Moira Community Achiever Awards

Moira Community Achiever Awards Recognise Outstanding Contributions to the Community

The Moira Community Achiever Awards were held on Thursday April 20th to recognise individuals, community groups, events, and projects that have made an exceptional contribution to the Moira Shire community. Over 150 guests attended the event, celebrating the shining stars in the community who have shown outstanding dedication and achievement.

Philip Ross-Soden of Strathmerton was awarded the Star Achiever of the Year for his exceptional dedication to the community. With over 45 years of volunteering experience with organizations such as the Strathmerton SES, Football Netball Club, Tennis Club, and Hall Committee Recreation Reserve, among others, he has been awarded the Order of Australia for his contributions to the community.

The Community Star Achiever of the Year was a tie between two winners. The first winner was the 2022 Eden Farm Multicultural Festival in Numurkah, a three-day not-for-profit event showcasing the best of international cuisine, art, craft, and music. The second winner was the Cobram Barooga Business and Tourism Committee, who hosted the Tri State Games in November 2022 to promote sports participation and improve the quality of life of people with disabilities.

The Pedal Empowerment Program at Cobram Secondary College was awarded the ACE Star Achiever of the Year for its efforts in developing students' skills in teamwork, goal setting, mechanical and ride safety, while promoting cycling as a sustainable form of transportation and recreation.

Emily Davies of Cobram was named the Young Star Achiever of the Year for her outstanding achievements, including cycling 100km from Cobram to Wangaratta and raising $6,000 for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She is involved with various community groups, including Park Run, Athletics Victoria State Cross Country Team, and the Victorian State Triathlon Team.

Emily Ford from Tungamah was awarded the Shining Star Achiever of the Year for her exceptional community work, which includes building a canopy over the barbecue at the Lions Park and fundraising for Neurobionics research.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Josh Lewis said, “It was a fantastic night to see all the amazing community members and groups come together in the one place and be celebrated like they deserve. These people are selfless contributors to our towns; they don’t do it for nights like these, but it is important we recognize them.”

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the Moira Community Achiever Awards for their ongoing dedication and service to the Moira Shire community.