Joint winners for the Casey 2007 event of the year award receive their award from Casey mayor Colin Butler. From left: Cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens representatives, Lynne Klavins, left, and Sharron Wiloughby, and Tooradin Tractor Pull representatives Mark Milligan, left, and Trevor Van der Heyden.By Jim Mynard
DOVETON Scout leader and community worker Margaret Fairhurst is the City of Casey 2007 Citizen of the Year.
Ms Fairhurst was named during the Casey 2007 Australia Day awards ceremony in the civic centre on Friday 26 January.
More than 200 people packed into the function room for what was a happy and lively occasion.
The citation said Ms Fairhurst was one of Doveton’s most valued residents.
As well as raising her family in Doveton she contributed countless hours to the community through her involvement with the 7th Doveton Scout Group and Doveton North primary School.
As a volunteer scout leader and youth leader Ms Fairhurst supports and teaches many Doveton young people.
She is also a willing and valued participant in the Neighbourhood Renewal Team.
She has been instrumental in the organisation and running of the Doveton Show, Australia Day celebrations, sports days and school holiday programs.
Beaconhills College student Nicholas Bell is the 2007 Casey Young Citizen of the Year.
His citation said he was a mature and compassionate young man working hard to build understanding between nations and create a more equal society.
Nicholas has been a convenor of the East Timor Friendship Committee and has been active in the school’s Giving and Community Service Committee that raised funds for a school in East Timor.
Through a range of activities, he is not only building bridges between Casey and East Timor, he is promoting global awareness and understanding.
Casey 2007 Senior Citizen of the Year is Endeavour Hills resident Tom Hartley.
His citation said that last year he reached his half entury as a scouting volunteer.
For 45 of those years he served the Doveton Scouts.
His many roles included scouting office bearer, foundation fellow, honorary commissioner and group president.
Mr Hartley has been an outstanding role model for many young people and he has sponsored young members, helping out with fees.
He is also chairman of the Victorian Scout Monster Raffle Committee that in 2006 helped raise $30,000 for Casey District Scout Groups.
The Casey 2007 NonResident Citizen of the Year is Kellie Hammerstein.
Her citation said her outstanding work for children with disabilities continued to make a positive difference for many families in Casey.
In addition to her work for the Casey Kidz Club that provides out of school care for disabled children over 12 she also devotes much of her spare time in assisting other disability groups.
Her professional coaching approach helps other members to reach their potential and better advocate on disability issues.
Judges were unable to separate two nominations for the Casey 2007 community event of the year award, even on a count back.
The Tooradin Tractor Pull, and the Australian Garden opening at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne shared the award.
Citations said the Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show held on Saturday 21 January 2006 at Rutter Park Reserve, Tooradin, was now the second largest show of its type in Victoria.
More than 3000 people attended the family event that featured activities and entertainment for all ages, such as truck and tractor displays, modified tractors pulling different weights, helicopter rides, carnival rides, face painting and live music.
Additional funds raised from the event were distributed back to schools, organisations and groups.
More than 15,000 people attended the Australian Garden opening on Sunday 28 May last year.
Officially opened by Premier Steve Bracks, the remarkable stage one of this garden has 11 hectares of plants, flowers and landscaping as well as a stunning red sand garden.
