Local Citizen of the Year Awards are an opportunity to recognise the outstanding achievements of a community member, group or initiative and sporting club who have made a difference in the Playford community.

Cheryl Drury, a dedicated business owner, was awarded the 2023 Active Citizenship Award for her outstanding efforts in providing life-changing financial assistance to those who need it most through her company, First Steps Solutions.

“I come from a finance background and I noticed there was little out there for people with a disability to learn how to manage their own money well,” said Cheryl.

Her DATE-ABILITY program has helped people on the National Disability Insurance Scheme to learn about personal finance and build meaningful relationships – skills that have enabled scores of people, including many members of the Playford community, to live a more independent and loving life.

Mayor Glenn Docherty said that nominations for the Local Citizen of the Year Awards were now open, urging the community to nominate individuals who, like Cheryl, serve as inspiring trailblazers.

"In Playford, there are a wealth of individuals actively contributing to the betterment of our city. If you know someone who is dedicated to giving back or serves as a source of inspiration to others, please take a moment to submit your nomination,” Mayor Docherty said.

Joe Kielnerowski known for his Connected Garden was awarded the top honour of Playford’s Citizen of the Year 2023.

Over the past decade, Joe has been busy building a truly unique garden, one which has broken down walls and opened up a community.

When asked who people should look to nominate in their community, Joe said “someone who has had a big influence on making positive changes in your life and in the lives of others, even though they may not be aware of it themselves.”

Cooperating with his neighbours in Elizabeth Grove, this local leader has managed to pull his street’s resources together – creating a larger space for gardening, education on food production, the significance of food security and most importantly to establish friendships and connections with those who live next door.

“We want more people like Joe and Cheryl, who do amazing things, inspire others with their hard work, foster connections and address needs in the community,” said the Mayor.

There are six award categories, which are:

• Award of Active Citizenship
• Award of Young Active Citizenship
• Sports Club of the Year
• Community Group or Initiative of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Citizen of the Year

Nominees are not required to live in the City of Playford to be eligible for an award.

Nominations close on Friday 17 November 2023. Winners will be announced by Mayor Glenn Docherty during Playford’s Australia Day celebrations on Friday 26 January 2024 at Fremont Park.

People can nominate using the online form available at the Citizen of the Year official website at citizenoftheyear.com.au/nominate/. Hard copy nominations are also accepted. These can be collected from Playford Civic Centre in Elizabeth or downloaded from City of Playford’s website - playford.sa.gov.au/awards

Email: events@playford.sa.gov.au

In person:

Playford Civic Centre,

10 Playford Blvd

Elizabeth SA 5112

Post:

City of Playford

Attn: Events team

12 Bishopstone Road

Davoren Park SA 5113