It's coming up again to that special time of year where we recognise our local heroes who give their time, passion and commitment to making Mandurah a better place to live.
On Australia Day 2021, we will celebrate our community champions as part of the Community Citizen of the Year awards - and there's still time to nominate someone.
There are many unsung heroes in Mandurah who are worthy of a nomination, and this tough year has especially highlighted how our community supports each other through the hard times.
I'm really proud of the way that people have continued to support each other during the ups and downs of this year, and we know our community has faced many challenges recently that we would never have predicted a year ago.
Even though we've experienced the highs and lows of what 2020 brings, this year has shone a light on everyday people who step up to lend a helping hand, and put others before themselves.
Mandurah's village heart is well and truly on show.
Now is the time to recognise the many special people who make Mandurah a place we're proud to call home; people who add to the fabric of who we are.
This year's Community Citizen of the Year was John Lawrence, who spent more than 10 years volunteering as treasurer with The Compassionate Friends Mandurah Inc.
John was awarded for showing understanding and empathy despite not being a bereaved parent himself. He has also supported a range of other organisations, including Mandurah Muscateers, WA Mums Cottage and South Mandurah Uniting Church, and is a truly deserving winner of this award.
Community ambassador Rp van der Westhuizen, community volunteer Gary Russell-Brown and Story Dogs Mandurah were also awarded for their amazing work this year.
If you know a person or group who shows the community spirit Mandurah is known for, I encourage you to nominate them for the Citizen of the Year awards.
You have until this Saturday, October 31, to get your nominations in - so head to www.citizenshipawards.com.au/nominate/ to get involved!
- Rhys Williams is the mayor of the City of Mandurah.