Brimbank's most inspiring individuals have been recognised on Australia Day for their exceptional contribution and outstanding service to the local community.
The 2022 Brimbank Australia Day Awards were presented across two categories and have been awarded to joint winners:
- Citizen of the Year: Marlon DeLeon and Tara Trang
- Young Citizen of the Year: Devika Chaudhary and Haylee Bissett (she/her)
The awards were presented by the Brimbank Mayor, Cr Jasmine Nguyen on Wednesday 26 January at the Brimbank Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony at the Kevin Wheelahan Gardens in Sunshine.
The awards recognise the exceptional contributions, hard work, and determination of individuals making a positive difference within Brimbank.
As respected cultural leaders, Marlon and Tara have both contributed selflessly to their communities and acted as role models for many community members and organisations.
Marlon is an outstanding community leader who has led transformational change for the Filipino-Australian community, volunteering his time to uplift and support the wider community.
Tara is a strong voice for the Vietnamese-Australian community, making a real difference to thousands of community members during the COVID pandemic, especially supporting vulnerable victims of domestic violence.
Throughout the pandemic, both Devika and Haylee have been lending their support and time to uplift and advocate on behalf of many in our community, helping bring connection and comfort where it's needed.
As part of the Australia Day ceremony, 200 Brimbank residents took the oath to become some of the country's newest citizens.
Quotes to be attributed to Brimbank Mayor Cr Jasmine Nguyen:
"On behalf of Council, I wish to extend my congratulations to Marlon DeLeon and Tara Trang, and to Devika Chaudhary and Haylee Bissett for their outstanding contributions to the Brimbank community during a year of tough challenges.
"I would also like to congratulate all of the nominees for their contributions to our great City, and to thank them for their commitment and valued work in the community.
"Council is pleased to be able to recognise and celebrate those people working tirelessly in our City.
"These awards are an opportunity for us as a community to celebrate the individuals who, through their outstanding efforts, help strengthen the Brimbank community."
