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Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Awards announced in Freo

THE 2008 Premier's Australia Day Active Citizenship Awards for the City of Fremantle have been announced at the Fremantle Arts Centre, honouring local people and groups for their contribution and participation in community life.

Nominations were sought across the City of Fremantle and its suburbs in three categories: an individual 25 years or older, a person under 25 or a community group or event. And the winners are… 

Individual Over-25 – Peter Newman
Living in Fremantle since the 1970s and a Fremantle councillor from 1976-80, Professor Peter Newman has made a long and continuing contribution to the port city.

Renowned for his academic career, Prof Newman’s focus has been on city planning, particularly transport use, and has been a long-time advocate of sustainability.

“It might be a buzz word nowadays but Professor Newman has been at the forefront of this issue for the past three decades and his expertise is renowned around the globe,” Fremantle Mayor Peter Tagliaferri said.

“With climate change on our doorstep, there is huge interest in his work.”

Individual Under-25 – Jay Treloar
Jay Treloar has been recognised for his continuing efforts in helping others, whether through promoting awareness of the plight of refugee children, raising funds to help St Patrick’s Community Support Centre or visiting schools to talk on human rights.

He has also developed innovative ideas such as a choir for St Pat’s to lift the spirits of its clients and a celebrity eight-ball challenge to raise money for charity.

“Jay’s passion and compassion in helping others shows true dedication, above and beyond what’s often displayed by many of his peers,” Mayor Tagliaferri said.

Community group or event – ANFE Fremantle (Associazione Nazionale Famiglie Degli Emigrati, Association of Italian Migrant Families)

A non-profit community organisation, ANFE Fremantle conducts activities chiefly targetted at aged migrant Italians. Funds raised from bingo evenings are donated to the Fremantle Italian Village while food parcels are also collected and donated to the St Patrick’s Support Centre’s Christmas appeal.

“In a relatively short time of operation, ANFE Fremantle is playing a significant role in the life of Fremantle’s Italian-Australian community and continues to grow its membership,” Mayor Tagliaferri said.

“Australia Day is an ideal time to acknowledge and thank those who have made a difference to community life in the City of Fremantle.

“It’s important this enthusiasm for life does not go unnoticed and I’m pleased we have the Active Citizenship Awards to recognise people who embrace a passion for something, giving due credit where it’s really justified.”

Please note: Professor Newman is overseas and was unable to receive his award in person; Fremantle Councillor Brad Pettitt accepted the award on his behalf.