Community volunteer Wendi Guy from Gin Gin was named the Bundaberg Region’s citizen of the year at today's Australia Day awards presentation.
Wendi has been involved with many community organisations including the Gin Gin Theatrical Society, Gin Gin Markets, the Neighbourhood Centre, Gin Gin Historical Society, Landcare, Gin Gin Rugby League Sports Club, the Show Society and many more.
For 28 years Wendi has been with the Gin Gin Rural Fire Brigade and she has served with the Gin Gin SES for the past 18 years.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Jack Dempsey said it’s terrific to recognise Wendi Guy for her hard work and dedication.
“Wendi has made a remarkable contribution to the community in many roles,” he said.
“Volunteers are the lifeblood of country towns and Wendi’s big heart beats strong and proud.
“It was a genuine pleasure to present her with the prestigious award as Bundaberg Region 2020 citizen of the year.”
Bundaberg Regional Council's Australia Day awards recognise individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to the region and achieved exceptional results in community service, sporting, creative, environmental and business endeavours.
Nominations are assessed by a community panel.
Wendi Guy honoured with nomination
Wendi said it was an honour that someone had nominated her for the award.
“Even though I live in Gin Gin, and do most of my volunteer work there, I have also done my fair share around Bundaberg itself and made a lot of friends along the way,” she said.
“It's a privilege to be chosen among a large number of other worthy nominees from across the region.
“I don't know who nominated me for this citizen of the year award, and would love to know, so I can thank them very much from the bottom of my heart.”
Wendi encouraged everyone in the community to look at volunteering.
“It's a very rewarding experience and you make some great lifelong friends along the way,” Wendi said.
And what will Wendi Guy be doing for the rest of Australia Day?
“It’s a chance to celebrate with our fellow community as one and be proud to be Australian and in what we have achieved,” Wendi said.
“After the celebrations this morning I’ll be putting on my Rural Fire Brigade uniform to go and run a sausage sizzle fundraiser for us at our local pub.”
Australia Day Awards
- Citizen of the Year: Wendi Guy
- Young citizen of the year: Simon Rathbone
- Senior Citizen of the Year: Shirley Baldwin
- Community Group of the Year: Angels Community Group
- Community Event of the Year: Shalom College Confraternity Rugby League and Netball
- Celebrate Australia Day around the region
Well done all of you.