Community & Business
31 January, 2024
2024 Young Citizen of the Year is Harrison King
Emma Hutchison was also nominated for the award.
Gilgandra’s 2024 Young Citizen of the Year is Harrison King, a committed member of the community and the local radio station, WARFM. Tooraweenah’s Emma Hutchison was also nominated for this year’s award. The nominations were read by councillor Paul Mann.
Harrison King
“For the past three years, Harrison has dedicated time as a volunteer to WAR FM and hosts his own radio show every Sunday afternoon. His presence at the station has elevated the local radio experience and given him the opportunity to display exceptional communication skills as well as a genuine passion for community engagement,” said Cr Mann.
“Harrison is also deeply committed to the preservation and sharing of stories from small rural communities, having authored a charming story about Gilgandra that resonates with the lived experience of all small rural communities. For his efforts, Harrison won the Heywire writing competition, an annual storytelling competition calling for entries from young Australians living in regional, rural, and remote Australia.”
During the awards ceremony, Cr Mann also said of Harrison “[he] has become a beloved figure known for his professionalism and warm demeanor. His genuine happiness to assist and create a welcoming atmosphere has contributed significantly to the positive community spirit of Gilgandra”.
In addition to his radio and narrative work, Harrison volunteers to pick up roadside litter, demonstrating a positive example of environmental commitment for others.
“It’s always a privilege to be part of the Gilgandra community, and it’s an honour to have the opportunity to give back to it, doing what you love for the community that you love,” Harrison said in his acceptance speech.
He went on to give thanks, “… to my family and friends, my work colleagues: teacher Fiona Lambell at the high school, and finally to Del Gordon our wonderful president of WARFM. Thank you everyone, thank you very much.”
Emma Hutchison
“Emma has significantly contributed to the community by introducing new and essential health services to the region such as massage therapy, pregnancy therapy, and infancy massage,” said Cr Mann.
“Her commitment extends to volunteering for various groups including the CWA and Lions Club, as well as local events such as the St Patrick’s Day Senior Luncheon in Tooraweenah and the Back to Gilgandra Weekend. Last April, she was awarded the Young Woman of the Year Award at the Gilgandra Show, and secured the APAC Insider Award for her running of a successful massage therapy center in the central west.
“Emma is a dedicated member of the community and the shire”. Cr Mann praised her as a commendable force, embodying the spirit of generosity and entrepreneurship”.
