Singleton's most outstanding citizens recognised on Australia Day

Published on 26 January 2024

A woman who has dedicated decades to supporting the local community and some of its most vulnerable residents and another who has shown resilience in the face of adversity to become a role model for youth have been recognised as Singleton’s most outstanding citizens for 2024.

At the official Australia Day ceremony at Singleton Civic Centre this morning, Diana Thorning was named the 2024 Citizen of the Year, recognising her tireless volunteer work with Uniting Elizabeth Gates Village, the Singleton Branch of Australian Red Cross, Singleton Tidy Towns and as a foster carer.

Joss Davies was honoured with Young Achiever of the Year, recognising her commitment to PCYC Singleton, supporting local youth through the PCYC’s school holiday program and her work with the Singleton Disability Advisory Committee.

Mayor of Singleton, Cr Sue Moore congratulated all nominees of this year’s awards and paid tribute to the winners.

“There is perhaps no better time of the year than Australia Day to recognise those among us who go a little bit further to make our community great and our Citizen of the Year, Diana Thorning, and Young Achiever of the Year, Joss Davies, do just that,” she said.

“I sincerely congratulate Diana on this prestigious honour, which recognises the invaluable contribution she has made to our community, its residents, and visitors to our beautiful town in many different ways over many years, and Joss for being a role model to our youth and a worthy recipient of our Young Achiever of the Year award.

“We’re very fortunate in Singleton to have so many residents who selflessly contribute their time and energy to making our community better for everyone, and any one of our nominees are worthy of this honour.

“I thank our four other nominees – Alex Tigani, Kaye Atfield, Ronald Stokes and Bronwyn Dunston – for all they do in our community.”

Cr Moore said it was wonderful to see so many people turn out to celebrate Australia Day in Singleton this year, starting with last night’s free family event, Twilight, and at today’s official proceedings.

At the Civic Centre ceremony this morning, which was livestreamed to Council’s Facebook page and website, Brian Doyle OAM delivered the guest address while 17 new Australians were welcomed in the Citizenship Ceremony.

“Australia Day is a great occasion to come together to celebrate life, the country and town that we call home, and each other,” Cr Moore said.

“It’s a very significant occasion for the 17 people who have come from all over the world – India, Thailand, Philippines, Wales, United Kingdom, Cyprus, Taiwan and New Zealand – that chose to become Australians in Singleton. I was honoured to be part of it.”

Australia Day celebrations will continue today, 26 January, with free entry into Singleton Gym + Swim until 2pm.

ENDS