Shaun Ossinger was announced the Community Citizen of the Year on Saturday night at a Shire of Denmark Volunteer Appreciation Sundowner. Wilson Inlet Catchment Committee chief executive Shaun won the award for his commitment to sustainability and community wellbeing, through championing initiatives aimed at protecting and restoring the natural environment.

Projects in which Shaun has been involved include a proposal to develop commercial biochar from food and organic waste, fundraising for Eugenup Wetlands to restore a potato farm to a wildlife sanctuary, developing a community native nursery and others.

Shaun also volunteers as a basketball coach, sailing safety boat driver and student mentor. All these contributions reflect his empowerment of other people in building a connected community, making Shaun a role model for others.

The Citizen of the Year – Senior award was presented to Lesley Murphy in recognition of her volunteer work with St John Ambulance, the Denmark Community Rowing Association’s St Ayles Skiffs, the Denmark Riverside Club and the Denmark Community Foundation. Lesley’s leadership and quiet acts of kindness in supporting people in need have made her an inspiring community champion.

Paul (Pablo) Sleeman won the Citizen of the Year- Youth award for demonstrating exceptional bravery and compassion through saving his father, Alex’s, life in a farm accident. Afterwards, Pablo, heading Team Sleeman, raised more than $32,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Pablo has also helped rescue swimmers at risk on local beaches.

The Group Citizen of the Year award was presented to the Denmark Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service for more than 60 years of responding to emergencies, educating the public and mentoring volunteers.

Mountain biker Jy Drummond won the Junior Sportsperson of the Year (under 18 years) for his achievements and commitment to the success of the Denmark Mountain Bike Club.

Anthony McEwan won the Senior Sportsperson of the Year award for his determination to overcome a knee injury. He was given medical advice that he would never run again. Anthony’s contributions to the Denmark Surf Life Saving Club, and his achievements in lifesaving at both the State and National levels were cited.

The Service to Sport Award was presented to Bradley Woodruff for his work in supporting young athletes in many sports both in person and behind the scenes, and in fostering team camaraderie and encouragement.

Volunteering WA and Lotterywest, as part of National Volunteer Week, with the theme Connecting Communities, supported the Sundowner which was held at The Gallery at the Morgan Richards Community Centre.

This article appeared in Denmark Bulletin, 29 May 2025.