Meet the recipients of the 2024 Citizen of the Year Awards!
Whyalla City Council is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s Citizen of the Year Awards.
The awards provide recognition for some of the outstanding achievements of Whyalla residents and are part of Council's commitment to strengthening community pride and participation within the city.
This year’s winners are:
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Norma Matters
SENIOR CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Michael Leahy
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Elysia Parker
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS:
Scott Leverington
Robert Woodland
Eyre Gymnastics Club Inc – event: Whyalla Gymnastics Invitational Championships
Teresa Coles
Brian Moodie
Mayor Phill Stone was full of praise for the winners, who set the example for the rest of the community to follow.
“These people give their all for our community and make our city a better place in which to live,” Mayor Stone said.
“They don’t expect rewards or accolades – they do it because they are passionate about their community – but it’s important that their tireless efforts don’t go unnoticed.
These inspirational citizens will be recognised and celebrated separately from the main Australia Day events (occurring at Ada Ryan Gardens), with the awards presented at Civic Building on Grundel Street in the Chamber on Thursday 25 January from 6pm. The ceremony will also include numerous citizenship presentations.
Mayor Stone said the community could attend the ceremony to show their support or tune in to the Facebook livestream.
Be sure to click the link to find out more about what’s happening on Australia Day.
Citizen of the Year - Norma Matters
Norma is very community orientated and spends her life helping others - that is what makes her smile.
Norma spreads her influence across various areas of community service, earning the adoration of the Whyalla Hospital, with her willingness to lend a helping hand, while her profound involvement with the Uniting Church reflects a wealth of experience. Known for her skills in providing bereavement assistance to grieving families and individuals facing illnesses, Norma extends a comforting hand to those in need.
Amidst her busy schedule, Norma extends her generosity to the public café at Uniting Church and manages to share treats with her volunteers and the manager of the Communicare op shop.
Norma’s presence resonates as a source of inspiration, making her a cherished member of the community.
Senior Citizen of the Year - Michael Leahy
Michael has been an integral part of the Whyalla community, actively engaging in various projects and programs. Recently retiring as treasurer of the University of the Third Age (U3A) after eight years, he offered instruction in French, Esperanto, and computer skills. During building upgrades, he generously hosted French classes in his home.
Beyond his involvement with U3A, Michael played a pivotal role in the St. Teresa’s Catholic Church counting team and served as treasurer for the Whyalla Garden Club, where he actively participated in plant propagation.
Michael also dedicated his time as a volunteer steward for the Whyalla Show Society, where the ‘Mick Leahy Shield’ is awarded. His impact on the Whyalla Homing Pigeon Club is evident, with a building bearing his name in recognition of his efforts. Additionally, as a founding member of the committee that established Yeltana Nursing Home, Michael has made significant contributions to the Whyalla Community.
Young Citizen of the Year Elysia Parker
Elysia is always a supportive peer and acts as a positive role model and has developed a passion for community work. She assists others with schoolwork and mental health, making her a friendly face for everyone she encounters in the school and local community.
Elysia actively contributes to the state SRC, championing two initiatives: free public transport for students and improved gym accessibility for youth health. Leading Wednesday morning walks along the foreshore to promote a healthy lifestyle, she organised the events and ensured everyone stayed on track. Within Whyalla Secondary College, Elysia supports the breakfast program, cooks pancakes for her peers and volunteers for cleanup, showcasing her commitment to the school community. Additionally, she engages in care group mentoring, aligning with the school value of Inclusion, Elysia takes students for sports activities each morning.
Elysia has focused on boosting her confidence through public speaking and community involvement, becoming a voice for those who may be hesitant to speak up.
Community Service Awards:
Scott Leverington
Scott's impactful role in the Whyalla Football League includes creating the South Whyalla Girls Football teams, prompting other clubs to follow suit.
Scott's leadership and commitment have not only provided opportunities for over 100 women and girls to participate, but also earned him the honour of having the Women's Best & Fairest Medal named 'The Scott Leverington Medal' by the Whyalla Football League. His tireless efforts have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the community, promoting inclusivity and sporting activity in Whyalla.
Robert Woodland
Robert is known in the Whyalla community for donating his time and skills to capturing photographs of local sport.
More recently, the Eyre Gymnastics Club hosted the Whyalla Gymnastics Invitational Championships, to which he volunteered to photograph the competitors. Robert generously provided edited copies to the club for fundraising, enhancing the success of the competition and bringing joy to participants and their families.
Robert's photographic contributions extend beyond gymnastics, as he captures memories for various sports clubs in Whyalla, especially in newer teams like women's soccer and football.
Eyre Gymnastics Club Inc – event: Whyalla Gymnastics Invitational Championships
Eyre Gymnastics Club hosted the Whyalla Gymnastics Invitational Championships, organised by a dedicated volunteer committee. The event attracted participants and officials from across the state, bringing over 2300 people together. Not only did this event boost tourism, but also contributed to the local economy, with accommodation in high demand.
The diverse attendees, including over 70 athletes of all ages, fostered community unity, and promoted gymnastics and a healthy lifestyle. The involvement of young club members in the setup added to the success of the competition fostering community spirit.
Teresa Coles
Teresa has been an excellent community contributor for over a decade, showcasing selfless service across sports, music, events, small businesses, and tourism. Beyond her high-level participation in hockey and volleyball, coaching, and representing Whyalla in SA Hockey Country Championships, Teresa actively leads committees for Whyalla Hockey Association, Hummock Hill Hockey Club, and Whyalla Volleyball Association. She volunteers for the Whyalla Hockey and Sporting Community Club, organises live music at the Whyalla Left Hand Club, and organises the Christmas party for the Special Education Centreannually.
Additionally, Teresa supports the Whyalla Business and Tourism Association, demonstrating her commitment to community development.
Brian Moodie
Brian stands as a cherished pillar of the Whyalla community, dedicating more than 20 years to service as a committed Rotarian. Brian's ongoing contributions include his fortnightly involvement in Meals on Wheels, as well as volunteering in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, contributing to the construction of schools and housing.
Brian has also served as the treasurer for the Orchid Club, showcasing his dedication to community engagement for more than two decades.