Australia Day Awards 2025 (L-R): Betty Brown (Senior Citizen Award), Happiness Habits Inc, represented by Leonie Hanna (Citizen of the Year Award), Paul Mikkelsen (Volunteer Award, joint winner), Central Coast Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna, The Bikers Hand Inc, represented by Tony Davis (Community Group Award), Louise Chiekrie (Community Life Award), Derryck Klarkowski (Volunteer Award, joint winner), and Matilda Taylor (Young Person Award).

29 January 2025

 

CENTRAL Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said these annual awards are a way for Council and the wider community to acknowledge those who are going the extra mile and are making a real difference.

 

“The nomination process always brings to the forefront many of the unsung heroes of the Central Coast that make an outstanding contribution to their local community and worthy of the spotlight and recognition,” Ms Smith said.

 

“Happiness Habits Inc were awarded the Citizen of the Year Award for their support to women on the Central Coast that face social isolation, domestic violence, and mental health challenges. Their all-encompassing approach and programs support these women through difficult times, and also help to build resilience, confidence and skills - so they not only survive but thrive.

 

“The Australia Day Award 2025 category winners are also commended for their contribution to our community and include The Bikers Hand Inc (Community Group Award), Matilda Taylor (Young Person Award), Betty Brown (Senior Citizen Award), Louise Chiekrie (Community Life Award) and Derryck Klarkowski and Paul Mikkelsen (joint winners of the Volunteer Award).”

 

Central Coast Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said these annual awards celebrate and recognise those who enrich and serve our community.

 

“It’s been an honour to present the awards to this group of remarkable local residents and organisations, spotlighting the selfless work they do within our local community that positively impacts the lives of so many,” Mayor McKinna said.

 

“Congratulations to each of the 2025 awards winners, and to those nominated. Thank you all for your outstanding work that truly demonstrates the generous and caring community spirit on the Central Coast”.

 

The Central Coast Council Australia Day Awards 2025 ceremony was held 23 January 2025 at the Art House, Wyong.

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