Local environmentalist, Dr Mike Augee, was named as Wellington’s 2024 Citizen of the Year at a twilight event held last Thursday evening to beat the heat of Australia Day.

The ceremony included a presentation by local Indigenous Elder, Herb Smith, and a speech by Wellington’s Australia Day Ambassador, Rhys Muldoon.

Other attendees included, State Member for Dubbo, Dugald Saunders; Dubbo Mayor, Councillor Mathew Dickerson, Deputy Mayor, Cr Richard Ivey, and Cr Shibli Chowdhury.

Dr Augee’s award recognised his commitment to the environment and his love of education and sharing knowledge of Australia’s flora and fauna.

A man of many causes, his work also involves the Burrendong Arboretum, Wellington Heritage Committee, Mount Arthur Trust, The Caves Advisory Committee, Wellington Markets, Ponto Falls Committee, Wellington Museum, and The Mammal Society.

A public leader, he also served on the former Wellington Council; holding the role of Deputy Mayor for seven years, with a commitment to the betterment of the wider community.

Another winner was Carolyn White, fondly known as “Carol” to the Wellington community, who was named Wellington’s 2024 Senior Citizen of the Year for her 55 years of service to the district, after having worked tirelessly in several groups, associations, and events.

The 2024 Young Sportsperson of the Year was Samantha Thompson for her achievements in swimming, while the Macquarie Correctional Centre’s “Inside Art” initiative was named as the 2024 Community Event of the Year.

Lifetime local, Cr Ivey said it was great to see these wonderful community champions celebrated.

 “As is always the case, the Australia Day committee this year had a hard job in deciding who should receive the recognition.

 “We appreciate the work that both the nominees and those who nominated them put in. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service to our community,” Cr Ivey concluded.