Wanneroo hosts Australia’s biggest citizenship ceremony

The event was officiated by City of Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts and distinguished guests included The Honourable Colin Barnett, Premier of Western Australia and WA Leader of the Opposition The Honourable Mark McGowan MLA.

“As Mayor, I am extremely proud that so many people have, chosen to call the City of Wanneroo home,” Mayor Roberts said.

“As you become Australian citizens today, it symbolises your sense of belonging to the country you have decided to make your home.

“Australian citizenship represents commitment to Australia and its people, the values we share and our future.

“I wish you all a happy and safe future, in what I truly believe is the best local authority…in the best country…in the world.”

This year’s event featured special guest speaker Jenny Davis, recently announced as the 2016 Juniper Champion at the WA Seniors Awards in recognition of her ongoing work with Agelink Theatre, which she established in 1993.

The organisation provides intergenerational and interactive theatre productions based on the oral histories and recollections of seniors.

The Wanneroo Scout Group treated guests to a delicious breakfast barbeque.

Winners of the Australia Day Awards were announced, recognising City of Wanneroo residents who have made outstanding contributions to their local community.

Profiles on the Australia Day Award Winners

Charles Searson Australia Day Youth Award
A person under the age of 25 who has made an outstanding contribution to the local community.

Alicia Tavani has worked consistently within the Wanneroo community as an ambassador for local issues and a role model for young people growing up in the area. Breaking down the barriers of bullying and self-esteem, she has proven that with the right attitude and dedication, it is entirely possible to achieve your wildest dreams.

Aged just 15 years old, Alicia raised thousands of dollars, committed hundreds of hours, has given a voice to millions of people throughout her philanthropic work. From seriously ill children to cleaning up Australia and educating teens on the impacts of bullying, Alicia has shown that with a little hard work, every single person has the opportunity to help make their community a safer, happier place to live, work and play.

Australia Day Individual Award
A person over the age of 25 who has made an outstanding contribution to the local community.

Carmela Sinagra was a founding member and remains the driving force behind the Antonian Senior’s Group, which has been running for more than 25 years. Carmela works tirelessly for the group, organising monthly activities and fantastic day trips for members as well as their annual Christmas lunches and charity appeals. She is also a respected City of Wanneroo pioneer.

City of Wanneroo Australia Day Community Group Award
An outstanding local community group or event.

Since 2013, the Two Rocks Yanchep Assisted Cancer Travels Inc has provided a valuable local service within the Two Rocks and Yanchep area to residents diagnosed with cancer.

The group recognised that people undergoing cancer treatments are often in desperate need of help travelling to and from their various medical diagnostic and treatment programs.

Its volunteers have stepped in when they are needed most, providing transportation from Yanchep-Two Rocks to various hospitals in Perth, free of charge, alleviating at least some of the financial and logistical stress away from their clients. This organisation’s outstanding efforts are so inspiring that a number of former clients have gone on to become volunteer drivers.