THE Apsley community has scooped West Wimmera Shire’s Australia Day awards, with residents winning two of three certificates.
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Apsley Primary School principal Tanya Turner was named the shire’s citizen of the year for her service to the community, while Apsley Racing Club won community event of the year.
Kaniva’s Jonathon Kyle won young citizen of the year.
Mrs Turner said she was surprised and humbled to receive the accolade.
She is involved in the Apsley Action Group, Apsley Alive Committee, Apsley Angling Club, Bringalbert foreshore committee and the Apsley Alligators Playgroup.
She is also a netball coach.
“I just go about my job,” she said.
“I’ve always believed that for a community to thrive, helping out is something you have to do.”
Mrs Turner said all committees involved a group of people.
“It’s never just one person helping out,” she said.
“I work with a great band of people and we work well together as a team.
“We all have to pitch in and help out.”
Mrs Turner did not know she was receiving the award.
“My husband kept asking me if I was going to be at the ceremony in time for the awards, and I still had no idea,” she said.
Apsley Racing Club manager Michelle Pettit said the town’s races were a great community event.
“It is with heartfelt pride that we receive this award,” she said.
Apsley’s Australia Day ceremony included an annual cricket tournament at the town’s recreation reserve.
Organiser Steve Bruce said it wasn’t Australia Day without a typical cricket game.
“Everyone came out to enjoy the sunshine, have a few beverages and have fun with cricket,” he said.