LOCAL HEROES: Surf Coast announces Australia Day Awards

THE Surf Coast Shire has recognised some of its community champions in its 2019 Australia Day Awards.

The shire’s Australia Day Awards for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen and Event of the Year were presented in a free public event at Taylor Park on Saturday January 26, and recognised people who have made outstanding community contributions.

Citizen of the Year Jason Cichocki performs between 700 and 1,000 animal rescues a year – he’s unsure of the precise number, but is sure of his motivation.

“It’s plain and simple: I love the animals. As far as I’m concerned, the animals are my family, and you’d do anything to help a family member in trouble.”