Australia Day honours
Published on 26 January 2025
Council presented the 2025 Australia Day Awards at the Australia Day Ceremony held on Sunday 26 January 2025.
- Citizen of the Year – Russell Hendry
- Young Citizen of the Year – Jay Bamford
- Community Event of the Year – Marsh Rodders Show’n’Shine Swap Meet
- Mayor Award – Emma Seeger
Citizen of the Year – Russell Hendry
Russ has a strong volunteering background and has been involved in a number of community groups, sporting clubs and community projects and programs within the Shire for approximately 60 years. Russ has been involved in the Coimadai Cricket Club as a player and volunteer in 1971-1974, and served as captain in 1973. He has been servicing the Bacchus Marsh Cricket Club as a committee member, president, player, coach and volunteer for over 50 years and is still involved in the club; Russ was awarded life membership in 1986, was president from 1984-1990 and junior coach from 1981-1982 and 1987-1988. He also played and volunteered at the Darley Football Club for approximately eight years in the 1970’s. In 2009 Russ joined the Bacchus Marsh CFA as a volunteer and member which continues to this day, and has been a committee member and chairman of the Maddingley Park Committee of Management from 2011-2020. Russ also served on the board of Providence Hostel from 1994-1995 to assist with the construction of the new 30 bed stage 1 hostel. Russ was a charter (founding) member of the Bacchus Marsh Lions Club in 1972 and continues to be actively involved in the club. He served as president for three terms in 1996-1997, 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, and was secretary in 1976-1977. Some of the key projects undertaken by the Bacchus Marsh Lions Club are now significant community assets including the Maddingley Park Adventure Playground, Bacchus Marsh Scouts & Guides Hall, SES Shed, Providence Hostel and the restoration of the heritage listed Chicory Kiln. Russ is also working with the Neighbours Place in Bacchus Marsh, helping to co-ordinate and fundraise for the construction of a new freezer room to help the facility provide much needed food to those in the community who need assistance.
Young Citizen of the Year – Jay Bamford
Jay is an exceptionally hard worker and achieves straight A’s at school, where he is also a middle school leader, contributing ideas to make the school a better place for students. He is a gifted writer and recently participated in the Poetry Slam held at the Lerderderg Library; he was the youngest participant and came fourth in his heat. Jay has also participated in the Eat Up program at school, as well as raising money for the Red Shield Appeal for the last three years. Jay volunteers for an animal rescue called Hoppys Place and held a stall at the Darley market selling goods he had made to raise much needed funds. He also fosters kittens as he is passionate about animal welfare; to date Jay has fostered over 30 animals since 2023. Jay excels in debating and won the grand final at the Royal South Street competition in 2023 and 2024.
Community Event of the Year – Marsh Rodders Show’n’Shine Swap Meet
The Marsh Rodders Show’n’Shine Swap Meet is a long running local modified car club that meet monthly and was established almost 40 years ago, having upwards of 50 members. They participate in driving and show events across the State. They have been holding a swap meeting and show and shine at Maddingley Park annually for approximately 20 years, having 500+ custom cars and motorcycles on display, approximately 200 trading swap meet sites, and attracting 1000+ visitors into the community and to their event on the day.
The Marsh Rodders proudly support family entertainment for all ages, hold a prestigious raffle and encourage a picnic atmosphere where car lovers and community combine. Bacchus Marsh and Maddingley gain a significant increase in visitors to support local businesses during and post the annual event. From the takings to support the event they proudly give back to support local charities, services and organisations via donations including the volunteer emergency services to upgrade equipment, which then better helps our communities. The Marsh Rodders are an excellent example of a community based organisation bringing together car lovers from all over the Shire, topping it off with a well organised and well run annual community event.
Mayor Award – Emma Seeger
Emma has an exceptional commitment to inclusivity and community spirit, and consistently creates a welcoming environment for everyone involved in the programs she participates in, demonstrating outstanding leadership and empathy. Her dedication is further exemplified by her weekly involvement in all abilities basketball, where she supports and encourages participants of diverse abilities. Her actions embody the values of community, support and inclusiveness. Through her involvement in all abilities basketball, she has played a pivotal role in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for participants of all backgrounds and abilities. Emma’s dedication to this cause extends beyond mere participation; she actively fosters a sense of belonging and encourages individuals to embrace their unique abilities. Her positive attitude and genuine support help to uplift and inspire others, ensuring that everyone feels valued and empowered. By championing inclusivity and promoting self-acceptance, Emma has made a meaningful impact on the community, demonstrating leadership and compassion in every aspect of her involvement.
Certificates of Achievement in the Citizen of the Year category were presented to Alan Morton, and in the Community Event of the Year to Peppertree Parkrun.
All award recipients were formally recognised at the 2025 Australia Day Awards Ceremony held at the Mechanics Institute, Ballan on Sunday 26 January 2025.