Local great, Daryl Sidman, has been crowned Camden's Citizen of the Year.
The long-time Camden resident was given the award at the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony held at Camden Civic Centre on Friday 23 January. For nearly 50 years, Daryl has been a driving force behind the Pavillion at the Camden Show.
Serving as Chief Steward for 47 years, he has grown the Pavillion into a vibrant showcase of both tradition and innovation, introducing new sections such as Sugar Art, Home Brew and 3D Printing, while continuing to champion arts, crafts and cooking. His leadership and vision saw the Pavilion reach a record 3,625 entries in 2025, with more than 40 per cent coming from young people, reflecting his commitment to engage and inspire the next generation.
Taking out Young Citizen of the Year was Charlotte Lasica, an inspiring young bowel cancer advocate within the community after having been diagnosed herself. Indyana Wedderburn took home the Sports Achievement Award. A para-athlete competing in multi-class events, Indyana competed at the Australian All Schools Championships where she was crowned Cross Country Champion (Girls 12-14 Multi-Class). She achieved outstanding success in 2025, winning 15 gold medals and one silver across athletics and cross-country competitions.
Camden Country Women's Association won the Community Group Award, boasting decades of fundraising and skill-sharing within the Camden community. Murray Bishop, a Camden Community Band leader for 22 years, won the Arts and Cultural Award.
Mayor of Camden, Cr Therese Fedeli, offered her sincerest congratulations to all the winners.
"I have always said that Camden and the people who call it home are amazing," Cr Fedeli said.
"One of the key reasons our corner of the world is so fantastic is because of the time, efforts and passion of people like our winners.
"The people who are constantly lending a helping hand, who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others and who never hesitate to volunteer and contribute to those around them.
"I'd like to thank all of the winners, and indeed everyone who was nominated, for the contributions they make to our area."
