Ellie Whiteaker (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

On 26 January I attended the City of Bunbury's Australia Day citizenship ceremony in WA's South West. Seventy-one people from 27 unique countries became new Australian citizens. It was a proud moment that reflected the diversity and strength of modern Australia—a reminder that our national story continues to be shaped by people who choose to make their lives here and contribute to our communities. The service was followed by community awards, and today I want to talk particularly about the Young Citizen of the Year nominees that were recognised at the ceremony. Each of them represents the very best of a Bunbury's next generation.

Connor Barrett, aged just 10, lives with cystic fibrosis and faces daily health challenges. He has raised many thousands of dollars to support research and services for others with the same condition. His courage, positivity and determination have brought the South West community together behind a cause that matters deeply to him and many other local families. His contribution at such a young age is extraordinary. Salome Woodland was nominated for her leadership and commitment to service. Having joined the Bunbury Youth Advisory Council at just 12, she has shown great maturity and commitment to her community. Isabella Chalker was named Young Citizen of the Year. She is the founder of the Z club at Manea Senior College, a student group focused on service and gender equality. Leading projects for local and global communities, she is a great example to others in the region. Lisa Thompson was named Citizen of the Year for her leadership of Collective Connections, and Community Group of the Year was awarded to the Bunbury PCYC. I want to shout out to them and all the great advocates in the South West.