Published on Monday, 26 May 2025 at 11:53:27 AM
The Shire of Denmark 2025 Citizen of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year Awards have been announced as part of Saturday’s Volunteer Appreciation Sundowner at the Denmark Community Resource Centre Gallery.
This year’s event, supported by Volunteering WA and Lotterywest as part of National Volunteer Week, was given the theme Connecting Communities, celebrating the power of volunteering in bringing people together.
The 2025 Community Citizen of the Year was awarded to Shaun Ossinger, for his deep commitment to environmental sustainability and community wellbeing, through championing numerous initiatives aimed at protecting and restoring our natural environment and bringing together community groups, government agencies, and volunteers around a shared environmental vision all of which has had a meaningful and lasting impact on our Shire.
Shaun is also a dedicated community member, volunteering as a basketball coach, sailing safety boat driver, and student mentor, all contributions that reflect a genuine passion for empowering others and building a resilient, connected community, making him a true role model in our community.
The Citizen of the Year – Senior award was presented to Lesley Murphy in recognition of her tireless commitment to her volunteer work with St. John Ambulance, the St. Ayles Skiffs, the Bowling and Recreation Club, and a local grants committee, as well as her dedication, leadership, and her quiet acts of kindness in offering support to those in need, all make her an inspiring and deeply deserving community champion.
The Citizen of the Year- Youth award was presented to Paul (Pablo) Sleeman who has shown exceptional bravery and compassion through saving a family member’s life, raising over $32,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and helping rescue swimmers at risk on our beaches, all demonstrations of leadership and dedication to community safety, making him an inspiring young role model.
The Group Citizen of the Year award was presented to the Denmark Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service (VFRS) for over 60 years of courage, leadership, and community spirit, in responding to emergencies, educating the public, and mentoring future volunteers, reflecting their ongoing dedication to the invaluable service they provide, throughout the Shire of Denmark.
The Junior Sportsperson of the Year (under 18 years of age) award was presented to Jy Drummond for his achievements in Mountain Biking and his passion for and commitment to the growth and success of the Denmark Mountain Bike Club.
The Senior Sportsperson of the Year award was presented to Anthony McEwan, for his determination to overcome adversity and his contributions to the Denmark Surf Life Saving Club, as well as his own personal achievements in lifesaving at both the State and National levels.
The Service to Sport Award was presented to Bradley Woodruff for his passion and commitment to supporting the growth of young athletes across multiple sporting groups, both in person and behind the scenes, all while fostering team camaraderie and encouragement.
The Shire of Denmark 2025 Citizen of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year Award winners (L-R): Paul (Pablo) Sleeman, Brad Woodruff, Lesley Murphy, Anthony McEwan, Jy Drummond, Shaun Ossinger and Denmark Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service representative, Darin Hockley.
Photo Credit – Serena Kirby
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