25 January 2018 |
West Coast Mayor Phil Vickers has announced the recipient of the West Coast Australia Day 2018 Citizen of the Year Award.
With outstanding contribution to the West Coast community, Strahan resident Mr. Kevin Bailey has been announced the West Coast Citizen of the Year.
This award is presented to the person who has made an outstanding contribution during 2017 and/or given outstanding contribution to the West Coast community over a number of years.
“As a respected member of our community Kevin Bailey is a well-deserved recipient of this award,” West Coast Mayor Phil Vickers said, praising Mr Bailey’s leadership.
“As an elected member in the first West Coast Council following amalgamations Kevin always demonstrated a West Coast view on matters and was a great leader in those turbulent early days of a new local government in the region.”
Mr Bailey is also being recognised for long-term involvement with the Anglican Church and his pastoral care work which has seen him, alongside wife Colina, provide guidance and assistance to many in the community who have fallen on hard times.
Mr Bailey has also volunteered with several community groups over the years, with involvement in some such as the West Coast Axeman’s Association dating back to the 1970’s. Mr Bailey will spend Australia Day competing in a wood chopping event, therefore unable to officially receive his award on the day.
“Kevin’s recent return to the competitive wood chopping arena also serves as a great example for leading an active lifestyle, at any age,” Mayor Vickers said.
A civic ceremony will be held in coming weeks to present Mr Bailey with his award and to further celebrate his outstanding contribution to the West Coast community.