Devonport City Council honoured its Australia Day Award winners and welcomed 17 new citizens at a ceremony held this evening at the paranaple convention centre.

Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman presented 4 prestigious awards to demonstrated leaders in the community: Citizen of the Year Award: Jenny Mountney, Young Citizen of the Year: Srishti Namoa, Community Event of the Year: Novotel Devonport Symphony on the Waterfront and the Spirit of the City Award: Steven Fisher.

Cr Jarman said that the Australia Day Awards are an excellent platform to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contributions made by the nominees to the Devonport community, emphasising their altruistic efforts towards the City.

“I’d like to congratulate all our award recipients and nominees for their contributions to our wonderful City. Devonport is a vibrant, diverse community and your efforts help make it the special place that it is. Thank you for your hard work and dedication,” Mayor Jarman said.

“Australia Day reminds us of the rich cultures and stories that make our nation unique. We embrace the opportunity to grow and learn from one another, enriching our community with respect, understanding, and unity.”

New citizens welcomed at the ceremony originated from South Africa, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Egypt, Shri Lanka, People’s Republic of China, Philippines and Italy.

“As Devonport grows and prospers, more and more people are choosing to make our city their home. This choice reflects Devonport’s appeal as a prime destination for living, working, investing, and education,” Cr Jarman said.

Bios for award winners:

Citizen of the Year Award: Jenny Mountney: For over 12 years, Jenny has led the East Devonport Child & Family Learning Centre with a strong commitment to the welfare of young families. Known for her innovative initiatives, such as cultivating Devonport’s relations with author Mem Fox, she has a talent for bringing enriching experiences to the community. Jenny’s previous role as Manager of Mersey Leven Child Care Centres showcases her longstanding dedication to family and children’s services. Her involvement extends beyond professional duties, actively participating in community events and local organizations. Jenny’s leadership is marked by her proactive approach and willingness to embrace new ideas for the betterment of her community.

Young Citizen of the Year: Srishti Namoa: A key member of International Cafe Devonport since 2018, Srishti is renowned for her enthusiasm and support, often volunteering at events and sharing her singing talents. A passionate advocate for cultural diversity and migrant inclusion, she notably engaged with a Home Affairs representative during our 5th anniversary. Multilingual and proud of her Indian and Mauritian heritage, Sristhi is a dynamic presence, greatly contributing to the cafe’s community spirit and serving as a role model within the broader Devonport community.

Community Event of the Year: Novotel Devonport Symphony on the Waterfront: The Novotel Devonport Symphony on the Waterfront, hosted on February 11, 2023, by the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and Devonport City Council, was a pivotal cultural event for Devonport. This free concert, celebrating the unveiling of the Waterfront Precinct, drew a crowd of 5,000, featuring performances by local choir Right on Cue and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. It not only showcasedsed Devonport’s dedication to arts and culture, leaving a legacy of civic pride and cultural enrichment.

Spirit of the City Award: Steven Fisher: A survivor and advocate for child sexual abuse victims, Steven has been instrumental in supporting and inspiring others through his work with Beyond Abuse. His efforts extend to providing 24/7 assistance, educating the public about child safety, and playing a crucial role in the Tasmanian Commission of Inquiry. He has been raising awareness about child sexual abuse for 20 years and offers peer-to-peer support services through Beyond Abuse, aiding in legal, healthcare, and compensation processes.

Nominations for the Citizen of the Year:

Jenny Mountney (First nomination)

Jenny Mountney (Second nomination)

Katrina Hatfield

Steven Fisher

Nominations for the Young Citizen of the Year:

Srishti Namoa

Zara Braid

Nominations for the Event of the Year:

The Big Sing

Freaky Friday the Musical – Relaxed Performance

Novotel Devonport Symphony on the Waterfront

An Evening with Claire Bowditch “Taming the Inner Crtic”

The 2023 Fearless Festival

The Broughton Cup