The important work community members do to improve Byron Shire was a focus last night at the Byron Shire Community Awards. The awards recognised the achievements of nine exemplary members who have strived to make our region a better place.
Out of over 60 nominations received by our community, Louise O’Connel is the 2023 Community Member of Byron Shire. Her work in the Fletcher Street Cottage and Byron Bay Community Centre has been invaluable to those experiencing homelessness in our community.
‘She is extremely resourceful and compassionate and she has made a truly remarkable contribution to our community,’ said Byron Shire Mayor, Michael Lyon.
‘It is with great pleasure that I announce her as our 2023 Community Member of Byron Shire tonight’
Zali Spinner was a nominee, and yesterday was recognised as the Young Community Member for Byron Shire for her leadership and involvement in the Main Arm flood response.
Along with Wendy Brown, Zali lead the community team to deliver food, water, medication and other supplies to Main Arm residents isolated by the 2022 landslides and floods.
Zali Spinner and her team were a vital help to hundreds affected by the floods, and her efforts were crucial to our flood recovery.
The Shedding Community Workshop’s Repair Cafe Post Flood Initiative was nominated as the Community Initiative of Byron Shire.
Yesterday night they were formally recognised for their diligent work in repairing a great number of items for six weeks post floods.
Thanks to their efforts, over 20 tons of waste was salvaged from landfill, reducing the environmental impact of the floods and saving the possessions of many grateful residents.
Five-year-old Ava Harral-Haines has raised over $600 for the Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue Inc through her cupcake and garage sales, earning her the open award yesterday night.
Ava’s selfless work helped fund the preservation of our turtles, and her efforts are an inspiration to our community and volunteers.
‘A big thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate a deserving individual’, the Mayor said.
‘It speaks volumes that we had so many people going above and beyond to make a difference to the experience of living in the Byron Shire, we are very lucky.’
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