of the Australian Museums & Galleries Association (AMaGA) Midwest Chapter, Trish is leading one of the region’s most active chapters, supporting museum volunteers and strengthening community ties. Her management of 30 IDHS volunteers is exemplary, matching their skills to tasks, providing training, and ensuring their contributions are valued.

In 2024, Trish coordinated the highly successful State History Conference, which drew 150 attendees and showcased the Shire’s cultural richness. Her engagement with the Wattandee people enriched the event with a Welcome to Country ceremony and presentations on conservation. Trish’s meticulous planning, innovative leadership, and passion for history have elevated local heritage, brought economic benefits to the community, and inspired future generations to value their roots.

We thank Trish for her dedication to the preservation of the history of our Shire.

Kirsty Crofts

Kirsty Crofts is a tireless and passionate volunteer who dedicates countless hours to enriching the Dongara community. As President of the Breezes Netball Club and the Dongara Basketball Association, and Treasurer of the Dongara District High School P&C, Kirsty’s leadership and commitment are truly remarkable. Her dedication to youth sports is evident in her efforts coaching teams, organizing Regional Carnivals, and coordinating Country Champs basketball teams for Perth events.

Beyond sports, Kirsty’s contributions to the P&C are invaluable, particularly her coordination of the Annual Bookfair, which directly supports the school library’s ability to purchase new books. Her unwavering passion for community enrichment shines through her involvement in countless initiatives, fundraisers, and events.

Kirsty’s efforts not only provide opportunities for children to thrive in sports and education but also foster a sense of unity and positivity across the community.

Dongara is very lucky to have you. Thank you Kirsty.

Kirsty Wilson

Kirsty Wilson is an extraordinary community member who consistently goes above and beyond to support local initiatives, all while balancing a full-time job and parenting responsibilities with a FIFO husband. In 2024, Kirsty volunteered as team manager for the Dongara Youth Girls football team, a role that involved coordinating umpires, runners, and canteen rosters, digitally entering game details, and managing weekly tasks such as washing and preparing team uniforms, first aid kits, and drink bottles.

Kirsty’s commitment extends far beyond football. She has played a pivotal role in fundraising efforts for various community groups, including DDHS Year 6 camps, YOH Fest, Move N Groove, and the Breezes Netball Club. Her contributions often include countless hours spent baking and organizing events to ensure their success.

As an active Girl Guide leader, Kirsty helped re-establish the Dongara Denison Girl Guides branch, supervising weekly sessions, organizing camps, and implementing enriching activities for local girls. Her leadership fosters confidence and teamwork in young participants while strengthening community bonds.

Thank you Kirsty!

And the winner of the Community Citizen of the Year is….Trish Parker

Congratulations to all nominees and award recipients this year. The Shire acknowledges the huge contribution that each of you makes and are truly thankful to have you in our community.