BATHURST residents have been recognised for their dedication to the community through the presentation of Australia Day awards.
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Normally, there is a healthy list of awards to hand out, but this year it was different, with there being no new Citizen of the Year or Young Citizen of the Year, and no Event of the Year, Youth Arts or Bathurst Regional National Trust Heritage awards.
However, there was a new award added, the Australia Day Achievement Medallion.
This program recognises members of the public whose hard work and contributions have shaped and benefited the Bathurst community.
Bathurst Regional Council called for nominations from the community to determine who should receive them.
Nine medallions were given to individuals and groups, including the Eglinton Rural Fire Service brigade.
Captain Matt Nelson said the award came as a surprise.
"It was unexpected. It's a nice acknowledgement, but we don't expect any sort of award," he said.
The award came after a "horrendous" year for the RFS.
"To have the worst fire season we've had and then go straight into COVID and not be able to debrief our crews was very difficult for us, so an award like this, it really acknowledges our members," Capt. Nelson added.
Another group to receive the medallion was the Bathurst Seymour Centre, which was recognised for its ongoing commitment to the community's elderly, but in particular for providing regular phone check-ups to ensure people were okay during the pandemic.
Also recognised was the Bathurst division of NSW Ambulance.
Six medallions were presented to individuals.
Gwendoline Laird, a teacher and eisteddfod adjudicator, was awarded for her long-service and dedication to promoting Bathurst youth.
Donna Sollorz was recognised for providing childcare for frontline healthcare workers, making it possible for them to assist the community.
Jan Hudson was honoured for her long history helping the community, including her involvement with Daffodil Cottage and helping to establish Relay for Life in Bathurst.
Two council staff members were also recognised.
General manager David Sherley was recognised for providing a quality service to local government and making Bathurst a great place to live over 22 years.
Council's director of Engineering Services, Darren Sturgiss, who has been with council for 21 years, was recognised for leading Bathurst through its water crisis in recent years.
