The day means different things to different people. For some, it’s all about patriotism; for others, it carries sad connotations. For the vast majority, however, it is all about belonging – to family, community, country.

It is community the Shoalhaven Australia Awards are all about – celebrating those among us who go that extra for the people around them.

Year after year we honour them and every time, they express surprise and humility at the recognition bestowed on them. This is because their contribution to the community is selfless. Recognition is not why they contribute to the community – it is simply a noble desire to help.

And they help in such diverse ways. This year we recognised the work of people bringing the community together in different ways.

Shoalhaven Citizen of the Year June Stevens from North Nowra has devoted many years to helping local families. Richard ‘Dick’ Manwarring, who was highly commended, is well known for his popular Code C for Cancer fundraiser.

Young Citizen of the Year Ava Del Tufo has been inspiring not only her peers but the entire community with her incredible academic achievements and her community activities.

Sports Person of the Year Ashliegh Hewson and Junior Sports Person of the year Tarje Whitford have both achieved outstanding results in their respective sports, inspiring others to participate along the way.  

Each one of the award recipients – and, importantly, all the others who were nominated – have strengthened that sense of belonging Uncle Paul spoke about.

So, too, the other residents named in the national Australia Day Honours list: local historian Robyn Florance, community worker Ray Vincent, show society stalwart John Bennett and veteran politician Joanna Gash.

That sense of belonging that should be the foundation stone of Australia Day also extended to the 34 new people who became Australian citizens.

We are proud you have chosen to make Australia – and this beautiful part of it – the place you call home. We are delighted you belong.