Murrabit stalwart, youth advocate Council's Citizens of the Year

Published on 21 January 2021

A Myall resident who has assisted with numerous Murrabit-based groups for 30-plus years and a passionate youth advocate have been recognised during the announcement of Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2021 Australia Day Awards.

Pattie McDonald was named Gannawarra Shire Council’s Citizen of the Year during a civic reception held at Kerang last night, with Tayla Hore presented with Council’s Young Citizen of the Year Award.

“Gannawarra Shire Council congratulates Pattie and Tayla for receiving their respective awards, and to all of the nominees for their continued generosity and contribution,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2021 Citizen of the Year, Pattie McDonald is a passionate volunteer to both the Murrabit community and the wider Gannawarra Shire.

“A foundation member of the Murrabit and District Lions Club, Pattie has been instrumental in the Lions Club’s involvement in the popular Murrabit Country Market,” Mayor Gillingham said.

"Pattie is also heavily involved in the Kerang Quilters Club, the Murrabit Country Market and the Meals on Wheels program, and has previously held roles with the Murrabit Football and Netball Clubs, Murrabit Pre-School, Myall Primary School and the Kerang Technical High School Council.

“Pattie is a person who doesn’t have spare time, but gives freely of her time to so many community causes with passion and enthusiasm.”

Gannawarra Shire Council’s 2021 Young Citizen of the Year, Tayla Hore was recognised for her work in advocating for the Gannawarra’s young people.

“Tayla was instrumental in organising the Cohuna Youth Space in 2019 and 2020, an idea brought about after Tayla identified the need for a safe space for young people to meet after school under adult supervision,” Mayor Gillingham said.

“Tayla inspires young people with how she treats others and how she gives a voice to her younger peers.

“Tayla always thinks about all people, especially young disadvantaged people, some of the most at risk in our communities.”

Mrs McDonald and Miss Hore will also be recognised for receiving their respective awards as part of Australia Day celebrations occurring throughout the Gannawarra on Tuesday, 26 January.

“Council congratulates both winners and we look forward to seeing Pattie and Tayla continue to achieve great things for the community in the future,” Mayor Gillingham said.

ABOVE: Mayor Charlie Gillingham (centre) with 2021 Gannawarra Shire Council Citizen of the Year, Pattie McDonald