Providing food hampers and practical and emotional support to people in need has resulted in Kylie and Joel Burns being named City of Gosnells Community Citizens of the Year at the City’s annual Australia Day Big Breakfast.
Kylie and Joel were also recognised for their efforts in connecting people to services and creating a safe, judgement-free space for families experiencing cost-of-living difficulties to feel supported and valued.
Youth Citizen of the Year Award winner Hania Usman has volunteered for nearly 10 years with Armadale Gosnells Landcare Group, at waste and recycling stations at the Perth Royal Show, for the Push-Up Challenge, and as a marshal at Homestead Parkrun.
This year, Rajeshwary Krishnan and Janice Baker were named joint Senior Citizen of the Year Award winners.
‘Dr Raji’ has devoted more than 45 years to improving health outcomes for First Nations communities in Western Australia, supporting generations of families.
Janice is a committed volunteer with Friends of Mary Carroll Wetland, contributing to planting, weed control, wildlife monitoring and community events. She also supports local residents and participates in wider Landcare activities.
The City of Gosnells Walking Groups received the Active Citizenship Award (group or event). The four senior walking groups, located in Canning Vale, Beckenham, Maddington and Gosnells, bring people together to walk, stay active and build lasting social connections.
Mayor Terresa Lynes congratulated the award winners.
“Joel, Kylie, Hania, Rajeshwary, Janice and the City of Gosnells Walking Groups go above and beyond to improve the lives of those around them, by supporting people experiencing cost-of-living difficulties and families with complex health needs, improving our local environment and making everyday fitness and connection with others more accessible,” she said.
“I hope their efforts and dedication inspire others in our community to follow in their footsteps.”
The awards are presented in partnership with Auspire, the Australia Day Council of Western Australia, represented at the event by Australia Day Ambassador and former City of Gosnells Young Citizen of the Year Maisara Muzaffar.
More than 100 new Australian citizens were also welcomed at an Australia Day citizenship ceremony at the nearby Gosnells Town Square, to coincide with the Big Breakfast event.
“Local residents and families came together to celebrate the values that unite us all and to welcome new citizens to our community,” Mayor Lynes said.
“It’s an enjoyable morning to share breakfast together, enjoy entertainment and activities, and see so many people from different cultures come together to celebrate what it means to be Australian.”
For more information about the City's Community Citizens of the Year, click here.
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