Murray Bridge resident Shawn Hicks has been named as the Lions Club of the City of Adelaide and South Australia Police 2019 Citizen of the Year.
Mr Hicks was nominated due to his commitment to the prevention of domestic violence through education work with the local community.
Nominated by a member of the Murray Mallee Local Service Area's crime prevention team, Mr Hicks has assisted SA Police with the production and circulation of beanies which aim to support and educate the local community by promoting the message of "Say No to Domestic Violence".
Photograph: Mr Hicks and Superintendent James Blandford, the officer in charge of the Murray Mallee Local Service Area; (inset: today's presentation by Superintendent Stuart McLean on behalf of the Commissioner of Police)
The beanies have been sold and distributed in the Murray Bridge region through schools, community groups, government agencies and local businesses.
He also established a White Ribbon footy round within the local River Murray Football League, with the key awareness game being played between Mypolonga Football Club and Jervois Football Club.
It was also noted in his nomination that he is part of the 2019 working group within the Rural City of Murray Bridge "Good Neighbour Day" event for Jervois. The event is driven by the local council, SA Police, service groups and citizens to strengthen friendships, communication and reducing crime in the community.
SA Police and the Lions Club joined together today to present Mr Hicks with the award at Police Headquarters.
Nominations are made by police for the award annually in recognition of assistance provided by community members to police during the previous year.
The Lions Club of the City of Adelaide and South Australia Police Citizen's Award was first awarded in 1979, then 1983 and, after many years absence, has continued annually since 2003.
