Georges River Council's prestigious Australia Day Awards took place on Monday 26 January, with five outstanding members of the local community taking home awards.
Cindy Yan He, Mei Fong Wong, Tony Thorpe, Marion Smith and Zoe Ong were recognised across four different categories. These were: Young Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Citizen of the Year and Localability Citizen of the Year.
Council's Australia Day Ambassador for 2026 Amelia Farrugia was also in attendance to present winners with their awards. Amelia is one of Australia's top sopranos. She is praised for her talent in opera, operetta, music theatre, concert performance, and recording.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said, "Each of these individuals has made an exceptional contribution to Georges River. Their generosity and passion for positive change strengthens the heart of our community."
"It is an honour to recognise them for their hard work and dedication. I'd like to congratulate all our award winners for their achievements and unwavering commitment to serving our community."
Young Citizen of the Year
Cindy Yan He
Cindy Yan He is a dedicated young volunteer whose work is helping bring people together. Through her involvement with the Kai'Mia Community, Beverly Hills Girls High School and the 233 St George Australian Army Cadet Unit, she has shown a strong commitment to inclusion and equality. Cindy helped create the grant plan for the Uniting Generations Program at Kai'Mia Community. The program connects young people to their cultures and shares stories from Elders in various communities. Cindy believes everyone deserves equal treatment. She aims to grow the program, boost understanding, and foster connections. She also wants to inspire young people to help create a supportive and inclusive community.
Volunteer of the Year
Mei Fong Wong
Mei Fong Wong has spent more than 30 years volunteering across the Georges River community, driven by her belief that "if you want to go far, go together." Since migrating to Australia in the late 1980s, she has worked closely with the community. This includes Council, local organisations and volunteers to support harmony, inclusion and positive change. Her commitment to serving others and bringing people together is at the heart of everything she does. Mei hopes to continue strengthening collaboration across the community. She encourages all to learn from challenges and make meaningful contributions.
Tony Thorpe
Tony Thorpe has been a dedicated community volunteer. His service has truly made a difference in the Georges River community. Tony is a leader of Lending A Hand at Our Lady of Fatima Peakhurst Catholic Church. He has played a key role in delivering financial and practical support that helps the church reach beyond its congregation and into the broader community. Inspired by the benefits of teamwork, he continues his outreach work. He knows it genuinely helps others. A Lugarno resident of more than 40 years, Tony values the area's strong community spirit. He urges young people to join organisations where they can use their skills to help others. He also reminds them that giving back brings personal fulfilment.
Citizen of the Year
Marion Smith
Marion Smith has devoted over 40 years to the Georges River community. She has worked with local schools, charity organisations, and in council roles. She has a long history of volunteer work. This includes leading major fundraising events, supporting local students and families, and contributing to Rotary initiatives for young people. A former Deputy Mayor of Hurstville City Council, Marion has championed programs like the St George Life Education Caravan and has served as a volunteer and board member of Jubilee Community Services. These have helped to strengthen community ties. Marion is known for her kindness, energy, and commitment. She inspires others with her continued service.
Localability Citizen of the Year
Zoe Ong
Zoe Ong has greatly impacted the Georges River community. She volunteers with Shopfront and inspires other young people to join in community service. Zoe loves giving back. She inspires the next generation to see volunteering as a way to make a difference and build important life skills. She volunteers and studies Auslan at TAFE. She hopes to be a professional Auslan interpreter and a teacher's aide for students with disabilities. Proud of the area's diversity and growing inclusivity, Zoe exemplifies the values of hard work, dedication and community spirit. She continues to motivate young people to contribute to a more connected and inclusive Georges River.
