Australia Day Awards 2008

Giant Australia Day Lamington Cake

The City of Newcastle Australia Day 2008 will be awarded at the Australia Day Breakfast at Cooks Hill Surf Club on Wednesday 23 January between 7.30am and 9am.

The awards recognise the outstanding achievements and contribution of individuals and groups within the community of Newcastle.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – GARY WEBB

In June 2007 when the Pasha Bulka became stranded off Nobby’s Beach Gary Webb (CEO Newcastle Port Corporation) was the commander in Chief of the recovery mission. He lead a team at times working around the clock 24 hours a day going above and beyond his role as CEO to ensure the safe rescue of stranded workers from the ship.

In addition his role involved the protection of the people of Newcastle from an oil spill or explosion and to keeping the world informed of any news in the recovery mission. Gary is also actively involved in the community through his church where amongst other things he sings in the choir.

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR – CALLAN NICKERSON

A role model for the youth of Newcastle Callan Nickerson has been named the first Aboriginal Captain of Newcastle High School (NHS) in its history. Callan’s contribution to the community has been extensive. He is the club captain of Stockton Swimming Club, and has also trained both bronze medallion squads and a Junior Rugby League team.

Callan’s contribution extends into his school sporting life as well where he has been a representative in team sports such as rugby league and netball for Newcastle High as well as individual sports such as athletics and swimming. Furthermore his school involvement extends beyond sport, where Callan represented NHS at the conference for Action on Climate Change and he also won the McCarley and Associates Prize for Contributions to Social Justice.

EVENT OF THE YEAR – WALLSEND WINTER CARNIVALE

The Wallsend Winter Carnivale attracted a crowd of 30,000 people who enjoyed the fun family atmosphere of the carnivale. After storms destroyed half of Wallsend business and buildings the Carnivale was promoted as a way to say thank you to the volunteers who support the community.

The event is committed to utilising the local assets, infrastructure, local business and community groups.

COMMENDATION EVENT OF THE YEAR – DIAMOND IT DOGGY DAY OUT

The Diamond IT Doggy Day Out event was inspired by the Year of the Lifesaver. The event brought together business, government and the broader community in an attempt to recruit new members to the volunteer services the lifesavers provide.

The event has generated the potential for growth and the attraction of tourism. Furthermore the events contribution to the community included support for other charities involved in pet services.