WODONGA Council is calling for nominees for the 2017 citizen and young citizen of the year awards.
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Nominations are also open for the community organisation of the year.
Anyone aged 16 and over can be nominated for the citizen of the year, while Wodonga residents aged 16 to 25 are eligible for youth citizen of the year.
Any community organisations up for nomination must be not-for-profit and consist of four or more members.
Newly elected councillor Danny Lowe said it was a great opportunity to acknowledge those people who have made an outstanding contribution to the community.
“There are many people who enrich the lives of others by giving of themselves,” Cr Lowe said.
“They may work with our young people, the elderly, sporting clubs, the arts, or any number of activities that contribute to the life of our city.
“These people often don't seek praise or thanks but they have offered their life skills and their time because they recognise the value of giving.
“They certainly make Wodonga a great place to live.”
Winner of the 2016 citizen of the year Marie Elliot said she had been surprised and slightly embarrassed by her win earlier this year.
“I was quite honoured to be recognised,” she said.
“You don't do these sorts of things for recognition.
“You see a need and you do something about it.
“I've lived in this community all my life, volunteering has been of great benefit to me, helping me meet new people.
“When you see some of the sadder things in life and you can make a difference, why wouldn't you?
“One of the greatest privileges in life is to see someone in need and help them.”
Mrs Elliot won the 2016 citizen of the year award for her 21 years of service helping the sick and dying, as well as her fundraising efforts for motor neurone disease.
Since then she has turned her attention to work with the Wodonga Historical Society's push to establish a museum south of the border.
Last year's other award winners were young citizen of the year Jacob Mildren, and the Murray Valley Centre, which won the community organisation of the year.
Nominations close on December 9, and should be submitted in person at the council offices or over the phone by phoning (02) 6022 9300.