On Friday the most outstanding members of the City of Armadale were honoured for their remarkable contributions to the community at the annual Citizen of the Year awards held at Kelmscott Hall.
Ash Botheras was rightly named the Citizen of the Year.
Ash’s impact on the local community during a financially difficult time for many cannot be understated. And this award is a direct reflection on the many nominations she received.
Ash is a pillar of the community, who goes out of her way to donate large quantities of food and household items to families in need.
Her donations are significant and estimated to be at a high cost for herself, and a welcome addition to those that are really in need.
Ash does this quietly and without regard for the cost, leading with kindness and empathy on every occasion.
Congratulations also goes to the Youth Citizen of the Year Chien Foo, who was nominated for her work creating a school holiday program called ‘Future Engineers’, to give high school aged girls exposure to the wide array of careers available in STEM.
Her goal is to encourage more girls to enter traditionally male-dominated STEM roles and to create opportunities for them to gain mentorship and networks to foster their future career growth.
Karen Stocker was given the Senior Citizen of the Year title for 2024.
Karen is a 35-year veteran at the Armadale Girl Guides, where she has imparted an immeasurable amount of wisdom and guidance to the young girls that have attended over the years.
Karen has also been a 25-year-long volunteer at the Showtime HMS Performing Arts, taking on numerous roles during her service.
And if that isn’t enough, Karen has spent nine years volunteering at the 2nd Chance Op Shop.
The Roleystone Family Centre was also recognised within the Active Citizenship Group category.
The Roleystone Family Centre is a community managed not-for-profit organisation that provides a focus for all people to meet for friendship, and a base for the exchange of information and mutual support in learning.
A significant part of their contribution remains behind-the-scenes, facilitating inclusion, belonging, acceptance and a safe space for all members of the community who use their services.
“Once again, these awards highlight the depth of love that people have for their community, and the lengths they go with their acts of service,” Mayor Ruth Butterfield said.
“We are extremely proud to recognise these people and groups for their efforts, and on behalf of the councillors and the City, we offer our sincerest thanks and congratulations to you all.”
