Elise Anderson of Alexandra was announced as Murrindindi Citizen of the Year at the Alexandra Australia Day ceremony.
Cr Damian Gallagher made the presentation at Rotary Park.
Mayor Cr Sandice McAulay said: “Elise has demonstrated an extraordinary passion and commitment to helping the Alexandra community and I’m in total admiration of all that she has achieved since moving to our Shire a few years ago.
“With a passion for the environment, permaculture and advocating for action on climate change, Elise is involved in many community groups, committees and organisations and regularly volunteers her time to educate the community and host events.
“Elise’s energy and dedication is inspiring.”

Nicholas Charles received the award for Murrindindi Shire Young Citizen of the Year at a ceremony held inside Yea Shire Hall.
Mayor Cr Sandice Aulay said the waard followed his outstanding contribution to the community of Yea and surrounds.
“Nicholas has a passion for helping young people in our community to access opportunities and support, by championing fantastic development programs and raising awareness of mental health – an incredibly important issue for young people in our Shire.”

John Stewart was awarded as Murrindindi Shire Senior Citizen of the Year. “John has been instrumental in the formation and success of many community groups, projects and events over the last forty years and has demonstrated his incredible commitment and dedication to Murrindindi Shire and everyone who calls this wonderful place home,” said Cr Sandice McAulay.
“As an active member of the Kinglake community since 1981, John continues to give back to the community through his volunteer work for the Kinglake CFA, Kinglake Landcare Group and the Kinglake Ranges Neighbourhood Watch.”

One of the recipients of a Public Service Medal in the Australia Day Honours was Fern Hames of Alexandra.
Her award citation reads: “For outstanding public service to nature conservation in Victoria”.
“Ms Hames is an exceptional science communicator with an international reputation in the application and interpretation of conservation research to the wider community.
“She has developed and implemented innovative new programs in environmental education and citizen science, and has helped craft policy and decision making at the highest levels in Victoria.
Following the 2009 bushfires, Ms Hames supported the recovery of the community of Marysville and the conservation of the threatened fish species.
“Ms Hames has provided dedicated and exemplary service to the Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, and to the community, throughout her career.”