On Friday 11th April, past and present winners came together to celebrate the achievements of the 2025 Community Service Award recipients at a special ceremony honouring community contribution across the Shire of Wongan-Ballidu. Shire President Cr Mandy Stephenson, alongside Cr Sue Starcevich and Cr Stuart Boekeman, presented the awards and shared details of the many worthy nominations. It was a particularly meaningful moment as Des Booth, the 40th Citizen of the Year, helped present the 41st Citizen of the Year Award to this year’s recipient, Mrs Lyn Hood.
Citizen of the Year – Lyn Hood
For nearly 50 years, Lyn Hood has played an instrumental role in the cultural and community life of Ballidu and the wider Shire. From playing piano at countless community events, weddings, funerals and school concerts, to being a founding member of the Community Voices Choir and Wongan Hills Amateur Theatrical Society, Lyn’s musical talents have been a constant presence in local life. Beyond music, Lyn has given her time generously across organisations including Rotary, the Netball Association, and as a long-serving Librarian. She has also been a devoted organiser of the Senior Citizens’ Christmas Lunch and a long-time contributor to community church events. Despite recent health challenges, Lyn has continued to serve with unwavering dedication. Her warmth, humility, and tireless support for others make her a truly deserving Citizen of the Year 2025.
Community Group of the Year – Wongan Hills Tidy Towns Association
Come rain, shine or howling wind, the volunteers of the Wongan Hills Tidy Towns Association are out there keeping our town and surrounds clean, beautiful, and welcoming. From maintaining parks, gardens, reserves, and walking trails, to coordinating the popular Garden of the Year competition, this group exemplifies pride in place. Their work includes caretaking sites like Gathercole Reserve, Mount O’Brien, Mount Matilda, Christmas Rock Walk, The Arboretum, and the Wildflower Walks. Their commitment to making Wongan Hills a vibrant, cared-for place for both residents and visitors makes them a standout recipient of the Community Group of the Year Award.
Community Event of the Year – Wongan Hills Apex Club’s ‘Bogan Bingo’ Event
In February 2024, the Wongan Hills Apex Club hosted the brilliantly entertaining ‘Bogan Bingo’ night, raising an incredible $11,500 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. With over 120 attendees—many in full ‘bogan’ costume—the night was full of laughter, games, auctions, raffles, and community spirit. Local businesses got behind the event with generous donations, and the Wongan Hills Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service added to the fun by manning the BBQ. A courtesy bus helped ensure everyone got home safely, and the club hosted fundraising BBQs in the lead-up to the event. Due to its success, Apex now plans to make Bogan Bingo an annual fixture, continuing to support RFDS and bring the community together for a good cause.
The Shire of Wongan-Ballidu congratulates all 2025 Community Service Award winners and thanks every nominee for their remarkable contributions. A special thank you to Marlee’s Morish Morsels for providing the delicious food and running the bar on the night, adding warmth and flavour to a truly memorable celebration.
These awards reflect the spirit, commitment, and generosity that define our Shire.