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2025 Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year Gavin Rayward. Image: Emma Pritchard

Gavin Rayward announced as 2025 Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year

Emma Pritchard

For Gavin Rayward, the work he does within his local community isn’t about seeking accolades or recognition, it’s about making a difference in the lives of those around him while promoting the many benefits associated with outdoor activities and advocating for men’s mental health.

Throughout the past 12 years he has organised various community events aimed at engaging Clarence Valley residents of all ages and abilities including the Street-O orienteering event in Grafton, and in 2021 he co-founded the MAD (Men Against Depression) Paddlers group to support men’s mental health through physical activity and exercise.

After being announced as the 2025 Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year last week, an honour he described as a complete shock and surprise, Mr Rayward said anything which enables him to get his name out in the community and allow him to do more community work opens new pathways and opportunities he is especially grateful for.

Nominated by Andy Black, Mr Rayward said it was a privilege to be in the same room as so many great people during the 2025 Clarence Valley Citizen of the Year Awards on January 23 and to hear of the many outstanding community contributions they have made and continue to make.

Mr Rayward has called the Clarence Valley home for the past 13 years and remains committed to connecting people while inspiring others to promote positive change.

“When people work together, great things can happen,” he said.

Mr Rayward gratefully acknowledged his wife and children for their ongoing support and thanked God for helping him to become more compassionate over the years.

As he received his award Mr Rayward also congratulated his fellow nominees and thanked them for everything they do within the Clarence Valley Community.