Five exceptional individuals and groups have been recognised for delivering projects that build community resilience against disasters and emergencies in Western Australia.
The winners were announced at the 22nd Resilient Australia WA Awards, an annual event celebrating initiatives championed by individuals, communities, government agencies, businesses and schools.
Bridgetown High School Emergency Service Cadet Corps won the School Award for a training program that equips young people to be the next generation of emergency services volunteers.
Cadets develop skills used by emergency services volunteers, applying what they learn at home by preparing bushfire plans and assessing their preparedness for severe weather.
Commissioner for Children and Young People WA Colin Pettit received the Government Award for research into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people's wellbeing.
The Local Government Award went to the City of Fremantle for its Neighbour to Neighbour project, which aims to strengthen community networks and encourages residents to look out for each other.
Nikki Woods was the people's choice in the Photography Award for the second year running for her photo 'Ember Rain', taken during the Red Gully Bushfire in January.
In the Community Award category, Emergency Animal Support Evacuation WA (EASE WA) was recognised for ensuring the safety of animals during emergencies.
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby:
"Resilience is essential to growing and sustaining a strong community, which can overcome any disaster and get back on its feet after cyclones, storms, floods or fires.
"From community engagement initiatives to keeping animals safe and preparing the next generation of volunteers, each project helps make our communities safer, more connected and better prepared.
"Western Australia has experienced many challenging emergencies this year from the Red Gully and Wooroloo bushfires to Tropical Cyclone Seroja, highlighting the importance of grassroots initiatives that build resilience.
"I extend my sincere congratulations to all award recipients and those who were highly commended - their work is making a significant contribution in their respective communities."
2021 Resilient Australia WA Award Winners:
School Award
- State winner: Bridgetown High School Emergency Service Cadet Corps (ESCC)
- Highly Commended: Margaret River Senior High School Emergency Service Cadet Corps (ESCC)
Government Award
- State winner: Monitoring the wellbeing of WA children and young people, Commissioner for Children and Young People WA Colin Pettit
Local Government Award
- State winner: Neighbour to Neighbour, City of Fremantle
- Highly commended: Emergency Management, City of Kalamunda
- Highly commended: COVID-19 Response and Recovery Model, City of Rockingham
Photography Award
- State winner: Ember Rain, Nikki Woods
- Highly commended: Help is on its way, Nikki Woods
Community Award
- State winner: Emergency Animal Support Evacuation WA (EASE WA), Bullsbrook
