Clarence Valley residents have the opportunity to recognise a fellow resident’s outstanding contribution to the community by nominating them for the 2017 Clarence Valley Australia Day awards. Nominations are now open for four categories of awards: • Citizen of the Year, • Young Citizen of the Year, • Community Achievement (group/organisation only), • Local Hero. 2016 Young Citizen of the Year, Brendan Wren said: “Winning the award made me very happy and proud to help the community spirit.” 2016 Local Hero Marea Buist said: “It was amazing to have my achievements recognised and to feel valued by the community.” Mayor Jim Simmons said the Australia Day awards let Clarence residents celebrate all the great things about Australia and being Australian. “We should celebrate our people, land, diversity, sense of fair go, lifestyle, democracy and the freedoms we all enjoy,” he said. So, if you know of someone who has made a significant contribution to the Clarence community, is an inspirational role model, or demonstrated excellence in their field – nominate them now. Nominate online at www.clarence.nsw.gov.au/australiaday or collect a hard copy form Clarence Valley Council customer service centres or visitor information centres in Grafton and Maclean. For further details, visit the website above, pop into a council office or email AustraliaDay@clarence.nsw.gov.au