2024 Winners
Congratulations to our 2024 Award recipients.
Moyne Shire 2024 Citizen of the Year –Geoffrey Scott, Port Fairy
The Citizen of the Year Award acknowledges outstanding service and contribution over a number of years given by individuals to their local community.
Geoffrey Scott is an unassuming local citizen, who has had a steadfast presence since his arrival in 2004, embodying the spirit of a quiet achiever dedicated to making a difference in the Port Fairy community.
Geoff has been a dedicated member of the Port Fairy- Belfast Lions Club for a remarkable 20-years.
His involvement extends across the spectrum of Lions Club activities, where he has left an indelible mark. Geoff's commitment to service shines through, exemplified by his tireless contributions to programs such as the Lions Club Art Show, Society Assistance, Meals on Wheels, the Easter Fair and Australia Day celebrations.
As Vice President of the Port Fairy RSL, Geoff has played a pivotal role in activities such as badge and poppy sales, upholding the traditions of remembrance and honor. Geoff's involvement in local sports and community arts highlights his diverse interests and unwavering support for community organisations.
From 2004 to 2007, Geoff donned the hat of a coach for the Junior Grades at the Port Fairy Cricket Club. His influence reached beyond the boundaries of the cricket field, instilling values of sportsmanship and camaraderie in the young players. Geoff assumes the role of Gatekeeper at the Port Fairy Football Club, earning the coveted title of Gatekeeper of the Year in 2019.
His community involvement doesn’t end there, racking up countless hours for the Port Fairy Folk Festival, Port Fairy Theatre Group, Peter’s Project, Murray to Moyne, the Port Fairy Mens Shed and the Port Fairy and Region Visitor Information Centre. Geoff is a testament to the power of individual dedication, leaving an enduring legacy of service.
Moyne Shire 2024 Young Citizen of the Year – Callum Bridge, Grassmere
The Young Citizen of the Year Award acknowledges outstanding service and contribution given by an individual under the age of 30 to their local community.
From the moment Callum first picked up a hockey stick at the age of 7, his journey in the world of hockey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since then, he has not only embraced the sport but has propelled himself into the competitive arenas, displaying a level of dedication that sets him apart.
Hailing from Grassmere, Callum has honed his skills though rigorous training and competitions across the state and country and is now on the brink of representing Australia on the international stage. Callum’s upcoming participation in the Hockey 5's World Cup in Muscat, Oman, with the Australian Hockey5's team, marks a significant milestone in his journey. Hockey 5s is a sport that demands not only skill but financial commitment. Callum, a self-funded athlete, shoulders the responsibility for his journey, including travel, accommodation, uniforms, and team expenses. In a testament to his ingenuity and creativity, Callum has taken fundraising into his own hands.
Over the past months, he has orchestrated various events, including fun trivia evenings that engage the entire wider-Grassmere community. Beyond his personal aspirations, Callum is on a mission to nurture the next generation of hockey talent. As a coach for younger teams, he imparts his knowledge and experience, fostering a culture of growth and ambition among aspiring young keepers in the region. A true team player in every sense, Callum consistently embodies the values of collaboration and excellence.
His actions speak volumes about his dedication to both the sport and the community.
Moyne Shire 2024 Community Event of the Year – Port Fairy Marathon
The Community Event of the Year Award is presented to the person or group who has staged an outstanding local community event during the year.
The Port Fairy Marathon is more than just a race, it stands as an eco-friendly, all inclusive, AIMS certified destination running event. What sets this marathon apart is not just the distances – from the demanding 42.2km marathon to the family-friendly 3.5km walk – but its core ethos. Entirely run by volunteers, the event channels its proceeds back into the community, benefiting local schools, community groups, and charities. The impact is tangible, with over 1400 participants registered in the four events for 2023, and over 80% travelled from outside Port Fairy.
It attracts participants from every Australian state and, to date, seven different countries across North America, Europe, Asia and the Pacific. Behind the scenes, over 120 volunteers contribute tirelessly, logging between 2 and 240 hours annually. It has a reputation as a professional event with a community feel.
The event is entirely volunteer run which means ALL funds raised are returned to the community, through the local primary school, community groups and charities. The Port Fairy Marathon is a celebration of unity, sustainability, a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, and an example of what can be achieved when community runs together to a common goal.