Australia Day ceremony celebrates Denmark’s citizens of the year

Hardworking sporting club volunteer Belinda Ross has been named the Shire of Denmark’s citizen of the year.

Ms Ross was awarded the top honour in front of up to 1000 community members at the Shire of Denmark’s Australia Day Twilight Family Concert at Berridge Park.

Ms Ross was recognised for being a “shining light” among the volunteer community, whose hard work had bolstered many sporting clubs’ weekly competitions.

Each week, Ms Ross spends time before each sporting game marking the lines on local ovals, and returns after the game to clean up.

Chris Howden was named the Shire’s senior citizen of the year for his role installing vital lighting upgrades and maintaining the Denmark Airport. Youth citizen of the year was awarded to Tyler Hartfield and Will Miller.

Mr Hartfield was awarded for his advocacy for people with disability and for sharing his unique perspective with the community.

Denmark Bush Fire Brigade captain Miller also received recognition for his dedication to the community and mentorship of young volunteers during his more than eight years of service.

Volunteer not-for-profit HorsePower Denmark received the active citizenship award for a community group or event for its work enhancing the lives of people of diverse abilities through riding.

Lucia Edwards was named the junior sportsperson of the year, Maureen Cowdell was senior sportsperson of the year, and Kellee Hick received the service to sport award.