Australia Day in Wyalkatchem

About 100 people turned up to the Wyalkatchem and District Club to enjoy a meal cooked by volunteers and Councillors.  The National Anthem was led by Reg Cole after breakfast while the Australian flag was raised by Nevill Woods. Shire President Susan Bruse then presented  the Australia Day Active Citizenship awards for Wyalkatchem

Congratulations to the winners of  these prestigious awards

Active Citizenship Award      Ross Crute

It is impossible to list all of Ross's achievements in Wyalkatchem but some follow;
Ross has made a valuable contribution to the community over many years.  His involvement with the Anglican Church began over 40 years ago and he currently holds the position of Rector’s warden and Parish representative for the Synod.  Ross was a wonderful scout leader for many years, was on the Wyalkatchem Centenary Committee in 2005, has held many positions in the local Rotary club and received a Paul Harris fellowship in 2005. He is currently secretary.   Ross served on the Shire for 15 years, during which time he took on the position of President with distinction from 1996 to 2001, and has served on most Shire committees. He was elected President of the North East Wheatbelt Travel Association, a position he still holds, and researched extensively for a project identifying wells along the goldfields track. He was instrumental in the establishment of the pet cemetery in Wyalkatchem. Ross has been a committee member in many of the sporting clubs he joined; he is currently a member of the Wyalkatchem Bowling Club. Even before Ross knew he was receiving the award he was showing community spirit by cooking the brekkie barbecue!

 Active Citizenship Award under 25         Steven Petchell

Steven works at Wyalkatchem Mechanical services where his work ethic is impeccable and he learns well. In 2007 he was a finalist in the regional apprentice of the year.  He is a volunteer Fire Brigade member and has also become a grade 2 ambulance officer , carrying out 30 plus ambulance jobs in his first twelve months (totalling around 150 hours). Steven is willing to give up much of his free time to his volunteer work, for both training and ambulance and fire and rescue calls. Steven was also a member of the Wyalkatchem Emergency Service Cadet Corps and while no longer a member, still helps out regularly.  As if Steven wasn't busy enough, he has just completed a scuba course! What a great role model for our young people.

 Community Group or Event                   “Murphy’s Revenge” theatre group

This group has worked hard to present a highly entertaining musical show.  Long hours of preparation led to a high standard production and money raised was all put back into the Shires of Wyalkatchem and Trayning with donations going to the Jack Pink Trust Fund, Hospital Auxiliary, WDHS, CBH museum, Wylie Pre primary, Wyalkatchem Fire Brigade and equipment for the Ninghan fitness centre. The value of providing light humorous entertainment and music to the community is priceless!

Following the presentation of awards, Harry Nightingale was wished happy first birthday with a cake, which was shared by all - a great way to finish off the day

You can see more photos of Wyalkatchem's Australia Day celebration by going to the photo gallery on the left hand side of the page