Claire Clutterham (Sturt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today to share stories of exceptional contributions being made by selfless and incredible people living in my electorate of Sturt. Sturt is home to seven local councils, and many of these local councils celebrated and recognised their outstanding citizens as part of their recent Australia Day awards. It was a privilege to be able to attend several of these ceremonies and to learn more about these remarkable people.

The citizen of the year at the Port Adelaide Enfield city council Australia Day awards was Ms Debbie Grace. In 2007, Debbie founded the OC Challenge, which is a not-for-profit charity that supports South Australian women with ovarian cancer, raises funds, educates and raises awareness about this cruel illness. Through the efforts of the OC Challenge, not only can newly diagnosed patients at the Royal Adelaide Hospital access a psychologist but they can access a dedicated nurse and support staff who are available to patients throughout their treatment and afterwards. This free service has, so far, supported over 230 women from metropolitan and regional areas in private and public health settings. Ovarian cancer is known as a silent killer because, by the time it presents, it has spread. Outcomes are poor, and a diagnosis can be devastating. Ovarian cancer has touched my family, and it means a great deal to me to know that people like Debbie are working selflessly to support affected patients and their families. Thank you, Debbie.

The Burnside city council's young citizen of the year was Tom Edwards, who was recognised for his longstanding service to the mighty Glenunga Rams footy club, where he has served as a committee member, secretary and president, as well as still playing in the backlines in the senior men's competition. Tom has dedicated countless hours to the club to create opportunities for players, families and volunteers. Under Tom's stewardship, the club's women's program has both skyrocketed and enjoyed success. I've met with Tom several times and can confirm that his balance of professionalism, knowledge and kindness makes him a very worthy winner. Congratulations, Tom, and go Rams.

At the Unley city council, David Woods was named the 2026 citizen of the year, announced during that council's Australia Day celebrations. Known for his work in community fundraising, resilience and animal welfare, David was recognised for his inspirational contributions to the local community. David lives with ataxia, and this has shaped his approach to life. Ataxia is a neurological condition characterised by uncoordinated muscle movements, including poor balance, unsteady gait and slurred speech, but it has not stopped David. He not only embraces life, but is dedicating his life to helping others.

At the City of Norwood, Payneham & St Peters council Australia Day awards, the citizen of the year was the beautiful Margaret McGregor. Margaret's contribution to the community has been profound, spanning decades of dedicated service—from opening her own home to refugees to helping families find housing, work and education and empowering Afghan women and youth through community sport. Margaret's compassion has changed lives across that community. After she won, I congratulated and thanked her for her service, and she replied simply by saying that it was important to her to do what she could to help others.

The City of Tea Tree Gully Council presented its Outstanding Citizen of the Year award to Noelle Wallis, who is a passionate community leader and the director of Pathway Community Centre in Modbury North. She mobilises a dedicated team of volunteers to deliver over 150 food relief packages to those doing it tough and spearheaded the opening of the Pathway wellbeing centre, offering holistic care and support to clients. Her tireless advocacy and commitment shine through challenges from replacing essential food vans to navigating renovations and financial hurdles, which she does with wisdom and patience.

I congratulate all nominees and winners across the electorate of Sturt and thank them for doing what they can every day to invest in our wonderful Sturt community by serving others.

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