It was wonderful to be at the Civic Theatre this evening to congratulate the winners of the 2024 Wagga Wagga Australia Day awards.

Congratulations to Annette St Clair, who was named Citizen of the Year.

Annette established the Amie St Clair Melanoma Trust, with her husband Peter in 2010, in memory of their daughter Amie, who passed away from melanoma cancer.

Annette and the foundation continue to make a difference throughout the Wagga Wagga region by raising awareness of melanoma, and providing better access to specialised care for patients.

My most sincere congratulations go to Angus Smith, Young Citizen of the Year for 2024, and Jim Rees, for the Wagga Demonstration Garden, who received the Environmental Citizen of the Year.

Thank you to Mitch Cox, who accepted the Walk of Honour Award on behalf of his father, legendary local theatre personality, Peter Cox, who sadly passed away in 2023.

Well done to all winners and nominees, for all you contribute to our community.