2025 winners
Congratulations to our 2025 award recipients
Moyne Shire 2025 Citizen of the year - Margaret Whitehead, 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.
Margaret Whitehead's tireless volunteer work and passion for enriching the lives of those around her have made her an invaluable part of our town.
At just 26, Margaret broke barriers, becoming Port Fairy’s first female councilor—a position she held for 12 years, including serving as Mayor. Her leadership during a male-dominated era was truly trailblazing. Alongside her remarkable career, including 46 years in the workforce, Margaret has devoted herself wholeheartedly to volunteering.
Her impact on the Port Fairy Folk Festival is nothing short of legendary. For 32 years, she has helped shape this iconic event, tirelessly working behind the scenes to ensure its success. Margaret’s focus has always been on giving back, channeling festival proceeds into community groups and overseeing the grants program that helps our local organisations thrive.
Beyond the festival, Margaret has contributed to countless groups, including the Palisters Reserve, Port Fairy Rotary, Friends of Moyneyana, and the Port Fairy Botanic Garden. She continues to serve as president of the Historical Society, further demonstrating her commitment to preserving and celebrating our community’s heritage.
Margaret’s humility is as remarkable as her selflessness, despite receiving numerous accolades, including the prestigious OAM in 2015.
Without people like Margaret, our community would not be as rich and vibrant as it is today.
Moyne Shire 2025 Young Citizen of the Year - Timothy Reesink, Garvoc
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.
Timothy Reesink is a passionate advocate for rural communities, youth empowerment, and faith-based leadership. With a Diploma of Agriculture and years in the dairy industry, his rural upbringing drives his commitment to fostering connection and resilience across Moyne and regional Victoria.
As the head of Youth inC at Warrnambool Presbyterian Church, Timothy nurtures young people’s spiritual growth and builds community. His leadership extends to YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament and Presbyterian Youth Victoria, where he mentors emerging leaders and promotes personal growth.
An active member of the Garvoc CFA brigade and the Liberal Party, Timothy works to strengthen his community. Through roles like the Moyne NextGen! Youth Engagement Panel and as a Youth Awards Ambassador, he addresses regional challenges and celebrates local talent.
Timothy is dedicated to building meaningful relationships and values hard work, collaboration, and lifelong learning, always seeking to make a positive impact.
Moyne Shire 2025 Community Event of the Year - Picnic in the Paddock
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 Picnic in the Paddock event has become a popular cornerstone of our community, bringing people together and fostering a strong sense of belonging. What sets it apart from many other events is its uniqueness. With its decorated hay bales you see across the shire it offers something special that resonates with everyone who attends.
This year, the musical entertainment was particularly noteworthy. The performances added an extra layer of vibrancy and excitement, making the celebration even more memorable and leaving everyone with lasting memories of a truly exceptional event.