The ceremony will commence at 10am, and will include the Australia Day Ambassador David Bitton address, announcement of the Federation Council Citizen of the Year Award, Young Citizen of the Year Award, Local Hero Awards for Community Group, Sports and Individual, as well as recognition of the Student Achiever Award recipients.
Federation Council Mayor Cheryl Cook said there are 18 remarkable individual and group nominees for the 2025 Australia Day Awards who exemplify outstanding community service, leadership, and dedication to making a positive impact in their local area.
“Council is very much looking forward to hosting this year’s celebration in Howlong,” she said.
“We are encouraging all residents to come together and celebrate the incredible nominees who attribute to making Federation Council a great place to live, work and visit.”
Live entertainment from the Swag ‘n’ Billy Bush Band and a complimentary lunch infused with bush tucker flavours will follow the ceremony.
David Bitton's story began on Anzac Day in 1991, when he arrived in Australia from France with just two suitcases and $1,000 to his name. Seeking opportunity and adventure, he found a country that welcomed him with open arms and a deep-rooted spirit of “fair go.”
His culinary journey started in some of Australia’s most prestigious establishments, including the Ritz Carlton, Hayman Island, and Windsor Hotel, eventually becoming Head Chef at the Sheraton on the Park. Along the way, he had the privilege of cooking for royalty, premiers, and international icons such as Janet Jackson, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Sir Roger Moore. Most significantly, it was during this time that he met his wife and business partner, Sohani, who has been by his side for over 34 years.
Australia Day Awards nominations
DANIEL HATELEY| Young Citizen of the Year & Local Hero Award - Individual
Daniel is a dedicated mental health advocate and an inspiring young community leader who has raised over $27,000 for the Black Dog Institute.
DAYNA CARTER | Young Citizen of the Year & Local Hero Award - Individual
Dayna is a remarkable young leader who has made significant contributions to her local community and beyond. In 2024 the Oaklands community stood behind Dayna to fundraise and support her role as an Ambassador to Miki City, Japan.
ALAN PANTHER | Citizen of the Year & Local Hero Award - Individual
As vice-president of the Howlong Historical Society and an active member of both the Howlong RFS and the local RSL, Alan has made many contributions to various facets of community life. Alan’s commitment to preserving local history is evident in his work digitizing historical records and providing vital information about past residents.
WAYNE LAMB | Citizen of the Year & Local Hero Award - Individual
Wayne Lamb is a dedicated volunteer whose unwavering commitment to the Howlong community has made a significant impact, particularly in the fight against cancer.
CATHIE SUTCLIFFE | Local Hero Award - Individual
With 59 years of service as a member of the CWA of NSW, where she has consistently held officer roles, Cathie’s leadership has empowered those around her to strive for their best.
ELIZABETH KERR | Local Hero Award - Individual
Elizabeth Kerr is a pillar of the Oaklands community, embodying the essence of commitment and service throughout her 67-year membership with the Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW.
PETER ORNSBY | Local Hero Award - Individual
Peter is a dedicated and influential volunteer in the Mulwala and Yarrawonga communities. As the Vice President of the Yarrawonga Lions Club, he actively participates in fundraising efforts and is a familiar face at the K-hub BBQ on weekends.
IAN BILNEY | Local Hero Award - Sports
Ian is a dedicated sportsman and community leader who has been a long-time volunteer over the last 50 years, assisting sporting organisations such as Little Athletics, cricket, football, tennis, Corowa Race Club and Corowa Civic Bowls.
ZOE OWEN | Local Hero Award - Sports
Zoe has emerged as a remarkable talent in the equestrian sport of polocrosse, demonstrating outstanding commitment and success over the past five years, particularly in the last twelve months.
COROWA DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY INC | Local Hero Award - Community Group
The CDHS has played a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating local history for over 50 years, significantly contributing to the Corowa Federation Museum’s vast collection of memorabilia.
HOWLONG FUN & FITNESS FOR OVER 50’S | Local Hero Award - Community Group
Howlong Fun and Fitness for Over 50s is a community-centred initiative designed to enhance the health and social well-being of older residents, guided by two dedicated volunteers and supported by MLHD.
HOWLONG FOOTBALL NETBALL CLUB INC| Local Hero Award - Community Group and Local Hero Award - Sports
The Howlong FNC’s commitment to enhancing community life is evident through successful initiatives such as mental health awareness campaigns and fundraising.
HOWLONG LOCAL THRIFTY STORE | Local Hero Award – Community Group
The Howlong Local Thrifty Store stands as a vital pillar of the Howlong community, providing essential financial support to individuals and various non-profit organisations.
HOWLONG PLAYGROUP | Local Hero Award - Community Group
The Howlong Playgroup has been a cornerstone of the Howlong Community for nearly 40 years, fostering a safe and inclusive environment for local families to connect and enrich the minds of young children.
HOWLONG RURAL FIRE BRIGADE | Local Hero Award - Community Group
The Howlong Rural Fire Brigade is a commendable community organisation consisting of 25 dedicated active members who provide 24/7 emergency services and attend over 50 incidents annually.
LIONS CLUB OF COROWA INC | Local Hero Award - Community Group
The Lions are a community-focused organisation comprised of 43 dedicated members, who actively contribute their time and resources to enhance the well-being of Corowa.
OAKLANDS CRICKET CLUB| Local Hero Award - Community Group and Local Hero Award - Sports
The club has made a significant impact in the community through its annual Pink Stumps Day, which has raised a remarkable total of $52,524 for the McGrath Foundation over the past six years.
URANA PROGRESS ASSOCIATION | Local Hero Award – Community Group
The UPA has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the local community, particularly through its organisation of the Anniversary Urana Art Exhibition and Sale, which has successfully showcased local and emerging artists for 25 years.
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