Across the seat of small communities, Australia Day is our opportunity to celebrate all that makes our part of the world a special place to live, work and raise a family.
With events happening in every corner of the electorate, there are plenty of opportunities to be involved in our National Day and to gather in the spirit of friendship and mutual respect.
A particular highlight for me each Australia Day is hearing about everyday people making an enormous personal contribution to the future of their own communities.
We hear about how the work of individuals and local organisations is helping to make life in a regional country town all the greater.
Our volunteers have long been a source of inspiration and now, more than ever before, it is so important for us to thank them, recognise them, and use their example to foster and nurture our next generation of volunteers.
Volunteers are the absolute heart and soul of our small communities. Having just been through another year in which our resilience has been tested, we have also seen countless examples of where the power of giving has helped us to pull through.
It is with this in mind that I wholeheartedly congratulate all nominees and award recipients across all nine local government areas of the Cootamundra electorate.
I also congratulate locals who have been recognised as part of the Australia Day National Honours through the Order of Australia, Emergency Services Medal or Australian Fire Service Medal. You join a great number of esteemed individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to our Nation. Finally, we extend to our newest Australian citizens our warmest congratulations, as well as our gratitude for choosing the seat of small communities your place to call home.
